Best Ways to Enjoy Movies At Home

The enjoyment of cinema dates back to the very first film, which was simply footage of a horse running. Ever since mankind was first exposed to film, there has been both a fascination and appreciation for movies. Movie theaters began to open in every town across the country as the film industry grew and expanded.

 

Movie theaters still have their place in the world of cinema; nothing will ever quite replace the screen size and audio power of movie theaters. However, there has been a rise in consumer electronics in recent decades that enables enthusiasts to enjoy movies at home with the same quality audio and video as a movie theater.  Cinema appreciators have found greater enjoyment in being able to watch movies at home, in some instances. Below are listed the best ways to enjoy movies at home.

Invest in Quality Audio and Video Components

Audio and video components have become increasingly affordable as technology progresses. According to CNet.com, a website devoted to consumer electronics, a simple 5.1-channel sound system and a big-screen HDTV can be purchased on a bargain budget. This is easily the best way to enjoy movies at home:  just set up your own home theater! Here is a brief list of the equipment you will need to do that: 

HDTV – A High Definition Television (HDTV) is the centerpiece of your home entertainment system. The size of the TV is dependent on both your budget and desires. Regardless of size, ensure that its resolution is 1080p for the best possible quality. An HDTV with a 1080p resolution will allow you to fully enjoy Blu-ray quality movies.

Receiver/Amplifier – A receiver is a unit that will connect all of your components together. It has several inputs for video game systems, Blu-ray or DVD players and speakers. All of your input and output will be routed through the receiver. Ensure that your prospective receiver has an input for your laptop. Typically, this will be an HDMI connection and is found on all newer laptops and receivers. This will enable you to display anything that is on your laptop on your TV, with no loss of either resolution or quality. Perhaps the biggest benefit of doing this is that you can watch free movies available online, with the quality of a theater.

Speakers – What would a movie be without sound? Many receivers will also include speakers. However, some are standalone units. Ensure that your receiver includes speakers and purchase them separately if it does not.

Video Player – If you will be enjoying free movies from your laptop, then that is all you need! You may also wish to consider a video game system capable of playing DVDs and Blu-Rays, or stand-alone units capable of playing both.

Hire a Professional or Do-It-Yourself?

Now that you have all of the equipment, it’s time to install it. Many consumer electronic stores also offer professional installation specialists. You can also head to your preferred search engine and find a local professional to install and set up your equipment. A professional is not required however, as you can set up your equipment by yourself. Robert Silvas, a professional Home Theater Guide who has worked for Circuit City and Best Buy, suggests considering the below factors before setting up your home theater system:

• What is the primary use of the room? Strictly entertainment? Or is a multipurpose living room or office?

• What is the shape and size of the room?

• Will in-wall speakers or traditional speakers be ideal?

• Is the room properly ventilated?

• Where will the audience be sitting?

All of this information is compiled to determine the ideal placement of the HDTV and speakers. Consult with a professional home theater expert, if you wish to get the absolute most out of your equipment.

Create a Comfortable Viewing Environment

Your home theater is set up and you’re ready to use it. Now it’s time to focus on the fluff:  the extra touches that will make your viewing space an ideal environment.  Below is a rough checklist to follow before each home entertainment adventure. Feel free to add anything that makes you comfortable to this list:

• Comfy chairs and couches

• Pillows and blankets

• A table within reach to store snacks and drinks

• Plenty of snacks and drinks

• Dimmed, unobtrusive lighting

You Can Outdo The Theaters!

You never have to pay for overpriced sodas and movie tickets again after carefully setting up your home theater system. Be sure to carefully research every piece of equipment before making your purchase; this will provide the utmost quality for your home cinema enjoyment.

About the Author:
Kyle McDonnell is a contributing writer who loves to keep up-to-date on the latest films and prefers watching them at home.