There’s more to buying a home theater system than breaking out the credit card and heading to the local electronics showroom. It takes planning. Here are some tips from BMW of Freehold to get you started.
Start with a budget. Because most electronic superstores aren’t giving away large-screen HDTVs with accompanying surround sound speakers, you’re going to have to fork over some hard-earned cash to turn your dream of having the best home theater system on the block into reality. Figure out what you’re willing and able to spend on a home theater system, and make it happen. Even if you have to save a few extra dollars to get what you really want, it’ll be worth it.
Pick a room. You’ve probably been visualizing your home theater system sending out happiness for months. You probably already have the room chosen—along with the recliner you’ll be resting in and the end table you’ll be setting the remote controls on. The room that will be the new home for your system has a significant effect on optimal TV size, sound quality, and potential seating arrangements. Make a rough sketch of the room when you set out on your important quest. Note the location of doors and windows along with surfaces that may affect sound quality. This includes carpets or drapes. Mark potential speaker locations and the location of power outlets.
Amplify your experience. Every speaker in your system that delights residents and visitors requires an amplifier or a pre-amplifier. Make sure the amount your amplifiers can handle match the amount your speakers can provide. There’s a good chance your system already comes with a pre-amplifier, so you may not need to worry about power capabilities.
Accessorize. Don’t be that guy who buys a state-of-the-art big screen TV that only gets three channels and can only play VHS tapes. Instead, accessorize wisely. Take advantage of your excellent TV and sound with CD, DVD, and Blu-ray players. Make sure the ports in your TV match the cables and ports in your video and audio accessories. A USB docking station will allow you to connect your iPod or MP3 player and make your kids believe you’re cooler than you really are. All these accessories, of course, must be plugged into a central device called a home theater receiver. If you buy items separately, be sure to check for compatibility.
Sound off. You don’t want to shout to your neighbors about how awesome your theater system is until you have the speakers set up. A home theater system should have a center speaker located above the TV. Ear-level speakers are positioned to the right and left of the viewing area, while rear-surround speakers are placed in the back of the room.
Simplify. Although you could go out and purchase these components separately, you’d be wiser and less stressed out if you purchased a home theater system package from a store that employs experts in the home theater arena.
