6 Things You’ll Need to Create an Epic at-Home Theatre Experience

6 Things You’ll Need to Create an Epic at-Home Theatre Experience
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Going to the movies is one of life’s simple pleasures. Nestling in with a big bucket of popcorn to catch the latest flick is something people of all ages can enjoy. But sometimes it’d be nice to bring the movies to you (especially if you’re keen to watch the classics over the newest releases). That’s where a home theatre setup comes in – and we’re going to show you how to nail it.

Below, we’ve rounded up everything you’ll need to create an amazing home theatre experience. Be warned though, you might never want to attend the movies again once you’ve seen how good it can be from the comfort of your couch.


TaoTronics sound bar ($49.99)

Image: Amazon

If you want to give your home theatre set up a little more oomph, this sound bar is a great budget option. Just plug this slimline speaker into your television, and you’ll help give whatever you’re watching an extra sound boost.

Just make sure your TV has a 3.5mm audio output, otherwise you won’t be able to hook up the speaker. If that is the case, that problem is easily solved with a 3.5mm female to 2 RCA male cable.


Streaming Subscription

binge australia
Image: Binge

It goes without saying that the most important part of a movie marathon is the actual movies. Whether you’re in the mood for a rom-com or keen to have the pants scared off you – there’s a streaming service out there for every kind of cinema-goer.

A subscription to scary movie platform Shudder starts at $5.83 a month, while Netflix’s basic plan is $10.99. Stan and BINGE are both $10 a month as well. If you’re in the mood for something cutesy, nothing beats a Disney classic. Disney+ will set you back $11.99 a month and gives you access to iconic flicks like Ratatouille and The Lion King.


Chromecast ($56) or Chromecast Ultra ($79)

chromecast home cinema
Image: Google

With an easy set up and simple interface, Google’s Chromecast is a great option to upgrade your home cinema set up. It will let you stream apps or services like Binge, Kayo Sports or Youtube straight to your TV. Pair it with a Google Home, and you’l never have to get off the couch again.

If you’re a stickler for video fidelity and need to have everything playing in the best quality possible, you’ll want to go the extra step and get a Chromecast Ultra. This will let you cast content in 4K Ultra HD or HDR.


Fire TV Stick ($59) and Prime Video ($6.99/month)

fire tv stick home cinema
Image: Amazon

Another casting device that’s easy to set up and will get a solid amount of use over time. A gift that will keep on giving. The Fire TV Stick will let you easily access content from streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Stan and more. Throw a Prime Video subscription on top, and you’ll also be able to watch Amazon Originals like Star Trek: Picard, The Expanse and The Boys.


ELEPHAS Mini Projector ($227.17) and Projector Screen ($35.99)

projector home cinema
Image: Amazon

This is a decent beginners projector that won’t break your bank, but will still give you some solid video quality. Combine it with this portable, fold-out projector screen and you’ll be kicking back to enjoy your own personal cinema in the comfort of your home. Maybe pour some soft drink on the floor to get it nice and sticky, to really complete the experience.


Sony UBP-X700 4K Ultra HD Blu-Ray Player ($325)

blu-ray player home cinema
Image: Sony

If you’re still stuck in the era of DVDs, now might be the time to give your home cinema set up an upgrade. Sony’s UBP-X700 is one of the most reliable 4K Blu-ray players on the market, especially when you consider the comparatively cheaper price tag. As it’s name suggests, it supports Ultra HD and standard blu-rays, with some fantastically crisp playback. Although, you’ll need a 4K TV to really get the full experience. The UBP-X700 can also play DVDs, which means you won’t have to throw out your amassed collection of Scrubs boxsets.


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At Lifehacker, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. We have affiliate and advertising partnerships, which means we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. BTW – prices are accurate and items in stock at the time of posting.

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