A mini home theater system brings the joy of watching movies that we see in movie theaters at home. Are you planning to get one for yourself? Then reading this Techspirited article will prove to be of valuable help.
In the modern world of technology, watching movies, listening to music, and playing video games with good picture quality and high quality sound facility has become easy with home theater systems. It provides a stupendous movie experience within the confines of your home.
Its popularity is increasing day by day as people want to entertain their family and friends without having to go out of their homes.
What is this System All About
Not lagging in any way in performance, a mini home theater system is both cost- and space-effective because of the comparatively small size of its audio and video components. For example, a traditional system would have a 60-plus inch visual display, while a mini version would include a 30-inch LCD TV. Latest technology would include models which are portable,have an LCD TV that can be folded, and kept in a bookshelf.
These systems, like its traditional version, is a collection of different audio-video devices. The system includes a television or media PC along with good quality speakers, amplifier, and a DVD/CD player. It also has an infrared remote control designed to operate all other audio-video devices. All these components are configured in such a manner that they perform together, share resources, and interact with each other to give a synergistic output. Watching movies or photos (on your HTPC), listening to music, and playing games is altogether a different experience. You can buy a pre-configured system available in the market, or purchase components of your choice and get it configured.
It is not difficult to configure the system, if you keep certain things in mind. Basic knowledge of the various components is essential to make a wise selection. Assemble the system according to your own needs and, not to forget, budget.
Home Theater System Essentials
You need to decide which room in your home will be ideal to install the system in and whether to keep it in an open area or enclosed in a cabinet. The type of video display to be installed will depend on the size of the room.
Visual Display Devices
Visual display devices are picture-displaying devices. Some options in these devices are LCD or Plasma TV, and the less expensive rear-projection television (RPTV). If you are tech savvy or a do-it-yourself enthusiast and have a video projector, you can build it into a cabinet with your RPTV to form a unified display device according to your needs.
Audio Devices
The basic audio devices are tuner, pre-amplifier, and multi-channel amplifier which can be purchased as separate devices, or you can go for a multi-channel audio-video (AV) receiver which combines all three functions. The speaker system should be chosen to get the best surround sound quality, keeping in mind the size of the room.
Source Components
Source components can be either Blu-ray disc player, DVD player, or CD player.
Another deciding factor would be whether you want to include any of the options for viewing primary television programming―antenna, cable, or satellite. If you are not going in for a wireless system, then the various components have to be connected with the help of cables.
According to the specifications and your budget, different audio and video elements can be chosen. There are many brands available in the market such as Sony, Panasonic, Samsung, Yamaha, Bose, etc. If you are buying the components separately, then it is suggested that you shop by brand to get the advantage of best sound and viewing qualities out of the system.
Some Useful Buying Tips
- The golden rule for optimum viewing distance from the TV screen is 2-2-½ times its width.
- Check the full potential of the speakers system before you select. The best sound projectors offer many sound mode settings.
- If you are planning to go for a wireless system, seeking advice from a audio/video technician would be helpful.
These systems can be economical and within the budget, if planned in a proper manner. To buy one at absolute best prices, compare the options available in the market. For this, you can visit a electronics store in your locality or look at price comparison charts on the Internet.