A Treat for Your Eyes
The TV is the crown jewel of the home theater. The keys to consider here are resolution (4K is a must, but do you jump to OLED or QLED?), size (bigger is better but space and budget come into play), and refresh rate (for serious gamers 120Hz is important).
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Sound System
Most TVs come with sub-par speakers, and without a proper sound setup the experience is hollow or grainy. Advanced audio systems can range from simple plug-ins that offer a quick performance boost to multi-channel, booming sound from all angles. There are several considerations like space, channel count, zones, and input devices, so plan carefully.
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Now you’re talking an above-average theater. To build out a multi-channel system you need a hub to connect and control all the levels, and if multi-room zones are important this is also a consideration.
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Onkyo TX-NR676 7.2-Ch Network A/V Receiver
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Onkyo TX-NR575 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver
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The most important part of any sound system are the speakers, but there are choices. If you choose to build your own setup, you need a receiver and to consider how much space and budget you have. Do you go for the gusto with a 7.1 setup, or build something smaller? Never forget the subwoofer, this adds depth and supports the rest of the audio channels.
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Quick and easy (not to mention cost-efficient), sound bars and home theather in a box give you a boost in audio performance without taking up a ton of space. Having a sound bar doesn’t negate the need for a subwoofer though, be sure to include one for a rich experience in a small package.
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Smart TVs now come with media streaming built-in, but for audiophiles additional input devices might be critical. Multi-disk CD players and turntables still have a place in the ultimate home theater for entertaining, and gamers will be sure to have a console or two plugged in. Beyond that, additional media inputs are all about preference.
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Xbox One X 1TB Console
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Microsoft Xbox One S 500GB Forza Horizon 3 + Hot Wheels Bundle
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Accessories
To stand or to hang? Wall mounts are nice to free up floor space and keep things clean, but HDMI cables are necessary to connect all your different devices.
Everything You Need to Know to Build the Ultimate Home Theater
Whether you host the hottest game-day parties, consider yourself a connoisseur of cinema, or just love to get the most from your experience, the home theater setup is often the centerpiece of the home. We know the importance of having all your gear spec'd for performance, and getting a rockin' setup takes some planning. Not to worry, this is your guide to building the ultimate home theater, from the casual viewing den to the audio/video fanatic haven.
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