While there is an increasing number of options for watching movies or TV shows on a laptop or smartphone, they can’t beat the enjoyment that comes from relaxing in your own home theater, savoring high picture quality and surround sound. However, a new entertainment center is a significant investment, so you should consider its characteristics carefully. The guide below offers tips for picking a unit that is both functional and attractive.

Do:

Prioritize storage.

If you are an avid movie watcher, you likely have a large collection of DVDs. You might also need storage for CDs, remotes, and the players themselves. Choose cabinets that come with adjustable shelving and both open and closed looks for alternatively hiding and displaying items. 

Consider the wiring.

No one wants unsightly cables crowding their home theater setup. Make sure the entertainment center has a spot to conceal wiring to all of your devices, as well as holes for easily weaving cables throughout the unit and into outlets.

Measure accurately.

Double-check the dimensions of the wall and the size of the television, as well as any accessories. While it may seem excessive, you don’t want to wait until after you’ve built the cabinetry or had it delivered to discover that it won’t suit your needs.

Don’t:

Neglect material choice.

Entertainment centers come in wood, metal, and even plastic, as well as a spectrum of hues and finishes. Certain features such as cabinet doors can be made from tempered glass, which will protect your items while displaying them. Therefore, choose the style that most closely matches the aesthetic of the home theater, while still providing durability.

Overwhelm the space.

While everyone wants a grandiose theater, if you don’t need all that storage space, consider refraining. Some large units can overwhelm the eye and make your home theater room look smaller as a consequence.

Forget about seating.

Additionally, since most rooms are rectangular, it can be your instinct to put your entertainment center on one of the longer walls. However, this can sometimes force seating to be too close to the screen, ruining your viewing experience. While it depends on the picture quality, the general rule of thumb is to measure your TV at a diagonal, double that number, and place the chairs or couches that far away.

Based in Centennial, CO, Worry Free Technology Solutions will help you find the answers for your home theater needs. Their professional tech team provides assistance with sound systems and wireless surround sound setups, in addition to installing LED and LCD televisions. Call (720) 935-6331 for an appointment or visit their website for a full list of services.