Whether you’re a movie buff, sports fan, or gamer, a home theater setup makes your experience more immersive. But how do you put a home theater together? What components do you need and how do you work within your budget? Here’s an introduction to the best, as well as the most economical home theater equipment on the market.

1. Screens:

The type of screen you invest in can make all the difference, but there are a couple different options. For the best in resolution, an OLED or UltraHD TV is your best bet. LG is the king of OLED TVs. However, OLED is a relatively new technology, so the price of the LG OLED line runs between 2-5 thousand dollars depending on the size of the TV in question. If you want something large, but less expensive, A Samsung 4K Ultra HD TV can be found for around 1-3 thousand dollars. The difference in price is the OLED technology, which is a self lit panel rather than an LCD panel behind the screen.

Another option in terms of a screen for your home theater is a projector. High definition projects are typically worth a pretty penny, but for a larger picture than any TV can provide, it is well worth it. Epson makes some of the top end home projects that you can break the bank for, around 5 thousand dollars. However, BenQ has some great deals on projectors at around 500 dollars that offer you the quality of a mush more expensive projector.

2. Audio:

The next most important aspect of your home theater is your audio components. Companies like Bose and Sonos offer 5.1 home audio options with easy, wireless setup. However, you’ll still need a receiver, or an amp from Sonos or Bose, respectively. If you’re interested in simplicity and cost efficiency these products are your best option as they come with a price tag between 5-6 hundred dollars. However, 5.1 surround sound is a bit dated these days, and with a 7.1 setup you’ll have an even more immersive experience. However, the best 7.1 surround sound sets are expensive and run from 3-24 thousand dollars. Remember, a home theater can cost as much as you want it to.

3. Furniture:

Screens and speakers are all well and good, but it won’t do you any good if you have uncomfortable seating in your home theater. Ultimately, your furniture in this section of your home is all about comfort. Throw out any ideas you have of style. Make sure you measure how much space you have. You don’t want to get a couch or recliner home and realize it makes the space cramped. Also, get furniture that is easily cleanable. Chances are you’ll have food and drinks in and out of your home theater, whether popcorn and candy or dinner and a beer or glass of wine. Be prepared for spills and get furniture with cup holders to mitigate this danger.

At Smart Armor, we love big TVs and to be surrounded with sound but nothing is more important than a comfy chair you can sink into!