ᐅ Planning a Home Theater System – Control Options and Various Questions

Created on: 6 Nov 2015 11:44
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Weitling09
We are currently at the shell construction stage and are planning the electrical installation. So far, we have used very basic equipment for listening to music (AIWA micro system, TV sound directly from the TV), but we want to plan for more "proper" equipment in the house.

What I have in mind:
> In the living room, I would like a surround sound system that allows me to listen to both music and TV audio.
> At the same time, I want to transmit sound from this system to the dining area, where stereo sound is sufficient (just for background music).
> Ideally, I would also like to be able to set up speakers on the terrace for garden parties, which can also be connected to the same system.

My questions:
1. I have already seen that there are multi-room control systems – would that be suitable here, or are there better options?
2. What should I pay attention to when purchasing a receiver / speakers?
3. Which connectors should I plan for (receiver -> wall [connector] -> [speaker cable] -> wall [connector] -> speakers)?
4. Is there any downside to the idea of also connecting the dining area speakers via wall connectors, and for garden parties, using those connectors to connect the outdoor speakers?
5. Attached is a draft of the plan on the floor plan – what could be improved? Any advice or tips are welcome!

2D floor plan of a living area with kitchen, dining table, and sofa
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Saruss
8 Nov 2015 22:54
This is similar to the debate about whether a tube amplifier or a transistor amplifier delivers the "better" sound. Nowadays, a good transistor amplifier is extremely close to "100%," meaning it amplifies exactly without distortion, etc.; however, some people find the distortion from tube amplifiers to be a more pleasing sound experience.

That said, it is absolutely impossible to hear any difference in digital cables, and at most, the connectors can make a difference – since copper is the better conductor. If someone switches from a cheap "budget" cable to a high-end one, the difference can certainly be heard. However, this effect is definitely not due to gold plating on the cable, but simply because of clean and good craftsmanship, for example, the connectors (as with Seb.. not crimped, but internally soldered...).
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Bauexperte
8 Nov 2015 23:00
Sebastian79 schrieb:
You should really read carefully -
How do I come to think that you feel an inner need to "correct" me; whether appropriate or not...?

By the way, since it fits here – it would be helpful for the users here – especially for me, of course – if you could make yourself use the quoting function of the forum.

Regards, Bauexperte
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Bauexperte
8 Nov 2015 23:02
Saruss schrieb:
This is just like the discussion about whether a tube amplifier or a transistor amplifier produces the "better" sound.
Definitely a tube amplifier

As for the rest... I can hear the difference. And we didn’t switch from cheap to cheap

Regards, Bauexperte
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Sebastian79
8 Nov 2015 23:03
No idea what always gets over you – but it’s definitely fixable.

Why should I use the quote function when I’m replying directly to a post…?

By the way, there is a function for multipliers, so you don’t have to make multiple posts – just a tip.
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nordanney
8 Nov 2015 23:04
I also find it funny when "cable enthusiasts" talk about spending hundreds of € (or even more) on all kinds of cables, while only cheap components are used inside the devices. During recordings, the signals are transmitted over dozens of meters with "standard" cables—and then the quality of the CD is praised.

That’s why I only use PA cables, well-made and reasonably priced. They are more than enough; I have personally compared them to high-end (expensive) cables. The difference is not audible.
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Bauexperte
8 Nov 2015 23:06
Sebastian79 schrieb:

Why should I use the quote function when I am replying directly to a post...?
Because it makes it clearer for the users.... it reflects a form of respect...?

Regards, Bauexperte