how much do i need to spend?
This first part is easy. Just factor in the variables of budget, room size, and the quality/quantity of the components, and you'll know approximately where you stand.
Price brackets:
$500 or less |
$1,000 or less |
$1,500 or less |
More than $1,500
| PRICE | ROOM SIZE | WHAT YOU'LL GET |
|---|
$500 or less
|
Think small, cozy bed or living rooms measuring less than 200 square feet.
|
A feature-packed home theater in a box (HTIB) that includes a receiver/DVD player or changer, HDMI output with DVD upscaling, five satellite speakers, and a subwoofer. If that's too many speakers, opt for a virtual-surround system with just one, two, or three front speakers instead (plus the sub). |
$1,000 or less
|
Moderately sized bedroom or living rooms measuring less than 300 square feet.
|
You can choose between a high-end or virtual-surround HTIB or mix 'n' match an entry-level receiver, an HDMI-equipped upscaling DVD player, and a 5.1-speaker package. |
$1,500 or less
|
Large living rooms or dedicated home theaters measuring more 300 square feet. You can, of course, still use these systems in smaller rooms.
|
An upscale HTIB or a customized setup that includes a midline receiver, an HDMI-equipped upscaling DVD player or entry-level HD DVD player, and either a matched speaker package or select speakers from a manufacturer's line of speakers and subwoofers. |
More than $1,500
|
Large living rooms or dedicated home theaters measuring more 300 square feet. Those who want a first-rate system in a more intimate home theater or plan to add quality sound to another room (a.k.a., a zone) should also consider stepping into this bracket.
|
A high-end HTIB or a customized setup that includes a top-rung receiver, a Blu-ray or HD DVD player, and either a matched speaker package or select speakers from a manufacturer's line of speakers and subwoofers. |
