HDTV Don’t invest in a home theater system without buying a high-definition television (HDTV). The high-resolution images on these sets are made for big-screen and projection TVs. Your DVDs will also look much better on HDTV. High-definition sets have resolutions of 720p and up. Enhanced-definition TVs (EDTV) have resolutions of 480p to 720p. These are digital TVs, like HDTVs, but they are not true HD.
DVR A digital video recorder, (TiVo is a popular brand), is a basically a VCR but with a hard-disc drive. Record your favorite shows to the hard drive for instant retrieval, or use the DVR while you watch a show to pause and rewind “live” TV. Recording is as easy as selecting a show on an electronic program guide. And these days you don’t have to buy a separate box for a DVR. A lot of cable and satellite TV receivers have them built in.
SUBWOOFER This will give some extra oomph to those way-cool movie effects like explosions and going into warp drive, as well as enhancing the low bass in music.
ONE GOOD REMOTE Do you really like having several remote controls? A home theater has even more to control, such as the surround-sound processor, the DVD player, the cable or satellite box and the VCR. It’s better to consolidate them into one universal remote or control system.
COMFY SEATS No money left and nothing to sit on? Think of furniture for your home theater space from the start.
CUP HOLDERS We know you’ll be sipping refreshing beverages in your home theater. It’s best to have a good place to set them down.
MOVIE MEMORIES Christen your home theater by watching some of your favorites flicks. Consider buying the collector’s editions, so you can enjoy them again and again.
YOU! Don’t forget to take some time to appreciate your little getaway.
POPCORN We still have a thing for Orville Redenbacher’s tasty treat.
FUN This, by far, is the most important thing of all!
By Steven Castle, senior editor for Electronic House magazine. To see more articles from the editors of Electronic House magazine about the connected home visit www.electronichouse.com.
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