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06/17/2006 08:44:16 PM · #1 |
I need help coming up with a set-up for my home theater system. I've got speakers, DVD, VCR, CD, and a 36" CRT TV, but it's about time to upgrade. >:-)
Since Charter just started carrying some of our cannels in HD, my X-Box 360, the PS3 (eventually), and my DVD player all support HD resolution, I want to splurge some of my savings on a projector, screen, and new A/V receiver. The receiver I have now doesn't have component AV and only one S-Video input,- it's gotta go. I'd like to be able to keep the TV in place, because it's recessed in a wall and it would be easy to pull a screen down in front of it, but if all else fails it can replace the ailing Hitachi in our family room.
I've got 14' of space to work with, and about $2000. Under $1800 would be preferable but sometimes you gotta go big money.
I've never had a projector or even tooled around with one. I'm looking at one specific projector, a DLP Sharp XR-10x, which came up as the most affordable option when using the search option at //www.projectorpeople.com/
It won't be moved once installed nor will I need to worry about using it in a very brightly lit room.
I'm pretty much clueless in the area, so if somebody out there wants to make some suggestions I'd appreciate it.
Message edited by author 2006-06-17 20:45:47. |
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06/17/2006 09:33:46 PM · #2 |
When looking at A/V Receivers spend as much time researching it as much (more) than the other (as important) components in your system. Do not cut yourself short of connectors... Plenty of Component and Digital (optical) connectors, Composite and Svid are usable but not the same quality. HDMI is going to catch on real soon as well.
Just for fun I did my Xbox 360 set-up for a guy having probs in the Xbox Forum, TV/AV will go to bedroom once I go big (soon)
I also have a Windows Media Center PC in the Den Loaded with all my CDs and some Movies. The Xbox 360 is a Media Center Extender and can play all that stuff that resides on the pewter in the den.
Edit: Oh yeah, get yourself a Harmony Remote - I got the Harmony (xbox) 360 version and it is the best part that I put in. If you want others to be able to turn all the stuff on it is the only way to go.
Message edited by author 2006-06-17 21:39:00. |
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06/17/2006 09:44:58 PM · #3 |
//www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/
This is where I went to learn. I've had a dedicated home theater for about 4 years. Projector, video games, etc, like you are contemplating.
There may be too much info on this website, but you will find what you need with some patience. |
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06/17/2006 09:49:24 PM · #4 |
Andy I got an older version of that reciever the Yammy HTR 5240, and it is so SOLID, I have never had it past halfway--, it so well built and planty of inputs-- I love Yahama
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06/17/2006 10:05:40 PM · #5 |
I got some old snaps of my living room
I run the Yahama Reciever, Sony Fronts-Center-and Sub. JBL Rears..
Average tv- 36 inch Toshiba - Digital cable Sony dvd player-
It rocks the house, just wanna save up for a better tv..
 (Superbowl snap I think)
 (Daytona 500 - like 5 laps before Sr crashed and died, kinda creepy) OLympus 1 megapixel Pix btw, :)
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06/17/2006 10:15:54 PM · #6 |
Without getting into hardware specifics, here's what I'll add to the discussion.
When getting a projector (or any decent TV), make sure you get it calibrated. Figure $150-200 to have it done. It will make a difference. I don't know much about projectors, but TVs come setup to stand out on the showroom floor instead of look good.
Same goes for your speakers. Positioning makes a big difference but you really need to balance your speakers. Many receivers come with a built-in test tone that has white noise go through the speakers individually. This may be OK, but running a DVD with the tone is usually better. OK results can be obtained by ear, but again it must be done properly. Our ears hear differently based on position so it makes it difficult to do without a meter. Radio Shack has an inexpensive sound meter that works great and you can do it yourself. The meter is probably $40-50 and is worth the purchase. It's an inexpensive (relatively speaking) purchase where you get a lot of bang for the buck. I know Avia has a DVD with all the tones and instructions for setup. |
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