Home Theater Systems

Oh, the home theater. For many men, this is the Holy Grail of home improvement projects. We men seem to want it all, and we want it now! Oh yeah! One thing though, does anyone really know what to get? Oh, man, I hate it when this happens. There are two things that a person can do when faced with this situation. The first option you have is that you can go to the local electronics store and say "I've got money to spend," and watch the sales associates get into a big brawl over who get's your commission. While highly entertaining, this method can lead to you spending more and getting more system than you need (which does not make for a happy spouse when you get home). The second method, and the one that I would recommend for domestic felicity, is to plan ahead and use these guidelines to help you reach that wonderful state where what you want, what you can afford, and your happy spouse all meet.

• Finances. As with any home improvement project, the first thing that you need to do is decide how much you can afford to spend on this project. Considering how much many systems, let alone individual components can go for, you really want to determine how much you can afford. You don't want to end up in debt to your eyeballs when you are done, since in the long run that is not going to make either you or your spouse happy.
• Location. Before rushing out and getting the system of your dreams, determine which room in your home you are going to be using as a home theater. Are you going to be using a specific room solely as a dedicated home theater, or are you going to be using one that is more along the lines of a combination family room and TV room, and how big is it? Discuss what you want with your spouse and get their input. After all, even if they said "It's up to you," they are still going to have to live with the results and it's usually best to get their input before you unilaterally decide. Trust me I know what I am talking about!
• TV/Projector. Now, how big of a viewing experience do you want? Many people may want to go with the largest and most impressive flat screen, LCD/Plasma screen, HDTV that they can find. While it is true that such systems can provide superior viewing experiences, the larger you get, the more expensive you get. One thing that you may not have thought about is to use a projector. For the equivalent price of a 22" LCD TV, you can get a projector (which means larger picture). Many projectors now can work just like a television, and you get a wonderful picture with them if you mount them properly.
• Components/System. There are bonuses and drawbacks to going with either components or a system. Systems are great for larger rooms (say rooms over 200 sq. ft.), and for large-screen TVs. However, by going with the individual components you are going to ensure that you have a truly customizable home theater system.
• Audition. Since most electronic stores have some type of return policy, keep all the receipts and packaging until you are certain you are pleased with the outcome. If you do not like the way that one component interacts with others then simply take it back and use it for in-store credit to find one that you do like.