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Buyer’s Guide to Home Theater Kit: Everything You Need

 Everyone deserves a theater experience and thanks to technology, you can bring it in your home. This also applies for the gamers who want to improve their playing periods, where home theater kits can serve multi-purposes. There are several technological devices from projectors and sound systems that you can choose from, with some cheaper options also proving worth buying.

We shall look at some of the best kit and gear you can consider for your new theater lounge or an improvement to your existing one. That said, let’s jump into it in the following detailed article.

Best Home Theater Projector

  1. Sony VPL-XW6000ES 4K HDR Laser Home Theater Projector

Sony VPL-XW6000ES 4K HDR Laser Home Theater Projector

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This 4K laser projector creates clear, rich high-dynamic-range pictures even in areas with adequate illumination. It employs a laser light source with a brightness of 2,500 lumens. It also uses recently developed technology to provide a wide dynamic range, excellent resolution, and vibrant colors. These include the ACF lens, the TriLuminous Pro, and so on.

Specifications

  • Image Brightness: 2500 lumens
  • Display Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
  • Display Type: LCos
  • Weight: 30.9 lbs
  • Dimensions: 27.44 x 18.1 x 15.55 inches

Pros

  • Provides full 4K resolution
  • The fan produces low noise
  • It has a compact form that is ideal for use in your house.

Cons

  • It does not have a built-in 3D transmitter
  • You may experience difficulty calibrating the image
  1. Epson Home Cinema LS11000 4K PRO-UHD Laser Projector

Epson Home Cinema LS11000 4K PRO-UHD Laser Projector

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The Epson Home Cinema is engineered to have no light leakage. The Lens employs a patented multi-element precision glass structure for exceptional image clarity. Its Epson Picture Processor produces images with outstanding sharpness, brightness, and color accuracy for movies, TV shows, and gaming sessions.

Specifications

  • Display Resolution: 3820 x 2160 pixels
  • Display Type: LCD
  • Connectivity technology: HDMI, Ethernet
  • Weight: 28 lbs
  • Image Brightness: 2500 lumens
  • Image Contrast Ratio: 1,200,000: 1

Pros

  • The laser array increases brightness and picture detail
  • Ideal for rooms with ambient light
  • Ideal for use both indoors and outdoors

Cons

  • It does not handle 3D processing
  • It is relatively heavy
  1. BenQ HT2050A 1080P Home Theater Projector

BenQ HT2050A 1080P Home Theater Projector

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Another top projector is BenQ HT2050A which offers you a Full HD, boasting all big screen features like the 300 inch max size. This award winning theater projector incorporates great contrast image ratios and a 96% Rec. It has unique cinematic color features at 709 to guarantee you achieve the cinematic specification. You’ll be able to enjoy factors like HD gaming via the displays in addition to exploring the Game Mode feature.

Specifications

  • Display Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
  • Display Type: DLP
  • Connectivity technology: HDMI
  • Weight: 8 lbs
  • Image Brightness: 2200 lumen
  • Image Contrast Ratio: 15000:1

Pros

  • Custom-tuned sound modes for improved audio experience.
  • It has a 3-year warranty
  • Supports vertical and horizontal keystones to avoid trapezoid effects.

Cons

  • The lower lumen output makes it unideal for daytime use
  • The picture is less crisp

Best Home Theater Screen

  1. Vamvo 100 inch Portable Foldable Projection Screen

Vamvo 100 inch Portable Foldable Projection Screen

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The movie screen is designed to provide clear, high-resolution images and rich colors. It has a 160 degrees viewing angle which allows you to watch in different positions. The natural polyester fabric makes this projector wrinkle-resistant.

Specifications

  • Mounting Type: Stand mount
  • Material: Polyester
  • Display dimensions: 100 Inches
  • Image Aspect Ratio: 16: 9
  • Batteries: No
  • Dimensions: 20.9 x 0.01 x 10.3 inches
  • Weight: 7.4 lbs

Pros

  • It has a foldable stand for easy assembling
  • It delivers clear and sharp images
  • It can be used for both front and rear projection

Cons

  • The height could be a bit longer
  • The light-weight frame makes it unstable
  1. Mdbebbron 120 inch Projection Screen

Mdbebbron 120 inch Projection Screen

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To flatten the outermost layer of the display, this Mdbebbron projection screen uses an underlying broader black-side tension architecture. The wrinkle-free, non-deformable, and crease-free fabric delivers a perfect rectangular effect.

Specifications

  • Mounting Type: Wall mount
  • Material: Polyester
  • Display dimensions: 120 inches
  • Image Aspect Ratio: 16: 9
  • Batteries: No
  • Dimensions: 104 x 58 x 0.2 inches

Pros

  • It is relatively cheaper
  • It supports a double-sided projection
  • It is lightweight hence allowing for easy installation

Cons

  • The screen is extremely thin, making light pass through
  • Some reviewers have noted that the hooks are unstable
  1. VIVIDSTORM-Projector Screen S PRO

VIVIDSTORM-Projector Screen S PRO

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VIVIDSTORM has built projectors since 2004, and in this S Pro floor mount type, they use the UST ALR material. This ensures the projected light reflects the viewers while the ceiling light is blocked for an epic cinematic experience. Installation is by plugging in a power cord hence no screws are necessary. It also comes with two controllers and a toggle dong for my projector.

Specifications

  • Mounting Type: Floor Mount
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Display dimensions: 120 inches
  • Image Aspect Ratio: 16: 9
  • Batteries: No

Pros

  • It uses a silent tubular motor
  • Produces larger pictures for less strain eyes
  • The screen is well-tensioned to avoid rippling or warping

Cons

  • It is slightly expensive

Best Home Theater AV Receivers

  1. Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receiver

Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receiver

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You can watch your favorite films and TV series in the convenience of your lounge with Sony's STR-DH790's theater-like audio. It provides three-dimensional surround sound using DTS:X and Dolby Atmos. Pure Direct eliminates surface noise to deliver higher-fidelity audio from all inputs.

Specifications

  • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Auxiliary, USB, HDMI
  • Controller Type: Push Button
  • Compatible Devices: Television, Speaker
  • Total HDMI Ports: 5
  • Connector Type: Coaxial
  • Audio Encoding: DTS
  • Audio Output Mode: Surround
  • Surround Sound Channel Configuration: 7.2
  • Output Wattage: 165 watts
  • Weight: 18.85 lbs

Pros

  • It supports the latest three-dimensional surround sound audio formats
  • It has a low-profile design that is ideal for most AV cabinets
  • The package includes a calibration microphone, remote control, and FM antenna

Cons

  • It does not have a powered output for sub
  • The menus on the screen are not very intuitive
  1. YAMAHA RX-V385

YAMAHA RX-V385

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This AV receiver transmits 4K video at 60 frames per second pass-through and offers full compliance with the most current HDMI standards. Additionally, it is compatible with Hybrid Log Gamma, HDR video, and Dolby Vision.

Specifications

  • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, HDMI
  • Compatible Devices: Television, Speaker
  • Total HDMI Ports: 4
  • Connector Type: 5-way Binding Post
  • Audio Encoding: DTS
  • Audio Output Mode: Surround
  • Surround Sound Channel Configuration: 5.1

Pros

  • It is solidly built to last
  • Supports the latest eARC system
  • Supports the majority of the latest sound formats

Cons

  • It is relatively expensive
  • There is no lighting on the controls, and the letters could be more invisible.
  1. Marantz NR1510 UHD AV Receiver

Marantz NR1510 UHD AV Receiver

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The Marantz AV receiver is a multiple sound package in its small 4-inch compact size. It can connect to many other wireless devices, including phones, while it has all necessary ports to use with projectors and HD TVs. It does get better with NR1510 free hands operations, where you can use your device’s voice assistant for all control access.

Specifications

  • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
  • Controller Type: Amazon Alexa
  • Compatible Devices: Television, Speaker
  • Total HDMI Ports: 7
  • Audio Encoding: Stereo
  • Audio Output Mode: Stereo
  • Surround Sound Channel Configuration: 5.2 Channel

Pros

  • Delivers power and quality in a small profile
  • It is compatible with Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and the HEOS app
  • It has an easy-to-use app to help with the setup

Cons

  • It is slightly overpriced
  • Some reviewers have complained about its longevity

Best Home Theater Speakers

  1. Logitech Z623

Logitech Z623

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The Logitech Z623 enables real THX sound to be experienced in games, movies, and television shows. The subwoofer in this potent 2.1-speaker system produces loud, booming audio. It is also quite easy to connect to your TV, computer, gaming console, and other devices.

Specifications

  • Speaker Type: Satellite, Subwoofer, Monitor
  • Connectivity Technology: RCA, Auxiliary
  • Item Dimensions: 17.31 x 11.87 x 12.25 inches
  • Weight: 18.08 lbs
  • Output Power: 200 watts

Pros

  • Integrated controls on the right speaker save space for a separate control pod
  • It has a clear and crisp sound
  • Has a metal grill on the satellite and sub-woofer to protect the speakers

Cons

  • Satellite speakers take up much more space
  • Retail price is high
  1. VIZIO SB36512-F6

VIZIO SB36512-F6

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The VIZIO SB36512-F6's four up-firing speakers and rear stereo speakers let you enjoy theatrical multichannel audio. Additionally, its wireless subwoofer produces bass that shakes the room. This 5-channel speaker with a designated center channel produces sound in perfect clarity.

Specifications

  • Speaker Type: Subwoofer
  • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
  • Item Dimensions: 46 x 2.6 x 3.35 inches
  • Weight: 38.20 lbs
  • Output Power: 200 watts

Pros

  • Has a multi-room streaming capability
  • Allows you to stream wirelessly via Chromecast or Bluetooth
  • Uses Dolby Atmos to deliver immersive surround sound

Cons

  • Sound bar may revert to non-surround sound mode
  • Some reviewers have noted that the sound bars wear off quickly
  1. Klipsch Reference

Klipsch Reference

Image credit: amazon.com

You can also opt for Klipsch bookshelf speakers for the best theater sound experience. They deliver the best natural sound quality, while also coming in a convenient size for any positioning and placement. Moreover, the sound electronic has increased outer horn dimensions to work over a larger bandwidth of frequencies. It also comes with hidden fasteners, edge-to-edge horn, and low-profile magnetic grilles give the speakers a polished, modern appearance.

Specifications

  • Speaker Type: Monitor
  • Item Dimensions: 13.94 x 7.01 x 9.02 inches
  • Weight: 22.00 lbs
  • Output Power: 75 watts

Pros

  • It has no protruding edges or visible joints
  • They deliver a powerful and dynamic sound character
  • It requires little amplifier power

Cons

  • You may need to buy a subwoofer when used in a large room

Best Home Theater Soundbar

  1. Sony HT-A3000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar

Sony HT-A3000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar

Image credit: amazon.com

Sound Field Optimisation on the Sony HT-A3000 makes adjusting the device to your space simple. Three front-firing speakers and two integrated subwoofers produce rich soundscapes.

Specifications

  • Speaker Type: Soundbar
  • Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi
  • Power: 250 Watts
  • Weight: 10.14 lbs
  • Dimensions: 7.4 x 39.96 x 7.5 inches

Pros

  • Has built-in support for Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Chromecast
  • Excellent soundbar for a small space
  • It supports 360 Spatial Sound Mapping

Cons

  • It is not ideal for rooms with high ceilings
  • It lacks a subwoofer
  1. Bose Smart Soundbar

Bose Smart Soundbar

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The Bose Smart Soundbar 900 features two custom-engineered upfiring dipole speakers to make it feel like the sound is coming from every direction.This Dolby Atmos Soundbar adds a new elevation aspect to the audio quality.

Specifications

  • Speaker Type: Soundbar
  • Connectivity Technology: HDMI
  • Dimensions: 4.21 x 41.14 x 2.29 inches
  • Weight: 16.98 lbs

Pros

  • It uses exclusive Bose Voice4Video technology for voice control
  • It has auto-sensing technology

Cons

  • The setup process is quite lengthy
  1. Denon DHT-S217 Sleek Home Theater Soundbar

Denon DHT-S217 Sleek Home Theater Soundbar

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The Denon DHT-S217 delivers a thrilling 3D audio experience with Dolby Atmos overhead effects. They pump dynamic theater-quality audio into your entertainment setup. This compact soundbar offers quick connectivity using the HDMI eARC and optical inputs and does not need additional speakers.

Specifications

  • Speaker Type: Soundbar
  • Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Optical, HDMI
  • Dimensions: 35 x 4.7 x 2.6 inches
  • Weight: 8.00lbs

Pros

  • Has a slim profile that allows it to fit in any setup
  • has four preset EQ settings for a personalized audio experience.

Cons

  • It has no provision to connect a wireless subwoofer

Best Home Theater Remoter

  1. SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote

SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote

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The SofaBaton U2's universal compatibility spares consumers from juggling different controlling devices. The remote incorporates multiple integrated infrared transmitters to strengthen the signal and address distance issues.

Specifications

  • Max Number of Supported Devices: 15
  • Weight: 0.66 lbs
  • Dimensions: 7.87 x 1.97 x 1.18 inches
  • Batteries: 2

Pros

  • Has an app where you can adjust screen brightness and sleep time
  • Has a scroll Wheel to switch between different devices
  • It has a great IR range

Cons

  • It does not support WiFi compatibility
  • Does not have a backlight
  1. Universal Remote Control MX-450

 

Universal Remote Control MX-450

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The MX-450 uses bandwidth RF or IR to control all devices.  The inclusion of an MRF-260 base station eliminates the need to point the remote at the device you are controlling when adjusting.

Specifications

  • Max Number of Supported Devices: 18
  • Connectivity Technology: Infrared, Radio Frequency
  • Dimensions: 8.9 x 2.25 x 1 inches
  • Weight: 0.56 lbs
  • Batteries: 4

Pros

  • Has a color screen for easy viewing
  • It is more responsive than comparable remotes
  • It has a large database of built-in codes for all types of devices

Cons

  • There are no manuals for programming the remote
  • The buttons on the remote make an annoying clicking sound when pressed
  1. Logitech Harmony Elite

Logitech Harmony Elite

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The Logitech Harmony Elite is a full touch screen remote that lets you swipe and tap to control movies, volume, etc., on your home theater system.

Specifications

  • Max Number of Supported Devices: 1
  • Connectivity Technology: Infrared
  • Dimensions: 6 x 2 x 0.6 inches
  • Weight: 2.42 lbs
  • Batteries: 1

Pros

  • It can capture and record signals that may not be in the database
  • It is highly sensitive and user-friendly
  • Easy to program and customize

Cons

  • Does not include instructions in the box

Best Home Theater HDMI Cable

  1. AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI Cable

AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI Cable

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The male-to-male HDMI Cable is a dynamic choice featuring 26AWG copper conductors. It also has triple-shielding and gold-plated metal jacket connectors for high performance.

Specifications

  • Connector Type: HDMI
  • Cable Type: HDMI: Ethernet
  • Dimensions: 72 x 0.8 x 0.43 inches
  • Weight: 0.26 lbs

Pros

  • It supports bandwidth up to 18 Gbps
  • Delivers value at a reasonable price point
  • Does not need a manual to connect

Cons

  • Has a low-quality rubber material
  • The cable is too thick and bulky
  1. IVANKY 4K HDMI to HDMI

IVANKY 4K HDMI to HDMI

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The IVANKY delivers up to 18Gbps of high-speed bandwidth, giving it enough room to carry 4K video at up to 60fps. Since it also supports Ethernet, users do not need extra cables connecting a networked smart device.

Specifications

  • Connector Type: HDMI
  • Cable Type: Ethernet
  • Dimensions: 72.01 x 2.4 x 8.23 inches
  • Weight: 0.18 lbs

Pros

  • It is an ultra-lightweight and flexible cable
  • It supports video mirroring
  • Features a soft silicone sleeve-built material

Cons

  • Some reviewers have noted poor sound quality
  1. MavisLink Fiber Optic HDMI Cable

MavisLink Fiber Optic HDMI Cable

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The MavisLink HDMI cable's thin profile and flexibility make it perfect for use through walls or other tight spaces. To improve the stability and compatibility of signal transmission, it makes use of the newest fibre optic technology processors.

Specifications

  • Connector Type: HDMI
  • Cable Type: Fiber Optic
  • Dimensions: 10.98 x 8.94 x 0.83 inches
  • Weight: 0.33 lbs

Pros

  • Offers a 5-year warranty
  • It is backward compatible with earlier older models
  • It has hybrid shielding that prevents electromagnetic interference

Cons

  • Some reviewers noted that it started dropping signal after short-term usage
  • Does not support 4k/120Hz

Conclusion

The outdoor movie theater experience is exciting but comes with a cost. You can overcome the drawbacks by building your home theater system from scratch. It gives you the big screen experience in the comfort of your house. However, ensure that you set your budget and choose a suitable room.

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