Want to make a fun Sunday plan? How about a movie with your friends? If you are a big-time movie buff, you can now comfortably enjoy your movie night at home with a whole Theatre feel. Yes, you heard it right! Installing a home theatre system can take your hobby to a whole different level. It will eliminate the worry of not getting a preferable ticket at the theatre or facing the crowd in the hall. You can invite your friends to your home for a movie night and experience the theatre-like feels. 

Whether you need a moderate system for your family or a luxurious entertainment room with surround sound and tiered seating, this guide will help you understand the home theater installation service and estimated installation costs.   

But let’s first start with understanding what a home Theater system is. 

What Is a Home Theater System?

Home theater is an integrated entertainment system with audio and video equipment. It is designed to give you a cinema feel in your home by recreating the moment of watching a movie like in a theatre. It is more advanced than a TV and a DVD player and offers a delightful viewing experience. 

Many home theaters include a projection TV system or high-definition television, a Blu-ray player, and a surround-sound audio system. You can save a good amount by using a subwoofer and well-positioned speakers in place of the surround-sound system. It is also viable to go beyond the bottom requirements and install a media server, streaming media player, sound amplifiers, a separate video/audio receiver, in-ceiling or in-wall speakers, and other attachments.

Features Of Home Theater System

There are some specific things that one needs to consider before purchasing a home theatre system.

Speakers

Imagine you are watching a movie with your friends, and because of the poor sound quality, you are not receiving it all, which will affect your whole movie experience. That is why it is vital to install a good surround sound system so that you can get a theatre-like feeling at home. Sound is the most significant feature of the home theatre system, making it so popular. The traditional surround sound system involves five speakers: a left and right speaker, a center speaker, two left and right rear, and a subwoofer. Incredible sound adds more lively emotions to the movies. You can also separate your system far from the outside sound with particular audible treatments for a much better experience. By this, you will be mesmerized by every sound effect, musical note, and dialogue.

Display

If you are buying a home theatre, you need to ensure that the theatre has a high-quality display. The 4k TV big screen or laser projector is the best thing about a specialized theatre room. The advanced theatre system displays 4K images in high definition for sharper and brighter pictures that bring more specification to every scene. That means if you are watching a football match in the home theatre, you will feel like you are practically on the field because it gives a lively experience. 

Smart Home Automation

Your home theatre’s automation system helps you to regulate the lights and other technologies. For example, switch off the lights when the show or movie begins and turn them on at the end of the movie, just like in actual theatres. If you want to set the lights for a better ambiance and mood during the movie, adjust the system’s setting, and you will get the ambiance of your preference. Also, you can link all the AV instruments to your keypad control or the smartphone, allowing you to watch your favorite shows without vacating your pleasant spot. Just set the volume first, then pick a movie from the platform and play and stop it accordingly on your smart mobile device.

Major Considerations For Your Home Theater Installation

Installation of a home theatre requires a lot of thinking, and there are some factors that one needs to consider before consulting a home theater installer in NYC. 

Room Measurement

For Home Theatre installations, it is crucial to know the kind and dimension of the room because it matters a lot. The size of the room decides the number of seating that can be included. Also, it determines where you can place the speaker, what will be the seating arrangement and how big the display screen will be. Make sure the home theatre is not installed near busy places like the kitchen because it can influence your overall experience. The volume of noise and ambient light a room could perceive is also considered. Moreover, one also needs to remember that if there is a window or a door near the home theatre because the sun’s rays can also block your favorite movie scene, think wisely before the installation. 

Screen Set And Size

Getting the best display screen for home theatre is an accomplishment; that is why picking its appropriate size and type should be your priority. Consider your room first and if you have enough space for ample seating, consider buying a projector screen and a projector. The latest technology has made projectors affordable and much brighter in recent years. Also, the newest projector screen enhances the overall look and feel of the high-definition movie viewing experience.

Speakers And Sound 

You have many choices to enhance the sound quality of your home theatre system. If you own a small space, you can think about in-wall or in-ceiling speakers because they take up a small room. The soundbar or wireless satellite speakers can also be great options for limited space. It gives you an enveloping experience that makes you feel like you are in the middle of your favorite activities.

Attached Sources

Before installing a home theatre in your place, think about the kind of media you will watch in that theatre. Whether it is a Blu-ray disc of the movies or you want Hulu or Netflix-like web-based streaming services for entertainment. Also, ensure what type of voice and display system you require to combine multiple media in one system.

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Step-By-Step Guide To Home Theatre Installation

Here are the steps of home theatre installation that the installer needs to follow for its successful installation.

Select A Location

The ideal place for the home theatre installation should be about 20 feet long and 13 feet wide and a bit secluded from the rest of the place. 

Mount And Insulate

The home theatre installation is very similar to other installations, but the only exception is that you need to give more attention to the insulation. A grading of R30 is excellent for the ceiling, floor, and external wall covering, but don’t ignore the inner walls. The Loosely stuffed R11 will help retain the sound of that particular space and don’t let it rock the entire home. However, the sound will not be blocked entirely; you must attach a sound blockade after pre-wiring the room.

Pre-Wiring Of Surround Sound

Many home theatres implement 7.1 surround sound systems with a subwoofer and seven medium speakers –right, left, center, rear surround, and side surround. For pre-wiring a 7.1 system, these steps should be followed:

Mark every spot where speakers will be placed:

• Middle – just below or above the display screen
• Right/Left– on one screen side at ear height
• Border Surrounds – on the side of walls back of the main seating row
• Back Surrounds – on the rear wall (how far aside depends on the system)

Select a place for the axis that will protect the receiver and another A/V implement. This axis can be concealed in a nearby closet or the case inside the system. Pass audio wires to each location from the corner. Wires should be of a minimum of 16-4 ( 4 conductors, 16-gauge) for rear and side speakers. Use powerful 12 or 14 meters cables for right, left, and middle speakers.

Pre-Wiring Of A Video Projector

You need to pre-wire a video display projector for a large screen and realistic theatre experience that includes two cables. One of the cable ends should expand from the roof area at the back of the theatre where the projector will be placed, and the other cable’s end should attach to the system hub. 

An HDMI wire is responsible for bringing widescreen visuals to the projector, and the CAT5 control wire examines the projector with an RF (radio frequency) remote. With this, your movie will automatically begin without indicating the projector. You must pre-wire the center with satellite-fed or cable and speedy Internet for running video.

Pre-Wire Lighting

Proper lighting is necessary for creating an atmosphere like a movie theatre which includes sconces and concave ceiling lighting across the side walls. You will need floor lighting across the steps if you want stadium seating. Move primary electrical cables to each of these places. Attaching the lighting to the RF dimmer would allow you to regulate it with the similar RF remote you need for the projector. Also, you can adjust the light setting to dim with just one press.

Fix Drywall and Voice Fence

At this installation stage, you have two primary choices for auxiliary Soundproofing. Either you can implement special drywall potent of the sound blockade that can cost you eight times more than the standard one, or ordinary drywall covered with sound-decreasing materials like heavy vinyl. While fixing drywall, think about where to leave openings for audio and pre-wired cables so they can route through them. Whatever you choose between them, make sure to place a rock-hard door for optimal sound reduction. 

Set Up Sound And Video Systems

Once the drywall gets painted, fix your projector, screen, and speakers in the appropriate place. In the 20 by 13 feet theatre, the ideal size of the screen is about 110-120 inches. To get a more professional feel, mount the display with proscenium, an arrangement of black-colored acoustical boards that hide the center, left, and right speakers. These boards can be designed with traditional patterns, including family and friends photos or your favorite movie poster. Hiding the remaining speakers with acoustic panels magnifies as design.

 The projector and speakers will attach to the system’s receiver. The receiver will receive content from large-scale multimedia instruments such as Cable/satellite feed, PC, Home theatre Blu-ray player, and Game console. An ideal Blu-ray player would perform better than playing discs. Several Blu-ray players are also linked to your private computer system, making it convenient to enjoy music, videos, and home photos in your theatre.

Install Theater-Like Seating

You can enhance your seating area with loveseats or comfortable theatre sofas for an authentic feel. Two lines of four seating will be appropriate for 20 by 13 theatres. Also, you can raise the back column with a pre-formed platform. These theatre types of seating come in various styles, including authentic leather with hollow casing in the seating’s arm. These seats allow you to relax and enjoy your favorite movie.

How Much Does Home Theater Installation Cost?

Home Theatre installation costs depend on the additional features it comes with, such as surround sound and lighting arrangement. These features are available at a wide range of prices and qualities that significantly influence the overall cost of installation.

Projector

Projectors let you see what you pay for. According to the collection of this year’s best home theatre projectors by CNET, you can expect to invest around $250 to $4,000 to get a good projector model. So if you want to enjoy your favorite show with the best picture quality, picking up an appropriate projector will be best for your experience.

TV

If the small visuals don’t bother you, then you can also go for TV alternatively. You can get the advanced large-screen HDTV for $1,500 to $9,000. That means you could replace the projector with a TV. Also, the wall-mounted TV will cost you comparatively less, around $70 to $300. 

Lighting

There are some ideal choices for home theater lighting. LED strip lighting is basic for home theaters as it lets you light up the seating and the steps without blocking your sight of the screen. You can expect to pay about $1 and $3 for every linear edge for LED strip lighting. Moreover, you can also choose Wall sconces as a lighting feature. They throw the light in an upward direction to produce better lighting. And they can typically cost you around $50 to $200 per unit.

Surround Sound

The Surround sound systems consist of one or more subwoofers or several speakers to generate movie theater-like audio. A 5.1 system is enough for most home theatre settings, and it has a single subwoofer and five speakers. It can cost around $700 for a basic design and $1,500 for the advanced one.

Seating

Installation of seats for the home theatre area can cost you about $400 to $3,000 for every chair or around $5,000 to $10,000 for every row. Reclining seats are more expensive than non-reclining seats.

Soundproofing

Some people want their home theatre to be soundproof as it prevents noise from passing outside. And disturb other family members or neighbors. The prices of Soundproofing fluctuate with the location and size of the home theatre room. The average cost you can expect is around $1,000 to $5,000. Also, the installation of acoustic panels enhances the sound quality of your home theatre by regulating echoes. Acoustic paneling is more costly than basic Soundproofing, and it can cost you around $8,000.

Carpeting

The installation of the home theatre might also require carpeting in the room for a better appearance. The carpet installation can cost around $1 to $4 per square foot.

What Is The Average Cost Of Home Theater Installation?

It costs you around $20,000 to $70,000 to transform the basement into a home theater. The least you could expect to invest is $10,000 in a primary home theater installation with nominal add-ons. On the other hand, a prime setup with features like tiered seats, Soundproofing, and lighting could cost you up to $90,000. Installing a home attachment to lodge your movie theater will make it significantly expensive. 

How Much Do Home Installers Cost?

This conceptual theatre involves a projector, a projector screen, speakers with volume controls, wiring for audio, and an intelligent home structure. The labor cost depends on the size and features of the room while installing the home theatre. Hence, the installers charge according to the home theater specifications. The overall cost you expect to pay is around $13,000, including labor costs.

Typically, hiring an expert contractor in home theatre installation will cost you around $150 and $200 every hour. On the other hand, engaging an architect to design home modifications will cost you about $150 and $400 every hour.

Conclusion

Nowadays, Home theatres are not only lavishness for popular and prosperous people. Many middle-class families can also afford to enjoy a time of togetherness with their close ones while viewing their favorite movie using a home theatre. Thanks to the affordable and advanced technology that makes it possible for us. Now you can sit, relax and enjoy your time with your people in your home. The installation of a home theatre comes with many perks and benefits. That is why it is essential to install it with the help of professional installers to enjoy the perks of a home theatre for many years.

If you plan to install Home Theatre for your space, you can consider Safety Hardware Store, as we provide the home theater installation service in New York. Our team is filled with professional and experienced experts who are here for you to serve 24/7. To avail of our services or for related queries, kindly contact us at 212-860-2219, or you can mail us at [email protected].