Filed under: News, Speakers
Design - To be heard, not seen.
Following up on our last blog we are going to delve deeper
into the Design category. So if you are after a high quality audio solution in
your home, but would like a more discreet aesthetic, this is for you.
1. Application: First of all you want to think about the main use for
the system.
a. Home Cinema or Home Theatre
b. Music
c. Multi-Room Audio
d. Outdoor
e. Or a mix of the above.
2. Setup: Depending on what you are after you want to think about the
speaker setup.
a. For Home Cinema you will be thinking about either a 7.1, 5.1 or 2.1
setup.
b. For Music you will favor a 2.1 setup or 2 channel
3. Space: You want to think about the size of the rooms and how they
are used. Whether you want your speakers In-Wall, On-wall or In-Ceiling. In
terms of Outdoor you will be thinking of areas to mount the speaker, or once
again use In-Ceiling. The size and build of the room will heavily
impact your decision making when it comes to the audio solution. For example, a brick or solid wall cannot be built into. In this case you can
either consider mounting a slim-line sleek designed speaker like the Tryptix or
potentially installing some Hemispherix to be used as the Fronts and Centre.
4. Electronics and Cabling: The correct choice of electronics is
imperative and the features in the heart of a home theatre system are varied.
Do you wish to stream music to the system? How many zones do you require, and
do those zones need video or just audio? Do you require them to be independent
(so the kids can watch a Blu ray inside while the adults are outside listening
to a CD or streamed music from the PC). How many sources will be connected and
do you have enough HDMI inputs? Do you need to dock an iPod to the amp? Of
course if you are using a flatscreen and a projector you will also need two
HDMI outputs.
Cable considerations include using the right cable – generally a
dedicated custom cable that won’t absorb moisture and features low-loss and
less interference that “normal” cable. You will also need to consider where the
cable will be routed to keep it away from AC power cable and how you will have
access. A good installer can get a cable down almost any brick veneer wall but
if you have solid walls you may need to chase the cables down at least one part
of the wall. Using an in-ceiling system is easiest as you only have to get
the speaker cables in one wall and in to the ceiling.
5. Automation: Do you want to have the system incorporated in an
automated system that controls lighting and curtains? Many home theatres
benefit from simple automation so when the system is activated a projector
screen glides from the ceiling, the lights dim and the curtains close.
6. Installation, connection and calibration: This is where a good
installer comes in to the equation. Not only are they experienced in overcoming
issues but they are also knowledgeable when it comes to the setup and tuning of
the system. Theatre receivers have become quite complex and having someone who
is familiar with the product will ensure you get the best from it.
7. Operation: a quality learner remote control will not only make
the system easier to operate but will save your marriage. Get one.
This is just a brief summary for designing a concealed home cinema. If you go through these steps you should have a good grasp on what you are after and how to move forward.
For more in depth information go and visit one of your local dealers or feel free to email us questions at listen@krix.com.au.
