Home Theater Buying Guide

Get the most from your flat-panel high-definition TV (HDTV)—discover the magic that a home theater system brings to all your video entertainment.

Learn where to start, what you’ll need, and how to choose your equipment to get the best sound within your budget.

Essentially, a home theater system recreates the cinematic experience. You’ll need:

At least 5.1 channels of surround sound

The biggest HDTV display you can manage

A broadband Internet connection

We’ll cover it all.

		Planning Your Home Theater Before you buy, target the best equipment for your space, your entertainment choices, and your budget.
		Surrounding Yourself with Sound Learn how to create a surround sound experience in your living room.
		Streaming, Online, and Broadcast Programs Decide what you’ll need for cable or satellite TV, streaming, computers, games, and music.
		Choosing the Right TV Explore the choices in plasma or LCD TV displays, screen sizes, 3D, and connectors, including HDMI®.
		Setting up Your Home Theater Learn about room acoustics, cables, furniture, stands, and more.