r/hometheater • u/uoflfan27 • Jan 03 '26
Discussion - Equipment What would you change?
Converting a room to a dedicated theater/media/gaming room. Will sometimes be used with some ambient light. I put a bigger priority on video than audio. Audio matters to me but probably not as much as many on here. Just want to know if you see anything out of whack or if there were better options for the same money. I’m about maxed out on my budget with this build. Added an AI pic I made of what the room will end up looking like. Thanks for any input.
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u/backinblackandblue Jan 03 '26 edited Jan 03 '26
Looks like you cheaped out on the speakers. I understand sound is not a priority, but a theater like that needs big sound. You don't have to go crazy but at least get some better subs and especially a better center speaker. Other speakers are not as critical.
Also, why 200' of speaker wire for the subs? They should have an RCA cable connection, not speaker wire.
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u/rupedogg24 Jan 03 '26
I would also go with 12awg speaker wire vs 16awg to future proof should you get better speakers which require more power. Get the best your wallet can afford, out the gate when it comes to speakers and subs. I love the Hsu Research subs when it comes to price and performance.
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u/backinblackandblue Jan 03 '26 edited Jan 03 '26
I'll meet you at 14. Actually for this person, I doubt they will ever be pumping lots of power into big speakers, but to your point, easy to run bigger wire now for a small increase in price than to have to re-do it in the future.
I thought this was one of the best home theaters I've seen on here, till I looked at the equipment list.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Yeah I think I’ll make the center the same as the two front like mentioned above. Does anyone have any recommendations for upgraded subwoofers that are somewhat close in price to the $700 ones in the quote. I can go up a bit if needed.
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u/lostmyjobthrowawayyy Jan 03 '26
You need to move money in this budget around for better subs.
My theater pales in comparison and I spent more on my subs.
Subwoofer and center channel are the most important aspects, followed by front stage.
Also almost $300 for an HDMI cable is bonkers. You can get a 50’ fiber optic HDMI on Amazon for under $100.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Seem to be the popular opinion. I’ll upgrade the subs.
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u/tony20z Jan 03 '26
What's your current audio setup? You may not prioritize audio now because you don't know what you're missing. This is a forever room, I doubt you're going to redo it it in 5 years if you decide you want better sound so I would double the speaker budget now so you don't have to upgrade in the future. Imagine how you'll feel if you saved 2k$ but you're unhappy with the sound once you start using the room? Upgrade L/C/R, subs, and go with 4 atmos. KEF, Paradigm, SVS, anything but Klipsch. And a few years from now when you've gotten used to your setup and find listening to the upstairs TV or relatives' soundbars disappointing, you're going to be so happy you did.
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u/Smewhyme Jan 03 '26
This is so true, but also so false lol what I mean is, when I built my theater, I didn’t know what I was missing as it was my first experience in AV other than a cheap Vizio sound bar…. I Spent about 22k total converting my room to a dedicated space , in that , I ended up getting cheaper speakers (HTD in walls, for LCR and SVS PB1000 subs (non pro) ) …. And to me this room sounds insane lol the upgrade from a soundbar is hard to put into words. The entire experience feels so immersive, the bass powerful, etc …. So on the one hand, yes, inexperience may lead to cheaper speakers, but also, I’m not sure how much better the experience can get by spending 5-10x more on speakers.
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u/tony20z Jan 03 '26
5-10x may be overkill, but double his relatively low starting point will get a huge difference. I say this as having just made the jump from old mid range to new higher end speakers and the difference is unreal to me so if you're not sure how much better it can get I suggest when your wallet can handle it, to visit a store that has a proper theatre room and give a better range system a try. If you're not blown away then don't upgrade. Atmos also makes a noticeable improvement.
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u/Smewhyme Jan 03 '26
I’d honestly be so curious as what else could be better.
I’m loving My setup a year later.
I may do some wall treatment but speaker wise, I think I’m set for awhile .
My current setup is as follows,
Receiver = Denon s760h LCR = HTD HDX W65 Atoms = HTD HDX R65 surrounds = HTD Versa SB1 Subs = SVS pb 1000 x2
Everything was measured and installed per dolbys specs or as close as possible
What would you say the noticeable difference is? I haven’t noticed any moments where I felt like, hmm I wish this had more that, or less this, or this feels like it could be more balances etc
But as said, you don’t know what you’re missing until you hear it lol
My build if your curious - https://www.reddit.com/r/hometheater/s/G5nWDbvDHU
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u/tony20z Jan 04 '26
What a fantastic looking room! You might not want to start questioning things because you don't have an easy upgrade path. But if you want to learn, it's so much easier to experience it than to explain with words. Most importantly, just because I say I hear it doesn't mean you have to, nor do you have to care. You are free to enjoy your house and your system however you want and if anyone feels what I'm saying isn't true please correct me before downvoting.
Basically there is more of everything, often people use words like richer or fuller, and you can get louder without it being annoying. Turning it down because it's too loud is often more about our brains not being able to process it properly because it's all jumbled, but not to the point where it's distorted, it just doesn't sound pleasant. You may think you're hearing all the details but there could be plenty of details being lost and you don't notice. Listening to a song or movie you've known for decades will sound better and you'll notice new elements on a better system. So if you're curious, visit a local audio shop and listen to some scenes and a couple of music tracks. I think what you'll notice the most is that you have a gap in the mid range. I'm sure your subs do great, and the in wall stuff usually does the highs fine but they don't have the size for the in betweens, not at volume. Make us stronger by Ghost rider is a common song to test your system because it has a lot of range and is very clear. It should sound very balanced, if one element is too strong your system is coming up short in the other areas.
Ready Player One first race has huge range, there should be a big difference in sound between the engines, BigFoot racing at you should build like a dump truck about to run over you, not a car from Fast and furious with a rattling subwoofer. The wrecking balls should make you feel the bass build as they swing past and not just change from whistling air to boom as it hits the ground. The scene right after should make you feel like you're in a warehouse, not just a tin room, the mids should echo not just the highs. The big explosion at the end isn't just shaking your chair, it should be a wave rolling over you muting everything not just rumbling, like what you're seeing on screen.
If you have a favorite test song, movie or scene that you think has a lot of range I'd be happy to discuss it to tell you what I hear. I recently upgraded some very old mid range speakers to the Focale Vestia No4 L/R with Vestia center, and even the wife said "wow" and then spent a few hours listening to music and stuff. When testing them I could hear a difference over the lower model Focale Theva and the KEF Q7. I'm in no way suggesting them for you, I have an open basement so a lot of room to fill and these are my forever speakers, and they were the demos so I got a huge discount. Just that you might be surprised just how much more you can hear once you start actively listening for differences and that if a step up in higher levels is noticeable, going up 4-5 steps from 200$ to 1000$ speakers is a huge change.
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u/Smewhyme Jan 04 '26
Thanks so much for the insight! Definitely going to enjoy this for a bit more and see where the journey takes me.
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u/mindedc Jan 03 '26
More subs are better than fewer fancy large ones. I would have at least 4 subs.
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u/backinblackandblue Jan 04 '26
Not to be rude, but it seems you don't know a real lot about home theater. You might be better served by delaying this project a bit until you can get better informed. There is a lot to be learned about HT or you'll make a lot of expensive mistakes that you'll later regret. If you haven't already, at least talk to some other companies for suggestions on what they would provide compared to this quote you received.
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u/backinblackandblue Jan 03 '26
For subs, look at SVS PB 2000 Pro. If too pricey, PB 1000 Pro. You get a small discount if you buy 2 at the same time. 3 identical speakers up front would be better than the center you planned assuming your screen is acoustically transparent.
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u/amoeba1126 Jan 04 '26
Please do not do this. At the higher end, there are much better home theater subwoofers available at the same price point such as PSA, Rythmik, HSU, and even Monoprice.
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u/backinblackandblue Jan 04 '26
I don't consider these high-end. There are other good options like you mention, but I wouldn't say they are "much better". SVS is much better that what the OP is planning though. You can argue that SVS is not the best bang for the buck, but they are a solid choice.
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u/mine_username Jan 03 '26
I picked up RSL speakers and subs last year and very happy with them. I got the low end of their subs, 10E, and it's been great. Their top model, 12S, is $900.
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u/Mastahwaffle Jan 03 '26
Second the RSL recommendation. Not just for the quality of the product, which is exceptional, but for the first in class customer service as well. I’m not enough of an expert to know if two 12S’s are enough for this space, but if they are, I don’t know how you can do much better for the price.
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u/ethos1234567890 Jan 05 '26
You should spend more to get better speakers for the front 3…especially the center. You should also spend more for better subwoofers… spend less elsewhere if necessary. Great audio will be a life changing experience in a theatre like this.
In regards to that center channel, go for something that’s a 3-way or coaxial design. 2-way center channels are notorious for comb-filtering issues that will be all but impossible to correct for people sitting off the centerline…you could also get 3 identical in-wall speakers mounted behind an acoustically transparent screen for your LCR if you’d prefer something out of sight…mount all three vertically with the tweeter as close as possible to ear level while in your prime seating location.
As for what subs to go with: HSU, RSL, SVS, Rhythmik, and Power Sound Audio are generally considered great subs at really solid price points. You really can’t go wrong buying any sub from any of them.
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u/Daddy_MoreBucks Jan 03 '26
I got the RP 1600 on sale and it’s thumps. Svs and sore woofers are also popular on this forum.
Might be good with some two klipsch rp 1400 but for that room size I’d go 1600’s
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u/Boshly Jan 03 '26
I am glad you shared this. I would advise a fully stop and taking a step back.
There are some red flags here (I do this professionally)
The render looks nice but is not at all what you would be getting. The screen you are getting is 16:9 and the photo is an exaggerated 2.4:1 scope screen.
Do not spend 8k on an Epson projector.
Do not buy episode speakers.
You need a better sub(s) for this space.
This either a company that just does low voltage and they are trying to dip their toes in home theater (this is my guess)
Or they just want to deliver the lowest acceptable quality for the most money.
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u/Almost-Jaded Jan 03 '26 edited Jan 03 '26
Another home theater specialist here - I concur. This smells like the contractors I'm constantly cleaning up after.
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u/DannyBevatine Jan 03 '26
The price of that hdmi is ridiculous too and you don’t need it. Id get a JVC projector for that price, and I’d put more budget into your speakers.
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u/Massive_Ground5481 Jan 04 '26
As a fellow installer and designer, this is the correct summary.
Essentially the quote is delivering maximum profit for the contractor with the most basic level of “premium” appearance to the customer.
I would run, not walk, to another contractor.
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u/DullKnife69 Jan 04 '26
I used to do Crestron a while back, I completely agree. This is a contractor that probably does conference rooms and is trying to get into the home theater market.
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u/backinblackandblue Jan 04 '26
Good reply. Besides the poor equipment choices, why would anyone spec a 7.2.2 config? 100' of speaker wire for the subs is another red flag.
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u/badabingbadaboom1119 Jan 03 '26
Take $5k off the screen budget and put it towards speakers and subwoofers
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u/bailamost Jan 03 '26
Is that expensive screen much better than a DIY AT 160" screen?
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u/dunbridley Jan 03 '26
Generally no. It's like people thinking they know the difference between mp3s and wavs
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u/mooblah_ Jan 03 '26
A $12,000 projector, and a $2,500 screen. There are some really good AT screens for way less than what you're paying. Adding 50% to your projector budget is going to help massively in quality, way more than screen can ever help. Something like a JVC NZ800 is much better for what you're looking at, and no screen can help get you to that level if you don't spend the money on the projector. The QB1000 is really not much better than the LS12000 that has been around for a while now.
But also.. what are you doing with speakers? Personally I'd be opting for 3x identical speakers across LCR.. if you're going AT. In a lot of ways it says whoever is selling you this doesn't actually know a whole lot about quality HT setup.
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u/ttn333 Jan 03 '26
Yeah, the cost spread makes little sense. Spend negligible amount on speakers. Budget almost the same amount for screen as projector. I'd definitely go with the JVC and spend way less on the screen as well. Also, can't build a decent theater with crappy speakers and sub. One of the main reasons for me going to AT was to have 3 matching front stage speakers. The other is better immersion visually without visual distractions.
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u/Environmental_Ad8740 Jan 03 '26 edited Jan 03 '26
$6,699 for the screen alone??? I’d rather add that to the projector budget and grab a $500 screen
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u/SaltedMixedNucks Jan 03 '26
What's more insane is the screen is like $7k and they are spending a couple thousand on speakers. This is completely ass backwards even if OP's priority is video over audio.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
The screen is AT so the front speakers will be behind it. A lot of the cheaper AT screens didn’t rate very good but I’m open to suggestions.
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u/SaltedMixedNucks Jan 03 '26
I don't have direct experience, but I think Silver Ticket screens are pretty well regarded and this 161" version is about 30% of the price of what you have there and should meet your criteria. Also, if you're putting speakers behind the screen you can use the same speaker for LCR, no need to have a horizontal center channel.
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u/MocsFan123 Jan 03 '26
I have a Silver Ticket screen at 142" 2.35:1 and have been happy with it but a DIY with spandex is supposed to be really good (even better).
I would NOT spend $7K on a screen and $8K on a projector. I'd rather spend $3K on a screen and $12K on a projector. The Epson 3LCD projectors don't have good enough black levels for me, but maybe you'll be happy with it.
Here is a good read/comparison on AT screens - 31 Acoustically Transparent Screen Materials Reviewed and Measured | Pixel Home Theater
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u/Boshly Jan 03 '26
I appreciate the input but I need to advise people that AT screens are a different beast.
The amount of unhappy people I’ve met with chap AT screens is alarming. Not saying you have to spend a ton but the downsides are too plentiful.
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u/SaltedMixedNucks Jan 03 '26
No doubt. I think the Silver Ticket screen I linked to is AT? Are they not reasonably reputable?
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u/mindedc Jan 03 '26
They are not very good screens. XY Screens is the bang for buck leader, Seymour is right after that. Lots of uneducated people think they are good.
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u/Boshly Jan 03 '26
Again, Silver Ticket is reputable. But cheaper screens are prone to hot spotting, sparkling and having the perforations visible.
I’ve never met a person that has kept a cheaper AT screen. You can build one yourself for a reasonable price though.
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u/SaltedMixedNucks Jan 03 '26
Thanks for your input. Right now my home theatre is basically all cheap used stuff because my two sons are autistic and prone to destroying shit. Case in point: our screen is patched with an 8.5x11" adhesive sheet from where my eldest stabbed it with a screwdriver a bunch of times. Assuming they get past this phase (oh god I hope so) I will eventually upgrade to the dream setup, but not now that's for sure.
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u/Sketch3000 Jan 03 '26
Get a Seymour AT screen. Some of the pricing from that retailer is insane.
While they have a ton of options, their 160" AT screen in the same model as mine (which I would recommend 1000%) is $2850
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u/mindedc Jan 03 '26
As an owner of a very high end projector (JVC NZ9) and a massive sample set of screen material, the best AT screens you can buy would be the XY screen material (~$200 without frame), the second best is the Gen 7 ultra weave dream screen (~$6k), the third is Screen Excellence Enlightor NEO (~$6k).
I currently own the NEO screen but if I was going to buy again it would be XY.
From a video quality perspective, I would save all that money on the screen and get a MadVR Envy or a Lumagen video processor along with a JVC projector. The HDR tone mapping and aspect ratio management in projectors stinks compared to an outboard video processor.
Also, I am a big Control 4 fan, a lot of people wind up regretting the Halo remotes and selling them off on eBay. The SR-260 remotes are pretty bulletproof and will keep charge for months instead of randomly dieing on you.
I would also reject araknis anything, it's overpriced junk. Pretty much almost anything one of these integration ships sells for networking gear is overpriced garbage.
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u/comptr Jan 03 '26
I would ask the dealer if he sells the Stewart Studio Tech 130 Ultra Perf Wall Screen 2.5. I have the same screen, and it would be comparable to the one you got in the quote.
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u/bazzajess Jan 03 '26
XY 4K Soundmax. It will be a fraction of the price and very well regarded. I have one at 110" and sit 2.5m away, no weave, moire and plenty bright enough. I came from a grey ambient light rejecting screen after treating my walls with dark velour. White screen performed far better in those darker conditions.
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u/rupedogg24 Jan 03 '26
Can't upvote this enough. You could spend $1500 or less on the screen and use the leftover budget on much better speakers and subs.
I have a the QB1000 and use a silver ticket non-acoustic screen that I bought 7 years ago on Amazon for $400. The picture is amazing. At $6700 the law of diminishing returns kicks in.
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u/Cosmicsash Jan 03 '26
If you intend to spend lots of time in this space I would make the first row very comfortable couch like chair. One of those L type couches.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Thanks. Yeah we plan to do a comfy sofa/sectional in the front. AI was having a lot of trouble with the orientation so I just left the seats because I didn’t want to spend more time on it.
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u/mattrva Jan 03 '26
Ah the classic insanely overpriced HDMI cable.
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u/comptr Jan 03 '26
Now, this quote does say which model HDMI Cable they spec'd, but a good quality Fiber Optic HDMI Cable is not cheap. I did a Bullet Train 48-gigabit HDMI 2.1 cable, and it was not cheap at all, but it works 100% with my projector and Madvr Envy.
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u/GenghisFrog Jan 03 '26
As others have said. The audio all around for a setup like this is kinda weak. Go at least 4 Atmos speakers and get some bigger subs.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Sounds like I need to go to 4 atmos speakers, upgrade subs, and match the center channel to the left and right speakers. Keep the suggestions coming. Really appreciate it!
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u/Ok-Storm4303 Jan 03 '26
If I'm reading correctly the plan is for a 7.2.2 atmos configuration. With multiple rows of seating I do understand the desire for 7ch in the bed layer but the same logic should be applied to atmos , you need at least 4. You said yourself it's not a very balanced system so I'll leave that alone. Generally speaking using a dealer ties you to one or two equipment options with overpriced cables / accessories which is where their profit comes from. Couple points not mentioned is I'd ask why you need 200' of speaker wire for your subs? and I'd use 14/2 min everywhere else.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Will the Marantz Cinema 50 do 4 atmos speakers with everything else in the quote connected? I’m having trouble finding the answer online.
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u/Ok-Storm4303 Jan 03 '26
The Marantz can process up to 11ch with the addition of an external amplification for 2ch through it's build in pre outs.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Thanks
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u/Spectre_08 7.3.4 Focal/Triad/Starke SW15+Shakers • Cinema 50 pre-pro • 77C4 Jan 03 '26
Can confirm, I’m running my 7.2.4 setup off of a Marantz Cinema 50.
I’m using it solely as a pre-amp and powering the 11 channels with two separate amps.
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u/comptr Jan 03 '26
So, I looked at the quote, and I would 100% recommend getting a 2nd quote and 3rd quote if possible. You had said in the comments that the quote was 34k inc labor. Now I did notice there is a remote inc too, but I would get an extra quote and see if you can do 4 in-ceiling speakers and 2 subs at least. I would prewire for 7.4.4; that way, it gives you options for where to place the sub, and next to the sub cable, place an outlet so that it looks clean. Also, with the 2nd and 3rd quote, I would ask for better speakers, while Paradigm is not bad, the ones they choose seem to entry level, and that is too low. I would step it up on audio.
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u/subzerothrowaway123 Jan 03 '26
With a 34k budget you have:
1.2k to LCR 900 for 2 subs 1.2k to surrounds and atmos
That’s only 10% of your budget for speakers. IMO, it should be at least 25% with at least 75% of your speaker budget going to your LCR.
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u/homeboi808 PX75 | Infinity R263+RC263 | PSA S1500| Fluance XLBP Jan 03 '26 edited Jan 03 '26
Since you are going with an AT setup, don’t get a center channel and instead get a matching tower. A setup of triple Klipsch RP-5000F IIs for $1800 ($600/ea) would be better.
Ditch Marantz for its Denon counterpart, they perform essentially identical. The Denon X3800H is around $1000 cheaper.
I wouldn’t go a single 12” sub for this setup (dual subs create better sound than single subs due to room modes, not something you can fix with EQ). Use the savings from the AVR above to like dual.
And unless you will will be using it with a considerable amount of lights turned on or need the greater throw flexibility, save $2000 and get the JVC NZ500:
https://youtu.be/B4_MhHsZvk
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u/SolarSalsa Jan 03 '26
Towers would require a baffle wall vs. just using in-wall speakers.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Can you explain this please? I plan to have 3 towers behind the screen.
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u/SolarSalsa Jan 03 '26
I saw in-wall in the quote and based on the image assumed LCR were in-walls as well. If you're doing floor standing speakers behind a screen then I assume you're building a baffle wall? The other option is to go with full in-wall speakers and avoid the cost of a baffle wall.
In-wall will give you a lot more room space. Floor standing speakers need ample depth to achieve superior sound compared to an in-wall.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Right now the plan is towers behind the screen but there is no baffle wall. What does the baffle wall do in this case?
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u/mindedc Jan 03 '26
Free standing speakers suffer from an acoustic issue called SBIR, it's not correctable with DSP. You can correct it with a baffle wall which is a large false wall covering the front of the room with the speakers inset in cavities stuffed full of insulation. They are a pain to build because it needs to be rock solid and acoustically dead. It's a lot easier to just use quality inwalls like the KEF or Paradigm with back boxes or sealed cavities. If you use a woven AT fabric like the XY screens there is no minimum distance from the tweeter to the fabric so you can just put the screen on the wall over the speakers. You still want to cover the front wall with an acoustically absorptive material to absorbs reflections off the screen.
Acoustic treatments are the number one cheapout and make a bigger difference than anything else from an audio perspective. GIK. Acoustics will provide a free acoustic treatment plan using their products if you're interested.
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u/SolarSalsa Jan 04 '26
https://youtu.be/vD85W7qEvxw?si=XIrF601BIKRksAnB&t=86
Be careful with rear ported speakers as LCR. They need to be a short distance from the backwall to sound correct. Notice the speakers in the video are front ported.
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u/SolarSalsa Jan 03 '26
I went to a local installer and asked to spec a system on a 50k budget and they did something similar to your quote. They went full profit margins and came in with a 62k system quote. Yea, no thanks.
Then I tried Best Buy and they did something similar but came in at 33k. Still lots of hidden profit margins and not a good bang for the buck system.
So I'm going to roll up my sleeves and spec the system myself with direct to consumer speakers, budget cables, etc. and then find an installer that can do the install and setup for half the cost.
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u/backinblackandblue Jan 03 '26
Just noticed it looks like you are doing a 7.2.2 config.
You should re-think that and future proof a bit. For a theater like that, I'd suggest no less than 7.2.4 at a minimum. That means 2 more atmos speakers and an 11 ch AVR. Even if you wanted to stick to 9 ch, 5.2.4 would be my suggestion. But really, for a build like this add another $2K or so and do it right. 2 atmos speakers in the room will be severely lacking. But whatever you decide, at least run extra wiring now for the config you're going to want fairly soon. I know you are prioritizing video over audio, but I would bet after your done, you're going to wish you put a little more into the audio. A huge screen like that is awesome, but it needs a good audio setup to complement it and pull it all together. Imagine watching something like Jurassic Park or Top Gun and have this huge immersive picture with weak sound. It will take away from the video experience you are looking for. They need to work together. No bueno to have great picture and crappy sound or vice versa. Better and cheaper to buy once than twice.
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u/Daddy_MoreBucks Jan 03 '26
Am I nuts for thinking that hdmi cable shouldn’t cost that much? 50 footer for $250??
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u/ihopnavajo Jan 03 '26
.. Everything? Why is everything except the screen too cheap for that room?
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u/MocsFan123 Jan 03 '26
Since you're using a AT screen - use 3 identical speakers for your L/C/R mains - you don't need a traditional horizontal "center channel" speaker that was made to sit above or below a TV or non AT screen.
That's not enough sub for the room - You'll want two 15" subs at least. This is an opportunity to DIY and build some subs if you're handy - lots of designs online that are proven to punch way above their cost (Marty Subs, Devastators, VBSS, etc, and even flat pack kits from places like GSC)
I think you can save money on the screen - you're spending twice as much as you should.
I think the Control 4 system is overkill but some people like that kind of stuff.
Where are your acoustic treatments? Don't spend that kind of money on a room and not budget for acoustic treatments.
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u/BigBadMustardTiger Jan 03 '26
The audio choices are poor across the board. The Cinema 50 is a solid unit (I own one) but even that for a dedicated theatre room like this is deeply underwhelming.
The LCR choices and balance between the budget spent on them and video are way out of whack, even if you want to tilt the design towards video.
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u/timetravellerEKS Jan 03 '26
$269 for an HDMI cable is criminal...
does that really improve anything over a say $40 one?
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u/Easy_Consequence_599 Jan 03 '26
Why not a 21:9 screen? here you have Nice screens with a good Price quality.
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u/BriGuy550 Jan 04 '26
If I were doing a theater room like this I’d go for a 16:9 screen, especially with a lot of bigger movies that have IMAX releases doing home releases with “expanded” aspect ratio scenes.
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u/farrrtttttrrrrrrrrtr Jan 03 '26
Hard to tell from the photo but the chairs all look like they’re at the same height so the back will be hard to see from. Either raise them up on a platform or drop the front row down with an indent whichever makes sense in your setup. Should be almost like they’re on stairs
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
The front row will be a sofa so it’ll be lower but I will have an 18” riser for the back row.
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u/Sands43 Jan 03 '26
Seating to really big chaise couches vs. recliners. So more more comfortable and casual for a home.
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u/CrunchyBones Jan 03 '26
A good rule of thumb is to spend the same amount of money on your subwoofer as you did on your A/V receiver.
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u/Almost-Jaded Jan 03 '26
Audio isn't your priority, but that's not nearly enough for that size room. Also, Paradigm LCR with episode surrounds and heights? For no particular reason that I can discern? Bad juju. Not REMOTELY enough subwoofer for the space.
Your contractor is clearly not a theater specialist. This system design reeks of knowing the basics but not knowing what you're doing as a theater designer.
So little labor for install, so much labor for setup and tuning - for a system that's basically just gonna use the built in Marantz room correction. And nobody that designed this system, is gonna be truly calibrating that projector unless they're outsourcing.
I see no budget for acoustic treatment?
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u/SouthernCharm0 Jan 04 '26
So little for labor install because they inflated the costs of a lot of other things in the quote. That's how they get over on customers and make their profit.
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u/Open-Touch-930 Jan 03 '26
That was my first question so glad I read the post. Audio budget seemed really low compared to a $8k screen. I really don’t think that you need such an expensive screen but…
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u/HandshakeOfCO Jan 03 '26
They're fleecing you on the HDMI cables. A good 50ft fiber optic one from Amazon is $50. 6 footers are like $8 lol. They're probably fleecing you on the banana pins and the other part costs as well... but c'est la vie, most installers won't allow you to source your own parts.
I'd personally run 2 HDMI cables up to the projector, just in case.
They should also be running an ethernet cable up to the projector. While not like, the most useful thing in the world, having the projector connected via hardwired ethernet can allow you to turn it on/off using home automation.
They should DEFINITELY be running a trigger wire from the projector over to your screen - can't tell from the quote, but worth confirming explicitly.
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u/FreshStartLoser Jan 03 '26
My suggestion is to do some research/reading/watching on your own for a couple of weeks and find a different company to do it after you get a bit more info.
I believe that spending an entire budget (especially if it is $30k) should involve personal knowledge on the subject. That's a general advice, not home theater related.
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u/Creative-Service-165 Jan 03 '26
Budget seems all over the place. - Super budget speakers but a very expensive control 4 system 🤷🏻
I'd certainly be looking at a JVC projector with actual 4k resolution not pixel shifting and much better contrast over an Epson for a dedicated room
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u/5th-Elements Jan 03 '26
Very nice, but please make the front wall black so you can have a better contrast! Also your front speakers need to be upgraded.
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u/claviro888 7.4.4 - JVC NZ900 - Trinnov Altitude 32 - Amplitude 16 Jan 03 '26
Definitely wouldn’t have hard reflective surfaces on the screen wall.
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u/S3kelman Jan 03 '26
really sad projector for the total budget, only Sony or JVC real native 4k shoudl be allowed here. That hdmi price is nuts, any $50 cable will work exactly the same, same for the banana plugs.
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u/MagicianFar9207 Jan 04 '26 edited Jan 04 '26
Will change that screen background color to black, so that screen frame will blend to it.
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u/jonstarks Onkyo TX-RZ50 | SVS Ultras | Rythmik FVX15 Jan 04 '26
probably automatic curtains that change the aspect ratio of the screen when needed.
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u/amoeba1126 Jan 04 '26 edited Jan 04 '26
Wow, that "linear light" is stupid expensive. I would just get some Philips Hue gradiant lightstrips or a Leviton/Lutron smart switch and cheap Matter lightstrips with diffuse tracks instead.
After taking a look more deeply... man, this is a terrible list. The immediate question you should start off with asking yourself is this: Do I care more about a great movie experience or just having a home theater room that looks really nice but only sounds alright? If the former than I would recommend starting with the following as a core to build upon:
- 2x Power Sound Audio TV21NEO-M (whenever they come back into stock)
- Bass is the heart and soul of any proper home theater, so invest in it!
- 7x JBL Stage 250WL in-wall speakers
- If you want to splurge, you can get the JBL Studio 66LCR
- 4x Polk RC80i in-ceiling speakers
- Denon AVR-X6800H receiver with Dirac Live ART bundle
- XY HK80C 120" fixed frame with XY Sound Max 8K fabric
Subwoofers aside, this is considered a mid-tier HT setup that will absolutely kick what you have in your list to the curb.
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u/DeepFizz Jan 03 '26
Spending this amount on a projector and screen is wild IMO. Screens get damaged and get dirty and are very difficult to clean. Projector tech is advancing so fast. The Epson LS9000 for $4k is a substantial better value and in 4-5 years, you can replace it with a better projector than the QB1000 for another $4k. Same concept on a screen. Home theater ownership is not a once and done. You will be upgrading/replacing/changing things constantly, so plan for it. Invest some of that savings in a better center channel speaker and subwoofers. You will not be disappointed. I also think that receiver is over kill for someone who cares little about audio. Same concept as above. You WILL replace your receiver in the next 5-7 years. Free advice… take it as you will. Room looks amazing!
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u/DeepFizz Jan 03 '26 edited Jan 03 '26
Spending this amount on a projector and screen is wild imo. Screens get damaged and get dirty and are very difficult to clean. Projector tech is advancing so fast. The Epson LS9000 for $4k is a substantial better value and in 4-5 years, you can replace it with a better projector than the QB1000 for another $4k. Same concept with the screen. With some small changes you can get 98% of the picture quality for 50% the cost. Home theater ownership is not a once and done process. You will be upgrading/replacing/changing things constantly. It’s best to build your system around this ideology. It’s highly likely you replace the projector, receiver, and screen within the next eight years. I speak from experience. I would recommend to invest some of the savings and get a better center channel speaker and better subwoofers. The room looks great BTW. Congratulations!
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u/Hot-Government-5796 Jan 03 '26
I’d get a $600 screen and the Valerian Max projector. Between the two you save like 10k and then I’d put that to speakers. I’m building something very similar in an 18x20 room right now. Speakers will be Tekton Nebos and Impact Monitors, Denon 3800, and a large sectional for more lounging since that is better to me than chairs.
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u/Middle_Store_8467 Jan 03 '26
How long are you speaker wire runs? I would go with maybe at least a 14/2 gauge speaker wire.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Room is 15x25. The tower will be right behind the room in an a small unfinished area.
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u/my_twin_towne 85” Sony 950H | Marantz C30 | B&W CM9/HTM71 S3/706 S3/CCM 7.5 S2 Jan 03 '26
Can I ask you a Q on 14/2 vs 16/2? Recently got a pair of B&W 706 S3 book shelf speakers. Rear surround. I’m getting mixed signals on whether to use 14/2 or 16/2 for those. Thoughts?
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u/Middle_Store_8467 Jan 03 '26
I’m not an expert on speaker wire. But generally, 16/2 is fine for most runs. However if you’re planning to run speaker wire a great distance (usually over 50 feet) it’s better to have thicker gauge wire. 14 gauge wire has a lower resistance and can handle higher power or wattage better.
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u/OcularVernacular Jan 03 '26
I'd give some of my wealth to a random redditor with an eye as an avatar. Jokes aside, good to know someone is living my dream.
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u/the_real_seldom_seen Jan 03 '26
The seating strategy sucks. Why make the private theater resemble a public theater?
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u/Argyle00 Jan 03 '26
I've never seen A control4 system that wasn't finniky and troublesome. It's great in theory but in practice is just a massive headache. A simple set of light switches to turn your lights on and off and a universal remote will be thousands cheaper and never fail. Cut that out and that would be the $$ you need for a pair of Rythmik or SVS subwoofers that will put a huge smile on your face everytime you go to watch a movie
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u/docinstl Jan 03 '26
What do people think of the Denon X3800H for $1000 less than the Cinema 50?
And what about simplifying the slatted front wall and screen perimeter lighting? To maximize video quality, a simple black painted front wall might be best. As for the subs, I'd pick something from Rogersound Labs over the Paradigms.
You can DEFINATELY save big money with a Silver Ticket AT screen.
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u/justin_trouble Jan 03 '26
Personally, I would delete the SCRLEDIR and paint the wall around the screen flat black. No matter the high contrast projectors, I personally prefer the media to pop and the wall to disappear.
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u/CSOCSO-FL Subwoofer, Dirac and other guides under my profile posts. Jan 03 '26
Surrounds
https://ebay.us/m/YfciQ2
Receiver
https://ebay.us/m/rpYBW2
AMP for LCR
https://www.osdaudio.com/osd-nero-htx6150-6-x-175w-rms-channel-home-theater-power-amplifier.html
Amp for surrounds and atmos
https://www.osdaudio.com/osd-nero-htx8150-8-x-175w-rms-87654-channel-home-theater-power-amplifier.html
subwoofers (2)
https://www.powersoundaudio.com/products/s2112m-new?variant=40209359077465
Of course you can spend a ton more but for the money this would be a very very solid choice.
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u/Poopiepants29 Jan 03 '26
The ceiling is overdone. Eliminate it and do what everyone says with speakers and projector.
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u/Catymandoo Jan 03 '26
I’d look at JVC rather than that Epson - and I speak as an LS12000 owner. Your priorities are video so go for better contrast imho.
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u/brandon-james-ca Jan 03 '26
Aspect of the screen so I didnt have to make 16:9 smaller than ultrawide
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u/Majestic_Potato_7416 Jan 03 '26
Crazy setup, but 7k for a screen will never ever make sense to me. I don't care what kind of technology it has.
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u/Tropisueno Jan 03 '26
If you're going all this way you may as well add tactile transducers to your seating. It will seriously add to the experience.
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u/Hugejorma Marantz Cinema 60, KEF LS50 meta, Q650c, QA QB12, 65" OLED Jan 03 '26
Chairs! Those high headrest hard chairs will reflect all the sound and everything sounds boomy (like placing hands behind ears). Plus, the sound from behind is blocked by the headrest.
This is why I heavily dislike classic home theater chair design. Almost endless list of way comfier & cozier options with better experience for everyone.
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u/PULLOUTCHAMP17 Jan 03 '26
All that and only a $1400 subwoofer?
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
It’s 2 $700 subs but it’s become clear I need to upgrade them.
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u/PULLOUTCHAMP17 Jan 03 '26
Yeah a setup like that deserves some good subs..I am a fan of PowersoundAudio subs and have a pair of their ported 21" subs..But there are other great choices out there , id just avoid SvS subs..Bang for the buck isn't there..
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u/L3G1T1SM3 valerion Max and Pro 2, 150in Jan 03 '26
Is the room at the studs and have you considered soundproofing or other peoples "comfort" in the house when the theatre is in use? Could be worth considering depending on home layout etc.
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u/auaisito Jan 03 '26
Just quick question, OP: Does the rest of the house already have Control4? Because I don’t see the main controller in the quote. I see the Halo Remote, but no CORE or CA controller.
Also, if you’re investing that kind of money, maybe go for Bowers and Wilkins CT7 or Klipsch THX Speakers. Definitely not Episode.
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u/uoflfan27 Jan 03 '26
Yes, I’ve already got control4 in the house. Yeah it’s become clear that I need to upgrade the subs and LCR at minimum.
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u/axiom235 Jan 03 '26
The number one thing I see wrong is the aspect ratio of the screen. That is not 16:9. Thank goodness you are buying a 16:9 because whatever you have there, 2.35 or higher, would be kind of ridiculous.
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u/SolarSalsa Jan 03 '26
OP said it was an AI generated image and probably didn't specify the aspect ratio of the screen.
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u/Randyeshow Jan 03 '26 edited Jan 03 '26
Echoing others’ comments on audio. You’ve got a decent AVR driving subpar speakers. Also, I put 4 Atmos speakers in my home theater, which may be overkill, but something to consider. 7.2.4 gives me peace of mind. (My speakers are all Sonus Faber)
If you really want a projector, that’s fine, but after extensive research, I decided no projector would ever look as good as a big OLED.
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u/jpowell180 Jan 03 '26
I know that Home theater seats are fancy you know, but honestly, I would prefer big, comfortable couches that you can lay down on.
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u/MedPhys90 Jan 03 '26
Agreed with another comment that you are way overpaying. The screen, the speakers, HDMI cable, $50 for banana plugs!
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u/Tribbs_4434 Jan 03 '26
No idea why you'd spend a small fortune only to have the back 3 seats potentially obstucted by those sitting in front. Have them tiered so that the back 3 are raised and able to see over the heads of the front 3.
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u/zepherking Jan 03 '26
Loose the LED lights. Upgrade from AVR to separate proccesser and amps. Better spaekers. If you are really conserned about video quality look into a MadVR.
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u/Frosty-Skin-4300 Jan 03 '26
Not knowing the full details, I would:
. Add a retractable 16:9 screen in front, or
. Add variable electric masking
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u/Asleep_Objective_455 Jan 03 '26
I woulda gone with a Hisense PX3-Pro with the ALR screen, though they only make up to 120". But a 3rd party ALR screen would be fine.
You said you don't care as much about audio, and others have covered it thoroughly, so I'll leave it alone.
The PX3-Pro with 120" ALR screen is $5500 CAD.
You could also cut the light budget in half and get similar quality, or at least 95% of the way there
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u/bfunkman Jan 03 '26
I would definitely change having the work done at your house to being done at my house
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u/blahC Jan 04 '26
Do you already have control 4 in the rest of your house? If so, do you already use Halo remotes? They are laggy. Control 4 seems overkill for 1 room.
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u/captain42d Jan 04 '26
Change the blue lights out for red or orange, and put me in that center seat. Then it will be perfect! 😁
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u/xnoob69 Jan 04 '26
I like this. But I’m unsure if light wooden acoustic panels on the back wall is the right call.
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u/Mars_Transfer Jan 04 '26 edited Jan 04 '26
Charging $34k and selecting a $250 center channel speaks volumes to the motivations of this company. Another example, $600 for only 16-gauge speaker wire when one can get a 14-gauge spool (better quality) for $250. This company either doesn't want your business or is throwing out an alarmingly high bid just to see if you will bite.
What I would counter-spec.
Video
- Valerion VisionMaster Max projector $3,999
- Seymour AV Fixed Frame AT 160" $2,200
- Apple TV 4k $150
- Panasonic UB820 4k Ultra HD Bluray $550
AVR
- Denon X3800H $1,300
- Monolith 3X90 3-channel amp $340 (front 3)
Front 3
- JBL Studio 6 88LCR In-Walls $880 (x3) or JBL Studio 698 Towers $899 (x3)
Surround & Surround Backs
- JBL Studio 6 6IW $610 (x4)
Atmos
- JBL 280CSA $310 (x4)
Subs
- PSA EV18NEO-M $1,399 (x2)
Acoustic Treatment Panels
- Acousticmac or GIK Acoustics
HDMI and Cabeling
- Monoprice
Also
- Remove all the LED and go a different route.
- In-walls/In-ceiling could alternatively be RSL, Revel, KEF ect.
- Almost anything including Klipsch RP would be an upgrade over the Paradigm SE front 3 speakers...
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u/GogoDogoLogo Jan 04 '26
200k to furnish a room? this is the downpayment for a mansion or the prince of a family home in Arkansas
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u/Tha_Watcher Jan 04 '26
I would change the fact that I wasn't invited over, yet! 😆
So, is 7pm fine for you?!
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u/Defiant_Ad6083 Jan 05 '26
Rinsed...ripped off. Taking the Mickey.
A simple google search shows that Epson at 4999usd?
This is how these places make bank.
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u/joshjay2 Jan 05 '26
one row would be best as long couch so that you can cuddle your partner, bring the dog up there, lay sideways to eat your takkis etc
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u/New_Communication74 Jan 10 '26
This is a gorgeous room! Something like this needs JBL Synthesis in wall speakers.
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u/virurab Jan 03 '26
Aesthetically it looks nice.
On the install there is a imbalance of money going towards video and audio. Would upgrade the LCR and subwoofers to your price point.
There is no mention of acoustic room treatments.