10 Things to Remember When Building a Home Theater

By The TV Answer Man team

If you’re too busy to venture out to the movie theater, watching a movie in a Home Theater can be just as good, perhaps even better when you consider the popcorn is free and the noise level from any fellow viewers can be more easily managed. (Well, hopefully.) So if you’re considering building your Home Theater, there are some things we strongly encourage you to consider. 10 things, in fact. In future articles, we will delve into the specifics of putting the theater together, such as whether you need a projector or TV, how many speakers should you get and where should they be placed, and even what type of furniture to buy. But for now, here are 10 things to remember when building a Home Theater.

1. Selecting the Ideal Room
The first step is to identify the room that will serve as your Home Theater. Consider factors like room size, layout, and the availability of natural light. A basement, spare room, or a space with minimal windows could be perfect choices, as they provide greater control over lighting and acoustics.
2. Planning the Layout
Efficient space planning is crucial. Determine the optimal arrangement for seating, screen placement, and audio equipment. The distance between the screen and seating (viewing distance) should be about 1.5 to 2.5 times the width of the screen for an immersive experience.
3. Acoustic Considerations
Acoustics play a vital role in a Home Theater’s overall quality. To enhance sound performance, consider:

Sound Insulation
Use acoustic panels, bass traps, and thick curtains to dampen echoes and reduce external noise.
Speaker Placement
Position speakers according to a surround sound setup (5.1 or 7.1 channels) for a three-dimensional audio experience.

4. High-Quality Audio and Visual Equipment
Investing in top-notch audio and visual components is crucial for a stellar home theater experience. Key components include:
Projection System or TV
Choose a high-resolution projector or a large-screen TV that fits your budget and room size.
Sound System
Opt for a quality AV receiver and speaker system that complements the room’s acoustics. Consider a soundbar or a full surround sound setup.
Media Sources
Decide on sources such as a Blu-ray player, streaming device, or gaming console.

5. Lighting and Ambiance
Controlled lighting contributes to the theater’s atmosphere. Consider:
Dimmable Lights
Install dimmer switches to control brightness levels during viewing.
LED Lighting
Add LED strips around the room’s perimeter for a cinematic glow.

6. Comfortable Seating
Comfort is key for an enjoyable viewing experience. Choose seating options like recliners, sofas, or dedicated theater seats, depending on your space and preferences.
7. Decor and Aesthetics
Thematic décor adds a personal touch to your home theater. Choose a theme (classic cinema, futuristic, etc.) and incorporate relevant elements such as posters, wall art, and color schemes.
8. Connectivity and Control
Ensure all components are connected properly. You might consider a universal remote control system to simplify the operation of various devices.

9. Calibration and Testing
Fine-tuning is necessary to achieve optimal audio and visual quality. Calibrate your audio and visual equipment using calibration discs or professional services.
10. Consider Future Upgrades
Technology evolves rapidly. Leave room for future upgrades by incorporating wiring and infrastructure that can accommodate newer devices and formats.

@tvanswerman