How to Optimize the Video Components of Your Home Theater System

The biggest part of a home theater system for many users is the video. This is especially true in the face of the increasing quality of digital video, such as DVD and Blue Ray. Follow these steps to optimize the video components of your home theater system.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Home theater system

1. Buy a high definition television. The entire television and movie industry is heading that way anyway, and if price is an issue, you can get a smaller screen that’s still high definition. High definition televisions offer better picture quality, especially when viewing HDTV channels.

2. Consider an up-converting DVD player. If you have a high definition television, an up-converting DVD player can change a normal DVD to a near-high-def picture signal.

3. Make your equipment equal. If you have a Blue Ray disc player and a library of movies, you’ll need a high definition television to make full use of it. Ask a sales clerk at an electronics store like American or Best Buy which equipment works best together.

4. Use high quality cables of the correct length. High definition cables are somewhat costly, but without them, you won’t be able to fully optimize the visual components of your home theater system. Add some extra slack to the wire when you install them to avoid putting undue stress on the cables.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t neglect the audio facets of your home theater system. Though video is important, it’s best enjoyed with quality audio.
• Consider spending the most money on your television, as it’s the centerpiece of your home theater system. However, your receiver is a close second.
• Never manipulate the components or wiring of your system when it is turned on or plugged in.
• When you do plug everything in, use a surge protector instead of a bare splitter from your outlet to protect against shortages.