10 Tips for Setting Up Your Home Theater

by Arslan Hassan

A television in your sitting room with a few comfortable couches cannot beat the unmatched experience of watching a movie on a big 4K HD Screen. That is why we all run to the cinemas to enjoy our favorites movies. 

However, having a home theater is infinitely more convenient than going to the grimy cinema that charges a lot yet doesn’t allow us to bring our own snacks. So why not set up your home theater? With the advancement in microchip technology, the home television industry has made immense progress. 

HD flat screens have replaced the old Television boxes, and the accompanying audio systems are all professional-grade as well. You can even watch 3D movies while sitting on your home couch! However, setting up a theater is much more complicated than it sounds. 

From choosing the best TV set to selecting the perfect sound experience, everything needs to be considered.  This article will arm you with all these useful tips required to set up a home theater, so you can then have the viewing experience of your dreams. 

1. Select an Ideal Viewing Spot 

Scientists came up with the conclusion that the ideal distance from HDTVs can be found with a simple formula. Just multiply the screen’s diagonal size by 1.2, and you will get your answer. It would be best if you placed your seating accordingly. 

2. Having a Small Room? Try Sound Bar!

If you are one of them who visits theater now and then, you must be addicted to the ultimate cinematic experience. Though HDTVs provide a decent sound, still no comparison can be made with the professional speakers. So, what can be done? A soundbar can resolve this concern. 

This horizontal piece that combines multiple speakers into one is ideal for replicating the experience of cinema. Try searching for the latest versions of the soundbar as the contemporary styled design comes with a sleeker look. It can easily fit below your screen, providing you a matchless experience. 

3. Add a Subwoofer 

One thing that is commonly missing from every home theater is the rumble effect on walls; the thing that becomes a reason to visit the theater. However, many theater fans do not know that a subwoofer can provide enough oomph from the sound system. Adding it to your audio setting can take your experience from low to high. 

Tip: 

Always install the subwoofer on the floor. Never plan to place it at the back of any furniture. You will end up with a rattling sound from your cabinets. Also, keep the neighbors in mind. Try to keep the subwoofer in an open space. Place it next to the wall, but the wall should not be the one you share with your neighbors. 

4. Less Space for Speakers, Camouflage Them!

Gone are the days when speakers were kept in separate wooden cabinets. Then, the time came when standing speakers became highly popular. Thanks to new technology, you can now get the sound quality of large speakers in a small size. 

Since the speakers are small, they can be easily covered with a decoration piece, books, or any other thing. 

5. Wall Mount Can Do Wonders 

The first thing that clicks the mind when setting up a home theater is a surround sound system. Its sound quality transports you to the real world of cinema. In a commercial theater, speakers are placed near seats to provide better sound. However, in a home theater, that’s just not possible. Professional theaters are built with all these requirements in mind. But obviously, our homes aren’t built like that.

Wall-mounted speakers are an excellent alternative; their sound is clear and transports everywhere in the room. At home, we often push the seats or place them right beside the wall. Thus, placing the speakers becomes impossible. However, it is possible with a wall mount. Set your wall mount in a way that members of your family get the perfect audio. 

What is more, use home theater carpeting to improve the sound further. Carpets not only provide better sound; they also provide additional seating. Cleaning carpets is easy as well, grab a vacuum cleaner, and you are set. You can even have them professionally cleaned once every 3 months.

6. 3D Requires A Different Sitting 

If you are planning for the 3D viewing, you need to prepare for your seating arrangement. Keep in mind that 3D requires you to sit in an upfront position, so make sure you have enough appropriate seating options. 

7. Avoid Natural Light 

HDTVs are easy to place in a variety of ways and angles. You need to check the position before you drill holes in the wall. Most importantly, sunlight and even artificial lights can affect your viewing experience. Refrain from placing the TV in an area where sun exposure is more. 

8. Go for The Curved TV Set 

The latest HDTVs come in a curved style. These are helpful when creating a home theater as they save from the extra glare and provides a proper viewing angle. Instead of relocating your old HDTV and getting worried with the right angles, get this curved version, and stay safe!

9. Headphones Can Do Magic

A combination of headphones with TV may sound awkward, but it can actually do wonders. If you are enjoying the TV alone, headphones are a practical choice. The corded headphones are long gone, connect your wireless headphones, and enjoy. There are some headphones that you can plug directly into your remote control. 

10. Plug-In Before You Drill 

You must be tempted to install everything in one go. It’s natural because you have invested a good amount of buying furniture, HDTV, and sitting arrangements. However, if you install things before checking, you will end up drilling a lot of holes in the wall. The overall look will be spoiled, and you have to put in more effort. Thus, it is better to plug in the HDTV and sound system to ensure the right position before you finally drill to set up things. If you are planning to set a home theater, go ahead! Keep the tips mentioned above in mind to have an impeccable experience. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Arslan Hassan is an electrical engineer with a passion for writing, designing, and anything tech-related. His educational background in the technical field has given him the edge to write on many topics. He occasionally writes blog articles for Dynamologic Solutions.