Home Theater Cost Guides

Home theater have changed over the years. At its core, it includes a high-definition TV, video and stereo equipment, and surround sound. With the nuance of new technology, it can also sync with the internet to get immediate access to favorite TV shows and movies at the touch of a button. The cost of a home theater varies considerably depending on the components you decide to install. Price ranges for a home theater setup fluctuate with the combination of components to buy, but there are similarities to consider when deciding whether to install a system.

Television

Whether you're looking for a huge-screen rear-projection TV or a sleek flat panel, you will need the right one to define the quality of your home theater.   Continue Reading
  • Install a Flat Screen TV Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $179 - $391
    Average cost:
    $280
    Low cost:
    $100
     
    High cost:
    $625
  • Install Countertops Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $1,873 - $4,088
    Average cost:
    $2,908
    Low cost:
    $400
     
    High cost:
    $7,000
  • Install Flooring Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $1,534 - $4,367
    Average cost:
    $2,879
    Low cost:
    $200
     
    High cost:
    $10,250

Select your Home Theater project

When choosing your TV, consider the display type, screen size and resolution. Flat-panel displays are by far the most popular, but often affordable choices will come down to LCD or plasma. LCD displays are less expensive, generally thinner, lighter, energy-efficient, and available in a range of sizes. They are also brighter, an advantage for daytime watching. Plasma displays offer smoother motion, particularly for sports, with a wider viewing angle and "sweet spot". You might also consider a front projector if you have a big-enough room and budget. A front projector provides the biggest and best picture, but it is best suited for a large room you can make nearly pitch black.

Surround Sound

Surround sound means that you have a speaker in virtually every corner of the room, projecting high-quality digital sound at you from all angles like in a theater. It also means you can hear the deep, thunderous bass rumbling the floorboards as an explosion happens on screen and subtle sound effects skittering and tapping behind you in a suspenseful scene. Surround sound adds authenticity because it puts you inside the action of the picture or onstage with the band if listening to music. 5.1 surround sound is standard with 7.1 being the latest and greatest.

Finish the Space

What else will you need to make your theater complete? A couch is fine for some, but others may want to build in specialty cinema seating. You may also want to add a refrigerator, popcorn machine, movie storage, pool table, and other pieces to complete the home theater room. Create a second kitchen with countertops, cabinets and cooking area so you don't have to go upstairs to eat. Also consider soundproofing the walls or using acoustic tiling so as not to disturb the rest of the household.

Share your cost experience

Help others plan and budget for their projects

arnold zarit More than 1 year ago
Called Smart Tech Designs to install new components and set up my audio/visual/surround center. A tech came out and worked for 2 hours. After he left I realized that he didn't do everything that I wanted, and that the system wasn't working the way it was suppose to. 2 days later I called them back up and talked to Cat. (Catheryn) She apologized and told me that she would have their best tech come out to see what the problems were. The next day a gentleman named Chad came out. It didn't take long before he found the problems and fixed the whole system. He apologized for the work that the first tech did and told me that the first tech no longer worked for the company. Chad did a wonderful job and I would gladly use this company again for any further needs that I may have.
Nyakade Tot More than 1 year ago
Furnitureand tv mountain  setup. 
Home Theaters Cost Estimates by HomeAdvisor

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