Evolution: The Home Theater System

Years ago, before the phrase "home theater system" became a household name,things like cable TV and VCRs were exciting, new and rare. There were no big screen TVs like we know today and a sound system consisted of a speaker attached to the TV. That's it. People actually had film projectors and screens that were more reminiscent of a prop used in a high school biology class than an exciting movie-going experience. Now as things have changed and technology has progressed, cable is competing with satellite, VCRs are giving way to DVD players and home theaters are becoming more and more common to the home.

The biggest question is, what exactly is a home theater and why does everyone need one? Home theaters consist of setting up a TV, speakers, a surround sound receiver, and a DVD player and/or VCR to duplicate the same experience and joy you get out of going to the movies. To understand the fascination of the home theater, you have to think about all the things we love about going out to the movies in the first place. One of the first things that people remember about the joy of going to the movies is the large screen. Watching the actors interacton such a large screen make you feel like you're a part of the action.Characters are life-sized and this makes for a really entertaining experience.

Also, while watching the movie, you can't help but to notice how crisp and clear everything and everyone is. You get to watch every detail and the characters seem to glide across the screen. Let's not forget one of the most memorable things about going to the movies-the sound. Who can forget watching Jurassic Park and it seemed like the dinosaurs were right behind you!

Experiencing surround sound is unforgettable. Unfortunately, much has changed during the years. Rising costs, overcrowded theaters, long lines, and lack of convenience, overshadow the movie-going experience. People are just tired of paying more than $50 to take the family out for a movie. Also having to wait for show times, overpriced schedule for showing times if you have a theater at home?Nope. All you have to do is roll out of bed and into the theater room and you're all set. One of the best benefits of all is pause, stop, and play.

You can control the movie. No more waiting to go to the restroom. We've all been there. You've paid over $50 for your family to see a movie and you want to make sure you get ALL your money's worth. So it's either miss part of the movie or hold it. Neither is ideal. In addition, the food's better at home. You don't have to be concerned with stale popcorn, dry hot dogs or watered-down soft drinks. You can create your own meal, pop your own popcorn and get a six-pack of sodas for the cost of one drink at the movies. You have the best selection-whatever you want!

Let's just be honest. Odds are your home theater is going to be much cleaner than a public theater. How does the idea of kicking your shoes off, and relaxing your feet sound, only to be rudely awakened by the fact that your foot's stuck to the floor from someone's spilled soda? Or how about grabbing your soda and trying to take a sip only to realize it's stuck to the cup holder with something between gum and gummy bears. Just not good.

Also, your home theater can be more than just a place to view movies. It can be a cool place to gather with friends. Or incorporate your stereo system and it can be a nice spot to listen to music. In addition, it could be the perfect place for the kids to entertain themselves by watching their videos or playing video games. The more you think about it, a home theater is a great idea and great investment. If you love watching movies, but hate all the extras, creating a home theater just makes sense.

Eric Love is The Home Theater Guy and he writes daily about all aspects of Home Theater | Home Theater Systems. Click here to find out more about Home Theater.