Movie theater tickets are becoming increasingly expensive every day. As a result, many moviegoers choose not to go to the movies, especially in this time of pandemic where people are stay-at-home. Instead of attempting to make yourself feel like you're in a movie theater with a simple television screen, you can turn any space into a home theater with a little imagination and upgrades!
Here are the tips for converting your living rooms into the most impressive movie theater.
Jump to:
1. Know which components you need to purchase
Speakers, a receiver, a video input like a DVD player or a game console, and a smart television make up the typical home theater setup. First, make an inventory of your existing components and list down what you want to upgrade. Research a good brand that will fit your budget before shopping.
2. Choose the best television
If you are a fan of the hit TV sitcom FRIENDS, there's an episode where Joey asks, "No TV? Where is your furniture aimed?" Choosing the right TV for your home movie theater setup is crucial. Television is still the focal point of most rooms.
If you have an existing TV and have an extra budget, consider upgrading your television to a newer model or smart TV with improved color and screen quality. The sharper the pictures, the more you'll be immersed in the films themselves.
In setting up your home theater, it's best to have a Smart TV. They became popular in 2016, and while smart TVs require Wi-Fi, they still function as a regular TV to watch local channels if not connected to the internet.
Smart TVs are internet-connected. They usually allow you to download apps like a phone. Major streaming services like Netflix, HBO, and YouTube apps are commonly present in Smart TVs. Depending on the model, you can use them for browsing the internet, accessing your home network, and more. We recommend choosing full HD (1080p) TV resolution rather than upgrading to 4K due to the lack of content.
Don't forget to consider the size of the television. The recommended viewing distance that is safe for the eyes from TV is 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal screen size. So, if you have 4 to 6 feet of viewing distance, a 32-inch TV is ideal.
Here's a list of TV screen sizes to help you decide the right size of TV based on the available space you have.
3. Consider using a projector on any blank walls that are available
Do you have a blank white wall in your house that you're not sure what to do with it? Instead of creating an eye-catching wall collage or posters, consider converting that wall into a projection screen. Projectors are ideally great in rooms with no windows and walls that are pure all white. Although a projector can be expensive, the effect of a whole wall screen can impress any ardent cinephile.
If you choose a projector for your home theater setup, make sure that your projector is high quality. A low-quality projector can detract from the effect of using a full-wall projector and can make it appear as though watching on a television screen and can be pixelated. If you are on the budget, you may choose mid-range projectors as they also provide good quality screening.
4. Don't be afraid to spend money on home audio speakers
Home audio speakers can make a difference! Even though you don't have to spend a lot of money on Dolby Atmos speakers, it's still best to invest in higher-quality surround sound speakers. Having a quality speaker as part of your home theater setup will give an excellent experience of enjoying the movie with your family and friends. In addition, surround sound can create the illusion that you've entered a movie house by strategically placing speakers.
5. Ensure your cable management safety
With cable management, you can improve your home theater setup more aesthetic. Instead of letting your cables fall where they may, consider hiding them. It can achieve by snaking cable through walls or utilizing tools that blend wires into walls or details. Cable management can also reduce the risk of fire and arrange a space.
6. Create a collection of movies that you enjoy watching
The movies that you watch in your home theater are the most enjoyable aspect of the experience. Despite the fact that many individuals abandon DVD and Blu-ray in favor of totally digital media, It is still fun to collect DVDs. There is no more cost-effective way to amass a movie library than through the purchase of DVDs. They are permanent and let you store as many movies as you like on them without having to worry about your internet connection breaking down or your streaming service being down. Having a collection of DVDs on a shelf can also be an excellent display for your home theater setup.
Takeaways
Having a home theater is a great addition to any home that your family and friends can enjoy. Be bold and enjoy yourself while doing it.