Building My First Home Theatre – Need Suggestions for Setup & Equipment (7.2.2, 27ft x 21ft Room) (1 Viewer)

[AAS]

Hi everyone,

I am in the process of building my first dedicated home theatre, and I would love to get advice from experienced members here. As a beginner, I want to make sure I choose the right equipment and set up everything properly.

Room Details:
• Room Size: 27ft (L) x 21ft (W) x 11ft (H)
• Planned Speaker Setup: 7.2.2 Dolby Atmos
• Recliners: Already purchased
• Projector: Considering JVC NZ30, but open to suggestions
• Subwoofers: Thinking of dual subwoofers for even bass response

• Use Case: Movies, gaming, and some music listening

I haven’t finalized my budget yet, but I want something reasonable that still delivers great cinematic performance. Since I am new to this, I don’t want to go overboard with high-end audiophile-level gear but still want something solid for immersive sound and a great viewing experience.

What I Need Help With:

Speaker Recommendations – A balanced setup for my room size
AV Receiver / Amplifier Suggestions – Something that can power a 7.2.2 system efficiently
Projector & Screen Size – Is JVC NZ30 a good choice for my room? What screen size should I get?
Acoustic Treatment Advice – How should I plan room treatment to minimize echo and improve sound?
General Advice for a Beginner – Any mistakes to avoid or things to consider?

I would really appreciate any insights from the community on what brands/models I should consider and how to best set up my home theatre. Looking forward to your recommendations!

Thanks in advance!
Regards
AAS

 

[DaveF]

I haven’t finalized my budget yet, but I want something reasonable that still delivers great cinematic performance. Since I am new to this, I don’t want to go overboard with high-end audiophile-level gear but still want something solid for immersive sound and a great viewing experience.

The thing with this hobby is that one person's "reasonable" is another's "elite budget". Without know if you're shopping for a budget receiver, a four-figure processor, or high-end processor, it's hard to give guidance.

 

[DaveF]

Projector & Screen Size – Is JVC NZ30 a good choice for my room? What screen size should I get?

I don't think the JVC NZ30 is recommended by many people. As a DLP it doesn't have JVC's vaunted black levels or contrast. And I believe there are better choices if you specifically like the image characteristics of DLP projectors.

 

[AAS]

The thing with this hobby is that one person's "reasonable" is another's "elite budget". Without know if you're shopping for a budget receiver, a four-figure processor, or high-end.

First of all, thank you for your reply.
I completely understand that “reasonable” is a subjective term when it comes to home theatre. To clarify, I am looking for a balance between performance and value I want a cinematic and immersive experience without overspending on ultra-high-end audiophile gear.

Here is what I have in mind:
AV Receiver: Something powerful enough to drive a 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos setup efficiently. I was considering the Marantz SR8015, but open to better alternatives in a similar price range.

Speakers: I am currently looking at Focal Aria Evo X speakers, but if there are better options within a similar price range, I’ll love to hear suggestions.


Projector: Initially, I was considering the JVC NZ30

Subwoofers: Dual SVS PB-3000, but I am open to suggestions if there are better choices for a 27ft x 21ft room.


Acoustic Treatment: I plan to install bass traps, absorption panels, and diffusers to optimise the sound.

I don’t have a strict budget limit, but I also don’t want to overspend unnecessarily. I appreciate recommendations for a high-performing, value-for-money setup based on my room size (27ft x 21ft) and planned speaker configuration (7.2.2 or 7.2.4).

• My approximately budget is around USD $15K

Looking forward to your suggestions!

 

[AAS]

I don't think the JVC NZ30 is recommended by many people. As a DLP it doesn't have JVC's vaunted black levels or contrast. And I believe there are better choices if you specifically like the image characteristics of DLP projectors.

I thought initially it would be in good option according to my need & budget. as I am a new into this hobby but if you have any better option, please elaborate and suggest. I am open to all suggestions thank you.

 

[DaveF]

In the $3000 to $6000 price range, common recommendations are the Epson 5050, 6050, LS12000, Sony XW5000 and JVC NZ500.

There are DLP projectors that slot in there somewhere, but I don’t follow those.

As you might want a big screen (140”+), if your budget stretches, the Epson LS12000 is a great projector and is quite bright, might be helpful for a larger screen.

If you’re looking in the 100” to 120” display size, then it might be worth looking at the direct view options. They might all be more than you want to pay, but projector is no longer the clear choice for home theater enthusiasts in size range.

 

[JohnRice]

First of all, thank you for your reply.
I completely understand that “reasonable” is a subjective term when it comes to home theatre. To clarify, I am looking for a balance between performance and value I want a cinematic and immersive experience without overspending on ultra-high-end audiophile gear.

Here is what I have in mind:
AV Receiver: Something powerful enough to drive a 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos setup efficiently. I was considering the Marantz SR8015, but open to better alternatives in a similar price range.

Speakers: I am currently looking at Focal Aria Evo X speakers, but if there are better options within a similar price range, I’ll love to hear suggestions.


Projector: Initially, I was considering the JVC NZ30

Subwoofers: Dual SVS PB-3000, but I am open to suggestions if there are better choices for a 27ft x 21ft room.


Acoustic Treatment: I plan to install bass traps, absorption panels, and diffusers to optimise the sound.

I don’t have a strict budget limit, but I also don’t want to overspend unnecessarily. I appreciate recommendations for a high-performing, value-for-money setup based on my room size (27ft x 21ft) and planned speaker configuration (7.2.2 or 7.2.4).

• My approximately budget is around USD $15K

Looking forward to your suggestions!

Focal makes excellent speakers. You can't go wrong with them. They are considered on the brighter but accurate end. I only say that because a lot of people these days want what I consider to be excessively dark sounding systems. Since you are looking at acoustic treatments, I wouldn't worry about it. An interesting alternative is THESE ones from SVS. I suspect they are capable of higher output, which is something to consider with that size room.

As far as the SR8015, unless you are looking to go refurb, I would probably lean toward a current model, like the Cinema 30, which you can also get an excellent deal on in a refurb (in the USA). Again, considering the size of the room, consider adding a capable external amp for the front three channels. There are many to choose from, but I do like Emotiva, and their XPA-3 is a decent value. It's available in a "compact" chassis, because the regular one is huge.

As far as the sub, there are a lot of SVS owners here, including me. I'll just start by saying I've become a big fan of capable sealed subs. In your situation, I would personally prefer the SB-4000 for only a small amount more than the PB-3000. I don't know if the closeout on the SB-16 Ultra is still on. Again, depending on where you are located. I definitely would go dual subs. Try to arrange them to really smooth out the room, rather than just both in front. Opposing corners of the room is usually the first placement to try. So, front right and back left, or the other way around.

 

[AAS]

Hi John,

Thanks for your detailed response. I really appreciate your guidance as this is my first time building a dedicated home theater. I have a few follow-up questions and would love your input:


1. Speaker Selection I have checked out Focal speakers, and I like their sound profile, but I also have Klipsch in mind, though I’m not sure which model would be best. You mentioned SVS speakers as well how do they compare to Focal and Klipsch for my room size? Given the size of my space (27ft x 21ft x 11ft), which would you personally recommend?


2. Subwoofer Placement You suggested placing subwoofers in opposing corners (front right and back left or vice versa). Could you explain how this improves the sound distribution? Would I experience a significant difference in bass response compared to placing both subs in the front?


3. Amplifier vs. Processor Since I’m setting this up in 2025, would you recommend going with an AV receiver with amplification (like the SR8015/Cinema 30) or a separate processor and amplifier setup? If a separate setup is better, what would be an ideal pairing within my budget?


4. Acoustic Treatment I want to ensure my room has proper acoustic treatment for the best sound experience. Could you guide me on the perfect way to do it? Should I hire a professional, or is it something I can manage with a few people and DIY solutions?


5. Dolby Atmos Speakers I want to include Atmos speakers in my setup. Which models or type would you recommend for my ceiling height and seating arrangement? Should I go with in-ceiling, on-ceiling, or height-mounted speakers?


6. Buying Equipment in the USA Since I plan to purchase all my equipment from the USA, what’s the best way to get the best deals? Should I buy directly from company dealers, or do you suggest any specific online retailers or alternative sources?


7. HVAC & Ceiling Considerations My home theater will have an HVAC system and a false ceiling. What materials do you suggest for the ceiling and walls to prevent rattling or vibrations? Also, do you have any home cinema interior design ideas that would enhance the aesthetics while maintaining great acoustics?


8. Budget Consideration While making recommendations, please keep in mind that my budget is around $15,000-$16,000.

Looking forward to your suggestions! Thanks again for your time and expertise.

 

[JohnRice]

That's a lot of questions, so I'll try to get to the bit by bit.

Regarding speakers, that's the most personal decision of all of them. Other components you buy mostly on features and what you want them to do. Speakers are more a matter of personal taste. A big downside is that the most splashy speaker in the store usually isn't the one you want to live with long term. I don't think I've ever seen anyone mention Focal and Klipsch together. They are very different speakers and companies. I'll just express my opinion this way. Focal is a speaker company, Klipsch is a marketing company, and they are both very good at those objectives. Klipsch used to be a genuine speaker manufacturer, but ownership and priorities have changed. They can play loud with not much power.

Regarding subwoofers, incorporating them into a room is extremely complicated. Far too much to go into in a forum post. I suggest doing some research on your own, but keep in mind that probably at least half of what you read will be questionable. Placement comes down to room interactions, which are significant with bass frequencies. Most rooms have four walls, and each of them bounces the bass waves around. So, a very simple explanation is that placing subs in a corner eliminates the effect of two of those walls, because they are so close they no longer have any influence. So, you place a sub in one corner, in the front of the room. There is a natural result that placing another sub in the opposing corner, diagonally across the room will tend to have an opposite set of negatives and positives. So, as a very general rule, they tend to balance each other out, while also creating a more even distribution around the room. It's a little counter intuitive, because it doesn't "look" right. People want to have the subs next to the front L&R speakers, but that's usually not what produces the best results. You can give THIS article a look.

 

[DaveF]

I have a pair of SB-3000 and they're great. Bigger subs are always better. But if you're balancing an overall budget, then SB-3000 are a great option.

 

[DaveF]

8. Budget Consideration While making recommendations, please keep in mind that my budget is around $15,000-$16,000.

Looking forward to your suggestions! Thanks again for your time and expertise.

Some thoughts:

• Projector: Epson 5050 for $2500 (on sale) or watch for an Epson LS12000 used for ~$3500
• Screen: ~120" XY Screens (direct from China) for ~$1000. I have this screen, it's a superb value. Or DIY screen. The US brands I know of (Seymour, Stewart) will cost $5000+, outside your budget. I assume you want an Acoustically Transparent screen with speakers behind. If not, maybe Silver Ticket from Amazon for a solid screen for $500 to $1000.
• AVR: Cinema 30 refurb, linked by John is a solid option for $3000.
• Speakers & Subs: something like the SVS Prime Tower Surround 5.1 kit for ~$2000. Add a Prime Elevation pair for $500.
• Subs: SVS SB-3000 for $2000.
• Acoustic treatments: DIY. Hiring pros I think is outside your budget for now. Lots of info, need to start reading and make this your new hobby. Could maybe spend on someone modeling your room and developing a treatment plan for you, that you implement with DIY parts.
• Total: ~$11,000 (ignoring tax and shipping)

That leaves $4000 to $5000 to account for components, misc accessories, seating, and tax and shipping.

It also gives some flex to upgrade some item(s) if you want to say get a $5000 or $7000 projector, or invest in a Processor and Amps, while saving on speakers.

I wouldn't take this as a shopping list by any means. But maybe it gives some ideas on how to balance out the build plan.

 

[DreJ182]

I would look at the LS12000 at that price point. Marantz Cinema30 for your AVR. That will give your Focals the power they need. Don't cheap out on your screen........ IT's the one item you will never upgrade. Everything else changes. Dual SVS pb-3000s or what ever size you want. But dual gives you flexibility in placement and sound. Sound treatments are the most important items in your room.

Just a few ideas for you.

 

[ManW_TheUncool]

Personally, I would sooner cheap out on the screen than the audio gear (and maybe acoustic treatments)... unless there's some unusually special reason to splurge on the screen...

I wouldn't spend big on the screen before going separates on the electronics and maybe better speakers, especially better subs...

It's not like he's gonna get a higher end JVC PJ plus ISF calibration w/ fully optimized room for that, is he?

_Man_