Many of our readers probably think about building their own multi-channel home theater system. When making such system you can go two ways. The first option is to purchase the components separately. The second way is to choose a ready-made solution, a so-called “Home theater in a box.
The first option requires some knowledge and skills, because all the components must be properly selected and configured, otherwise you risk to get nothing but trouble instead of pleasure. Therefore when building such a system the most correct step is to invite the installer who will professionally perform the selection of all components and their adjustments.
Of course, assembled from quality components and professionally tuned system will please you with high quality sound and picture for a long time, but it is not cheap.
Besides, not everybody and not always need the highest quality sound – in many cases a high-quality system where you can watch a DVD movie or listen to music in the evening after work will be quite enough.
In such cases it is better to take the second way. In this case you get a ready balanced system. All you need to do is to properly install the speakers and properly connect everything. Given that these one-box home theater systems come with detailed instructions, you shouldn’t have any trouble hooking them up.
A home theater kit in one box includes a 5.1 or 7.1 and DVD receiver. Some models, such as the Samsung BD-2 home theater, which we tested, are no longer equipped with a DVD, and Blu-ray receiver, which is able to play Blu-ray discs along with DVDs.
Many home theater models have a USB interface through which you can use portable players, flash memory, digital cameras, etc. as a source of audio and video signals.p. Due to the great popularity of the iPod, some home theaters have a special connector that allows you to connect the docking station and use your iPod as a signal source.
Regarding switching capabilities, most models include composite and component video outputs, stereo jack and HDMI-out as a must-have. In addition, almost “required” in our time is the presence of the above mentioned USB interface. Some models rush to please the user with a wide variety of connection methods. Thus, to connect external audio sources and to transmit it to the receiver digital coaxial and optical inputs and outputs are used, respectively, to the video outputs is added connector S-Video. Models that support KARAOKE, of course, can not do without a jack for a microphone or even two . Manufacturers care about the possibility of using technology in cases where loud sound is inappropriate, and therefore “endowed” their devices plug for headphones.
In most models all switching is performed through the receiver, but some manufacturers prefer to depart from the traditional concept and use a subwoofer as a switching center, which also has a built-in multi-channel power amplifier.
In terms of functionality, the theaters are equipped with decoders of various formats of multi-channel sound Dolby and DTS.
For optimum adjustment of the speaker system in accordance with the parameters of the room, some theaters have a special function for auto-calibration. Of course, nowadays one can’t do without various kinds of digital processing systems, and almost every manufacturer is trying to equip its models with different functions, for example making dialogues clearer and more focused, and the bass more deep and elastic. In addition, manufacturers have various “chips” – nice features that competitors do not have. For example BBK takes care of not boring its users with “non-rewinding” advertisement, anticipating the DVD film viewing, equipping their systems with Q-Play function, thanks to which commercials can be easily “rewound. Sony and Panasonic aim to get rid of the necessity to use several remotes – VIERA Link function for Panasonic and BRAVIA Link for Sony allows you to control your home theater system and TV from one remote if you use Panasonic or Sony TV, respectively .
Also, all one-box cinema models have on board a built-in AM and FM radio tuner with the memory of a few dozen radio stations, and most models also support RDS, which allows the display of your system while listening to the radio can display the name of the radio station, the song played, currency exchange information, etc.p.
Already mentioned above KARAOKE function is included in many systems, so it will be a great entertainment for you and your guests at a noisy party or family celebration.
For our test we have tried to choose the most interesting and relevant today models, all of them have their own features, advantages and disadvantages. We hope that you will find our opinion useful and help you to navigate in the variety of equipment presented in the market. But of course in the end the choice is yours.
What features or specifications should I look for in a home theater system to ensure optimal performance and handling of fast action scenes?
When looking for a home theater system to ensure optimal performance and handling of fast action scenes, there are several features and specifications to consider.
Firstly, the audio system should have a high-quality surround sound setup, preferably with at least 5.1 or 7.1 channel configuration. This will provide immersive and accurate sound effects, enhancing the overall viewing experience during intense action sequences. Look for systems with advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos for more precise sound placement.
Secondly, the video display should have a fast refresh rate, preferably 120Hz or higher, to minimize motion blur and ensure smooth playback during high-speed scenes. Additionally, a system with a low response time, ideally less than 5ms, helps reduce ghosting and lagging, improving the clarity and sharpness of fast-moving images.
Moreover, a home theater system should have a high-resolution display, such as 4K or even 8K, for crisp and detailed visuals. HDR support is crucial as well, as it enhances contrast and color accuracy, making action scenes more vibrant and lifelike.
Lastly, check for a reliable and fast video processing system. Look for features like motion interpolation to smooth out fast action scenes, as well as dynamic contrast control to enhance the black levels and overall picture quality.
In summary, a home theater system with a high-quality surround sound setup, fast refresh rate, low response time, high-resolution display, HDR support, and advanced video processing will ensure optimal performance and handling of fast action scenes.
When looking for a home theater system that can handle fast action scenes, it is essential to consider key features such as surround sound setup, refresh rate, resolution, and video processing capabilities. A high-quality surround sound system with advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos can provide immersive sound effects. A video display with a fast refresh rate of 120Hz or higher and a low response time of less than 5ms can reduce motion blur and ghosting during high-speed scenes. Opt for a high-resolution display like 4K or 8K with HDR support for crisp visuals. Additionally, look for features like motion interpolation and dynamic contrast control for smooth playback and enhanced picture quality. By selecting a system with these specifications, you can ensure optimal performance and enjoyment of fast-paced action scenes in your home theater.