How To Plan Your Home Cinema: A Complete Guide

Imagine transforming your living space into a captivating entertainment haven where movies come alive, gaming becomes immersive, and music surrounds you in perfect harmony.

Creating a home cinema isn't just about buying a big TV and some speakers, it's about crafting an experience that rivals your local cinema, right in the comfort of your own home.

At K&B Audio we specialise in providing ready to play bundles that are easy to understand and easy to install and this doesn't stop at home cinema.

We believe that every TV room, media room or dedicated home cinema can be an amazing experience regardless of the overall budget.

Read on to learn more about designing your very own home cinema system.

Why Build a Home Cinema?

The magic of cinema has always been about escapism, but why limit yourself to occasional visits to the local multiplex?

Today's home cinema technology offers unprecedented quality at increasingly accessible price points.

Whether you're a film enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who simply appreciates quality entertainment, a well-planned home cinema system can revolutionise your viewing experience.

Read More: Why Have A Home Cinema? 5 Reasons to Create Your Perfect Entertainment Space

Key Considerations Before You Begin

Before diving into specific components, let's address the fundamental aspects that will shape your home cinema journey.

The size of your room, available budget, and primary use will all influence your choices.

A typical UK living room of 4.5m x 3.5m can accommodate a wonderful home cinema setup, while larger spaces of 6m x 4m or more open up additional possibilities for tiered seating and more powerful systems.

We always advise to avoid cramming in more speakers than the room can handle.

For example in a smaller room you will get a much better result spending your budget on a better and correctly positioned 5.1 surround sound system rather than trying to squeeze in a Dolby atmos system with incorrectly placed speakers.

George Lucas famously said that "Sound is 50% of the movie-going experience" so we'd also recommend that you don't blow your entire budget on the TV or projector and overlook the audio!

The key is to balance your budget between audio and visual, take some time to understand the components, what will work best in your space and create a well balanced system with a clear upgrade path for the future.

Let's start with the main attraction, the display!

Choosing Your Display: TV vs Projector

One of the most crucial decisions you'll make is choosing between a large-format TV and a projector system.

Both options have their merits, and your choice should depend on several factors:

Big Screen TVs

Modern TVs offer exceptional picture quality with technologies like OLED, QLED, and LED.

A 65-inch OLED TV, starting from around £1,800, provides stunning black levels and perfect contrast, ideal for both bright and dark rooms.

Premium 77-inch models can range from £3,500 to £8,000, offering features like 4K resolution, HDR support, and gaming capabilities.

Projectors & Screens

For the true cinema experience, nothing beats a projector.

Entry-level 4K projectors start around £2,000, with high-end models reaching £15,000 or more.

Don't forget to factor in a quality screen, which can range from £500 to £3,000 depending on size and features.

Projectors excel in completely dark rooms and offer screen sizes from 100 inches upwards.

You'll find that projectors work best in dedicated rooms whereas TV's will often work better in more casual living room home cinemas.

Understanding AV Receivers: The Heart of Your System

Think of an AV receiver (AVR) as the brain of your home cinema.

This essential component processes audio and video signals, powers your speakers, and manages various sources.

Entry-level receivers start at around £500, while mid-range models with advanced features typically cost between £1,000 and £2,500.

Key Features to Consider:

• Power output appropriate for your room size
• Speaker outputs appropriate for your chosen surround sound format (how many speakers you want!)
• Number of HDMI inputs
• Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
• Network connectivity for streaming
• Future-proof features like 8K passthrough
• Music streaming features such as Airplay 2, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth etc.

Need help choosing the right AV receiver? Contact our audio experts for free advice.

Choosing Your Speakers

The difference between a good and extraordinary home cinema often comes down to the speakers and audio setup.

Let's explore the key components that will bring your favourite content to life.

Understanding Surround Sound Formats

Today's surround sound systems offer incredibly immersive experiences.

The most common formats include:

• 5.1 systems (five speakers plus subwoofer) - Starting from £800
• 7.1 systems (seven speakers plus subwoofer) - From £1,200
• Dolby Atmos configurations - From £2,000

Dolby Atmos adds height channels to create a three-dimensional soundstage, perfect for modern content. While Dolby Amos represents the current pinnacle of home audio, even a well-configured 5.1 system can deliver impressive results in smaller rooms.

Don't forget from earlier in this guide, a well designed and budgeted 5.1 system will be better than a poorly designed 7.1.2 atmos system.

Speaker Choices & Placement

Your choice of speakers and their placement will significantly impact your listening experience.

Let's break down the essential components:

Front Speakers

The front soundstage typically requires three speakers:

• Left and right main speakers (£300-£3,000 per pair)
• Centre channel speaker (£200-£2,000) These handle most of the audio work, particularly dialogue and main sound effects.

You can use floorstanding speakers, bookshelf speakers, in wall speakers or in ceiling speakers.

Surround Speakers

To complete the surround sound effect you'll need some rear speakers to handle the rear left and rear right channels.

• Surround speakers (£250-£2,000 per pair)

Surround speakers can be bookshelf speakers on stands, they could be in ceiling speakers or in wall speakers.

Another option is to use dedicated surround channel speakers which feature two drivers firing in opposite directions, these can increase the surround effect.

Height / Atmos Speakers

For complete immersion, you'll need to add some surround and/or height speakers - otherwise known as "Dolby Atmos" Speakers.

That's because in this format you're typically running five main channels (Front left, right, centre, rear left & rear right) then adding some additional speakers above you for an even more immersive experience.

These can be freestanding units that are designed to sit on top of your floorstanding speakers, designed to "bounce" the sound off your ceiling or they could be in ceiling speakers positioned exactly where you need them.

Pro Tip: If you're going for an Atmos setup then make sure that your AV receiver has enough channels and can decode Dolby Atmos (most new ones will now!).

• Height/overhead channels for Atmos (£200-£1,500 per pair)

Installation Options

Consider your room aesthetics and practical requirements:

• Freestanding speakers offer flexibility and often better sound quality
• In wall speaker installation provides a cleaner look (£200-£3,000 per pair)
• In ceiling speaker solutions work well for height channels (£200-£2,000 per pair)
• Hidden speaker solutions behind fabric walls (custom pricing)

You can mix and match speakers as well, for instance having in wall speakers at the front and ceiling speakers at the rear. Just make sure you choose the same brand and range to ensure they're acoustically matched.

It is possible to use all in-ceiling speakers for your surround sound, this can be a great solution for more casual surround sound setups in living spaces, but bear in mind that ceiling speakers project sound downwards so it's not optimal for surround sound.

You can get angled in ceiling speakers such as our OSD Audio R63A and R83A which are a much better option for discreet cinema.

Subwoofers: The Foundation of Home Cinema Sound

No home cinema is complete without proper bass reproduction.

In my opinion it's one of the most important aspects of your home cinema setup!

A quality subwoofer adds depth and impact to everything from explosive action scenes to subtle musical scores. It's the difference between watching your films and feeling your films!

Let's explore what makes a great subwoofer and how to choose the right one for your space.

Understanding Subwoofer Basics

A subwoofer handles the lowest frequencies in your audio system, typically from around 20Hz to 120Hz.

These low frequencies are what you feel as much as hear, creating that visceral impact during dramatic movie moments.

Quality subwoofers range from £400 for entry-level models to £3,000+ for premium options.

Size & Power Considerations

• Small rooms (up to 15m²): 8-10 inch driver, 300-500 watts
• Medium rooms (15-25m²): 12 inch driver, 500-1000 watts
• Large rooms (25m²+): 15 inch driver or larger, 1000+ watts

Types of Subwoofers

• Sealed enclosures: Offer the tightest, most accurate bass response
• Ported designs: Provide higher output and deeper bass extension
• Multiple subwoofer setups: Ideal for even bass distribution in larger rooms

Placement Tips

Subwoofer placement is crucial for optimal performance.

Common positions include:

• Front corner placement (traditional but can lead to boomy bass)
• Mid-wall placement (often provides smoother response)
• Multiple subwoofers in opposing corners (ideal for larger rooms)

Integration & Calibration

The key to great bass is proper integration with your main speakers.

Most modern AV receivers include room correction systems that help blend your subwoofer seamlessly with your other speakers.

Don't just turn the volume up full, take some time to properly adjust and tune the settings to suit your room and your tastes.

Pro Tip: Consider investing in multiple smaller subwoofers rather than one large unit. This approach often provides more even bass response throughout the room and can sometimes cost less than a single premium subwoofer. Make sure your AV receiver has dual subwoofer outputs.

Source Components

Your system is only as good as your source components.

The "Source" is your gateway to your video content, for instance it's the Netflix app built into your TV, the Blu-Ray player connected to your AV receiver via cable or it could be a high-end movie streamer from Kaleidescape.

Without a source you have no video, but not all sources are created equal.

Here's what to consider:

Media Streamers

Your TV will no doubt feature built-in apps such as Netflix and Amazon Prime which you can easily enjoy through your home cinema system.

You can also opt for an external streaming device such as an Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV streamer as they are often faster, easier to use and better quality than your TV's software.

They are particularly ideal if you are using a projector as they don't often have streaming apps built in.

Games Console

Let's not forget how good gaming will be on the big screen with the surround sound!

Adding a games console into your home cinema setup will completely transform your experience as well as maximising your value for money.

Consider adding a Playstation 5 or XBOX for immersive gaming experiences with the whole family.

You can also use most games consoles as streamers for popular TV & movie streaming apps such as Disney+, Netflix etc.

Ultra HD Blu-ray Players

For the highest quality, a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player (£300-£1,000) provides uncompressed audio and video.

Look for players with Dolby Vision support for the best HDR performance.

Cabling: The Critical Connections

Often overlooked but crucial to system performance, proper cabling ensures your carefully chosen components perform at their best.

Your surround sound speaker system is only going to work properly if you have the right cables in the right places.

Let's explore the essential cables for your home cinema setup.

HDMI Cables

Modern home cinema systems rely heavily on HDMI connections but not all HDMI cables are created equal:

• HDMI 2.1: Essential for 4K/120Hz and 8K content (£30-£100)
• Supports higher bandwidths up to 48Gbps
• Required for gaming features like VRR and ALLM
• Recommended length limit: 5 metres without signal boosting
• Active HDMI Cables: For longer runs (£100-£300)
• Built-in signal amplification
• Reliable performance up to 15 metres
• Ideal for projector installations
• Optical HDMI Cables: If you need to go beyond 15 metres we'd highly recommend using an optical HDMI cable. These can go well over 100 metres!

Pro Tip: While premium HDMI cables don't improve picture quality over basic certified cables, they often offer better build quality and reliability for permanent installations.

Another important thing to note is about the use of HDMI extender sets. These kits let you send HDMI over CAT 5 or 6 data cables. Whilst there are loads of great options for these at high-quality, we'd highly recommend sticking to a proper HDMI cable instead.

Not only is it cheaper but you maintain the eARC control of your TV and AV receiver. This function lets your TV send audio back to your AV receiver (i.e. from apps built into the TV) and also lets your TV control your AV receiver's volume from the standard TV remote.

Most HDMI extender sets do not have this functionality.

So don't take the "easy" route of throwing some data cables in for everything, run them for ethernet connections but stick to HDMI cables where possible for the video.

Speaker Cables

Quality speaker cable ensures optimal power delivery and sound quality:

Cable Gauge (Thickness)

• Runs under 5m: 1.5- 2.5mm² (16 - 14 AWG)
• Runs 5-10m: 4mm² (12 AWG)
• Runs over 10m: 6mm² (10 AWG)

The lower the number, the thicker the cable (I know, bit backwards!)

Most of our systems are fine using 16AWG or 42 strand speaker cables, but if you have longer runs, more powerful amplifiers etc then we'd advise using larger cables.

High-quality speaker cable costs between £3-£15 per metre.

Key considerations:

• Oxygen-free copper (OFC) construction
• Durable outer jacket
• Quality terminations (banana plugs or spades)

You can buy speaker cables in reels or pre-made cables with pre-fitted banana plugs, in most cinemas you'll be running cables in the walls and floors etc. so we'd recommend buying a reel of cable and separate banana plugs such as the QED Screwloc range, this allows for greater flexibility in your speaker positioning and cable routes.

Subwoofer Cables

Subwoofer signals require specific cables:

• RCA/Phono Cables: (£20-£100)
• Shielded construction to prevent interference
• Single or dual-channel options
• Look for 75-ohm impedance rating
• Balanced XLR Cables: (£30-£150)
• Better noise rejection for longer runs
• Preferred for high-end installations
• Essential for some professional-grade subwoofers

Subwoofers do require a specific cable so don't just run a speaker cable, it won't work.

Most of the subwoofers that we sell are going to be using an RCA subwoofer cable rather than XLR cables, if in doubt please ask one of our audio experts.

You can also get wireless subwoofer kits, these are great for media rooms and get-out-of-jail scenarios but if you're planning your cinema before installing anything then run the correct cable for best results.

Cable Management

Proper installation is as important as cable quality:

• Use cable ties or velcro straps, these are easily removable and don't crush the cables like cable ties can do.
• Maintain separation between power and signal cables! This is important to avoid electrical interference with your sound, network or video.
• Label all connections for future reference
• Consider in-wall rated cables for permanent installation

Budget Considerations:

• Entry-level setup: £100-£200 for complete cabling
• Mid-range system: £300-£600 for quality cables
• High-end installation: £1,000+ for premium cabling throughout

Pro Tip: Always purchase cables with some extra length to allow for equipment changes and room rearrangement. It's better to have slightly too much than too little.

Equipment Positioning & Control

If you've made it this far through the guide then you should now know that you're going to need an AV receiver and a source device such as a Blu Ray player or games console as a minimum.

These items of equipment are going to need to live somewhere in your space.

Proper equipment positioning isn't just about aesthetics, it's crucial for system performance, ventilation, and ease of use.

Let's explore how to create an efficient and accessible setup.

Equipment Storage Solutions

Media Cabinets (£200-£1,500)

• Ventilated design for heat dissipation
• Cable management features
• Easy access for maintenance
• Typically suitable for smaller systems

This could be as simple as an IKEA Besta unit, a specific AV cabinet or a custom built unit.

Professional AV Racks (£500-£2,000)

If you have a lot of equipment such as an AV receiver, blu ray player etc. then you could consider an AV rack to house all of your equipment.

• Standard 19-inch rack mounting
• Proper spacing between components
• Integrated cooling options
• Ideal for larger installations
• More flexible upgrade options

Pro Tip: Allow at least 10cm of clearance above AV receivers and amplifiers for proper ventilation. Heat is the enemy of electronic components!

Ventilation Requirements

• Active cooling fans (£50-£200)
• Temperature monitoring systems
• Proper spacing between components
• Regular dust cleaning schedule

Remote Control Considerations

Once all of your components are installed you're going to need to be able to control them.

Most modern AV receivers can be controlled using a remote control or smart phone app.

Bear in mind that infrared remote controls need line of sight, so if your AV receiver is in a closed cabinet at the back of the room then you might have an issue.

You'll find that Bluetooth remote controls are becoming more common and completely avoid this issue, but if yours is infrared then you can get IR repeater kits and RF senders to solve the problem.

Don't forget as well that your TV will control the AV receiver using eARC (provided it's connected via a HDMI cable) so your AV receiver will turn itself on when and the volume will be adjusted from the TV remote control. But for changing sources (i.e changing from Blu Ray to games console etc you'll need to use the AV receivers remote).

Line of Sight Requirements

• IR (Infrared) remotes need direct line of sight
• Consider glass-doored cabinets for concealed equipment
• IR repeater systems (£50-£200) allow hidden installation
• RF (Radio Frequency) remotes work through cabinet doors

Smart Control Solutions

• Network-connected AV receivers offer app control
• Control systems like Control4 or RTI (from £1,000) are a good choice but do require professional installation so may not be a consideration if you're planning to DIY your cinema. There are more user friendly DIY options available though.
• Voice control integration possibilities
• IP control for modern components

Professional Installation Tips

Whether you're installing your home cinema yourself or hiring professionals, following these installation best practices will save time, prevent headaches, and ensure your system remains manageable for years to come.

Cable Management & Labelling

Proper cable labelling is crucial for future maintenance and troubleshooting:

• Use durable labels at both ends of every cable
• Create a consistent naming convention (e.g., "AVR-FL" for AV Receiver to Front Left speaker)
• Consider colour-coded cable wraps for quick identification
• Document cable routes in walls or under floors
• Take photos during installation for future reference

Pro Tip: Create a digital document with your labelling system and store it with your equipment manuals.

Future-Proofing

Plan for system evolution:

• Leave spare conduit for future cables
• Install additional power points
• Consider extra rack/cabinet space
• Run backup HDMI cables for redundancy
• Include spare network ports

Power Distribution

Proper power planning is essential:

• Ensure there is an adequate amount of sockets for all your kit + spare for future additions.
• Surge protection for all equipment
• Dedicated circuits for AV racks

Maintenance Access

Think about long-term serviceability:

• Create access points for hidden equipment
• Allow space for component removal
• Consider ventilation maintenance
• Plan cable service loops for equipment removal - this makes life so much easier if you need to swap out a component or add in something.
• Document access point locations

Pro Tip: Keep a minimum 30cm service loop for all cables to allow for future equipment changes or maintenance.

Remember, a professional installation isn't just about making everything work today, it's about creating a system that remains reliable and serviceable. Just because you're doing it yourself, you should still aim to do the best job possible.

This attention to detail during installation will save countless hours of frustration later and ensure your home cinema continues to perform at its best.

Other Considerations

Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial for optimal viewing:

• Blackout curtains or blinds: It's important that the room is dark, especially if you're using a projector. Adding black out blinds is a quick and easy way to keep the light out when it matters.
• Automated lighting control systems: Whether you're looking at a more expensive professionally installed system, or simply using smart lighting such as Philips Hue, it doesn't need to be super expensive or complicated but it will have a great impact on the overall experience.
• Ambient LED lighting: Consider incorporating LED strip lighting into your home cinema design to create the ultimate ambience.

Seating & Comfort

Quality seating can make or break your cinema experience:

• Single recliners (£800-£2,500 each)
• Cinema-style rows (from £3,000)
• Optimal viewing angles (30-degree vertical, 40-degree horizontal)

It's also quite popular to use luxury bean bags!

Budget Planning

Let's break down realistic budgets for different levels of home cinema:

Entry-Level (£2,000-£3,000)

• 65" LED TV
• 5.1 speaker package
• Basic AV receiver
• Standard streaming devices

Mid-Range (£3,000-£8,000)

• 77" OLED TV or basic projector setup
• 7.1 or 5.1.2 Atmos system
• Mid-range AV receiver
• Quality seating for 3-4 people

High-End (£10,000+)

• Premium projector and screen
• Full Dolby Atmos speaker system
• High-end AV receiver
• Luxury seating
• Complete room treatment
• Professional installation

Final Thoughts

Creating your perfect home cinema is an exciting journey that rewards careful planning and attention to detail.

Whether you're starting with a modest setup or building your dream theatre, focus on quality components that you can upgrade over time.

Next Steps

1. Measure your room and determine your budget
2. Consider professional consultation for optimal results, we offer a free home cinema consultation to help you choose the best solution for your budget and room sizes.
3. Plan your component selection based on this guide
4. Think about future upgrades and leave room for expansion

Remember, the perfect home cinema is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Ultimately it doesn't matter whether it costs £1,000 or £10,000+ it's still a great experience to share with your friends and family. You can always upgrade or add components over time to continue improving your experience.

Take your time, do your research, and don't hesitate to seek expert advice from our team for the best results.