The environment should be fine-tuned to offer the best experience. If the room is especially bright, look for blackout shades or curtains. If the floor is hardwood, consider carpets or rugs to dampen the sound a bit. Gadget lovers should take a look at electronic light controls from manufacturers such as Lutron Electronics Co. Such controls enable you to preset a room's lights at different levels, all by remote control. But you'll still have to get up to make your own popcorn.
NOW SHOWING
Home Entertainment 2001
Hilton New York
May 11-13
(800) 830-3976
www.homeentertainmentexpo.com
The Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association has information for the homeowner looking to create an in-house theater. It can also refer you to an expert in your area. www.cedia.org
Sony - www.sony.com
Tannoy - www.tannoy.com
Lutron - www.lutron.com

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HOME CINEMA HIGHS AND LOWS

Whether your budget is $5,000 or $55,000, you can install - or have installed - a system to make your private screenings spectacular.

LOW BUDGET:
Direct-view TV
Sony KV-36FS12 36" TV; $1,700

DVD Player
Sony DVP S560D; $399

Receiver
Sony STR-V333ES; $800

Speakers
3 Phase Technology PC 33.1, 2-way speakers; $300 each; $900
2 Phase Technology PC, Surround Sound speakers, $350 each; $700
1 Power 12 subwoofer; $500

TOTAL: $4,999

HIGH BUDGET:
Rear Screen High Definition TV
Runco 58" DTV-5801; $10,995

DVD Player
Sony DVP S7700; $999

Speakers/Receiver
JBL Synthesis 3 Home Theater Package; $30,000

Remote