A home theater in a box can be a cost-effective alternative to setting up a sound and video entertainment system from separate components. A typical theater in a box package includes a compact unit that plays DVDs, VHS tapes and possibly CDs, as well as a set of tweeter and subwoofer speakers for surround sound. Systems range in price, brand and options.
Instructions
Buy a Home Theater in a Box
1. Set a specific budget for your purchase. All-in-one home theaters start at several hundred dollars and go all the way up to a couple thousand dollars. Most people who buy these units are looking for a bargain, but try to keep an open budget (maybe under $600) so you can consider different units.
2. Find out which cables and installation tools are included with each home theater in a box. You don't want to bring your new purchase home and find out you need to spend more money to buy speaker cables. Try to find out before you buy the unit if you need certain size allen wrenches or screwdrivers to install the theater.
3. Draw up a mock plan of how you'll set up the theater and bring it with you when you go to check out different systems. You'll want to at least know the dimensions of the room (for cable length and speaker placement) and type of TV (for high definition or other connections) you plan to use. Talk to the salesperson about sound system wattages and what you'll need to fill your theater room.
4. Check out the options for connecting other devices to the sound system. If you plan to use the theater for other things, like playing video games, you need to be sure there are enough audio and video inputs on the system. Two additional input sets are common on most theaters, but some have fewer or none at all.
5. Ask about installation and setup help. Some stores may have an employee who can help you find the best speaker locations for the ideal sound coverage. You're much more likely to get this service if you buy your home theater in a box from an electronics store rather than the electronics section of a department store.
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