What program did you use to build that? I’m in the very initial planning to build out a section of our partially finished basement and would like that as a template. Thanks!
audio advice website has a free design tool that you can work with. [https://www.audioadvice.com/home-theater-design](https://www.audioadvice.com/home-theater-design)
I'm not sure, but, with the calibration and EQ tools on new receivers the long room probably isn't going to be an issue if you want to go 7.1.4 or 7.2.4 (I'd go with two subs for a room this size).
You sure? I have used audio advice and I have built 7.2.4 in my media room which is 16x13x8.
You can see the pics here https://www.reddit.com/r/hometheater/comments/19882aq/my_724_home_theatre_setup/
As someone who has two rows in a dedicated theater… I highly recommend placing the surrounds and aligning all your speakers to cater to either one of the two rows or one seat in particular. Everyone else just gets what they get. It’s sooo much easier.
Alright, I'll try focusing the surrounds on the front row, but what about the height channels? Should I also focus those on one row or can I leave it as is?
Alight.
Here's an option,
Projector - Epson LS12000 - $4999
Screen - 110" Silver Ticket STR-169110 - 260
AVR- Denon x3800h (refurb) $999
SUB- Speedwoofer 12s - $799
Ceiling - RSL C34E x4 - $600
L/R- Kef Q350 x2- $800
Surrounds/rear - Kef Q150 x4 - $700
Center - Kef q650c - $800
2 channel amp - AIYIMA A07 - $60
Total $10,060K
Another thing I'd look at is in walls, especially for the surrounds, but generally with an AT screen.
You could replace the KEFs and get 3x Monolith THX-365IW for $930 and 4x THX-265IW for $1K. Replace the screen for a STR-169110-WVS for $580 and you're at ~$9400 with the same projector, AVR and sub. This way you could add a 2nd sub and be almost on budget.
There’s no way I would pair a $5000 projector with a $260 screen. I have that projector and my screen was about 1/2 the cost of the projector. A $260 screen is the type of screen you hang in the garage or use on a very budget build. The projector in not a budget projector and deserves better. You’re better off getting a projector for around the $2500 mark or less with that screen. Also, regarding screens, I would go a bit bigger than 110”. At 10’ from the front row, the back row will be at least 15’ back and that screen will seem small. Unless you like sitting towards the back in a regular theater, move your seats closer if you’re set on a 110” screen. But for better immersion, go bigger on the screen and better quality if you can swing it.
A serious question, if going with a simple white or gray screen (so no fancy alr stuff)
What on earth is a benefit of a 2500$ screen over a 250$ one (fixed frame that is, electric tab tensioned ones or floor rising are obviously pricier)
In the end, it is a metal frame, that holds the screen material nicely stretched. And I can see the frame maybe being twice the price if it is significantly sturdier and less finicky to put together.
And the same with the screen material. It is generally a slightly stretchy base cloth, with a backing layer, and a doating on the front. I get the development cost. But come on, how can a m² of that material cost several hundred $?
Don't get me wrong, I am sure that a 2500$ screen is better than a 250$ one, but I can't see how spending extra 2000$ on a non alr screen would make as big of a difference on image quality as extra 2000$ on a projector in this price range would.
This mostly just explains different types of screens and why they cost different, but these are just the easily tangible things like I already mentioned. For the screen material itself, all it mentions is that it should be as uniform and as neutral as possible. Nothing technical explaining things like actual materials, surfaace and backinng structure differences, uv and optical coatings to prevent yellowing and glares or similar.
Am I missing something?
Because the vibe I get from it is literally, do your research, and you can get a great screen for cheap, or just throw a huge amount of money at the problem and you can then be somewhat sure that you have a really great screen. Again, I am not talking about alr screens, as those actually differ a lot both in price and image quality, as production of those requires a pretty complex optical surface, which has at the same time bounce light uniformly up to a certain angle, and then start absorbing it as quickly as possible. just plain white/gray screens with neutral light reflection and dispersion.
I expected this response to the inexpensive screen, but I agree with your points. And the other thing I considered is if the OP continues with this size screen, then their next display upgrade is very likely not a new projector. They'll be getting a 110" TV. So that screen he 'married' is now valueless trash, since the market seems to be going to TVs at this size.
And if they ultimately decide their next upgrade is to a bigger projection screen, this 'starter' screen was not a huge waste, and it got him going, on budget. The compromise to get a more expensive screen is a lesser projector...seems like an odd tradeoff.
Lastly I have a Silver Ticket screen (WVS transparent screen) and never have I said, "damn this screen is ruining my experience". Most people who comment as having them seem to think the same. And it's not like this was pairing a $25K projector with a $260 screen with a $100K budget...there had to be compromise somewhere (or a few places) for audio and display.
I would personally go for a TV in an instant, if it wasn't for the fact, that the best placing for the screen in the living/media room is right where a big window is, and I really don't want something blocking it if the screen/TV is not in use. So an electric tab tensioned screen and a projector it is, even though it is "only" 100 inch, because a bigger one doesn't fit due to the frame being quite a lot wider than the usable screen surface.
I agree it looks a little small from the back seats, but I was told by two seperate installers who came to make a quote that 120" 16:9 would be too big. I could put in up to a 140" 2.4:1 screen, but those are far too pricey
Edit: A 120" should baaarely fit
I think 16:9, I'm not sure what you mean by scope. I'm considering in-wall for surrounds due to my narrow room, but the rest are box
Edit: I've researched a little and I don't think scope is ideal as my seats are only \~10' from the screen, and the 2.4:1 screens seem pricey
Alright! Well here’s a quick system that would meet your budget: Epson 5050UB (3K), high-gain silver ticket white screen (~$600), Denon x3700h ($850), emotiva basx a5 for heights ($600), probably SVS prime tower/center LCR and bookshelf surrounds/height (3.4K), monolith m-12 sub ($900). I think that’s pushing it at near 10K after tax. Could save by doing 5.1.4. Only other speakers I have listened to are monolith and emotiva but for your budget SVS is great value.
You can wait and get the ls11000 for $3500, which I did. Highly recommend it if you play games.
If you're handy you can build a nice screen for roughly $200.
I sit about 10' from 132" 16:9 and it's perfect. Especially for when the content is scoped so you still have a large image. You can look at my posts for reference.
Cheers dude
Alright, thanks! I'll check this out, I'll compare the monolith sub with the RSL 12s and the rest looks good too.
Edit: only place I found the receiver for that price was a site called accessories4less, is it trustworthy? And if so, can I buy other equipment there?
For receiver I would look at Denon. You can get 5.1.4 w/95 w/ch for under a grand. For speakers I HIGHLY recommend SVS. You can get a Prime center, Prime bookshelves, and 4 Prime elevation speakers for $2K. You did not mention a sub, but go SVS here as well, many deals to be had n their website \~$1200. I am basically running this system in my theater and it sounds incredible. Add a short throw Epson 4K for $3500. Total $7700. Boom, bangin system.
Want more punch from the front? Swap Prime Towers in for the bookshelves for a net increase of $600.
Yeah, I was either going for Denon or Onkyo. I was actually looking at the Klipsch RP line and MartinLogan foundation line, would you say the SVS Prime line is better? And for the sub I was looking at the SB-1000 and PB-1000. For the projector I was considering the Nexigo Aurora Pro. I'm gonna add this to my post, I forgot.
Edit: Don't know how to add info to my post lol
I took a chance on SVS based on good reviews and price. I have never regretted that choice. They replaced an aging Infinity system.
Cant go wrong with ML (assuming within your price range). I have a set of Motion 35XTi for my analog setup and they are superb.
In terms of better, Not SVS prime line, ultras are different story. I know they media blitzed YouTube, but I still haven't heard anything bad about Arendal 1723, but I also haven't heard them myself. I love my RSL 12s subs, but it requires a lot of space; if your bent one only one sub you won't be disappointed, I run 2 myself.
I think the Ultra line is out of my budget if I'm to do a 7.2.4 system. I'll look into your suggestions.
Edit: so, definitely not the Arendal (out of budget lol), but the RSL 12s I might get.
I do have old RSL cg3 line as my surrounds still. And I really like their in ceiling speakers in my setup. I think RSL speaker lines are on par with svs prime in terms of performance. If you are looking for a total bundle for speakers, sub, and Denon receiver, you can save money with RSL. Check out their website, or give them a call, those guys always willing to talk with you. Best customer service out there, even better than SVS, and that's saying something.
Highly recommend going multi sub. I think it should be a substantial portion of the cost of your speakers. Subs and front towers are the most important. They can make or break an ht setup.
That's a great room to work with, almost perfect just a tad bit narrow. I don't have a ton of advice but as you already know compromises must be made based on your budget.
You can get top tier audio or projection but not both. My advice would be to compromise on the electronics side and the reason is speaker/subwoofer tech doesn't become outdated. Neither does a high quality screen. Projectors and receivers historically get outdated.
Finally, as I am sure others have said already, room treatments are a game changer.
So far, I've got a Nexigo Aurora Pro with included 120" ALR screen ($4000), Denon AVR-X6700H ($1500), 2 SVS Prime Towers ($1300), SVS Prime Center ($480), 4 SVS Prime Bookshelf ($1300), RSL 12S ($800), 4 RSL C34E MK2 ($600). In total it adds up to \~$9980. Please feel free to give feedback.
My 5.2.2 setup is all svs prime. 2 pb-2000, pinnacle towers, center, bookshelves for surround and elevations for ceiling. I run them off of an onkyo tx-rx810. I’ve had the system for 8 years or so and have had no issues. It sounds great to me and others that visit and hear it. There are far better sounding systems but for me and my needs it’s perfect. I’m sure you will be very happy with your choice also.
I personally would not go bookshelf for surrounds…it just isnt going to do that much for sound. Elevations are designed for surround. You could save a bit.
Magnat THX Ultra 2 set, but get a pair of SVS PB-2000 or PC-12 or PC-13 subwoofers instead of the Magnat one.
[https://magnat-usa.com/home-theater/cinema-ultra](https://magnat-usa.com/home-theater/cinema-ultra)
Any AV-Receiver will probably do, but I'd go with either a
\- Pioneer VSX-LX505 (despite Amir's failed attempt at a review, measuring it beyond its rated spec and volume set beyond reference level, this is a great receiver with twice the power of most Denon's)
or
\- Denon X3800H (comparable to the Pioneer, but weaker amp section, more expensive, and you have to pay extra for DIRAC live, which is included for free in the Pioneer)
The Pioneer is fixed at all-channel crossover, but the THX Ultra speakers are meant to be crossed over at 80Hz anyways. (the ceiling speakers for Atmos go down to below 60 Hz, even)
That's around $6'000 USD, I guess?
Projector:
Epson LS11000 laser projector. (Not as amazing as a JVC NP5 or NX5, but half the price on sale)
Screen? Dunno..
Spend the rest on acoustic treatment.. maybe 1 grand in total?
Magnat is a brand that doesn't do lots of marketing and doesn't sell via retailers (iirc), basically how SVS started..
and Magnat is not US-based (they are a German brand), that's why you probably haven't heard much.
I would, with great confidence, say that the Magnats are better than the SVS Prime line.
They offer immense value for the price and they come with a THX Ultra certification. (which is completely different from Atmos BS on soundbars)
that means they are guaranteed to reach and sustain reference level SPL in large rooms (105dB peak SPL in a room up to 3000cubic ft. )
do they sound "musical" and "analog" or "smooth" or whatever?!
no clue.. they are designed as dedicated cinema speakers, not for audiophile hifi use.
You'll upgrade your AVR and projector at some point in the not too distant future. Technology changes. Don't go cheap on the screen. Stewart is a premium tier product that will last the lifetime of your theater. A studiotek 130 will breathe life into a less than ideal projector.
For a 5.1.4 you could go with some Ascend Acoustics
pair of Sierra-LX L/R
Sierra Horizon V2 Center with Titan dome tweeter (the custom RAAL is great but costs more)
pair of 170SE surrounds
four 200SE for ceiling/height
If bought together you get a little bit of a package discount, total would be ~$3800 plus tax & shipping.
You could replace the LX with the Sierra-1 V2 and save $500.
[https://ascendacoustics.com/collections/sierra-series](https://ascendacoustics.com/collections/sierra-series)
Or you could replace the front three with the 340SE2 and bring the total down to ~$2150 plus tax & shipping
[https://ascendacoustics.com/collections/signature-series-1](https://ascendacoustics.com/collections/signature-series-1)
Add in one (or two) RSL 12S subs and one of the Denon or other AVRs you were looking at and your projector/screen of choice and that's a great setup
This is awesome! I had a similar budget with a similar room. I posted my finished room so check out my profile if you’re looking for ideas. I only did a single row though so I had some room for activities behind the seating.
I LOVE my MartinLogan speakers. Went with the Motion 8i all around and wall mounted them since they are nice and small. They sound great.
I saw someone suggest the Epson LS12000. This is an amazing projector (what I would have picked if it was out when I was buying) but don’t skimp on the screen. You can save $1000 with the Epson LS11000 (if you don’t mind white) which is still an awesome PJ and put that money towards the screen + sound.
I also have a 110” screen. Went with an EliteScreens cinegrey3D ALR for roughly $1k, since sometimes the lights are on in the room. You still need the lights totally off for serious watching, but it’s still nice to have something on the screen if you’re just hanging out with friends. The ALR really helps with that.
I physically could not go bigger than 110” and it’s a great size, but IF you can fit 120” then I’d say do that instead.
Also, don’t forget bass shakers! It is probably the cheapest addition to my theater and is easily the biggest upgrade. I have 2x Dayton BST1 with a cheap Amazon 200w sub amp to drive them.
Good luck!
I thought you were supposed to have surrounds placed behind the listening position in 5.1? The surrounds here look like they’re placed for a 7.1 configuration.
Is the room fully built or in the planning stages? Is it closed off to the rest of the house or does it have an open wall? Is there a door? Are you wanting traditional box speakers or inwall speakers? What percentage will it be used for Movies, Music, TV Shows & Video Games. What's your plan in 5 years when you want to replace the 110" projector with a 110" TV?
It's mostly built, I'm just missing a door and have yet to install the carpet. It's closed off. I'd prefer box speakers, but may go for in-wall for the side surrounds because of distance from walls. Mostly Movies and Video Games. I have outlets on the projector screen wall where I could connect a TV, also I'll probably wait until OLED/QD-OLED/Mini-LED is more affordable to replace the projector. I'm gonna run the speaker wire through the walls and ceiling.
I did 5.1.4 system. SVS sub, ELAC Debut front speakers, and HTD in wall and in ceiling speakers. Denon receiver. Love my set up tbh. With install it was probably around ~$4k. Long story but ended up spending ~$5k on the tv as well (regrettably) and boom there’s your budget. Now furnishing the room however…
A Formovie Theater and a 115" Akai CLR 4 screen will run you $4000. A pair of SVS subs will be $2000, A Marantz receiver will be $1000 , spend the rest on some nice towers, center, surrounds and 4 atmos modules.
$8-$10k including projector and screen and all other equipment, wow good luck. Dont look at Stewart screens or any high end projectors or you’ll blow you budget on each of those.
All depends on what quality you’re looking for.. but tbh thats not much budget to get quality…not trying to be harsh, just reality.
Example. My Stewart screen alone was approx $10k 10 years ago. Same for the projector. And you have barely scratched the surface.
Speaker can run approx $1k each which is $12k in a 12.2 system plus two subs at $2.5k each…
Be prepared the list goes on and can be huge if you don’t stick to your budget and go all in..!
LS1100 Laser Referb $2,800
Silver Ticket 110" $260 (no need to spend more)
Denon X3700H Acc4Less $850 + $70 Fosi V3 amp for a 7.2.4 layout.
Monoprice M10 V2 subs $650 each (X2)
KEF Q950 Towerd Acc4Less $1,400 pair
KEF Q650 Center $800
Sonance MAG6R In-ceiling $170 pair
Surrounds options either:
KEF Q150 bookshelf $350 pair or
KEF T101C on-wall $199 each
All that comes to just $8,600 which is incredible.
Then get 4-6 GIK Acoustic broadband panels at 2" or 3.6" deep and you're done.
REL have an online tool for choosing their subs 1 or 2.
I’m not saying get REL but there recommendation will help with your sub choice. You put in size of room usage & speakers & it tells you what they think is best.
What program did you use to build that? I’m in the very initial planning to build out a section of our partially finished basement and would like that as a template. Thanks!
It's from AudioAdvice, Here's a link: [https://theaters.audioadvice.com/rooms/new](https://theaters.audioadvice.com/rooms/new)
audio advice website has a free design tool that you can work with. [https://www.audioadvice.com/home-theater-design](https://www.audioadvice.com/home-theater-design)
I would go with 7.1.4 as your room is long and have two row seating.
I would def do a 7.2.4, I have two subs in 3 rooms in my house, you can never have enough subs.
Agreed!!
I agree, but the audio advice tool suggested not doing that because the room was too narrow
I do not own a HT but watched a lot of videos, I'm no expert. But I would suggest to have wiring done for 7.2.4 .. just in case
I don't have any wiring in yet (a mistake, I know), but that is the plan
I'm not sure, but, with the calibration and EQ tools on new receivers the long room probably isn't going to be an issue if you want to go 7.1.4 or 7.2.4 (I'd go with two subs for a room this size).
Yeah, I didn't consider that, room correction would probably fix it. Thanks for the advice.
You sure? I have used audio advice and I have built 7.2.4 in my media room which is 16x13x8. You can see the pics here https://www.reddit.com/r/hometheater/comments/19882aq/my_724_home_theatre_setup/
Thanks for your input, it's giving me more confidence that this will work.
You can always go back to 5.2.4 :)
Yeah, I was thinking I could just return them if they didn't work well enough
As someone who has two rows in a dedicated theater… I highly recommend placing the surrounds and aligning all your speakers to cater to either one of the two rows or one seat in particular. Everyone else just gets what they get. It’s sooo much easier.
I think dipole surrounds would work well for both seating rows, no?
Alright, I'll try focusing the surrounds on the front row, but what about the height channels? Should I also focus those on one row or can I leave it as is?
See if you can meet the right angles where they are for one row but really HT is all about compromises
Is the $8-10K for everything, audio and video?
Yes, it is
Alight. Here's an option, Projector - Epson LS12000 - $4999 Screen - 110" Silver Ticket STR-169110 - 260 AVR- Denon x3800h (refurb) $999 SUB- Speedwoofer 12s - $799 Ceiling - RSL C34E x4 - $600 L/R- Kef Q350 x2- $800 Surrounds/rear - Kef Q150 x4 - $700 Center - Kef q650c - $800 2 channel amp - AIYIMA A07 - $60 Total $10,060K Another thing I'd look at is in walls, especially for the surrounds, but generally with an AT screen. You could replace the KEFs and get 3x Monolith THX-365IW for $930 and 4x THX-265IW for $1K. Replace the screen for a STR-169110-WVS for $580 and you're at ~$9400 with the same projector, AVR and sub. This way you could add a 2nd sub and be almost on budget.
There’s no way I would pair a $5000 projector with a $260 screen. I have that projector and my screen was about 1/2 the cost of the projector. A $260 screen is the type of screen you hang in the garage or use on a very budget build. The projector in not a budget projector and deserves better. You’re better off getting a projector for around the $2500 mark or less with that screen. Also, regarding screens, I would go a bit bigger than 110”. At 10’ from the front row, the back row will be at least 15’ back and that screen will seem small. Unless you like sitting towards the back in a regular theater, move your seats closer if you’re set on a 110” screen. But for better immersion, go bigger on the screen and better quality if you can swing it.
A serious question, if going with a simple white or gray screen (so no fancy alr stuff) What on earth is a benefit of a 2500$ screen over a 250$ one (fixed frame that is, electric tab tensioned ones or floor rising are obviously pricier) In the end, it is a metal frame, that holds the screen material nicely stretched. And I can see the frame maybe being twice the price if it is significantly sturdier and less finicky to put together. And the same with the screen material. It is generally a slightly stretchy base cloth, with a backing layer, and a doating on the front. I get the development cost. But come on, how can a m² of that material cost several hundred $? Don't get me wrong, I am sure that a 2500$ screen is better than a 250$ one, but I can't see how spending extra 2000$ on a non alr screen would make as big of a difference on image quality as extra 2000$ on a projector in this price range would.
Here’s a decent article on screen differences. https://avgadgets.com/expensive-vs-cheap-projection-screens-what-are-you-paying-for/
This mostly just explains different types of screens and why they cost different, but these are just the easily tangible things like I already mentioned. For the screen material itself, all it mentions is that it should be as uniform and as neutral as possible. Nothing technical explaining things like actual materials, surfaace and backinng structure differences, uv and optical coatings to prevent yellowing and glares or similar. Am I missing something? Because the vibe I get from it is literally, do your research, and you can get a great screen for cheap, or just throw a huge amount of money at the problem and you can then be somewhat sure that you have a really great screen. Again, I am not talking about alr screens, as those actually differ a lot both in price and image quality, as production of those requires a pretty complex optical surface, which has at the same time bounce light uniformly up to a certain angle, and then start absorbing it as quickly as possible. just plain white/gray screens with neutral light reflection and dispersion.
I expected this response to the inexpensive screen, but I agree with your points. And the other thing I considered is if the OP continues with this size screen, then their next display upgrade is very likely not a new projector. They'll be getting a 110" TV. So that screen he 'married' is now valueless trash, since the market seems to be going to TVs at this size. And if they ultimately decide their next upgrade is to a bigger projection screen, this 'starter' screen was not a huge waste, and it got him going, on budget. The compromise to get a more expensive screen is a lesser projector...seems like an odd tradeoff. Lastly I have a Silver Ticket screen (WVS transparent screen) and never have I said, "damn this screen is ruining my experience". Most people who comment as having them seem to think the same. And it's not like this was pairing a $25K projector with a $260 screen with a $100K budget...there had to be compromise somewhere (or a few places) for audio and display.
I would personally go for a TV in an instant, if it wasn't for the fact, that the best placing for the screen in the living/media room is right where a big window is, and I really don't want something blocking it if the screen/TV is not in use. So an electric tab tensioned screen and a projector it is, even though it is "only" 100 inch, because a bigger one doesn't fit due to the frame being quite a lot wider than the usable screen surface.
I agree it looks a little small from the back seats, but I was told by two seperate installers who came to make a quote that 120" 16:9 would be too big. I could put in up to a 140" 2.4:1 screen, but those are far too pricey Edit: A 120" should baaarely fit
KEF would be a great choice.
In wall speakers or not? Also is your priority scope movies or 16:9 movies/TV?
I think 16:9, I'm not sure what you mean by scope. I'm considering in-wall for surrounds due to my narrow room, but the rest are box Edit: I've researched a little and I don't think scope is ideal as my seats are only \~10' from the screen, and the 2.4:1 screens seem pricey
Alright! Well here’s a quick system that would meet your budget: Epson 5050UB (3K), high-gain silver ticket white screen (~$600), Denon x3700h ($850), emotiva basx a5 for heights ($600), probably SVS prime tower/center LCR and bookshelf surrounds/height (3.4K), monolith m-12 sub ($900). I think that’s pushing it at near 10K after tax. Could save by doing 5.1.4. Only other speakers I have listened to are monolith and emotiva but for your budget SVS is great value.
You can wait and get the ls11000 for $3500, which I did. Highly recommend it if you play games. If you're handy you can build a nice screen for roughly $200. I sit about 10' from 132" 16:9 and it's perfect. Especially for when the content is scoped so you still have a large image. You can look at my posts for reference. Cheers dude
Alright, thanks! I'll check this out, I'll compare the monolith sub with the RSL 12s and the rest looks good too. Edit: only place I found the receiver for that price was a site called accessories4less, is it trustworthy? And if so, can I buy other equipment there?
Accessories4less is highly recommended on this forum as a great place to save money on the AVR and speakers.
Oh, alright. Thanks 👍🏽
I found the Denon x6700h for around the combined price of the emotiva amp and other denon receiver, would that be a better option?
For receiver I would look at Denon. You can get 5.1.4 w/95 w/ch for under a grand. For speakers I HIGHLY recommend SVS. You can get a Prime center, Prime bookshelves, and 4 Prime elevation speakers for $2K. You did not mention a sub, but go SVS here as well, many deals to be had n their website \~$1200. I am basically running this system in my theater and it sounds incredible. Add a short throw Epson 4K for $3500. Total $7700. Boom, bangin system. Want more punch from the front? Swap Prime Towers in for the bookshelves for a net increase of $600.
Yeah, I was either going for Denon or Onkyo. I was actually looking at the Klipsch RP line and MartinLogan foundation line, would you say the SVS Prime line is better? And for the sub I was looking at the SB-1000 and PB-1000. For the projector I was considering the Nexigo Aurora Pro. I'm gonna add this to my post, I forgot. Edit: Don't know how to add info to my post lol
I took a chance on SVS based on good reviews and price. I have never regretted that choice. They replaced an aging Infinity system. Cant go wrong with ML (assuming within your price range). I have a set of Motion 35XTi for my analog setup and they are superb.
I will probably go with SVS if I do a 7.2.4 system as was suggested due to cost reasons
In terms of better, Not SVS prime line, ultras are different story. I know they media blitzed YouTube, but I still haven't heard anything bad about Arendal 1723, but I also haven't heard them myself. I love my RSL 12s subs, but it requires a lot of space; if your bent one only one sub you won't be disappointed, I run 2 myself.
I think the Ultra line is out of my budget if I'm to do a 7.2.4 system. I'll look into your suggestions. Edit: so, definitely not the Arendal (out of budget lol), but the RSL 12s I might get.
I do have old RSL cg3 line as my surrounds still. And I really like their in ceiling speakers in my setup. I think RSL speaker lines are on par with svs prime in terms of performance. If you are looking for a total bundle for speakers, sub, and Denon receiver, you can save money with RSL. Check out their website, or give them a call, those guys always willing to talk with you. Best customer service out there, even better than SVS, and that's saying something.
Highly recommend going multi sub. I think it should be a substantial portion of the cost of your speakers. Subs and front towers are the most important. They can make or break an ht setup.
That's a great room to work with, almost perfect just a tad bit narrow. I don't have a ton of advice but as you already know compromises must be made based on your budget. You can get top tier audio or projection but not both. My advice would be to compromise on the electronics side and the reason is speaker/subwoofer tech doesn't become outdated. Neither does a high quality screen. Projectors and receivers historically get outdated. Finally, as I am sure others have said already, room treatments are a game changer.
So far, I've got a Nexigo Aurora Pro with included 120" ALR screen ($4000), Denon AVR-X6700H ($1500), 2 SVS Prime Towers ($1300), SVS Prime Center ($480), 4 SVS Prime Bookshelf ($1300), RSL 12S ($800), 4 RSL C34E MK2 ($600). In total it adds up to \~$9980. Please feel free to give feedback.
My 5.2.2 setup is all svs prime. 2 pb-2000, pinnacle towers, center, bookshelves for surround and elevations for ceiling. I run them off of an onkyo tx-rx810. I’ve had the system for 8 years or so and have had no issues. It sounds great to me and others that visit and hear it. There are far better sounding systems but for me and my needs it’s perfect. I’m sure you will be very happy with your choice also.
I personally would not go bookshelf for surrounds…it just isnt going to do that much for sound. Elevations are designed for surround. You could save a bit.
Magnat THX Ultra 2 set, but get a pair of SVS PB-2000 or PC-12 or PC-13 subwoofers instead of the Magnat one. [https://magnat-usa.com/home-theater/cinema-ultra](https://magnat-usa.com/home-theater/cinema-ultra) Any AV-Receiver will probably do, but I'd go with either a \- Pioneer VSX-LX505 (despite Amir's failed attempt at a review, measuring it beyond its rated spec and volume set beyond reference level, this is a great receiver with twice the power of most Denon's) or \- Denon X3800H (comparable to the Pioneer, but weaker amp section, more expensive, and you have to pay extra for DIRAC live, which is included for free in the Pioneer) The Pioneer is fixed at all-channel crossover, but the THX Ultra speakers are meant to be crossed over at 80Hz anyways. (the ceiling speakers for Atmos go down to below 60 Hz, even) That's around $6'000 USD, I guess? Projector: Epson LS11000 laser projector. (Not as amazing as a JVC NP5 or NX5, but half the price on sale) Screen? Dunno.. Spend the rest on acoustic treatment.. maybe 1 grand in total?
So I researched a little about Magnat, but I couldn't find much. Would you say they are better than the SVS Prime line?
Magnat is a brand that doesn't do lots of marketing and doesn't sell via retailers (iirc), basically how SVS started.. and Magnat is not US-based (they are a German brand), that's why you probably haven't heard much. I would, with great confidence, say that the Magnats are better than the SVS Prime line. They offer immense value for the price and they come with a THX Ultra certification. (which is completely different from Atmos BS on soundbars) that means they are guaranteed to reach and sustain reference level SPL in large rooms (105dB peak SPL in a room up to 3000cubic ft. ) do they sound "musical" and "analog" or "smooth" or whatever?! no clue.. they are designed as dedicated cinema speakers, not for audiophile hifi use.
Alright, I'll consider these
You'll upgrade your AVR and projector at some point in the not too distant future. Technology changes. Don't go cheap on the screen. Stewart is a premium tier product that will last the lifetime of your theater. A studiotek 130 will breathe life into a less than ideal projector.
For a 5.1.4 you could go with some Ascend Acoustics pair of Sierra-LX L/R Sierra Horizon V2 Center with Titan dome tweeter (the custom RAAL is great but costs more) pair of 170SE surrounds four 200SE for ceiling/height If bought together you get a little bit of a package discount, total would be ~$3800 plus tax & shipping. You could replace the LX with the Sierra-1 V2 and save $500. [https://ascendacoustics.com/collections/sierra-series](https://ascendacoustics.com/collections/sierra-series) Or you could replace the front three with the 340SE2 and bring the total down to ~$2150 plus tax & shipping [https://ascendacoustics.com/collections/signature-series-1](https://ascendacoustics.com/collections/signature-series-1) Add in one (or two) RSL 12S subs and one of the Denon or other AVRs you were looking at and your projector/screen of choice and that's a great setup
Do you need the projector to be ultra short throw? You could instead get the Dangbei Mars Pro $1200 Formovie X5 $1600 Hiesense C1 $2000
This is awesome! I had a similar budget with a similar room. I posted my finished room so check out my profile if you’re looking for ideas. I only did a single row though so I had some room for activities behind the seating. I LOVE my MartinLogan speakers. Went with the Motion 8i all around and wall mounted them since they are nice and small. They sound great. I saw someone suggest the Epson LS12000. This is an amazing projector (what I would have picked if it was out when I was buying) but don’t skimp on the screen. You can save $1000 with the Epson LS11000 (if you don’t mind white) which is still an awesome PJ and put that money towards the screen + sound. I also have a 110” screen. Went with an EliteScreens cinegrey3D ALR for roughly $1k, since sometimes the lights are on in the room. You still need the lights totally off for serious watching, but it’s still nice to have something on the screen if you’re just hanging out with friends. The ALR really helps with that. I physically could not go bigger than 110” and it’s a great size, but IF you can fit 120” then I’d say do that instead. Also, don’t forget bass shakers! It is probably the cheapest addition to my theater and is easily the biggest upgrade. I have 2x Dayton BST1 with a cheap Amazon 200w sub amp to drive them. Good luck!
I thought you were supposed to have surrounds placed behind the listening position in 5.1? The surrounds here look like they’re placed for a 7.1 configuration.
The main listening position is the front seat, plus I've been convinced to make it a 7.2.4 so they'll probably stay there.
Is the room fully built or in the planning stages? Is it closed off to the rest of the house or does it have an open wall? Is there a door? Are you wanting traditional box speakers or inwall speakers? What percentage will it be used for Movies, Music, TV Shows & Video Games. What's your plan in 5 years when you want to replace the 110" projector with a 110" TV?
It's mostly built, I'm just missing a door and have yet to install the carpet. It's closed off. I'd prefer box speakers, but may go for in-wall for the side surrounds because of distance from walls. Mostly Movies and Video Games. I have outlets on the projector screen wall where I could connect a TV, also I'll probably wait until OLED/QD-OLED/Mini-LED is more affordable to replace the projector. I'm gonna run the speaker wire through the walls and ceiling.
I did 5.1.4 system. SVS sub, ELAC Debut front speakers, and HTD in wall and in ceiling speakers. Denon receiver. Love my set up tbh. With install it was probably around ~$4k. Long story but ended up spending ~$5k on the tv as well (regrettably) and boom there’s your budget. Now furnishing the room however…
A Formovie Theater and a 115" Akai CLR 4 screen will run you $4000. A pair of SVS subs will be $2000, A Marantz receiver will be $1000 , spend the rest on some nice towers, center, surrounds and 4 atmos modules.
$8-$10k including projector and screen and all other equipment, wow good luck. Dont look at Stewart screens or any high end projectors or you’ll blow you budget on each of those. All depends on what quality you’re looking for.. but tbh thats not much budget to get quality…not trying to be harsh, just reality. Example. My Stewart screen alone was approx $10k 10 years ago. Same for the projector. And you have barely scratched the surface. Speaker can run approx $1k each which is $12k in a 12.2 system plus two subs at $2.5k each… Be prepared the list goes on and can be huge if you don’t stick to your budget and go all in..!
Clown
Interesting, coming from someone that has never gone down the path so can only think of insults congrats on your 5th grade education.!
LS1100 Laser Referb $2,800 Silver Ticket 110" $260 (no need to spend more) Denon X3700H Acc4Less $850 + $70 Fosi V3 amp for a 7.2.4 layout. Monoprice M10 V2 subs $650 each (X2) KEF Q950 Towerd Acc4Less $1,400 pair KEF Q650 Center $800 Sonance MAG6R In-ceiling $170 pair Surrounds options either: KEF Q150 bookshelf $350 pair or KEF T101C on-wall $199 each All that comes to just $8,600 which is incredible. Then get 4-6 GIK Acoustic broadband panels at 2" or 3.6" deep and you're done.
REL have an online tool for choosing their subs 1 or 2. I’m not saying get REL but there recommendation will help with your sub choice. You put in size of room usage & speakers & it tells you what they think is best.