Home theater is a home cinema system that tries to reproduce video and audio in home that is of cinema quality and gives a real `cinema experience`. A basic system could comprise of an arrangement of a DVD and CD player, a television and a set of speakers. According to the people in the consumer electronics industry, a home theater is primarily an integration of high quality video and surround sound. A home theater design generally comprises of input devices, processing devices, audio output, video output, and proper ambiance and atmosphere.

Home theater input devices are sources of audio and video. There can be a single or multiple input devices for the same system. HD-DVD (High Density DVD) and blue-ray are one of the most preferred high quality formats that are being used. Often, VHS (Video Home System) and Video game systems are also included. They are available now, also have a home theater PC that acts as a library for video and audio content.

The processing of the input devices is carried out by either an AV amplifier or a Preamplifier and sound processor. These are used for complex surround sound formats. Before forwarding it to the output devices, the user should first select the input device. The audio output system consists a minimum of 2 speakers. The number of speakers can be as high as 11, in addition to the sub-woofer. Sub-woofer is important as it reproduces the bass audio frequencies. Regular floorstanding or bookshelf speakers cannot do this work.

A large HDTV (High Definition Television) forms the video output system. LCD TVs (Liquid Crystal Display Television), Video projectors, plasma TVs, rear-projection TVs, or a traditional CRT TVs are other available options.

Comfortable seats and proper arrangement of all the devices with respect to the seats is also important for that great `cinema experience`. Sound insulation for preventing sound from escaping the room and specialized walls for sound balancing within the room are a part of the higher end systems.

There exist two options for purchasing a home theater system. One can either, purchase and assemble various components, or purchase a home theater box kit. Assembled systems provide the best combination of components for the consumer`s budget. System in box kits includes a set of speakers, an amplifier or tuner for volume adjustment and video source selection, and at times a DVD player.

Few enthusiastic of the lot of home theater lovers take an extra step and build a room in the house, that functions as a home theater. To create a perfect listening environment, sophisticated acoustic design elements, like `room-in-a-room` construction, can be added to the system. Recreation of an ideal cinema experience does not stop here. A projector enclosed in a projection booth, specialized furniture, curtains in front of the projection screen, movie posters, etc make the experience much more real.

It is possible to set up systems in backyards too, provided proper outdoor atmosphere exists. Considering the availability of space, either a temporary or a permanent system could be installed. A temporary system could be a basic arrangement of foldable screen, a projector and a few speakers. On the other hand, an outdoor version could be elaborate with permanent fixtures, large video display components and dedicated audio output components. These backyard home theaters are one of the favorites with outdoor parties.

The rapid development in audio and video technologies has brought down the prices of home theaters. This in turn has enabled a do-it-your-self enthusiast to experience a true digital home theater at his doorsteps.

This article can also be accessed in portuguese language from the Article section of page www.polomercantil.com.br/home-theater.php

Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant forPoloMercantil.

All home entertainment units have three major components that are essential to creating a functional home theater system. The main focus of any theater is the television or video display. Sound quality is essential. A complete sound system is key to providing the soul and voice of the theatre. A source player is the third element, providing the picture and sound. Cable or satellite TV is standard in most homes but DVD and other players are also added to expand the usefulness of a home theater. It is these three major pieces of electronic innovation that make watching a movie, playing the XBox or listening to a favorite CD enjoyable and worthwhile.

Visual Element

There are video display options available to a home depending on budget and preferences.

Rear Projection Television. Television technology has been based on the cathode ray tube (CRT) up until the 21st century. In a rear projection TV, there are three tubes, each representing one of the primary colors. This colors mix along with quality wiring and a good screen, provide a very high resolution picture. Manufacturers are starting to drop rear project televisions from their product lines however. Research your manufacturer’s warranty before purchasing a rear projection television to make sure that customer service and repairs will be available down the line.

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Television. An LCD TV can be found as both a rear projection and as a flat screen. LCD rear projection TVs are much more compact than their CRT cousins and use less power. I have written about LCD televisions extensively in other articles so I will forego further explanation here.

Plasma Screen Televisions. In this technology, different gases are trapped between two panes of glass and an electronic signal can modify them to allow them to display a picture. These televisions are produced with a sleek thin design and can produce excellent resolution.

No matter which video display you are leaning toward, make sure to measure the area you want to put the TV so it fits when you bring it home. Also look into whether the screen is able to handle high definition (HD) television and DVDs.

Audio Elements

The sound system is going to make a huge difference in the enjoyment and functionality of your home theater. A good audio system includes the following elements:

Receiver. This component takes the audio signal, and often the video signal, and distributes it to the proper part of your system.

Amplifier. This component is what increases the signal strength before it is sent to the speakers. Often times, a purchased receiver will have an amplifier already built into it, making an additional piece of equipment unnecessary.

Surround Sound Speakers. Standard speaker sets of five are typical for most home theaters. There is a center channel, a right front, right rear, left front and left rear. These different speakers, when properly positioned, make the sound come from the appropriate direction.

Data / Signal Source

A basic DVD player is a standard signal source in most theater systems. The signal information sent from the player contains the video data as well as your 5.1 surround sound. Your cable box or digital satellite is also signal sources for a home theater. These sources can all be used in one system with the proper wiring and remote programming.

Ben Anton lives and writes in Portland, OR.

Ben invites you to check out the latest home theater systems from PSB, Dali and NAD available through Ronny’s Eugene retail home theater store.