Basement HT layout HELP! - Canadian TV, Computing and Home Theatre Forums

Smoothie · 2008-11-19, 10:11 PM

I'm moving into a new house that FINALLY allows me to have my 'guys' space with enough room for a pool table or other gaming table, as well as a home theatre area.

The builder will not allow me to move the window locations, they are 30"x20" standard, but can be upgraded to as large as 55"x30".

I've attached three planned layouts, the first option allows for both windows to be used, but my concern is that when playing pool, you won't be able to see the screen very well from that close and at that angle.

The second option gives a better viewing distance and angle for those playing pool, but I would have to block out one of the only two windows.

The third option allows for both windows, a good view from the pool table area, but is against the wall that will have a few doors on either side etc, so not as enclosed and focused on the screen as the other options.

I haven't bought any equipment yet, but would be getting an lcd 1080p projector. What's the best way to setup my speakers as well, likely a 5.1 system, possibly a 7.1.

Thanks for any input!!

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/album.php?albumid=54

concertaholic · 2008-11-20, 01:28 AM

I like Option #2... 110%

Pool players can still see...

The sub, center and front speakers are down in the endzone area for sound versus the other OPEN layouts

Screen in front of window is good - (go electric so its up during day if you are only shooting pool and hanging at the bar if you really want natural light?)

given the length of this set up I would throw in the 6 & 7 channels for the heck of it.

I might also look at a curtain system or idea to run from the wall by the stairs towards the back carving off the pool area...so when not in use.... the room now becomes more of a Theater Room and this may also assist with some sound enhancements given the openess of the rear area there.

Looks Deadly

eljay · 2008-11-20, 07:42 AM

Another vote for Option 2. Definitely better speaker placement for the main and center, with easy placement for back speakers. Side surrounds can go either in-ceiling or on outer wall and support column (which is what I'm assuming that dot represents).

All the best!

TECHNOKID · 2008-11-20, 05:17 PM

I am in full/110% agreement with both concertaholic & eljay! both of their comments also makes a whole lot of sense. Depending on budget, your screen must be pull down either electric or manual but has to be pull down for you to be able to use that window when you have events which so could require such! Exactly my tought, every non existing wall should be fraped in order to provide you best experience possible (environment and sound wise). Chose some like black velvet type heavy draping on tracks.

Cheers!
René

jammertime · 2008-11-20, 08:37 PM

Another vote for #2, but I'd consider turning the pool table sideways for better use of space and less obstructions for your shots.

TECHNOKID · 2008-11-20, 08:56 PM

Quote:

turning the pool table sideways for better use of space and less obstructions for your shots.

I was focused on the HT arregement and yet didn't notice this fact. Good call, if the table is moved around sideway, you will definitely get better space all around for playing the game.

Cheers!
René

jammertime · 2008-11-20, 09:14 PM

Something else I just thought of is that turning the pool table sideways would also help with the curtain option if you were to go that route.

You could have the track in-line with the wall by the staircase making it a perfect rectangular theatre "room" when the curtain is closed and it wouldn't interfere with the pool table.

It would make the best of both worlds. A nice open concept basement for entertaining and also a closed in theatre room for movie watching with very minimal change over (or money) required.

I'm in the process of finishing my basement as well and have achieved this balance through a double set of pocket french doors. When the doors are open, it creates a very nice 6' opening between the rooms. When closed, it creates a nice self contained media/family room.

Tezster · 2008-11-20, 09:14 PM

I absolutely love windows and natural light, so any arrangement which blocks a window kind of rubs me the wrong way. Perhaps its not as important in a basement, but putting a screen right in front of a window just doesn't seem like a great idea, especially if you opt for the the larger window size. And I don't necessarily mean from a purely technical or practical standpoint - I just don't like the aesthetics of it.

I do agree that option #2 will allow for better speaker placement, as the staircase forms a natural alcove for the overall HT layout.

So given my obvious bias for towards windows, my natural inclination is to choose option #1. But, since you're using a projector, if the screen can be pulled up and out of the way of the window completely when not in use, then option #2 would work as well.

PHAND · 2008-11-20, 09:51 PM

You are buying a new house with a finished basement?

Or you are finishing the basement as soon as you move in?

Smoothie · 2008-11-20, 10:13 PM

Thanks for the input everyone. Option 2 does look like the best option for screen and speaker placement, as long as I put in a pull down screen.

The basement will be unfinished when I move in.

typhoontek · 2008-11-21, 04:06 AM

Maybe it might be a good idea to use a amp with 2 zone output with a second zone monitor output two…. Not all amplifiers has this feature with 2nd zone monitor output.

Install a smaller lcd tv with an articulating arm… If it is in your budget, near the pool table. That way it depends on what type of crowed you are having over and for what reason ,Game, Movie, . but it will add some ambience to the basement as a sport bar . then add two in wall or ceiling speaker.

I highly recommend not to use your projector
for general viewing. Maybe for a game on TV Or a movie or special events. Those bulbs cost way to much. If you pick up a certain model I think Sony will come with two bulbs in the package. In many cases I installed a plasma on the wall with a projector screen on top so when the customer would play a movie I programmed the remote to turn off the plasma and automatically the screen will come down and the projector turns on.

Good luck If you need help on a diagram how to do this let me know

PHAND · 2008-11-21, 08:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smoothie

The basement will be unfinished when I move in.

If in Ontario, I'd wait the 2 years for the foundation warranty to be up before finishing. If you spring a leak in the foundation, all your hard work will be removed at your expense in order to fix it.

But #2 would probably be best. And I agree that your projector should not be the main thing you watch all the time unless it's a big event.

Any particular reason for 2 sofas? How many people will actually be watching a movie with you?

How high is the ceiling?

Smoothie · 2008-11-21, 08:17 AM

It won't be used as a main tv watching area, only for sporting events and movies. I have a 50" setup in the family room upstairs for that.

I will likely add a flat panel near the pool table, or the bar area as suggested, great idea. Give it more of a sports bar feel.

For the rear speakers, I'll look into in ceiling options, as well as mounting them to the ceiling. What's the difference in sound quality between the two if any, and how do they compare to have them at ear level on stands?
The ceiling should be just under 8", lets say 7.5" to be safe.

I want the additional seating as if leaves enough room when guests come over to watch the big game etc. There's only two of us living there right now though.

Although I do want to finish the basement right away, I may have to hold of on finishing the basement due to the new build.

TECHNOKID · 2008-11-21, 01:31 PM

Quote:

Although I do want to finish the basement right away, I may have to hold of on finishing the basement due to the new build.

Just make your walls sectional and easily removeable and make sure to keep a slight distance from the foundation walls. I don't see why removing the walls should be at your expenses if foundation fails as the labor is called/caused by the failure of the foundation unless Ontario simply has crappy basement protection?? Leak of the foundations causing damaged to the surroundings, makes the foundation warranty liable for the damages caused elswher, just common sense!!

1tribeca · 2008-11-22, 12:04 PM

Option 2 is the best as far as I can see...agreed. The biggest reason (don't think anyone has mentioned this yet) is that the other two plans have a window on the same end as the projector...hence the natural light will be towards the screen...never good! If you're planning to cover or blackout the windows when using the projector, then it's not an issue...otherwise it'll be brutal.

Since this is going to be an "entertainment room" not just a HT, I'd suggest a grey screen, not a white one. Chances are, you'll be running the projector AND using the other portion of the room at the same time...even if you say you won't, this will end up happening. Full room usage results in more ambient light (unless you can shoot stick in the dark!!) The grey screen will help performance.

In-ceiling speaks for the rears are fine...lots of good brands that perform well, plus it's a clean look.

That size room if certainly suited for 7.1 too!

Gonna be nice!!

(Any chance you're installing a 12 X 6 table for some quality snooker tournaments??!!)

2008-11-20, 07:42 AM	#3
eljay Premium Supporter Join Date: May 2003 Location: Ottawa (Orleans), ON Posts: 8,345	Another vote for Option 2. Definitely better speaker placement for the main and center, with easy placement for back speakers. Side surrounds can go either in-ceiling or on outer wall and support column (which is what I'm assuming that dot represents). All the best! __________________ MY HT SET-UP (PICS & GEAR LIST)

2008-11-20, 09:51 PM	#9
PHAND Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Burlington, ON Posts: 356	You are buying a new house with a finished basement? Or you are finishing the basement as soon as you move in? __________________ - CEDIA Certified CPI I

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2008-11-19, 10:11 PM	#1
Smoothie Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 31	Basement HT layout HELP! I'm moving into a new house that FINALLY allows me to have my 'guys' space with enough room for a pool table or other gaming table, as well as a home theatre area. The builder will not allow me to move the window locations, they are 30"x20" standard, but can be upgraded to as large as 55"x30". I've attached three planned layouts, the first option allows for both windows to be used, but my concern is that when playing pool, you won't be able to see the screen very well from that close and at that angle. The second option gives a better viewing distance and angle for those playing pool, but I would have to block out one of the only two windows. The third option allows for both windows, a good view from the pool table area, but is against the wall that will have a few doors on either side etc, so not as enclosed and focused on the screen as the other options. I haven't bought any equipment yet, but would be getting an lcd 1080p projector. What's the best way to setup my speakers as well, likely a 5.1 system, possibly a 7.1. Thanks for any input!! http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/album.php?albumid=54

2008-11-20, 01:28 AM	#2
concertaholic Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: 44	I like Option #2... 110% Pool players can still see... The sub, center and front speakers are down in the endzone area for sound versus the other OPEN layouts Screen in front of window is good - (go electric so its up during day if you are only shooting pool and hanging at the bar if you really want natural light?) given the length of this set up I would throw in the 6 & 7 channels for the heck of it. I might also look at a curtain system or idea to run from the wall by the stairs towards the back carving off the pool area...so when not in use.... the room now becomes more of a Theater Room and this may also assist with some sound enhancements given the openess of the rear area there. Looks Deadly

2008-11-20, 05:17 PM	#4
TECHNOKID Veteran Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Gatineau Posts: 2,944	I am in full/110% agreement with both concertaholic & eljay! both of their comments also makes a whole lot of sense. Depending on budget, your screen must be pull down either electric or manual but has to be pull down for you to be able to use that window when you have events which so could require such! Exactly my tought, every non existing wall should be fraped in order to provide you best experience possible (environment and sound wise). Chose some like black velvet type heavy draping on tracks. Cheers! René

2008-11-20, 08:37 PM	#5
jammertime Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Windsor, Ontario Posts: 200	Another vote for #2, but I'd consider turning the pool table sideways for better use of space and less obstructions for your shots.

2008-11-20, 09:14 PM	#7
jammertime Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Windsor, Ontario Posts: 200	Something else I just thought of is that turning the pool table sideways would also help with the curtain option if you were to go that route. You could have the track in-line with the wall by the staircase making it a perfect rectangular theatre "room" when the curtain is closed and it wouldn't interfere with the pool table. It would make the best of both worlds. A nice open concept basement for entertaining and also a closed in theatre room for movie watching with very minimal change over (or money) required. I'm in the process of finishing my basement as well and have achieved this balance through a double set of pocket french doors. When the doors are open, it creates a very nice 6' opening between the rooms. When closed, it creates a nice self contained media/family room.

2008-11-20, 09:14 PM	#8
Tezster Veteran Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Mississauga Posts: 1,984	I absolutely love windows and natural light, so any arrangement which blocks a window kind of rubs me the wrong way. Perhaps its not as important in a basement, but putting a screen right in front of a window just doesn't seem like a great idea, especially if you opt for the the larger window size. And I don't necessarily mean from a purely technical or practical standpoint - I just don't like the aesthetics of it. I do agree that option #2 will allow for better speaker placement, as the staircase forms a natural alcove for the overall HT layout. So given my obvious bias for towards windows, my natural inclination is to choose option #1. But, since you're using a projector, if the screen can be pulled up and out of the way of the window completely when not in use, then option #2 would work as well.

2008-11-20, 10:13 PM	#10
Smoothie Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 31	Thanks for the input everyone. Option 2 does look like the best option for screen and speaker placement, as long as I put in a pull down screen. The basement will be unfinished when I move in.

2008-11-21, 04:06 AM	#11
typhoontek Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: 32	Maybe it might be a good idea to use a amp with 2 zone output with a second zone monitor output two…. Not all amplifiers has this feature with 2nd zone monitor output. Install a smaller lcd tv with an articulating arm… If it is in your budget, near the pool table. That way it depends on what type of crowed you are having over and for what reason ,Game, Movie, . but it will add some ambience to the basement as a sport bar . then add two in wall or ceiling speaker. I highly recommend not to use your projector for general viewing. Maybe for a game on TV Or a movie or special events. Those bulbs cost way to much. If you pick up a certain model I think Sony will come with two bulbs in the package. In many cases I installed a plasma on the wall with a projector screen on top so when the customer would play a movie I programmed the remote to turn off the plasma and automatically the screen will come down and the projector turns on. Good luck If you need help on a diagram how to do this let me know

2008-11-21, 08:17 AM	#13
Smoothie Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 31	It won't be used as a main tv watching area, only for sporting events and movies. I have a 50" setup in the family room upstairs for that. I will likely add a flat panel near the pool table, or the bar area as suggested, great idea. Give it more of a sports bar feel. For the rear speakers, I'll look into in ceiling options, as well as mounting them to the ceiling. What's the difference in sound quality between the two if any, and how do they compare to have them at ear level on stands? The ceiling should be just under 8", lets say 7.5" to be safe. I want the additional seating as if leaves enough room when guests come over to watch the big game etc. There's only two of us living there right now though. Although I do want to finish the basement right away, I may have to hold of on finishing the basement due to the new build.

2008-11-22, 12:04 PM	#15
1tribeca Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Toronto Posts: 353	Option 2 is the best as far as I can see...agreed. The biggest reason (don't think anyone has mentioned this yet) is that the other two plans have a window on the same end as the projector...hence the natural light will be towards the screen...never good! If you're planning to cover or blackout the windows when using the projector, then it's not an issue...otherwise it'll be brutal. Since this is going to be an "entertainment room" not just a HT, I'd suggest a grey screen, not a white one. Chances are, you'll be running the projector AND using the other portion of the room at the same time...even if you say you won't, this will end up happening. Full room usage results in more ambient light (unless you can shoot stick in the dark!!) The grey screen will help performance. In-ceiling speaks for the rears are fine...lots of good brands that perform well, plus it's a clean look. That size room if certainly suited for 7.1 too! Gonna be nice!! (Any chance you're installing a 12 X 6 table for some quality snooker tournaments??!!)