How to Convert a Spare Room Into a Home Theater Under 2000 Dollars

Turning a spare room into a state-of-the-art media theater is no small undertaking, but you don’t need an unlimited budget to enjoy a cinematic experience. A few smart planning tips and useful ideas can help you convert a space without blowing your entire entertainment budget.

For starters, decide how advanced you want your home theater to be. Surround sound systems are sold by the number of speakers, with options ranging from a 5.1 set (5 front speakers, 2 rear speakers, and 1 subwoofer) to a more advanced 7.2 surround system (seven speakers plus two height channels for Dolby Atmos). Choosing the right speaker setup is one of the most important components of your home theater, so it’s worth doing some research to find the best quality speakers within your budget.

You may also need to purchase a sound bar or surround sound receiver as well. These items can range in price from as low as $50 for a basic component surround sound system to more than $2,500 for a Dolby Atmos-compatible home theater system. If you have a limited budget, start with a basic system and upgrade over time as your budget allows.

Display screens and projectors are another key part of a home movie theater. A standard HDTV is adequate in a smaller room, but for a larger space you need a high-definition projector to get the most out of your investment. Depending on your space, you can mount a flat screen or hang a projector from the ceiling to create a more immersive experience.

If you have an attic home theater, consider using a projection system that has 1000 ANSI lumens or more for an impressive image. For an attic space, you’ll also need to add insulation and soundproofing for the best results.

The final piece of the puzzle is seating. Home theater seats provide the most comfortable and immersive experience. You can choose from a variety of seating options, including theater chairs, loveseats, and sofas. Seating can be a costly component of the home theater, but it’s essential to your viewing enjoyment.

Lighting is another component that can make or break your viewing experience. A good lighting scheme can compliment the before, during, and after-viewing experiences. Adding dimmable lighting, accent lights, and even automatic drapery can make your room feel more like a movie theater.

Lastly, you’ll need to make sure your budget includes acoustic treatments and the cost of professional electrical wiring for your home theater. If you opt for a professional installation, find a vetted Thumbtack pro near you and review their customer reviews thoroughly before hiring them.