Home Theater Basics

What do I need for a Home Theater?

You'll need to start with a TV large enough to comfortably view movies in a widescreen aspect ratio. How large a TV you buy is determined mainly by your preference and budget. A 27" screen or greater will allow you to see the smallest details from a comfortable viewing distance.

You'll also need to decode and play back a surround sound format. There are many formats, but the most commonly used today is Dolby Digital. Almost every DVD sold today is encoded in the Dolby Digital surround format. To properly enjoy Dolby Digital you'll require:

Earlier surround sound formats (Dolby Pro-Logic) were compatible with two-channel playback devices such as a Hi-Fi Stereo VCRs or Laser Disc players. Newer A/V receivers are backward-compatible to earlier surround formats, so the VCR will perform fine.

If you're already happy with an existing stereo system in your home, you might be able to upgrade it to decode surround formats with separate components. This method is called separates. Do not consider separates a low-budget option even if you already have a good two-channel stereo system. The cost of buying components necessary to upgrade from two-channel stereo to 5.1 channels, plus decode the new format, will easily exceed the price of a single A/V receiver that will perform all those tasks.

How much am I expected to spend on a Home Theater audio system?