New Media Room Setup questions (1 Viewer)

[hawkeye12345]

OK - so lots of questions in my first post and I'll do as much research on each subject as possible but I would appreciate any input that this forum may give.

Here's my setup:

TV - Pioneer PDP-5080 - fully HDMI compatible 1080i
DirecTV - HD DVR (don't know brand, sorry)
Denon 4806 (not the CI) but will buy upgrade software if it makes sense

Speakers: Up for recommendations at this point but looking to go 7.1 in-wall speakers. Will do tower speakers but keep in mind that the only exposed equipment at that point will be the speakers so aesthetics would be important. Any recommendations here?

Add'l Accessories
Oppo DVD player - HD
PS3 for Blu Ray and gaming.

HDMI connections for all components - probably using Blue Jean wiring based on reviews. Again based on research it appears that HDMI is the best way to go for audio / video connections, correct?

The whole setup will be in a fairly small room that is about 15 feet deep and 12 feet wide with TV wall mounted and ALL accessories including receiver will be located in equipment closet that is 8 x 8.

Questions:

First what speakers would you recommend?

Next: 7.1, 6.1 or 5.1?

Next: Are the connections being used (HDMI) the best?

Next: Do I need an amp? If so, which one?

Next: Do I need a computer hooked up? I'll be honest, I have no idea what a computer would do in this configuration so any help on this subject would be appreciated.

Next: More than likely running wireless security video to the utility closet to be ran to TV for easy monitoring (two children under 3 years old).

Next: Are there any special considerations that I need to take into account when running the in-wall speaker wire? ie., distance from electrical cables, HDMI cables, from each speaker wire?

What am I missing? Is there some component that I left out that I need to have?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Robert_J]

Speakers are a very personal selection. What sounds great to me may sound like crap to you.

5, 6 or 7? How much room do you have? What's your budget? I'd rather have 5 great sounding speakers than 7 average ones. And get a good sub. There's a speaker section for more research.

HDMI is a very good connection for HD video/audio from your DVD player. But other connections work well. It all depends on the equipment you are using.

You have a receiver so why an amp? I'd let that be my last upgrade unless you are using an amp with a passive sub.

A computer can be used for a lot of things. If you don't have any idea about it's home theater usage then leave it out of the equation until you can read more about it.

Security - is there a question here?

In-wall rated cables should be used. Keep away from electical. Cross them perpendicular if you have to be near them.

I'm not sure what you left out. What are your goals? It's better to sit down with a plan when you are spending this kind of money. But we don't know your budget so recommendations will be few and far between. If you aren't sure what you want to spend or what you need, then I suggest that you slow down and read. There is a ton of information here.

-Robert