Bud,

Very sad news! My wife and I send our deepest condolences to the family!!
We completely understand that the HT won't be a priority right now. Keep your chin up and help the family through this difficult time!

Sean and Kathe
(MaximAvs and MaximAvWife)

Bud,

You have my condolences. It's things like this in life that really put things in perspective. Take care!

Jerrod

That's awful. My condolences.

Thats the worst thing I have heard in a long, long while.

Remember that movie Boys dont Cry? our niece was the girl with the Baby ( innocent bystander . Her Mom didn't give permission to let Hollywood use her part in the movie even though they sort of did.

We know how this sort of thing sucks beyond belief. Condolences

Chinadog,
although Sean has already conveyed our condolences I wanted to present mine personally. The news of your young neighbor's violent death made me cry. My heart goes out to her family. Please know that our thoughts are with them and also with you and your family.

Kath
wife of MaximAvs

Bud, check your PM.

Thanks for the kind words and wishes. A publicist volunteered to help, I sent a family photo to her yesterday. She's planning to go national with the story to try and raise money for the kids education fund. Funeral is at noon today.

Bud

With deepest condolences to the family,

Gary Kagan

Bud, I have been following your posts for some time now with much enthusiasm as I am getting ready for the electrical stage in my basement/HT. However, I am saddened by your recent post and wanted to let you know my condolences. If you find Shawn Roberts shake his hand for me. Take all the time you need with your family as we will all be here when you get back.

Drew

Bud i am sorry to hear this bad news. you and your friends are in my thoughts.

My condolences.

Hope to see you back soon. It has been great reading your thread.

Likewise, my condolances Bud. I haven't posted much, but I've followed your entire thread, and found myself deeply shocked and disturbed; hearing something on the news vs hearing something like this from somebody you know... it just drives home the reality.

I guess what I'm saying is that I (and I imagine several/many others in this thread) have gotten to know you relatively well, so it's not just a statistic... more like a friend of a friend, and it's scary when something happens that close to you, even if it's a thousand miles away. I was at work when I saw your post, and I called my fiance who was on her drive home, just to make sure she was ok... feeling silly all the while, but compelled to call nonetheless.

I can't imagine... but I'm very sorry for you, your family, and particularly her family.

All, just wanted to thank everyone for their kind words, prayers and wishes.

Mike Boyd (husband) is now trying to have something good come out of all this by pushing legislation to come up with some sort of alert (dubbed the Kimberly alert) that will alert the public when a criminal is on the run and the police are unable to find him. He's also talking about a secret PIN that you could enter into an ATM that would allow you to get cash, but also alert authorities that there is a problem. He's been on the news quite a bit and I know he's going to meet with the governors office this week.

I did meet Shawn Roberts after the funeral and shook his hand. My wife spoke with his wife for a while and he's doing ok (media is all over him) and he's still a little shook up.

Also, an education fund was set up for the kids. If anyone is interested to contributing to the fund, please PM me. A website should be up soon as well.

Bud

All,

Just a quick post to let you know that I'll be back to work sometime this weekend hopefully. I want to finish up the final coats of mud on the walls/corners in the gameroom so I can focus on the ceilings. I also need to get moving on my concession area, I have not done any seams yet. I also want to get on the second code of mud on the HT room ceiling. It's finally starting to cool off here some, so I'll be able to open the windows some while sanding.

Also, the lift is gone...... sold and delivered to fellow AVSer, TheFerret. Another glutton for punishment!

Bud

Chinadog...

Glad to see you are starting on the thater again. You know the saying.. idle hands and all! :)

Looking forward to seeing updated photos and watching the progress of your theater in the upcoming months!! :D

A guy here at work is going to start putting in a HT in his new house and I pointed him to the AVS Forum and your thread specifically, for information and ideas. Needless to say he was WOWED already!!

-Sean

Bud,
Sorry to hear about the unfortunate events over the last month. I am glad to see you getting back to your project. I have started construction on my second HT room at a my
new home and I am debating wether to get involved with the sheetrock. I did everything on my last room and that was my least favorite part. Just in case I decide to do it again,
do you think TheFerret might be interested in passing on the lift?

Guys,

Looking forward to starting up again and getting over the mud hump. I think it'll keep me focused.

Maggie Guy,

Funny, the kids and I were just looking at a GSD rescue website at a dog we're talking about adopting named "Maggie ( http://www.gashepherd.org/available.htm)". Anyway, back to the question about the lift. I believe he said he'll probably sell it when he's done with it, although he hasn't started yet as far as I know. He said he just had 120 sheets delivered. You might want to PM him, I'm not sure of his timeframe. He's up your way as well.

Bud

Bud,
Thanks for the info. I actually got the name from the speakers I used to own made by Magnepan. Most owners refer to them as Maggies. I started off with their smallest model the MMG and worked my way up to the MG20's which are about the size of a large door.
Anyway I will PM theferret if I decide to do the sheetrock myself.

I offer my condolences. Sorry for the loss. :(

Glad to see you're back at it. Can't wait to see some more images of your theater as it continues to come together.

I thought TheFerret had a finished theater. Maybe I remembered incorrectly...

Sorry guys, no photos. Battery on the digital camera went dead. I'm not sure you'd want any more pictures of mud anyway. Boring, boring, boring.

I did manage to spent a few hours in the basement. I did the first coat on the corners and all the seams in the concession area. I had already done the screw heads. I also worked on the corners in the HT room. Love using these corners, makes it pretty easy.

Cleaned up some as well. I picked up a new broom from Big Orange, one with soft bristles to sweep up drywall dust with. Put my old broom to shame, it was like I never swept at all.

Not likely I'll get too much done this week or even weekend. Work is going to heat up this week for me and I also need to prepare for next weeks certification board interviews for work in Baltimore. Fun stuff (not). I expect my wife will be doing quarter end close stuff this weekend as well, so I'll be doing kid duty, too.

Bud

First of all, let me say sorry to hear about the unfortunate events. I read through one of the links, and it is quite sad; I hope all involved are doing as well as possible. This is my first post here, so I thought this was as good a time as any to jump in. I see much of this kind of thing at work, and know how hard it can be when someone close to you is affected. Anyway...

I spent the morning reading through most of your thread before I had to go out and fly, and got alot out of it. Thanks for adding all the details and updates, it really helps.

I've been lurking here for awhile now, but am now ready to start on our basement buildout, including a somewhat modest HT (as little modesty as I can get away with, given the spousal restraints ;) ). Seeing your progress really helps, and I appreciate the time you took to keep everyone apprised of your efforts.

Good luck with the rest of it, and I'll be checking back to see how it comes along!

Jeff
(former lurker)

On a lighter note...

Well, I had this photo loaded in my digital camera before the battery went out. It shows me hard at work on the HT room, slaving away.

http://images14.fotki.com/v223/photos/6/649633/2370847/MrCreepie-vi.jpg

Thanks for the inspiration, Chirpie. I just have a weird sense of humor!

Bud

First of all, let me say sorry to hear about the unfortunate events. I read through one of the links, and it is quite sad; I hope all involved are doing as well as possible. This is my first post here, so I thought this was as good a time as any to jump in. I see much of this kind of thing at work, and know how hard it can be when someone close to you is affected. Anyway...

I spent the morning reading through most of your thread before I had to go out and fly, and got alot out of it. Thanks for adding all the details and updates, it really helps.

I've been lurking here for awhile now, but am now ready to start on our basement buildout, including a somewhat modest HT (as little modesty as I can get away with, given the spousal restraints ;) ). Seeing your progress really helps, and I appreciate the time you took to keep everyone apprised of your efforts.

Good luck with the rest of it, and I'll be checking back to see how it comes along!

Jeff
(former lurker)


Jeff,

Thanks and welcome. I wouldn't have done it any other way. I can relate to the spousal constraints! Good luck with your project. Keep us posted.


Reaper,

Not sure, but TheFerret may be going from a shared to a dedicated space as well as a basement buildout.

Bud

Chinadog you must use the same gym as Chirpie.

http://mywebpages.comcast.net/tomharness/images/avp.jpg

In a home theater no one can hear you scream.

Sorry guys. I must learn to curb my impulses. Bud, you and Chirpie are doing a fantastic job. I'm enjoying both construction threads.

Tom

Looks great.

HA!!!!

Separated at birth... Now we need a picture of the three of us with Chirpie's real twin!

I'd like to be a fly on the wall when Chirpie sees these posts!

Bud

HA!!!!

Separated at birth... Now we need a picture of the three of us with Chirpie's real twin!

I'd like to be a fly on the wall when Chirpie sees these posts!

Bud

LOL!

I just snorted my Starbucks double shot espresso... dear god... ack! (where's my Kleenex?)

Looks like someone has too much idle time on their hands! Get back to work! :P

At least now I know what I'd look like as a bobble head. ^_^

Sorry, that was a quick Photoshop job this am before I had my coffee. If I had a few extra minutes, I would have given myself some hair!

Bud

Sitting here re-reading a few posts and now I'm second guessing.

I was wondering if I really need linacoustic under the soffits? I know some folks have done that and that was what I had planned to do. Someone help me out here. Is there a good reason to do this? Since most people use it at ear level and below on the side walls, does it make sense to put it under the soffits? I'll do it if it makes sense, but its a lot easier not to do it obviously. I'll be the first to admit I know nothing about acoustics....

Comments?

Bud

That's a question I would like to hear the answer to as well. I am almost to the point of installing my linacoustic as well but I am opting out of installing it under the soffits. My reasoning is that I do not want to over-dampen the room and end up with it too dead. I am using bass traps as well as lincoustic on the lower half of the walls. I feel that a dead room lacks envelopment and clarity.

I too would like to know what everyone thinks about this...I graciously borrowed Bud's soffit idea with a few minor tweaks (thanks Bud!) for "The Fly-In". I was planning on using linacoustic in my HT as well but could save the cost on that for other items. BTW where are you guys purchasing the linacoustic? I live in Denver where JM has it's HQ and would you believe that HomeDepot and Lowes do not carry it? I suppose I could get it straight from the source or from a HVAC installer.

Drew

r00ster,
No retailer carried linacoustic in my area either.
I contacted JM and got the name of a local distributor.
They were great and priced nice as well.
FYI, the technical folks at JM were very knowledgeable and straight forward
about their product lines.

Also, its not really an expense thing. I was quoted 160.00 for a 100 foot roll, which would be plenty to cover the front wall and half way up the side walls plus the soffits. The question is whether is worthwhile for the extra effort or is doing the walls sufficient. It'll has some impact on the final cove size as well.

Bud

Hey Bud,

What's your schedule like this week? Have a Panny AE700, AE900 and JVC HX1 we need to put through the paces.

Ben

Bud,

Where are you purchasing the Linacoustic? I haven't found a HVAC company yet that carries it here on the east side.

Thanks
William

I just have a weird sense of humor!
and
If I had a few extra minutes, I would have given myself some hair!


Bud, I just hope you have a GOOD sense of humor!

http://backyardtheater.com/pics/bud.jpg

I worked on your tan too. You should get outdoors more.

Randy

Bud, I just hope you have a GOOD sense of humor!

I worked on your tan too. You should get outdoors more.

Randy

Dear god, I should've never posted that picture... **** man, all I wanted to do was show people I was bald like Bud.... :P

Ben,

Just got back from Baltimore a few seconds ago. Will be here the rest the of the week. Tomorrow and Friday I'll be here all day.

Bud

Bud,

Where are you purchasing the Linacoustic? I haven't found a HVAC company yet that carries it here on the east side.

Thanks
William

Sportrac,

There is a NBHandy in GA. Here's the number and address

2980 Evergreen Dr, Suite 100, Duluth
678-225-0012


You can probably get more info from the webiste if you need it....
www.nbhandy.com

Bud

Randy,

I'm 6'4", so with that fro, that would make me like 8 feet tall. I might have to raise the door height in the HT room.

Chirpie,

It's not the picture, it's the sick minds that decided what to do with it. Maybe I should start a new thread that's dedicated just to that picture and all the Photoshop variations. Could be fun!

Bud

I'm 6'4", so with that fro, that would make me like 8 feet tall. I might have to raise the door height in the HT room.

Might consider avoiding the can lights, too. Poof!

Randy

Thanks Bud. They seem to be much closer to me than they do you.


William

Well, I just posted a new thread about the soffit/linacoustic question figuring it may get some exposure from the acoustical wizards out there. Gee, apparently not every member reads this thread.... go figure! Probably a good thing for Chirpie....

Anyway, here's the new thread, hopefully we'll get some more info.

Yet another acoustic/linacoustic question (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6348705#post6348705)

Bud

They seem to be much closer to me than they do you.

William

True, but not a problem. Since I work out of the house, it's nice to take an occasional road trip! As long is not during rush hour (when is it not rush hour in Atlanta?).

Bud

(when is it not rush hour in Atlanta?).
When you're a visitor from L.A... :)

My wife was suggesting to her friend who recently moved from L.A. that she should leave a bit later to avoid rush hour, and her friend just laughed, and said, "Dear, there's no such thing as rush hour here..."

Well, I'm back at it.

I spent about 5 hours yesterday and another couple hours this AM doing mud. It's like riding a bike. Baseball season for my son is now over, so I'll have some extra time and will start cranking up again. I'm thinking it'll stay take me until the end of the year before I can start priming.

Not sure I'll be posting any pictures until the mud is complete. I'll spare you guys from boredom!

Bud

No such thing as boredom when it comes to an HT progress log and photos. :D

Keep in mind that I'm still working on the whole basement at once! Somewhere in the order of 1400 square feet. I'm just about complete with the final mud and sanding in game room/bar area, except for the ceilings. I've also completed the walls in the HT room and started that ceiling. I'm hoping by the end of next week end I'll have the trey portion done, but will still need to do underneath the soffits. I've also done the final coats of mud on the walls in the concession area, but I still need to do some sanding. I also need to do the ceilings in there as well. The ceilings are the worst part, but I have stilts, so the mud isn't bad. It's the sanding. I wanted to do all the ceilings at once so I'm not going up and down on the stilts all day long.

Bud

Scott,

Here's a couple of recent, but not very exciting photos of the finished mud in the game room. I also included the concession area and equipment closet.

http://images108.fotki.com/v611/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2638-vi.jpg
http://images108.fotki.com/v623/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2639-vi.jpg
http://images110.fotki.com/v554/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2640-vi.jpg
http://images108.fotki.com/v615/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2641-vi.jpg
http://images114.fotki.com/v640/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2642-vi.jpg

Like I said, not very exciting! There is a new house under construction on our street and they recently finished the mud. Man, all the tape lines are perfect. I can't wait to prime and cover mine up! :o

Bud

China dog,

What I would give to be where you are at.I also have roughly 1400 sq. feet.
I am still on plumbing and electric. :(

You'll get there... pretty soon you'll be passing me, I'm sure!

Bud

My basement is about 1700 sq. ft. I am working on 1 room at a time. I have finished the bathroom; the hallways have just the painting and the floors to finish. The theater has the wiring done and some of the insulation. I had drywall for the theater delivered last Friday. It takes me awhile to haul the 42 sheets down to the basement. The last 2 rooms are used for storage of building material so for. I am sure that it will take me longer to complete but I don't get so bored doing one thing for a long time.

Sportrac,

Can relate and undertstand. I was talking to my Dad about it yesterday. I thought the drywall/mud would be the hump to get over and I still think it is, but there is still so much to do, including tiling the bathroom, trim/doors, stage, riser, proscenium, paint, cabinets, etc. Man, lots of time and money left!

So where's your construction thread?

Bud

I didn't start one. I enjoy reading these threads so much more that I do writing on them.

Well, I just posted a new thread about the soffit/linacoustic question figuring it may get some exposure from the acoustical wizards out there. Gee, apparently not every member reads this thread.... go figure! Probably a good thing for Chirpie....

Anyway, here's the new thread, hopefully we'll get some more info.

Yet another acoustic/linacoustic question (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6348705#post6348705)

Bud

FYI, based on Greg and others responses on linacoustic under the soffit (thread above), I plan on going with the linacoustic under the soffits. I wanted to tie up that loose end.

Bud

Well, I started to mud the ceilings in the gameroom and concession area yesterday and today. I also put the second coat of mud on the ceiling in the HT room. Here's a photo my son snapped of me on my stilts. Unfortunately after he took the photo, he dropped the camera on the concrete floor two seconds after I told him to put the camera away and "don't drop it". He'll be six at the end of the month. I know what not to get him for his birthday! Taking the rest of the afternoon off, heading out to see Chicken Little.

Chripie, he's your chance for a little payback.

http://images12.fotki.com/v240/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2655-vi.jpg

Bud

Nice. At first glance I was thinking, "Bud's more like 8'4", not 6'4"!" Keep up the great work and progress, Bud!

You mean he's a BIG mudder?

Bud: It's been great following your progress. I've gleaned much inspiration from you as a lurker. We've almost finished Scottswoode Cinema. All equipment is up and operating. We just have a little front and sidewall acoustic treatment to go. the results are great.

Good luck with the rest of your project.

Geoff

Geoff, Thanks and welcome. You should start a thread and post some pictures!!!!

Tim, The stilts are great until you fall! I fell when I was on them in my last basement. Ugh, that hurt. Not a very soft or graceful landing.

Bud

Falling sucks!
But what really sucks is when someone is watching you and then you fall.
And there lays the DONKEY in all his glory!!
ME of course!

Just finished taping, ready to mop and then prime:)

Your son wasn't taking a picture of his father, he was taking a picture of his mudder.

Bud, you are 6'4", what do you need stilts for?

Toxarch,

Even as tall as I am, I'm not tall enough! The ceilings are 9 feet, so they beat dragging a ladder around. Much more convenient, besides I already had them. Picture of the stilts below.

Kingdome,

Luckily when I fell, I was alone. I actually crossed the feet while walking backwards and hit the wall first, then the ground. Sprained my wrist a little, but it wasn't TOO bad. Could have been a lot worse. Where are your pictures???

Here are the culprits. My son wants to try them, of course. BTW, the camera is working. Not sure why it didn't work before, but I'm not complaining.

http://images12.fotki.com/v240/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2660-vi.jpg

Bud

yeah, I have some photos.
I will start a thread with a link.
I am getting closer and closer.

Just a quick update with some good news related to the situation with my neighbor who was killed two months ago (posted here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6191807&&#post6191807)).

Back on the 3rd of November we held a golf tournament to raise money for their three kids. I was on the committee of about six that planned the tournament. It was a huge success! The tournament sold out in a few weeks, we had thirty odd hole sponsors, raffles, silent and live auctions. We even had a BMW and a Jeep Commander for holes-in-ones. Of course nobody won them. Most of the auction items were donated by corporations and businesses. Publix (grocery store chain) even donated $1000.00 in food and beverages. A local liquor distributor donated three kegs, which went quickly since we put them out on the course.

We managed to raise in the order of $40,000.00 that went to their kids education fund. It was a great time for a great cause. We're probably going to make it an annual event.

Also, FYI, back in that post two months ago I put some links to the news articles online. I've edited that post to include links to the follow on articles. Just thought you guys might want to know.

Bud

So what's a home theater thread without some blue tape on the walls? I like to think of it as a like a right to passage.

http://images12.fotki.com/v253/photos/6/649633/2373380/Screenwall-vi.jpg

I admit, the photo and MS Paint job is not my best work, but sort of shows what I'm dealing with. I'm now thinking post mud and trying to plan out the stage and proscenium. I think I plan on doing this on the simpler side with a curved stage, but not overly large. I've been looking at lots of stages to get ideas.

I'm somewhat limited to how deep I can go with it due to the door to the concession area and equipment area on the left. I figure I can go about 30 inches and still have room for molding around the doorway. I'll probably built a false wall to house a 100" screen and have to pull it out far enough to hide the center channel below. Once I figure out where that wall will be, I can then position those 3 four inch cans in the soffit to the best position over the stage. Once thats done, I'll drywall the bottom of that soffit, build the stage and frame out the screen wall.

I'm thinking of the Mitsubishi HC3000U (http://www.mitsubishi-hometheater.com/pdf/MIT_DATAHC3000U_R3.pdf) now as an option for a projector, but it's offset may make it difficult to mount and still have the screen 30 inches off the ground and would ideally like to keep it there. The front row would be viewing right at the top of the bottom third of the screen (46" line). I may have to mount the project from the ceiling versus the soffit if I go with that machine. Still some time to figure that out.

Final coat o' mud on the HT ceiling soon (maybe by the end of this week), then I can rebuild my cove. Looking forward to seeing that completed.

Bud

Bud,
How can you be still up in the air about projector placement (much less projectors) with drywall already in place?

I've agonized over which projector to go with and it seems each with different throw range could require different placement. I am in the final stages of wiring (whole basement), so I still have latitude for this. But it's definitely something I've always figured had to be pretty nailed down prior to drywall.

Incidentally, I'm planning on going with the Panasonic AE700. I would love to go AE900, but need to keep it under 1500 to stay on budget. The 700's are just now starting to be available within that price range.

Steve,

I know, I know. Drywall is "not completely complete!" Take a look at the soffit though, its all still open under there. It's also open in the soffit area where the projector will go. I left it open for that very reason. I wanted to make a projector decision before closing it up. I'm really itching to do that now. That's one benefit about doing the drywall yourself!

I planned on mounting the projector under the soffit, depending on the offset of the machine selected. All the cables are in place, plus I have conduit in place. I left enough slack to move the cables to the back wall or the front of the soffit. If I decide to move to the front of the soffit though, I'll have to cut back the conduit and reroute it a little, but no big deal, it's all open there still. Fortunately, I decided to leave the conduit empty for future use only. The existing cables are routed outside of the conduit.

I was going to go with the AE700, but the bulb life and replace cost scared me. I was then going to wait on the AE900 and see if there was any improvements. I then started looking at the Z4 and now the Mitsubishi HC3000 since Ben Harper recommended it. I'm hoping he can get one for me to demo for a few hours in the next couple of weeks so I can ensure it'll work the way I want it to. He lives a few miles away.

The AE700/900 and the Z4 seem to have the most flexible throws of the projectors I've looked at and they are still options if the Mits doesn't work out.

Bud

Bud,
Aha! Well that makes more sense. Just curious, what cables did you run outside of your conduit? Right now I only have 3 coax cables for component video and a cat5 for IR. I figured I would run any "special" cables like HDMI through my conduit as needed, but I can't help feeling like I'm missing something by not running more cables.

Steve,

I ran HDMI, component, composite, cat6, 50 ft IR expansion from Smarthome.com ($9.00 well spent if I need it) and a SVGA monitor extension cable (because I had it). I have 3" conduit if I forgot something.

Take a look at pccables.com.

Bud

Here's my first cut at the stage and proscenium. I'm still figuring out dimensions, colors and all that stuff. The top picture is a look from above. I want to have a curved stage, probably with one step. It's a pretty simple design. It shows a sub on both sides, but I'll probably will go with only one. I'll probably tweak it and add the dimensions over the next week or so.

All comments, suggestions and criticism welcome!

http://images12.fotki.com/v240/photos/6/649633/2875265/topstage2-vi.jpg
http://images15.fotki.com/v234/photos/6/649633/2875265/Frontstage3-vi.jpg

Bud

EDIT: I adjusted the bottom drawing since it looked compressed and broke the one drawing into two.
EDIT 2: Gary's recommendation.

Looks great - put a still from a movie on the screen!!!

I like it!

Gary

Now we're talkin...

I filled in the front stage carpet with black in the drawing since I'll probably go with the whole front stage carpet in black anyway. I'll probably do the soffit in black GOM and do a dark blue on the ceiling. Not sure I like the Milano blue at this point.

As far as colors go, I sort of like the medium/dark grey (298 (http://www.fabricmate.com/images/298.jpg)) GOM but would probably use that on the lower half of the walls. I'm also tossing around Blue Spruce (467 (http://www.fabricmate.com/images/467.jpg)), Ultramarine (470 (http://www.fabricmate.com/images/467.jpg)), and Bayberry (486 (http://www.fabricmate.com/images/486.jpg)). I could use something completely different (a la Clarence) since my surrounds will be ceiling mounted, that leaves the walls open to any type of fabric. Need to explore this option more. Here is the main fabric color page (http://www.fabricmate.com/fabriccolors.htm) for Fabricmate. I think there is a better online source for viewing GOM samples, but can't find it now.

I cut and pasted fabric into the drawings for kicks. Here is the front wall with those colors mentioned above.

Ultramarine 470 (http://images15.fotki.com/v233/photos/6/649633/2875265/Frontstage4-vi.jpg)
Blue Spruce 467 (http://images12.fotki.com/v252/photos/6/649633/2875265/Frontstage5-vi.jpg)
Bayberry 486 (http://images12.fotki.com/v239/photos/6/649633/2875265/Frontstage6-vi.jpg)
Medium Grey 298 (http://images14.fotki.com/v250/photos/6/649633/2875265/Frontstage7-vi.jpg)

Any recommendations?

Bud

Hey Bud,

Just some info, my wall paint color matchs the 486 Bayberry perfectly. The GOM that you see on covering the first reflection panels is the BayBerry fabric. Look at picture 22, 24 and 34.

David home theater (http://www.nicepeeps.com/cdhome_theater/)

CD

Great work Bud.

I am on the west side of Cobb and currently working on my Theater. I will be following your progress and thread closely.

Jason

Hey Bud,

Just some info, my wall paint color matchs the 486 Bayberry perfectly. The GOM that you see on covering the first reflection panels is the BayBerry fabric. Look at picture 22, 24 and 34.

David home theater (http://www.nicepeeps.com/cdhome_theater/)

CD

CD,

You painted the underneath of your soffits flat black as I recall? I didn't realize that was Bayberry. Looks nice. I like the black trim as well.

Bud

Great work Bud.

I am on the west side of Cobb and currently working on my Theater. I will be following your progress and thread closely.

Jason

Jason,

Thanks and welcome to the forum. We're in Acworth, you're not far away. What stage are you at with your theater?

Bud

Bud,

We are practically neighbors then. :-) Ok, here goes:

I am putting the dedicated theater in our basement.

1. Room is 28' L x 12' W X 8'6" H - framed with 2x6's and insulated. Ceiling is quiet floor system with hardwood floors above entire theater room (don't know if that would be any different from carpet).
2. All Electrical complete. Isolated 20 Amp circuit for projector, Isolated 20 Amp circuit for sconces, Isolated 20 Amp circuit for can lights, Isolated 20 Amp circuit for Receptacles.
3. All can lights installed.
4. All 12 gauge speaker wire run for 7.1
5. 2 Coax Belden 1505F cables run for 2 subs (Thanks EBR!!)
6. Columns Framed - I am putting light sconces on my columns not putting my di-polar surrounds in them(but may have if I found this forum earlier...).
7. Stage Built and over 1200 pounds of sand added.
8. Riser completed and floating on HVAC foam tape on top of concrete floor. Riser is not attached to any side walls.
9. Entire Basement HVAC 100% complete
10. Currently building a wall/bar on the back of the riser for universal HT controller, bar stools, and playstation 3(can't wait) wireless controllers
Plan to have 3 Berkline 088's front row, 3 Berkline 088's second row, then 3 nice bar stools staggered along bar behind riser for extra seats. This is due to unfortunately small room width and height :-( but I will take what I can get. ;-)

I have pictures but I have been so busy learning from all of the great people on this forum that I haven't had time to upload anything.

I am going to begin sheetroc next week as I have the entire week off for a little *ahem* vacation but really I am just going to work on the theater 24x7 all week long. Now that it is cold outside my R/C airplane addiction can hibernate and my Home Theater addiction can take over.

Thanks for the welcome.

Jason

Bud, coming a long great. Still enjoying all the updates.

Are you tempted at all by a 2.35:1 aspect ratio CH setup? Just curious.

Jason.

Cool beans, sounds like we're about the same, we flipped the riser/stage and drywall. Are you plan on doing the drywall yourself? Rent a lift. I have next week off as well, but the kids will be out as well, so I may get one day full time to work downstairs. If you need any help, let me know. Not until you start a thread and post some pictures though... just kidding.

If you have that R/C "Javier Lopez" disease, you must be familiar with the R/C airplace strip over off County Line Road? Behind Brookstone? I live about 10 mins from there up in Bentwater.

Bud

I cut and pasted fabric into the drawings for kicks. Here is the front wall with those colors mentioned above.


Any recommendations?

Bud

Hey, Bud, sorry long time no talk. I had a few distractions that got in the way for a while. The wife dragged me onto a cruise to Hawaii (Seriously, she paid for it and I didn't want to go, but I think I ended up having more fun than her!) and the subsequent work load when I got back kept me away from the basement.

On the plus side, I'm back at it, put my fabric up and have started trim.

As for manipulating that photo you posted, we'll see. I may have to save it for blackmail at a later date. :P

Pertaining to the color question, have you ordered the actual samples? I've found the web images for most of those fabrics to be typically darker than they are in real life.

Anyway, keep on keeping on!

Dave,

To be honest, I really haven't thought about it too much. I was thinking about going 1.78 or 1.85:1. I guess it wouldn't hurt to go 2:35 and have the black bars most of the time. Not sure at this point, something I'll need to figure out pretty soon.

Bud

Chirps,

Any new pictures of your GOM install? I saw the red walls, but that was paint, correct?

Damn, you spend too much time in that basement. Not want to go on a cruise to Hawaii? Hmmm, drywall dust must be getting to you! Understand the work issue, I expect that the week after Turkey day since I'll be out next week.

I have order the GOM samples from Guilford. They're just too damn small. I also tried to re-order some and for some reason they never showed. I'd really like to get bigger samples. I'd also like to check out some carpets, even though I'm a ways from install. I'm think the carpet might inspire me and help me pick out the right colors for the walls.

Bud

Thanks Bud,

I know exactly where you are at. Very nice area. My only kids are me and the wife + 2 dogs.

I am about 3 minutes away from the HD at the intersection of Dallas and Barrett in a subdivision called Addies Pond. It is at the intersection of West Sandtown and Old Villa Rica Road.

I know of that flying field but have never been there. I mostly fly park flyers over at the battlefields with some friends.

I am going to do the drywall myself and plan on renting the drywall lift from HD. I hear that it is the only way to do a ceiling without killing yourself in the process. Thanks and I will definately be asking questions.

Jason

Jason,

Good luck with the drywall.

Been there once, used to live at Camden Pointe. Apparently, Javier putt up the money to have the strip paved. I guess he's big into R/C. Here are a couple of Google Maps of the airstrip, if you know how to get to Mars Hill, you actually use the one map to find it. The other map is as close as the map program will allow you to zoom to, but you can see how big the strip is. My parents looked at a subdivision not far from there and you could actually hear the planes on the weekend. Turns out they didn't buy there, but not for that reason.

http://images14.fotki.com/v249/photos/6/649633/2370847/RCAirstrip1-vi.jpg
http://images8.fotki.com/v107/photos/6/649633/2370847/RCAirstrip2-vi.jpg

Enjoy!

Bud

I've been thinking about how I can mount the Mits HC3000 if I go for it. Again, the problem is the offset. If it was mounted under the soffit, the image will be projected too low on the front wall. Since I have the bottom of the soffit open where the projector will go, I have some flexibility to alter it. Based on the specs, I think I'll need to raise the projector up about 6-8 inches from where it would be mounted underneath the soffit. I'm thinking of building a box to house the projector that would extend slightly if at all from the soffit. I have to be concerned about the trey how the two meet and accessibility to the projector. For access, I'm thinking I can build something hinged underneath the soffit and cover if with GOM like the rest of the soffit. The front of the projector box can mimic the angles of the cove trey and would also be covered in GOM. The front would be pretty much completely open for ventilation.

Here is a rough drawing. I made it two different colors to distinguish between the cover and box. The projector would be mounted upside down inside the soffit to a brace on the joists.

Comments? Quite crowd. You must be in amazement! Yeah, I know, I'm full of myself. Been told that before. Save your keystrokes. :rolleyes:

http://images12.fotki.com/v254/photos/6/649633/2311872/MitsMount-vi.jpg

Bud

Hmmm, no bites on the design of the projector box. Maybe I didn't make it obvious what I was trying to do. Oh well. I'll make another attempt.

Been busy the last few days. I have one more coat of mud on the outside of the equipment closet, but it's basically done except for a door. I almost primed and painted the interior walls a flat black. Should I do the ceiling black as well? Here are a couple of shots of the equipment closet.

I left the outer wall open for a while in case I need to run more wires, but decided I'm good. I had an extra panel of green board left over from the bathroom, so I closed it up.

http://images116.fotki.com/v696/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2676-vi.jpg

This is looking into the closet at the ceiling where the Middle Atlantic Slim 5 will reside.
http://images110.fotki.com/v562/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2677-vi.jpg

I've also been busy in the bathroom (no, not like that). I installed my backerboard and drywalled the remaining walls. I did however drive a roofing nail through the cold water supply to the bathroom. Damn plumbers forgot to put one plate over the stud where the supply ran through. My last nail on the backerboard found the missing plate and cold water pipe! I had to shut the water off to the whole house since they did not install cut-offs for the bathroom. Luckily my neighbor is a builder, I called him and the plumbers where there in about two hours. It was any easy fix, the pipes are still exposed from behind the bathroom. I would have fixed it, but I haven't much experience with copper.

Here's a few shots of the bathroom.
http://images116.fotki.com/v696/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2665-vi.jpg
http://images108.fotki.com/v615/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2674-vi.jpg

I have the rest of the week off, but the kids have been sick over the weekend with a stomach flu. Hopefully I'll be able to mud the ceilings this week and that pretty much wraps up the mud!!

Bud

As for the projector box, you might want to mount it without a box at first, see if it really needs one. Not to mention, you may change you mind on the projector by then. It's always easy to build a box after it is installed.

GK

Agreed. Actually, I wasn't going to build the projector box until (hopefully) Ben could get one for me to play with. From there I can figure out the height and the dimensions.

Thanks for the reply.

Bud

Bleh. I couldn't tell you why but the bathroom is the one room I'm putting off the longest. (still need to put one more sheet of drywall up in there...)

Kudos to you where my will power is lacking. :P

Silly question, but I'm contemplating doing my own Drywall for a future (see 1+ years away) HT.

What tools do you guys use?

- I have a sliding compound, a dremel, and a ok Coredless Screwdriver/drill... but that's about it.
- A lift is needed?
- Special Mud Trowel
- Hmm. I wonder what else?

Klutzo,

Not as bad as it looks. Without the drill/screw gun and the stilts, probably less than a $100.00 in tools. If you're doing it by yourself, get a lift (rent or buy and sell later) or if you're doing a whole basement versus just a theater room, definately get a lift. If you're doing ceilings, get a lift.

http://images15.fotki.com/v245/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2681-vi.jpg

Bud

Bleh. I couldn't tell you why but the bathroom is the one room I'm putting off the longest. (still need to put one more sheet of drywall up in there...)

Kudos to you where my will power is lacking. :P

Well, it was the last big drywall item on my list, but it was there for a few reasons. First was backerboard. Its heavy and a pain, although I used the Hardi Backerboard (http://www.jameshardie.com/backerboard/homeowner/hardibacker.php) versus Wunderboard (cement board), which made it easier to deal with since you score it and snap it like drywall and it goes on with roofing nails. Second, there is an IR receiver in the wall on the left that shares the bar area, so I wanted to make sure that was working before I closed it up. I got it to work with the help from Larry at Buffalo Electronics, but only for one receiver at the time and put it on the back burner so I may be cutting a hole in that nice wall again. No biggie though. Third, tile. I'm doing my own tile in the bath surround and floor. Always fun. Not high on my list right now, but not far off either. Then obviously getting the toilet and sink in.

Bud

"Not pictured Advil" - - That's great. I need to copy that picture to my personal files at home. Depending on bonus, 2006 might be the time. Not sure if that pic will convince to try it myself or hire it out.

Bud...

Your doing great work!! Everytime I read the updates on the progress your making and some of the stuff you've done, it makes me want to build another HT :eek: I've been joking with the wife that we should sell the house and move to a new area of town (where she really likes the homes) just so I can build another home theater.... then I remember what it's like to move. :rolleyes:

Actually I have yet to put in a bathroom in the basement. I've been putting it off, mostly because of the dust factor now that the HT and lounge is done. I got a new Framing Nailer acouple of months ago, and haven't broken it in yet, but that would be a good project to start with.

I'm not sure of the color scheme you have in your head, so I don't know if painting the ceiling all flat black is the way to go. Looking at your space, I would almost paint the soffit flat black and paint the trayed ceiling a deep royal blue so when the lighting is on it sort of glows like a night sky!! Just a suggestion!!

Keep the pictures coming!! Love following this thread!!

Sean

Bud,

Excelent work on the bathroom....but where is the shower head??

LOL.

"Not pictured Advil" - - That's great. I need to copy that picture to my personal files at home. Depending on bonus, 2006 might be the time. Not sure if that pic will convince to try it myself or hire it out.

I can relate. I'm hoping that I'll be getting some cash from Uncle Sam (somehow doubt it) and my bonus in March (if it exists) will supplement the addiction. Keep in mind, although it's taken some time, I've saved a least a few grand just doing the mud and drywall.

Bud

Sean,

Thanks! One reason we (or shall I say I) selected this house was how the basement was laid out. I had a HT room in mind, although at the time I wasn't thinking projector. Not sure I'd want to tackle another basement job after this at least for a few years.

To control the dust I used some plastic to cover the doorway into our storage room. I've been using the "dust control" mud the last couple of buckets. Seems to work pretty well. The dust is less airborne, drops to the floor. Its more expensive, like 12.00 a buck for three gallon versus 10.00 for a five bucket of the regular stuff. Someone suggested using "Topping compound" for the top coat, apparently easier to work with, but not available at HD. I add plenty of water to the premixed stuff and it works out just fine.

The framing nailer was money well spent, considering I've used over 6000 nails. You'll love that tool.

Love the idea of the two different colors. I'd like to figure out how to transition from one to the other without having two separate sections/seams/lines. I'm not sure what I'd doing yet as far as the other colors are concerned. Definitely a black screen wall, but beyond that, no clue. I may take a drive up to Dalton. GA which is about 45 minutes away and claim to be the carpet capital of the world. Lots of carpet/rug stores. Apparently most manufacturing of carpets comes out of there.

Bud

Bud,

Excelent work on the bathroom....but where is the shower head??

LOL.

Well, thanks Jason. There's a hole for it! Maybe I'll get to the tile work sometime in the next month or so. I still need to buy all that stuff.

I really wanted to put in a urinal, but got out voted. I may put one in my workshop though!

Bud

Here's a shot of the closet I put in next to the bar. I was originally thinking that I would put a keg fridge in there (hence the outlet in the closet) and run a tube to the bar with a tap. Now I'm thinking about getting an under counter keg fridge. My father-in-law says "Wine closet" which is an option (as long as he stocks it, after all, the name is Bud, not Ernest or Julio Gallo).

http://images12.fotki.com/v240/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2682-vi.jpg

Today I'll work on some mud on the ceilings or do the drywall under the soffit for the screen wall.

Bud

How about a stock closet.

After completing my lounge/bar the one thing that I find my self needing is a place to put cases of pop / beer, extra bottles of booze, chips and nuts. The other thing I wish I had of planned for is an ice maker. If you have space for one under your counter, do it, or put one in the closet.

Just a thought!!

Sean

Klutzo,

Not as bad as it looks. Without the drill/screw gun and the stilts, probably less than a $100.00 in tools. If you're doing it by yourself, get a lift (rent or buy and sell later) or if you're doing a whole basement versus just a theater room, definately get a lift. If you're doing ceilings, get a lift.

http://images15.fotki.com/v245/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2681-vi.jpg

Bud

hmmm... interesting... I've heard sanding is a real bear. Would a random orbital help here?

Wow! I've been away for a little while and man did you make some progress, Bud! A few of my comments:

- I love the look of a projector built into the soffit in the center rear of the theater. It gives it a very clean, finished look, and you can turn it into a hushbox. The fact that you'll need it offset a little lower and forward is not a big deal and actually a positive, IMO, since you can use some moulding in each vertical and horizontal corner (as you see fit), which will make it look even better.

- I know what you mean about the bathrooms.. did two full baths in the span of two months (as part of remodeling our entire house), and had 5 different tiling projects. I ended up using Dur-Rock which is pretty heavy, but since it's only 3'x5' sheets, it wasn't too bad. I wish I would have put larger tile on the floors, but the stuff we got was practically free.

- Sorry to hear about your rogue nail.. I was sick one day from work (no, really! I was), and built the whole bathtub supply riser, but it took me the entire day.. something like 20 fittings. But soldering is very similar to mudding in that you definitely get better with time, and that a bit of expert advice is great to point you in the right direction (it's easy to solder wrong).

- I'm not sure what I'd paint the walls and ceiling of your equipment closet. It'd be great to be black so you can't see behind the components at all the cables, etc. But when you have a light on in there, behind the components, a white wall will reflect more light so you can see better. Perhaps some rope lighting in the back corners so you have enough light when you want it, and paint the walls and ceiling black?

- Regarding your storage closet, I'm a huge fan of the built-in look, if it's something that will be useful for years to come. For example, in our upper-level bathroom, I built in a 48" medicine cabinet above the sink (2x6 wall), and my wife had the great idea of installing an electrical outlet on one side, inside the cabinet, so I can plug my electric shaver in, inside the cabinet. Anyway, my point is that the closet is an ideal situation for putting something built-in, and coming off the side to the bar, such as a refrigerator, etc. I agree with Sean that the bottom should be a bunch of shelves, and sturdy ones at that!

Great job thus far! I can't wait to start building mine in 2007...

Sean,

Good thoughts. Right off the bar is my mechanical room and workshop. I was thinking about possibly putting a full size fridge in there for overflow on cold stuff and ice. I could easily hook up the ice maker. In fact, I have an old fridge in the garage for overflow now and could use that one, although I don't think my wife wants to depart from it. Also, in my concession area, I plan on a wall of cabinets (lower at least) and plan on including a fridge and microwave there.

I'd like to have a counter height fridge AND a keg fridge in the bar area, but not sure I can do both unless I get rid of the dishwasher (possibility) or something else. Here are the initial plans I had for the bar using cabinets from HD. These are subject to change some. I plan on changing out the upper cabinets from the way it is now, I want to put in cabinets with glass doors versus bookcase type shelving.

http://images15.fotki.com/v234/photos/6/649633/2311872/bar2-vi.jpg
http://images12.fotki.com/v252/photos/6/649633/2311872/bar1-vi.jpg

Bud

Klutzo,

There are drywall sanders you can rent that are supposedly dust free. I'd go that route before using an orbital sander. I haven't used one personally, I've really tried to be careful to apply mud to ensure I don't have lumps, streaks, pits, etc to minimize sanding. In fact, I've really only sanded the final coats with some exception, so dust has not been too bad. Now kind in mind I'm comparing this experience with my last basement which I sanded a lot and with each coat and with the standard join compound, not the dust control stuff. It was real dusty that time.

Bud

Tim,

Welcome back! Thanks for the comments. I hear you on the built-ins. We put a counter depth fridge in the kitchen for that reason. Looks built-in. A little smaller than the large fridges (I think its 25.5 cubic feet) but a cleaner look. A little more expensive. That's an option, although it's a narrow closet. I've seen some full height fridges that were narrow that I would possible get in there, but would have to put a door on it like a closet. I expect I'd have to vent it as well, which wouldn't be a problem.

On the projector box, I think I understand what you mean. I want to see how the angled board that's part of the trey comes into play. If the height of the box works out right, it may fit perfectly and blend into the whole cove. Not sure though. I do expect I'll have some sort of front molding on it.

I thought about the absence of white in there might make it too dark. I do have that light on the back wall though. With the position and the height of the rack I expect you won't really be able to see the ceiling in there while looking through the rack. I'll try and trim it out with as many blank/vent panels as required as well. I agree the walls should be black though. On another note though, the rack will be facing away from the HT room anyway, si it won't get too much visibility. Still some time to chew on it.

Bud

Bud,

I was going to do the Urinal too but they are very expensive. 500 bucks was the cheapest i found.

Jason

I was going to put in a urinal too, but the wife said when she uses it her back gets wet... :p

pffft.... chicks!! :D

Sean

I would think you could find urinals in abandoned buildings or junkyards. Unless you are going for the "hands free" version.

Well, no luck on eBay. Need to check the flea markets!

Bud

Only had a few hours today, but got to do most of the soffit in the HT room. I had to shift the three cans some to accommodate the screen wall, then drywalled and did a coat of mud. The back of the HT room is still open, but getting there. I'll need to put up the front of my cove next. I really want to see how that turns out. A few pics :

http://images12.fotki.com/v251/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2683-vi.jpg
http://images12.fotki.com/v252/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2684-vi.jpg

Bud

Just curious... how are you going to deal with that window next to the screen?

Covering them (there are two in the room). Stay tuned. I should be done with that in the next few days, will post some pictures when I start that piece of work.

Bud

I hope everyone has a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Had about two hours today, so I went ahead and put back the wood for the cove trey. Here is what it looks like installed.

http://images15.fotki.com/v245/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2691-vi.jpg

And here it is with the rope light reinstalled and turned on:

http://images9.fotki.com/v166/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2692-vi.jpg

I had originally planned on installing drywall over the plywood to give it a finished edge. I think I still plan on doing so. It'll be covered with GOM anyway, but this way it protects the GOM from snags on the wood. I could probably mud right over the plywood, but think it would be just as easy to throw up some drywall.

I plan on installing Linacoustic under the soffit up to the edge of the plywood. I left an inch overhand from the drywall on the plywood from the bottom of the drywall under the soffit.

Bud

Here is a quick shot of what I was talking about doing as far as the projector box. I still have about 2.5 sheets of drywall to put up here, but wanted to ensure that the Mits HC3000U would work out and get the position/dimensions correct. The whole soffit will be covered in Linacoustic and GOM as well obviously.

http://images33.fotki.com/v1069/photos/6/649633/3052581/projectorbox-vi.jpg

Bud

Bud,
I really like the slanted edge to your soffit. Defintately going to steal that one on my design. Are you going to fill the edge with insulation and cap it or leave it open? I doubt that there will be many sound problems in that cavity but better safe than sorry maybe. Also, without capping it off it looks like a difficult place to wipe clean with all the "cripple" studs there. Probably wouldn't need a wipe the dust out more often than once a year or less but still. Or if you insulated it and wrapped the gom all the way to the lengthwise stud then you could easily vacuum the top off gently.

Good work,
Mark

Mark,

Thanks and welcome. The top part is still open at this point, although I plan on putting some insualtion in it before capping it off. I'll probably use 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch plywood to cap it off to give me a solid surface to staple the GOM onto once it's pulled over the edge. I've been using these inside corners for drywall with tape/metal and I think I'll use those to cap off the drywall installed on the plywood (will post some pictures). I did a drawing a while ago that's posted a few pages back. I'm pretty much sticking to that.

Bud

Very nice. I love the soffit too!

Happy Thanksgiving...

I have to agree on the soffit... I like it a lot.

I am glad to hear that you have chosen the channel for your rope lights. The clips create a wavy shadow line, and that sticks out like a sore thumb as a tell-tale sign that a weekender did the job. I am always glad to see DIYs accept feedback and advice and put forth the extra effort to produce a professional result.

I have spent the past hour or so reading this thread while trying to fight off a tryptophan coma from all of that turkey!!

Very sad story about your neighbor, I am glad your golf outing was a success.

I don't want to make this political, but is GA a concealed carry State??
Did that good samaritan get any grief from the police for shooting that criminal??

Again, for any radicals lurking, I will not reply to posts for or against gun control, so please do not post them.

I wish your neighbor the best of luck in regard to getting banks to adopt the ATM panic code idea, that is truly a great idea for an unfortunately common occurance.

I have a very good client who owns a chain of banks here in Northern IL, and I will ask them what this may entail. Maybe legislation is not required. I would think that if banks COULD implement this as a safety measure for their customers, then it wouldn't take much prodding... If Diebold and the actual ATM manufacturers need to create all new ATM machines, then it might be a harder battle...

Many alarm systems have a similar option that disarms as normal, but sends a silent panic to the police, but very few installers bother to implement it because they don't want to spend any more time programming than the very bare minimum to get the system operational.

Rick,

Thanks for the compliments (and the response on the Dricore, btw). I'm all for feedback as with so many others, I've learned so much in the last year.

Shawn was questioned, but as far as I know he was let off. Apparently the carjacker shot first. My neighbor, the builder, is also part owner of a gun shop. Apparently you can carry if you're licensed. You can have a gun in your glove box since its considered to be part of your "house". I don't own a gun currently, so I'm not up on all the laws. Mike, the husband is doing well, he's obviously still pushing legislation. He is working with a senator/rep now that is trying to push a GPS law through. I'm curious as to your friends comments on the ATM code. I would assume it's a software thing, but don't know for sure. Connor, the son, was here yesterday. He seems to be doing well.

I am glad to hear that the family is doing alright as of right now, you are a good person to open your home to them. Kudos to your family for supporting your neighbors like this.

Out here, I barely know the newer neighbors, and don't talk to any of them except under rare circumstances. When I saw the outdoor theater parties, I thought that I could not even think of a neighborhood in my area that I know of where this type of thing would happen!!

Here in IL, we have some pretty strict gun transportation laws...

Aside from the total ban of handguns in Chicago city limits, where even having a handgun in your own home in the city limits is technically a felony.

I just got back from a plate of leftovers, with the same result...

Tryptophan = 2
Rick = 0

I should sleep like a baby tonight.

Rick,

Our whole street is pretty tight. We're just lucky that the personalities mesh well. Our other neighborhood was less social. It's a hit or miss thing, I think.

You might find this interesting. The next town over is Kennesaw, GA. There is a law on the book that states the head of the household must own a gun. I don't think they enforce it, but it sure has put a damper on crime in the town. It's dubbed the Kennesaw Law ( http://www.rense.com/general9/gunlaw.htm).

Bud

Very nice. I love the soffit too!

Happy Thanksgiving...

Thanks! Now go give your wife a break and help with the baby! Oh, and make sure that beauty doesn't end up on MaximAvs' wall!

Bud

Jason and Dave,

Need to check out the Kohler urinal (http://www.us.kohler.com/onlinecatalog/product_result.jsp?module=Commercial%20Urinals&category=30&subcategory=24&id=kst) page. There are a few "cheaper" ones there.

Bud

Wow! That is all I can say. I am still in the dreaming stage for a home theater (you kinda have to own a home first before the theater part). I am sorry to hear about your neighbor as well. I hope things work out well with any laws that could help keep similar things from occuring in the future. I do believe that it would be a simple software update on most ATM's to have a second set of PIN's with a silent alert sent to local police. I think the biggest problem would be educating the people in which PIN is which to keep false alarms from occuring (current ATM's already connect to the banks via the internet/intranet/phone... the ATM itself wouldn't need to even make the alert, but this would probably be done where the database lookup occurs to match the PIN with the account on the card, and that system would simply call a triggered function which would be the alert). (Please note this is my theorizing how it could work, I do not know the specifics of the ATM machines, only going from how I believe they are designed).

Anyway, back to the home theater, I am really getting a good idea what is involved. At first I was thinking of having my home builder do the work, but after really thinking about it, most complex builders really REALLY HATE doing custom work and will charge an arm and a leg if they deviate from the plans for the house types that exist in the complex. I do think that a basement HT is probably the way to go, but I just need to find a place that has a decent height basement (min 9-10 feet) so I can put in sound proofing and do some soffits (I might be borrowing your angled look since I REALLY like it). Again, you have given me a lot of great ideas that I plan on using and I look forward to following your progress.

Fallen,

IMO, you want someone who specializes. General contractors and builders usually have a dozen homes or so they're working at one time. They probably don't know the technology, constraints, techniques, acoustic requirements, etc. Not that I'm an expert. Even if they're a custom builder, I'm sure most don't specialize in media rooms and HT rooms. They can put something in, sure, but will it take into consideration all the information you've found here? Maybe, although unlikely. You're better off hiring a pro after you've done your research here or attempt to do it yourself with the help from these wonderful people.

BTW, go ahead and use anything you like that I've done. I wouldn't want it any other way.

Bud

Just wanted to add a few more shots of the trey. The first picture is in a very dark room with the rope light turned all the way up. Keep in mind that there is no paint on the ceiling. Its mud and drywall only. The second shot is with the rope light dimmed at the lowest level. Big difference! Flash was turned off for both.

http://images12.fotki.com/v239/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2705-vi.jpg
http://images12.fotki.com/v241/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2706-vi.jpg

Bud

Sweeeeet!

Bud,

Just read through your entire thread. :o Awesome work. Really like all the little background notes and pics. Looking forward to more updates. Now I'm itching to move out of my townhome and into a nice "regular" house with an unfinished basement to to do an HT. :D Will be a while though. In the meantime I'll just continue watching and learning till it's my turn. :)

Dave

Did some work today. I drywalled the trey over the plywood. I then used inside corners as outside corners on the top of the trey to give me nice rounded clean edges. This will allow me to pull the GOM over the edge to staple and not have a wavy drywall cut. I'll also do the bottom of the new drywall with outside edges. Here are a few pictures. In the first picture you can see the grey metal edge. Gives it a nice straight line.

http://images14.fotki.com/v248/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2708-vi.jpg
http://images12.fotki.com/v254/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2707-vi.jpg

I also started working on covering the windows and will finish those tomorrow. Unfortunately, I had to cut a new piece of drywall for each window because of their size. I had two cans of black spray paint, so I used them on the cut sheets. The black side will face out. I pulled off the screens of the windows and cleaned them. I also cut three 2x4s to support each piece of drywall and will insulate between them. I have enough room for a piece of drywall/ the stud turned 90 degrees and the other piece of drywall. I'll have to cut a piece drywall to cover the studs on the inside of the room still. More pictures tomorrow.

Here are the panels. Not sure spray paint was the best route, but it was handy. Will check it tomorrow to see how it comes out and if I have to repaint, so be it.
http://images15.fotki.com/v232/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2710-vi.jpg
http://images14.fotki.com/v258/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2709-vi.jpg

Bud

Bud,

Just read through your entire thread. :o Awesome work. Really like all the little background notes and pics. Looking forward to more updates. Now I'm itching to move out of my townhome and into a nice "regular" house with an unfinished basement to to do an HT. :D Will be a while though. In the meantime I'll just continue watching and learning till it's my turn. :)

Dave

Thanks dude. Once you cross over though, there is no turning back!

Bud

I had a pretty productive week, although I thought I'd be done with mud at this stage. I am close, I think I'd need two more solid days though.

Many have asked about these damn windows. :rolleyes: I worked on covering the two windows in the HT room today. Here's a sequence of shots of what I did.

The first thing I did was take the screens off. They're a pain to get off from the outside. I may put them back on and rig them so I can get them off and on from the outside in case I need to clean the windows. These windows are on the side of the house and its nothing but woods there for at least and acre of property (ours). I then cleaned the inside of the windows real well, then inserted the drywall.

Here's one of the windows with drywall installed. They're both both the same size (30"x60"). I didn't have to repaint the drywall, the paint dried pretty evenly.
http://images15.fotki.com/v230/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2711-vi.jpghttp://images15.fotki.com/v227/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2712-vi.jpg

After the outside drywall, I screwed in some studs on they're side to give me the depth I needed for the second sheet of drywall. I then insulated between them.
http://images12.fotki.com/v253/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2713-vi.jpghttp://images15.fotki.com/v227/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2716-vi.jpg

I installed the inside layer of drywall. I used two pieces here because I had smaller sheets. I used a tapered seam in the middle and a butt joint all around the perimeter. I'm not too concerned about how it looks since it'll be covered with GOM. Also, before mudding, I took measurements of the windows (where they are on the wall) and wrote them in Sharpie right on the wall. I then took some pictures so I know exectly where the windows are once the GOM is up if I need it. Finally, here's a shot of what the window now looks like from the outside. It just looks like a dark room!
http://images116.fotki.com/v694/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2721-vi.jpghttp://images12.fotki.com/v237/photos/6/649633/2373380/DCP_2714-vi.jpg

Bud

Bud, your soffits have turned out AWESOME!!! You have really progressed. I on the other hand have slowed some due to work, etc but have finally finished framing. I can only hope that my soffits turn out half as good as yours (since I "borrowed" your design.) Are you definitely going with the Mits HC3000U? I have not looked to closely at projectors yet as I still have the ability to change to PJ location very easily. After I finish the electrical rough in I will start to look harder.

Good job


Drew

R00ster,

Thanks. I expect things will slow down some in the next few weeks for me as well, due to holiday commitments and other things, but should be able to pick up some time between Xmas and New Years since I have that week off.

Still have some work to do on the soffits, but they're close! The back soffit over the riser will be half-a-days worth of work. From what I understand and have read, the HC3000 is awesome, but restrictive as far as placement. If I can get it to work (and I'll definitely try), then I'll go with it. I'm waiting to see if Ben Harper can get me one for a few hours to play with. He does HT installs on the side and if he's got one for an install coming up, I'll be able to check it out. If I do the projector box regardless and the HC3000 doesn't work out, I can still go with the AE900 or Z4. I'm itching to get it make a decision and complete the construction.

Bud

Bud,

Great room man. Thanks for the updates and the pics.

Did you paint the drywall you inserted in the window? It looks like you painted it black. I wanted to ask because I am looking to cover two similar windows for my HT. One faces the street.

Thanks,

Rick

R00ster,

Thanks. I expect things will slow down some in the next few weeks for me as well, due to holiday commitments and other things, but should be able to pick up some time between Xmas and New Years since I have that week off.

Still have some work to do on the soffits, but they're close! The back soffit over the riser will be half-a-days worth of work. From what I understand and have read, the HC3000 is awesome, but restrictive as far as placement. If I can get it to work (and I'll definitely try), then I'll go with it. I'm waiting to see if Ben Harper can get me one for a few hours to play with. He does HT installs on the side and if he's got one for an install coming up, I'll be able to check it out. If I do the projector box regardless and the HC3000 doesn't work out, I can still go with the AE900 or Z4. I'm itching to get it make a decision and complete the construction.

Bud


Bud, not sure if you have ever seen this web site: http://www.projectorcentral.com (http://www.projectorcentral.com/Mitsubishi-HC3000-projection-calculator-pro.htm) but the HC3000 IS a great projector and as you can see from the calculations you can place the HC3000 in various locations depending on screen size and the screen gain. Your theater and mine have similar dimensions so you want to have a projector that can throw an image at between 16 and 19 feet (based upon where your proposed PJ placement is). So to do that you need a screen that is between 96" and 125" diagonal, but you will need a screen that has 0.8 gain. You will probably want to stay away from any screen with a gain of 1.0 or more. Have you decided on a screen yet (I cannot remember?)

Drew

Well, great thread, I am new to the site and just spent the last hour reading this thread. I am currently finishing my basement but it is moving really slowly. This thread should get me going. I really want to see what you are going to do with your stage, and what you are covering it with. keep it coming,


Craig,

Bud,

Great room man. Thanks for the updates and the pics.

Did you paint the drywall you inserted in the window? It looks like you painted it black. I wanted to ask because I am looking to cover two similar windows for my HT. One faces the street.

Thanks,

Rick

Rick, thanks and welcome. Yes, two cans of black spray paint, but I'd probably roll them next time.

Bud

Drew,

Yes, been there. The concern for me really is the height of where its mounted. Under the soffit it would make the screen considerably low off the ground. I'd like it to be about 30 inches off the ground based on my calculations. I have not decided on a screen yet, leaning towards the Caradas though. More research required.

Bud

Well, great thread, I am new to the site and just spent the last hour reading this thread. I am currently finishing my basement but it is moving really slowly. This thread should get me going. I really want to see what you are going to do with your stage, and what you are covering it with. keep it coming,


Craig,

Craig, thanks and welcome.

Bud

Drew,

Just pulled up the HC3000 on ProjectorCentral again just to confirm something. The front wall is currently at 13 feet from the back soffit. If I built a false wall, I'll lose about 16 inches, which puts me at around 12 feet. To get 100 inches, that's about my minimal throw. I could alter my front screen wall design (make a shadow box) to give me the extra room back, but I want to wait and see what its like when/if I get my hands on one.

http://images15.fotki.com/v235/photos/6/649633/2311872/hc3000-vi.jpg

Bud

Thanks! Now go give your wife a break and help with the baby! Oh, and make sure that beauty doesn't end up on MaximAvs' wall!

Bud


I heard that!! :p

Sean

The soffit is currently at 13 feet from the back soffit.
I'm guessing you mean "The front wall/screen is currently at 13 feet from the back soffit"? That is indeed pretty short. A shadowbox seems like a good idea -- check out Larry's theater for an example if you haven't already...

Tim,

Correct, the room is 19 feet and the soffit above the riser is 6 feet from front to back. If If I build the projector in the soffit, then it's basicly 13 feet to the front wall. I have seen Larry's front wall and need to take another look.

Bud

WOW! Great thread. I found it when TheFerret linked it from his Fat Bastards (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=499660) thread. I just finished putting in a partition wall in my basement as my future HT room is still being used by my daughter as a playroom.

Good job on the drywall, but if you want to make things a bit easier on you when you install the base trim, you will want to bust the mud on your corners out to around 16-18". Otherwise the mud sticks farther than the wall and wood trim can't stay tight up against the wall. You only need to do it up about 12", but it will make your trim work go a lot smoother.

Still, great job. Look forward to seeing it completed. :)

Also, my wife saw a thing in Herrington catalog for a floating screen to watch movies from your pool. For $10K. :eek: Anyway, that gave us an idea and we had a movie night with a borrowed projector, a portable DVD player and a couple of neighbors. We watched from in and around the pool. We will definately do it again next summer. :D

Hey herdfan, thanks for the response. I'll keep that in mind about the mud. I think I feathered it pretty well, but will definitely consider.

Actually, I revived the Fat Bastards thread because I sold my drywall lift to theFerret this fall and wanted to know how things were going with his drywall!

I get the Herrigton catalog, so I know exactly the screen you're referring to. I'm thinking about buying a whole second setup at some point for "Movie Nights". My son asked about when the next one was. Its just way too cold now. I figured I'd pick up a second projector on eBay next spring just for those special nights. I'm looking forward to next spring already!

Bud

Managed a few hours of this week and plan on a few today. I'm working on second coats on the ceiling in the game room and bar. Getting close now. I'm not sure how much time I'll have over the next few weekends, but expect I'll start trim and doors between XMAS/NYs. I guess I'll need to settle on doors for the HT room as well since I'll go with a stained door versus white to match the rest of the house.

I also bought a HSU VTF-2 MK 2 (http://www.hsustore.com/vtf2.html) sub last night from Audiogon. Got a good deal on it, although they're on sale now at HSU. Should be shipped on Monday. Also, Ascend Acoustics are coming out with new 340s, so I'm trying to pick up the front channels from someone trying to upgrade from the old to the new. Should save me a few bucks. I've gotten a few PMs already and I think I have a set lined up already, but the new 340s won't come out until Jan/Feb so I'll have to wait until then. I'm just reconfirmed to myself that I'm a video guy and not an audio guy (Tim)!

Getting closer. I think I've decided to focus now more on the HT room once I get the doors and trim in. The bar and the flooring in the game room and bar can get "back-burnered".

Bud

Five hours on stilts today working on ceilings. Second coat is now complete on the ceilings. One more coat to go and I move on! Can't wait!!

Bud

I'm just reconfirmed to myself that I'm a video guy and not an audio guy (Tim)!
Hehe.. me too. I know, however, that I'll end up spending a good deal more on audio since that's just the way it works, it seems (at least in my shopping/auditioning experience thus far).

Five hours on stilts! Wow.. I think I'll have to get some of those though. One question though, as I've never had to drywall more than a couple of sheets on the ceiling.. does it hurt your back and neck looking up all the time, or are you tall enough with the stilts that you can kind of look straight ahead? (head a few inches from the ceiling)

Keep up the great work! :)

Tim,

Not a problem with the neck and back. The stilts are adjustable to whatever height you need within the min/max range of the stilts of course. I figure I'm about 16 inches below the ceiling. My problem using the stilts is my knee. You tend not to walk quite normal with them and I've had a few knee surgeries, so it tends to act up a little when I use them.

Bud

I've been reading the AVS Forum for a couple of years now and this is one of the best construction threads I've read. Fantastic work, Bud. You theater and basement look awesome.

I'm in the Atlanta area (moved here about 8 months ago from St. Louis) and started on my basement a month or so ago. Sounds like my basement is about the same as yours. I'm finishing off about 1500 sq. feet -- theater, pool/game room, bath, bar, and scrapbooking room for the wife.

I'm about done with the framing (two more trey ceilings to do). Its a good thing I'm about done with the framing cuz I'm about burned out on it. Ready to move on to the electrical and plumbing.

wtshaw,

Thanks! Where abouts in the ATL? Seems like there is more and more of us. Someone needs to organize a meet. It won't be me for a while anyway.

I'm trying to be as thorough as possible, taking pictures where its appropriate, documenting progress, answering questions and linking to information. I know there are a lot of other threads that do a similar and/or better job. My theater doesn't require all the sound proofing that many other theaters may, so that information is lacking here.

It hope that this thread helps others as much as the information that others have shared has helped me.

Welcome and good luck with your basement... and of course post your progress now that you're no longer a lurker!

Bud

No soundproofing? So you're going to have headphones at every seat? ;) :D

Yes and 3D glasses! ;)

I've made a tough decision and decided to part with my baby, a 2004 Acura TL (http://public.fotki.com/bketterl/2004tl/). :( A tough decision for me for sure. Mint condition, 16K miles and new Michelin Pilots. She goes in the paper this Friday. If anyone is interested in the Atlanta area, PM me. I'll even consider throwing in the Escort for an AVSer!

I will miss her! More images and info at the link above.
http://images12.fotki.com/v242/photos/6/649633/2370847/AcuraTLsmall-vi.jpg

Bud,
Keep on truckin!! I can relate to putting the other areas on hold until the HT is finished.
I may be ready to have some local folks over in a couple of weeks.
I still have some finishing touches to finish up, but overall I am pleased with the room.
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c361/BowedToothDoc/01104445.jpg

Maggie Guy,

Very nice job! I bet you're excited. Looks great. I've taken a quick look at your thread and it's really come together nicely. I'm so ready to get this done now, of course, if I can sell my baby I'll probably get my projector earlier than I figured...

Bud

I got started on this thread in the middle and have been going back and catching up as I have time. I see you raided the Smarthome catalog. :D Is your Omnistat hooked up to anything or is it serving as a standalone thermostat?

Herdfan,

Yes, a small fortune spent there. I have the HAI Omnipro II and I can control the temps on each level via the control panels and my PC. I have the Omnipro tied into my LAN. I have to reinstall PC Access though, since it was on a different laptop that had a hard drive crash. I have the data files, but need to find the CD to install. I was actually looking last night for different compatible software, the PC access software is not the best.

Bud

Yes, a small fortune spent there.......I was actually looking last night for different compatible software, the PC access software is not the best.

Same here. I jumped on board with the Insteon stuff and it has had a few probelms.

I have the Omnistats as well and am looking at this: http://www.homeseer.com/ for control. It has an Omnipro Plug-in and is also X-10 compatible. But the thing I like the most about it is the MainLobby Plug-in. It allows you to control your systems from a touch panel.

Here is a link to a guys who is running it: http://forums.accessha.com/showthread.php?t=469 He is also using the Omnistats.


A question on the Omnistats if you don't mind. I just redid a media room in my basement and installed an Omnistat. I ran some CAT5 to the location but haven't hooked it up yet. All I got in the Omnistat was a plug-in module with 4 wires running to it. Did you just wirenut it to your control wire and then back to the serial box? Thanks.

herd,

The one I did in the basement was originally installed by professionals, I have since moved it a few times. The thermostat wire from the furnace is connected via screws inside the thermostat. The plug with the four wires is spliced and I used electrical tape. The others have the shrink tubing stuff on the splice. I can verify the actual wiring for you if it helps. I believe the four wires from the thermostat are used, but two are spliced together with one of the wires to the panel. I can pull it off and take a picture if need be.

I looked at Homeseer, but didn't realize that it supported the Omnipro. Thanks for the links.

Bud

Bud,
You have probably already made a decision as far as your projector is concerned, but if you would be interested in a very low hour NEC XG1351LC let me know. I was bit by the CRT bug a few years ago and was lucky enough to be able to get a G-90 for my current room.

Maggie Guy,

Hey thanks for the offer! I don't know anything about CRTs, I assume this is one? Not sure a CRT would work in my setup (at this point). I did a quick check on projectorcentral and didn't see it listed. I think I've narrowed it down to the Mits HC3000, the Panny AE900 and the Sanyo Z4. Leaning towards the HC3000, but have not confirmed it'll work with my setup. The other two are a toss up at this point. These rebates are sure tempting.

Bud

Yep,
The NEC is a CRT projector which are big, fairly loud, and difficult to set up properly. But once all is said and done they put out a wonderful picture. I looked back in this thread and it looks like you are already setup and wired for a digital unit. The hottest digital unit out right now is the Sony Ruby, but they are just hitting the market and the price is pretty high.
I think around 9 grand. As far as the units that you are interested in, I really don't know anything about them, but I'm sure that there are plenty of Forum members that can steer you in the right direction. Keep up the good work!

Maggie Guy,

Well, thanks for offer. I'll probably go with one of the three mentioned. Have you tried to sell it here in the AVS For Sale Marketplace?

Bud

chinadog,

The pj's you are interested in are some nice entry level units.
I have an AE-700. This is my first pj and I could not see spending big bucks on a pricy pj until 1080p becomes a bit more prevalent.
Anyway, what I wanted to point out is. Unless you are about three or four weeks from completion of your theater, I would not pull the trigger.
So much can happen in the course of a few months. Firm ware updates. More projectors released to further your choices.
I made the mistake in getting my pj to early and I was not even using it regularly when the AE-900 came out. I could have waited and had the latest model year. :(
The bottom line... I recommend you wait. Keep looking at all of your options. Make sure the dimensions of the projector will fit your space. Make sure the throw distance requirements will fit your space and keep telling your self there is plenty of time. :)
If I had it to do over again, that is what I would have done. ;)

Craig

Craig,

Yup, I completely understand and thanks for the advice. I was hoping to make a decision on a projector so I could actually complete my soffit design. From there, I would expect things to pick up some since I'd be itching to get the rest of the room done (and forget the other parts of the basement for some time). I didn't want to do something that I would regret and have to rip out later. If I had to guess, I'm probably two-three months out (hopefully tops) to complete. March is probable. I held off on the AE700 because of the rumors of the AE900 coming to CEDIA, then discovered the Sanyo, then Ben introduced the Mits HC3000 to me. So by waiting it paid off, but also cluttered the situation. All three of these machines are in my price range and would expect they may drop a little by the time I'm ready to buy in the February/March time frame.

Bud

Craig,

Yup, I completely understand and thanks for the advice. I was hoping to make a decision on a projector so I could actually complete my soffit design. From there, I would expect things to pick up some since I'd be itching to get the rest of the room done (and forget the other parts of the basement for some time). I didn't want to do something that I would regret and have to rip out later.
Bud



I can't remember what your situation is. If you have a hushbox or shelf set-up.
I have a hushbox. I made mine very large. My AE-700 is swimming in it because there is so much room. But... when the upgrade bug hits, I won't have a limitation on the size of my projector because I made the hushbox just big enough to squeeze in a Panasonic AE-???. The AE-??? line of pj's are a bit on the small side.
Another plus is that your projector will inevitably run much cooler in a larger enclosed space and probably extend the life of the bulb and pj.
I guess what I am trying to say is make your space for your projector big. Don't use the dimensions of the AE-900 to determine the size and space where in all likely hood several projectors will eventually reside.
Just hold out till the bitter end. ;)
I would wait till you have about two or three weeks before you are finished, then order your unit.
If you happen to get shipped a bum unit, you will still have time to return it and have another for opening night.

Craig

Craig,

No hushbox at this point, but leaning towards an opening in my soffit/cove to install the projector. Hence the design dilemma. Would be mostly open in the back and have a trap door of sorts to get to the back of the projector (see post 337 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6559675&&#post6559675) and post 367 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6592806&&#post6592806) for what I was thinking).

Don't worry, my wallet is going to be in my back pocket for a while!

Bud

I'm not quite following, Bud. You're planning on enclosing it, right? So that essentially is a hushbox. If you enclose it, you'll need some kind of venting, and you might as well put in some insulation to deaden the noise.. ?

As I was reading through the past few posts, I was thinking the same as Craig, actually; that you could build a big enough box (detachable underneath) for almost any modern digital projector and then fit whatever you want in there later.

Bud --

I'm up here in Buford. Took the day off of work today and spent a chunk of the day in the basement. Mostly just odds and ends....getting ready to begin on the electrical.

Bill

Tim,

Hard to explain I guess. The soffit it would reside in is pretty large. It's the width of the room (almost 12 feet) and about 6 feet deep. For the Mits, I need a few extra inches to raise the unit in order to get the screen height where I want it. In order to do that, the unit needs to be in the soffit (I think for aesthetics, I'd prefer this as well). This also means that the unit needs to project through the slanted front of the cove trey. Because the soffit is open still, I could open up the front of the cove where the the projector would project through and either ceiling mount the projector from within the soffit (assuming a Mits) or shelf mount the unit inside the soffit (either AE900 or Z4). Now I could enclose the unit completely by building a box around it. The box would again be in the soffit. Then I could insulate around it. I also can vent it. I actually ran a 4" flex duct and a temp switch that controls an inline fan at the end. If I decided to just build a shelf, the unit would disperse heat in the hugh soffit and would unlikely kick off the inline fan. I have some flexibility either way (box or shelf), but obviously depends on what projector. I could design for box case, I suppose. I think having the unit in the soffit will suffice from a noise perspective (for me), although another argument for having the projector in hand.

I agree the box should be big enough to accommodate different projectors. You also need to consider where it vents a well. The Mits vents from the front, so that why I was thinking about leaving it open in the front, which messes up the sound prevention.

Bud

Bill,

Gotcha. Actually, framing was fun. I enjoyed it. If I didn't have a framing nailer, I might say different though. Keep us posted on your progress and of course, post some pics!

Bud

Tim,

Hard to explain I guess. The soffit it would reside in is pretty large. It's the width of the room (almost 12 feet) and about 6 feet deep. For the Mits, I need a few extra inches to raise the unit in order to get the screen height where I want it. In order to do that, the unit needs to be in the soffit (I think for aesthetics, I'd prefer this as well). This also means that the unit needs to project through the slanted front of the cove trey. Because the soffit is open still, I could open up the front of the cove where the the projector would project through and either ceiling mount the projector from within the soffit (assuming a Mits) or shelf mount the unit inside the soffit (either AE900 or Z4). Now I could enclose the unit completely by building a box around it. The box would again be in the soffit. Then I could insulate around it. I also can vent it. I actually ran a 4" flex duct and a temp switch that controls an inline fan at the end. If I decided to just build a shelf, the unit would disperse heat in the hugh soffit and would unlikely kick off the inline fan. I have some flexibility either way (box or shelf), but obviously depends on what projector. I could design for box case, I suppose. I think having the unit in the soffit will suffice from a noise perspective (for me), although another argument for having the projector in hand.

I agree the box should be big enough to accommodate different projectors. You also need to consider where it vents a well. The Mits vents from the front, so that why I was thinking about leaving it open in the front, which messes up the sound prevention.

Bud

Actually I believe the AE-900 vents (exhaust) from the front left as well. At least that is the way it is on my AE-700. Perhaps that was one of the changes.
The bottom line is, the bigger you can make your space for your pj, the better off you will be. The projector will run cooler and you will have more upgrade options for the future. :

Craig

OK... I was looking at your design and what you have done and it looks great! Very clean looking. :)
If you want to keep it that way, it would probably work, but it looks like you don't have to much room to play with when considering a projector upgrade in the future. I would be concerned that your choices would be restricted not from your pocket book, but from the space in your soffit.
At least think about this. Find out what the dimensions are of current higher end projectors like the Sharp 12K or the Ruby are. Would those projectors easily interchange in and out of your enclosure with plenty of breathing space for air circulation?
Another thing I would do is enclose the front of your soffit and shine the image through a glass window. Your pj is going to pump a lot of hot air into the viewing area and really test your HVAC system with several people in the room.
Please don't take my comments the wrong way. I am not trying critique your work. Just give you something else to consider. :) :)

Craig

Craig,

Actually, thanks for the response on the projector box. I was looking for some feedback on it.

I agree, I need to make it large enough to future proof it. There is quite a bit of room inside the soffit. I have a few concerns really with my design. I have to figured out where the projector will reside in the box. I have to make sure there are no obstructions. I need to be concerned with how far back in the box the projector will sit. This is dependent on the projector as well. If I have to ceiling mount the projector inside the soffit (again, Mits), then I have to be concerned about obstructions for the actual mount and how far forward I can put the mount/projector which could be impacted by some sort of obstruction. Also, if I shelf mount a Panny or Sanyo, I have more flexibility to slide the unit forward of backward on the shelf. Need to be somewhat concerned with venting.

There's some other things I thought of, but I got side tracked on with work and conference calls. Argh!

On the glass thing, I think it would depend on which direction it vents (not sure of the ramifications of it venting out front), but I have thought of that.

Here's a few mock ups for your comments (ignore the grey area in the second diagram):
http://images114.fotki.com/v640/photos/6/649633/2311872/ProjectorBox3-vi.jpg
http://images12.fotki.com/v254/photos/6/649633/2311872/projectorbox2-vi.jpg

Bud

I have my hushbox for my AE-700 (front exhaust) vented out my back wall into a small hallway adjacent to the back of my theater.
What I have is two 4 inch pvc pipes going into the hushbox from the back hall way.
One is intake and one exhaust.
I have a 4 inch fan on the exhaust pipe right now pulling the air out of the hushbox and if you put your hand over the intake pipe, you can feel the air pulling through. :)
Here is the fan I used.
Let me say, that it seems pretty noisy right now. Hopefully when I completely seal my HB, it will be much quieter.
http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=262-686

My theater is still in progress and I still need to get my hushbox glass up to completely seal my HB. Then I will know its true cooling abilities.

If you future proof your soffit/hushbox, your projector will have plenty of room and that alone will help ensure proper cooling.

Craig

Craig,

Interesting. Do you have a picture of your setup? Is the fan in the box or at the end of your exhaust pipe (at the wall)? You can't see the duct (need to extend to the front of the soffit) or the temp switch that controls it in my picture. I hadn't thought of intake though. I'll have to chew on that one now.

Bud

Maybe you could attach a piece of plywood (or whatever) to a set of rails, attached to the ceiling, and have a board you could slide forward out of the soffit. You could then (now or in the future) mount to board, and slide it back into the soffit after the mounting was complete. I guess you'd lose a little height to accomodate the board+rails but might give you some flexibility/accessibility.

Not sure if this idea is advisable, necessary, helpful or obvious. But its fun to consider scenarios.

Hey Dave,

Interesting as well. I was thinking of a hinged trap door so I could get up in the soffit/projector box and swap out projectors (either shelf mounted or ceiling mounted). As I understand it, you're really talking about a drawer that comes out of the front of the soffit. The projector is in the drawer, so do what you need and you slide it back in. I think its possible. The height of the drawer with support would extend below the bottom of the soffit, but that would be ok. It would be like the grey area in the above photo. I saw that because I'm trying to keep the top piece of the trey at the same height as the rest of the trey for the rope light to give an even glow. I'd hate to have to go above that, but I'd be willing to come down a few inches.The rest of the box inside the soffit would be stationary so I could mount the thermostat, outlet and tie into the ventilation.

Hmmm, interesting.

Bud

On another note, I saw Dcostanza's (Don's) Cinema Paradiso Marquee (http://www.doncostanza.com/new_page_2.htm) yesterday in another thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=613165). I believe I had seen it before, it blew me away (great job Don!) :cool: . It sure got me thinking. I have some ideas and actually did a design yesterday, but I'm going to hold off posting until I work through details. I have a much smaller area to work with, but I think I have something that's doable that'll make a statement. :D My father-in-law is coming down after the holidays, so we may end up prototyping when he's here.

Bud

Yeah basically a drawer or an upside-down drawer depending on what the needs are (for shelf mounting or ceiling mounting). I would assume that the ventellation would then be fixed (and a little overpowered?) and you'd have to think a bit about cabling (an extra foot or two of slack, and hope it doesn't get unruly when closed).

Not sure it helps with the obstructions, but would make future swap outs and or maintanence a little easier.

Dave,

Definately an option for a shelf mount unit. I have plenty of slack in the cables to work with there. Good point though. Not sure what you mean by overpowered?

Bud

Craig,

Interesting. Do you have a picture of your setup? Is the fan in the box or at the end of your exhaust pipe (at the wall)? You can't see the duct (need to extend to the front of the soffit) or the temp switch that controls it in my picture. I hadn't thought of intake though. I'll have to chew on that one now.

Bud


I am at work right now.
I will try posting a picture later tonight if I have time.
Yes, the fan is at the end of the pipe outside of the hushbox. The pipes are flush with the outside wall. The fan is secured to the wall. Right now it looks crude. I am going to make a small marquee that says refreshments or something to cover up the fan, pipe and cables, as this is the area outside my theater where my future concession stand will reside.
I don't see where you would need an elaborate slide system. Just leave enough cable so you can pull it out when you need to remove the pj. I think what you have is nice. Just be sure you have enough space for upgrades and ventilation is all I was saying. :)

Craig

I've made a tough decision and decided to part with my baby, a 2004 Acura TL (http://public.fotki.com/bketterl/2004tl/). :( A tough decision for me for sure. Mint condition, 16K miles and new Michelin Pilots. She goes in the paper this Friday. If anyone is interested in the Atlanta area, PM me. I'll even consider throwing in the Escort for an AVSer!

I will miss her! More images and info at the link above.
http://images12.fotki.com/v242/photos/6/649633/2370847/AcuraTLsmall-vi.jpg

We have a pending sale! Not an AVSer though...get to keep the radar detector!

Bud

Here is the fan I used.
Let me say, that it seems pretty noisy right now. Hopefully when I completely seal my HB, it will be much quieter.
http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=262-686


Not to hijack things, but I've been eyeing up this exact fan since it's line voltage, quite and 105 cfm. Did it come with a plug or just bare wires? HOw are you wiring it? I want to use 1-2 of these for my HT rack and also in my entertainment center in the family room.

My Hsu VTF-2 sub arrived yesterday. I tested it quickly just to make sure it worked, so thats good to go. I also ordered my receiver, a Yamaha RX-V2600 (link no longer works) (http://www.yamaha.com/yec/products/receivers/RXV2600.htm) just this morning. I was originally going with the RXV2500, but as we all know, the longer you wait, the better things get. The RXV2600 also includes HDMI switching (2 in/1 out), de-Interlacing and up-Scaling to 1080i/720p (that also bypasses scaling when unnecessary). Looking forward to getting my hands on this puppy. I'll pick up the Ascends next month when the new 340 SEs come out.

EDIT: Since the Yamaha link no longer works, here is the replacement model, the RX-V2700. (http://www.yamaha.com/yec/products/productdetail.html?CNTID=451511&CTID=5000300)

Bud

Bud..

I've been looking at the same Yamaha RX-V2600 reciever!! You'll have to let us/me know how it is, and how the calibration works with the mic!!!

Sean

Sean,

Cool. Will do. It may be February or so before I can tell you, but not a problem.

Bud

I called Ascend Acoustics yesterday and put my name on the waiting list for the Ascend CMT 340 SEs due out in mid January. I'm getting 340s across the front. I already have the Sonance surrounds tucked away in boxes in storage.
I also received my tracking number for the Yamaha RX-V2600. Should be here tomorrow.

I think my wife has finally figured out the HT is actually going to happen and that I wasn't just full of hot air. ;) I'll be picking up the Linacoustic between Xmas and NYs and should start installing doors and trim that week as well. I'm hoping the stage and riser will also be complete about then as well. Although I may tile the bathroom since my father-in-law can hook up the fixtures while he's in town.

Getting closer!

Bud

Hey China :)
I like that the 2600 is XM ready, cool!
my carpet goes in tuesday (YES!:))

King.

WOW! I didn't realize you were that far along. Have you posted any new pics? I'm about to cancel my XM account that I had on my Acura. Just sold it today, which is why I can afford to buy some more new toys for the theater! BTW, XM will give you a trial period where they don't charge you the full rate, you just need to call them and ask for it. Also, you still need to buy the XM Connect-and-Play ( http://www.xmradio.com/xmcp/index.jsp) to get the service. It's about 40-50 bucks.

Bud

Bud:
Just read through your entire thread. It's been great following your progress.
I don't know if it's any easier starting with a shell, like an unfinished basement or having to build the shell like I have to.

Anyway great work!

Hey Hardwood. Thanks for the response. I'd rather start from scratch, visualize the final outcome and plan the whole thing, but thats me. Its been fun and a great learning experience, not to mention all the cool people I've met and have interacted with here.

Thanks and welcome to the "empty your wallet" club....

Bud

Thanks and welcome to the "empty your wallet" club....


AND HOW!

Today I put the last coat of mud on the ceilings. I have the last coat to do on a few corners, but thats about it. I should be able to wrap it up tomorrow.

Also, my Yamaha RX-V2600 came today. It powered up, but will have to wait a few weeks before the Ascends come in to get it real test run.

I need to start looking for a new DVD player next.

Bud

The new Samsung DVD-HD950 is pretty sweet. That's what I have planned. :D

Man Bud, What A great thread. What incredible progress you are making. That Drywall in the Game Room and the other Rooms is something I would not of Look forward to Doing, I hate Drywall work, it's so boring to me. I hung 85 Sheets of 5/8"s Dry Wall in my 15 x 20 Theater with the GG in between and I thought the Stack of Drywall was never going to end :D

Man, I love how you set up that Screen outside in the Yard for that Night. You know what my next project is now ;) I'm putting a Theater out in my CourtYard over my Pool.

Man keep up the great Work, it lloks like we may be Finishing both our theaters around the Same time.

Ruben

I need to start looking for a new DVD player next.

Bud

I have the Pioneer DV-59avi and I Absolutely Love it.
I also have the Samsung HD-931 and I really don't care for it.

Scotty and Ruben,

Thanks for the DVD player recommendations. I thought about a multiple changer, one that holds 100+ DVDs, for ease of use for the kids. I also know the BluRay and HDDVD are right around the corner as well. Although I enjoyed DVDA in the car, I sold the car Friday and don't expect to use the TT room much for music. The Yamaha does upscaling, so not sure if I should get and upscaling DVD player or not. I also want to add a HTPC sometime next year as well.

Oh Well, time to spend some time over in the DVD Forum today.

Sandman,

Thanks for the reply. I actually think you're ahead of me, but not too much. You'll finish before me for sure. I'm spreading my time across a lot of things done there, but glad the mud thing is over (should be today at least). I'll get there. Now that some equipment has arrived, speakers are ordered, seats will be ordered soon, fabric samples coming, I'm getting an itch to wrap things up. It'll still be two months before its done.

Your theater looks amazing! Love the ceiling. I thought about that early on, but it got back burnered. Because I had restrictions for locations on sconces, I ended up going recessed and gave up on the fiber optic (at least for the whole ceiling). I'm considering doing that night sky murals guy a try, but need to look into it some more. Phase II, thats the ticket.

Bud

OK, need some opinions here. Please chime in.

I plan on doing carpet in the HT room, tile in the bathroom and laminate flooring in the rest of the basement. What I'm not sure what to do with is my concession area. I plan on putting a row of base cabinets in the concession area with a mini fridge. I'm leaning towards the laminate type flooring in there because of the fridge, but am afraid of acoustic issues with that room being off the HT room. I don't plan on a door at this point, I'd like to leave it open if at all possible. Do you think this will be an issue? I could put a throw rug in there. I don't plan on linacoustic/batting/GOM or anything in there, but if it makes sense...

Here's the area:
http://images114.fotki.com/v640/photos/6/649633/2311872/Basement1a-vi.jpg

Let me know your thoughts.

Bud

tile in the bathroom and laminate flooring in the rest of the basement. What I'm not sure what to do with is my concession area.
What type of laminate flooring? Do you mean something like a faux tile or wood that "floats" on the sub-floor?

Sorry, yeah, a floating wood laminate floor. One of these snap together types. Not sure which at this point. I just started looking.

Bud

Well, if you don't mind opinions, run away from that as fast as possible. My parents put one of those floating floors in their house, have since replaced it with real wood. And they bought top-of-the-line Armstrong.

Also, I was watching one the Sell Your House type shows and one of the appraisers mentioned that they would place a lower value per square on a house with a floating floor.

From the pictures I have seen, you have a very nice house and are building a nice HT, so you may want to reconsider putting something like a floating floor in the basement. Even if it means it takes a couple more months to pay for an all tile floor it will be worth it in the long run.

Just my $0.02. :)

No problem at all when it comes to opinions.

What was the problem your parents had? I wouldn't do all tile, its just too hard. Maybe an engineering hardwood?

Anybody else have a bad experience with laminate floors? My parents had a laminate tile floor and took it up because it didn't stay flat (they're on a slab). The ended up putting down an engineered hardwood that was actually glued down.

Bud

Several problems actually. One, it squeaked when it was walked on from day one. The installer said that it would go away as it wore in. It didn't. Second, don't drop anything even remotely heavy on it. My mom had a bag of groceries rip as she was coming in the house, and one of the cans hit a joint just right and chipped a big chunk out of it. Granted it was one of the bigger cans of beans or something, but only fell from maybe 3' tops.

And the final straw was when my daughter left the tap in the bathroom running and it overflowed and got the floor pretty wet. We caught it quickly, but the damage was done. Within a couple of days it had buckled. And if you have a sink in the concession area there is always that possibility.

So they gave up and went with tile.

I also noticed you are putting in a mini-fridge. Does that area have its own breaker? We have a mini-fridge in our bar and every time the compressor kicks on, the lights flicker. Sometime this winter I am going to run a dedicated outlet to it.

Hey herd, thanks for the info. Interesting. No sink in the concession area, but will have a sink in the bar area. May be an argument for tile in that area.

The outlets are all on a different circuit than the HT equipment (dedicated) and the lights. If I had to put a separate circuit in for the fridge, not a problem, I could get to it from under the stairs, its not finished and I would still to easily be able to run the wiring back to the breaker.

Bud

Hi Bud,

I know a lot of people, myself included, that have laminate floor and they all love it in fact my parents are installing more today as I write this.

Some words of caution though. The floor should be fairly level with no dips in it or the floating floor floats across this dip and when you walk on it you will feel it flex because of the large air gap underneath. This can be remedied with some self-leveling floor leveler.

Another thing to be cautious of is liquids on some of these floors. Laminate is like MDF and if you get liquid in the seams or underneath it will expand. That being said much of the newer stuff today is coated and said to be safe for use in wet areas.

If the floor you are covering is concrete you will need to put a vapour barrier down first.

One note about durability. I'm sorry to hear about herdfan's experience with laminate but one of the biggest benefits of using laminate is it's durability. The first time I looked into this stuff the salesman was hitting it with a hammer to show how tough this product is. I have found it to be very tough indeed, much more durable than real wood and it does not scratch. I have dropped my hammer on this flooring before without so much as a mark.

I should probably start my own construction thread as I think I am about the same amount through my room as you and SandmanX. I'm "lurking" both threads, I just don't know how you guys have time to post updates and work on the rooms and educate yourself as you progress. I imagine I would save some time by asking the AVS members their opinions instead of standing there staring at something trying to figure out how I will make it work!

Rob :)

Oh, and I also meant to mention that I love following yours, SandmanX and others threads here on AVS and find the information valuable and inspiring. Keep up the great work!

Bud,

As far as DVD players go, a unit by Oppo is all the rave. It received the highest rating from Secrets as the video is above all else.
Oppo Review here (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=124#Oppo%20DigitalOPDV971H%20(DVI))

I read another review on Ultimate AV and the concur, but gave it a bit lower marks because of the remote.

I'm also looking at the Panny S77 and S97 because they also score well with video and play RAM discs.

Rob,

Thanks for the reply and comments. The floor is concrete, so it would need the vapor barrier, for sure if I go that route.

Bud

Jerrod,

I was looking at the S97 and S77 and some point, need to go back and review. The Oppo sure does sound good, I wish it had HDMI instead of DVI. I know you can convert, but was surprised. It seems many of the manufacturers are going the HDMI route now.

Bud

Just got back from Home Depot and ordered 6 doors. Three for the game room and bathroom and three for the HT room. I got solid 6 panel pine doors for the HT room so I could stain them. I was going to go Safe n' Sound, but they come prefinished and I didn't want to worry about matching the finish. The others will be painted. I also had to get them with matching hinges as the rest of the house and without the casing (they couldn't make them with the casing I have for the rest of the house either). I'm now $900.00 lighter!

Oh, it'll be probably AFTER the holidays before I get them too!

Bud

I've done five separate tiling projects in my house and I didn't find them all that difficult. Talk to someone who's done it a few times (and you trust their experience/judgement) and you can figure it out from there (especially if you have them help you the first time).

They look great, was very cheap to do (raw materials are much cheaper than alternatives that I've seen, such as vinyl, carpet, fake hardwood, real hardwood, etc), and will last many (50+) years.

Tim,

Actually, I've done a few bathroom floors and a backsplash. I'm not convinced though that I want to do the whole gameroom though, maybe just the bar. Whats your opinion on the acoustic issues with having a hard floor versus carpet in the concession area?

Bud

I would Def do tile like a Granite or Marble something Real Rich Looking.
You only live once and Stone Lives forever. I also think you should put a Door on that theater.

Ruben

Bud, my vote would be for ceramic tile or an engineered hardwood instead of the laminate. I doubt you would notice acoustic problems from the flooring in that adjoining room, but I am far from an acoustic expert. As far as the laminate flooring in the rest of the basement, I would consider an engineered hardwood if you are still open for suggestions on that, it's much more resistant to moisture. I considered engineered hardwood for our basement and was going to use Delta FL (a sheet of dimpled plastic- the stuff thats on DriCor or SubFloor). In the end we decided on carpet throughout.

Here is a nifty money saving trick. With engineered flooring, you can put down the Delta FL without the plywood and the engineered hardwood with its foam pad can be put right over it. The wood bridges the dimples. So for very little more than just a floating floor, you get the protection and comfort of Delta FL.

Just 2cents, BTW I follow your progress like many others here and think your project will turn out great. Cant wait to see the final results!

LOOKS GREAT!!!!! NEIGHBOR!!! Hello I live close by in Cartersville. I sent you a email. I have the OPPO 971 if you want to try it out! Just give me a call! HT looks awesome! I just started helping a buddy on a 22'x28' ht in Calhoun. c-ya Mike :D

Tim,

Actually, I've done a few bathroom floors and a backsplash. I'm not convinced though that I want to do the whole gameroom though, maybe just the bar. Whats your opinion on the acoustic issues with having a hard floor versus carpet in the concession area?

Bud
I wouldn't do the whole gameroom.. Carpet for that, as it's more comfortable, especially in a lower level. Tile for the bar area though, definitely. Possibly with a rug. I don't think it'll affect the sound much for the theater, but I'd also put in a door and not leave it open.. (but make it swing so you could have the possibility of it open and see in from the bar if you have a ton of people over).

I would Def do tile like a Granite or Marble something Real Rich Looking.
You only live once and Stone Lives forever. I also think you should put a Door on that theater.

Ruben

Ruben,

Based on your thread and your comments, you must have deep pockets! I may put a door on, although I may try it without it and add it later. I've had that in mind all along.

Bud

Luke,

The engineered wood is still and option. If I go this route, its unlikely I would do it myself, since it requires sanding and staining. I would need to get some estimates. One of my neighbors used this type of flooring in his basement, he's going to give me the number of the guy that did his. This stuff is glued down, so not sure how you can put it on top of the Delta FL. I inquired (again) about Dricore at the Home Depot and they told me they no longer carry it. Maybe its just that store, not sure. I was considering it for the HT room only.

Bud

Ruben,

Based on your thread and your comments, you must have deep pockets!

Not just deep pockets, but an amazing ability to find about every great deal there is on every item he procures. :-)

Luke,

The engineered wood is still and option. If I go this route, its unlikely I would do it myself, since it requires sanding and staining. I would need to get some estimates. One of my neighbors used this type of flooring in his basement, he's going to give me the number of the guy that did his. This stuff is glued down, so not sure how you can put it on top of the Delta FL. I inquired (again) about Dricore at the Home Depot and they told me they no longer carry it. Maybe its just that store, not sure. I was considering it for the HT room only.

Bud

Bud, the engineered HW floors I was refereing to come pre-finished, and can be floated much like a laminate. All the major manufacturers supply engineered HW floors that can be finished on site, or come pre-finished. They have different lines that can be glued, stapled, or floated. The engineered HW floors are warranted for below grade installations. Where as many of the laminates are not. Check out the major manufacturer's web sites and explore the options before you decide.

great thread! I have a 21 x 13 space in my basement earmarked for an ht and your thread is making me want to get started asap. As far as flooring goes, how about cork, bamboo, or just stained and etched concrete?

Bud,

Dricore is still available at the Home Depot in my area. It'd be worth asking them about.. I'm definitely thinking about using it.

Luke,

Got it. My neighbor had the glued and stained on site type. I need to take a ride up to Carpets of Dalton (http://www.carpetsofdalton.com/cgi-bin/director.pl?P=store&L=3&S=title), which is one HUFE flooring store not too far from here. Just need to find the time.

Bud

Zambo,

Thanks. I haven't really considered these. I'm trying to get a certain look, although its hard to explain. The general contractor who built this house did stained and etched on his floor. Turned out wonderful and I really like it, but its not the look we're trying to achieve. Thanks for the post.

Bud

Tim,

Good point. I'll have to check the other local stores.

Bud

All (and Jerrod),

Thanks for the DVD player recommendations. Apparently Audioholics did a review on the Panasonic DVD-S97 which I just saw linked from the front page of AVS. I went through it since I had looked at this unit before (and Jerrod reminded me), but had back burnered due to some comments I saw in the DVD forum about firmware and a few issues with it. Apparently that's been resolved and overall had a great review.

I also remembered last night that my company has some sort of deal with Panasonic and that I could buy it discounted. I went and check out the Panasonic site that I have access through and sure enough, it was in stock, cheap (at least 60.00 cheaper than what I could find online) and included free shipping! So, I picked one of those up. I figured, if it doesn't suit my needs, it'll end up in the family room and replace my six year old Sony.

Bud

Not just deep pockets, but an amazing ability to find about every great deal there is on every item he procures. :-)

Hey Chirpie,

Are you including yourself in that comment? :p

Bud

Bud,

I am painting the sheet rock black, (roller, per your advice) and reverse mounting on my two garage windows tonight.

Thanks for the advice. I will let you know how it turns out.

Rick

Hey Chirpie,

Are you including yourself in that comment? :p

Bud

LOL, I hadn't even given that any consideration when I made that comment. I guess I was only observing that Sandman's had a few items with prices I was in near disbelief over. (I.E., the price of that taping and mudding job, the chairs he got, and the projector he won.)

As for myself I'll leave that alone, since if I say I'm a great value it makes me sound egotistical or if I say I'm underpriced then it sounds like I'm whinning. Either way I loose so I'll elect to shut up instead. ^_^

All (and Jerrod),

Thanks for the DVD player recommendations. Apparently Audioholics did a review on the Panasonic DVD-S97 which I just saw linked from the front page of AVS. I went through it since I had looked at this unit before (and Jerrod reminded me), but had back burnered due to some comments I saw in the DVD forum about firmware and a few issues with it. Apparently that's been resolved and overall had a great review.

I also remembered last night that my company has some sort of deal with Panasonic and that I could buy it discounted. I went and check out the Panansonic site that I have access through and sure enough, it was in stock, cheap (at least 60.00 cheaper than what I could find online) and included free shipping! So, I picked one of those up. I figured, if it doesn't suit my needs, it'll end up in the family room and replace my six year old Sony.

Bud
I doubt you can go wrong with that. When I'm ready to buy mine, I might have to call in a favor to my "Bud"........ :D

Jerrod,

No problem, just send me your credit card number!

Bud

I'll send you 2, that way you have a backup.

I also remembered last night that my company has some sort of deal with Panasonic...

Oh my, Bud... I can hear that AE900U calling your name! If I were you and I could get the same discount on that, it sure would be at the TOP of my list!!! :D

Steve,

We also have some deal with Philips, XM Radio, Apple, Palm, Cingular, Sprint and a bunch of non-technical companies (GM, Ford, and a host of other companies). I'm not sure all these discounts are weighed equally though or are even worth it.

The AE900 needs another looksie though. :)

Bud

For those of you considering the Yamaha RXV2600 (I know there are a few), I had heard that this receiver, like the 2500 run hot. Although I have mine, Its just isn't ready to be hooked up yet for me to discover this. Take a look at this thread, in particular, take a look at this post. Apparently there is an internal fan that you can change the settings for (from auto to continuous) which will help.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6767297&&#post6767297

Thought I'd pass that along.

Bud

Hey China,
Don’t know if you received my response to your PM but here is the link to some new photos
Of my finished neon and new carpet (HELL YEAH!)
The end of page 5 and page six are the new ones.
And there are only about ten, of course my damn camera went dead (nice!)
I just charged it a month ago:)

http://kingdome1964.myphotoalbum.com/albums.php

I did see your PM, but haven't the chance to reply. I love the carpet! Very cool. Man, that flex neon is pricey! Sweet, but pricey!

Bud

Yeah I know the price is hell!
what really sucks is when I first started looking at it about six months ago I got a quote for right around 500 and I decided to wait until I was a little closer before I ordered it.
And yeah, you guessed it, the SH&%T took a 50% jump, every where I looked it doubled (NICE!).
And that was if I could even find it in stock.
And the blue neon was about as scarce as the stupid X box 360, it took almost 3 months for it to show up, I just got it about 2 weeks ago!

And the carpet, yeah it is stunning, the pictures don’t do it Justus.
And like everything else the price of that stuff makes me weep.......
(Oh you are going to love this) my wife just about went down and filed over this one!
I already bought carpet, months ago, I found a good deal on some carpet I liked so I bought it and stuck it in my garage.
so when I was over at the carpet store to set up an install I saw the star carpet (YEAH YOU KNOW WHATS COMING HERE) you know when you see something and that’s it, it belongs in my theater, I HAD to buy it! So I was hammered for carpet twice! (NICE)
My most intelligent day on this earth so far, was the day I realized I was a Moran!

Bud,

You asked if I might be able to help you visualize some home theater color schemes for your room. I hacked up the Denges theater model some and put a quick soffit in. It obviously not suppoed to look exactly right. Then I added in some of the colors you mentioned. I believe this is the 150 on the walls and the 298 on the soffit. Does this look to be helpful to you? If so, I can try some of the other all colors so you can see them together. If not, let me know what I could do to make it more helpful to you...

reap

http://img307.imageshack.us/img307/6231/pass15gg.jpg

Reaper, yes, definately helps. I'd like to see the different color variations and would like take medium gery (298) down along the sides of the screen. The area above and below the screen can be just black. I'm also thinking about the back wall in the 298, but not sure yet.

Bud

381:

http://img428.imageshack.us/img428/2254/pass24rw.jpg

402:

http://img418.imageshack.us/img418/8349/pass30ra.jpg

756:

http://img336.imageshack.us/img336/3867/pass43uq.jpg

757:

http://img336.imageshack.us/img336/4616/pass50yg.jpg