A home cinema is a great way to enjoy movies and TV. It is much more than just a simple screen and projector setup – it’s about creating a movie-going experience for your family or friends to enjoy.

If you've been thinking of a DIY home cinema project, here's a quick guide to making your home TV or living room as grand as the cinema.

Devices

A Smart TV or Projector

• If you can afford a substantial Smart TV, go with the best resolution to stream online content.

• If you don't have a Smart TV, check out the streaming devices you can use to give your regular TV "Smart TV" capabilities, and they are all under R1000.

• You can also stream using your gaming console, a laptop with an HDMI cable or create a media server using an old PC.

• If you're looking to get that cinema feel, a projector can help amplify things. It's also convenient, as some are portable and can operate on any surface with the ability to customise the screen size.

Sound

Your TV needs a powerful sound solution to match its prime quality. Sound can help transform your space, making it an immersive experience for watching or listening to all your favourite content.

Some factors to consider when purchasing sound equipment include:

• Would you want wired or wireless speakers? Research and weigh the pros and cons.
• If your room is small and closed, go for speakers that won't take up space and produce bass.
• Check your space or room size to determine the effect the speaker(s) will have.
• A large room can accommodate more prominent speakers and complete the immersive experience.

If you want to get technical, you can do more research on room acoustics and check out how to place speakers in your room for the best sound.

Bookshelf speakers

The bookshelf speaker is usually compact, wireless, and sports a trendy look much to be displayed on a bookshelf or TV unit.

JBL Charge 4

Soundbars/Home theatre systems

Soundbars and home theatre systems can consist of 5.1, 7.1 channels and Dolby Atmos;

5.1 - Includes five audio speakers and a subwoofer.

7.1 - Includes seven audio speakers and a subwoofer.

Dolby Atmos - A surround sound technology.

Sony 5.1 Channel Home Theatre system

Internet

If you are using streaming services for your TV or projector, your video streaming quality should be at least full high definition (1080p) to Ultra high definition (4K) and have at least 10 Mbps of speed getting to the device streamed on.

You can stream your favourites with Pure Fibre, Pure LTE or Pure DSL.

Streaming services

Finding the perfect streaming service for you can be tough to do. After all, there are options out there, and many of them provide a similar selection of shows and movies. Depending on your budget and needs, here are some of the popular streaming options in South Africa:

• Netflix
• Prime Video
• Apple TV
• Showmax
• Google Play

A new addition is eVOD from local TV station, e.tv, and you can be on the lookout for Disney Plus in mid-2022.

Add some flair

• Keep it cosy by adding floor cushions or bean bags and blankets.
• Hang your favourite movie posters on the walls.
• Look into recessed lighting and general ambient lighting.
• Add a snack marquee.

Have you embarked on a DIY home cinema project? Let us know If you have any other tips or comments below or on our social media pages.