Hello,

I am a new home owner looking to get into a dedicated home theater room on a budget. My equipment as of right now is as follows:

NEC XG110 CRT FP
HK AVR 325
JBL NSPIIa Speaker Package<---already found a new home
Parts Express Dayton 10” Sub<---needs a new home

Future Equipment (as in within the theater completion timeline):

Update:::Onix Rocket RS-150 x 4 & RSC-200
AV123 MFW-15

Background

New home has a bonus room in the basement that was previously used as a family room with built in surround sound for an older Mitsubishi RPTV with only one couch for seating.

Current Room Tour….follow me….
The room is approximately 22’x14’ with some interesting shapes…
Here is the room as it stood when we looked at the house…nice laminate flooring…perfect for home theater….right…
http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904326.CIMG0677.jpg

Way before
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904339.P1010739.jpg

In between
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82460643.sq0YkFyt.jpg

After
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82647073.1HMOOHIf-1.jpg

Before...all clean and domestic looking
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904326.CIMG0677.jpg

Current Status...

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8239.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8232.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8405.jpg

Now, you can see I have been marking up what I am imagining….

The crt projector I purchased from mikecazzx on AVS forum came with a stand that he built, which I will either use or recreate with a different finish. Here is what mike gave me…including the projector…well not gave I guess..
http://i.pbase.com/o4/83/439483/1/58904305.b2_1.jpg

Either way these things are huge at around 34” x 54”. I don’t really like the idea of ceiling mounting this 150lb mammoth but I might change my mind soon enough. I was looking at this type of home theater style seat..

Theater seating. (https://securewsch01.websitecomplete.com/lhsoltau/shop/showProd.asp?prod=9)

So the crt projector and stand in the middle of two theater style seats on each side in the front row at about 11’ from the 110” screen (preliminarily).

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904338.P1010738.jpg

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904340.P1010740.jpg

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904341.P1010741.jpg

Then building a riser behind this first row (possibly with some bass shakers to fit one couch for now.

I will modify one of those “dvd racks” to be an equipment rack opening…

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904339.P1010739.jpg

For room color I want to use this color…
http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904342.P1010743.jpg

Which is a sort of deep red/maroon, with a black chair rail and some sort of fabric on the lower half of the wall. The screen wall will be some sort of black fabric as well.

I was contemplating closing the room off with a wall in the back and cutting a door through this wall….
http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904332.P1010729.jpg

But the hallway is pretty narrow behind it so I don’t think I can make this work.
http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904329.P1010717.jpg
http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904328.P1010716.jpg
http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904327.P1010714.jpg

Thanks for reading the whole thing…I guess I always read these things and wish people would put more pictures and less words…so that is what I did.

Any suggestions thus far?? Where is a good future rendering when you need one?? lol

Still need a theater room name also….

I definitely think its harder trying to alter or modify an existing room than building a new room from scratch. You seem to have a good start on the project. If both rack areas are staying I might consider using the rear area for your components so their lights don't reflect on the screen. Also while I agree the more picture the merrier, I was still a bit confused on what's exactly behind the different extensions into the room. Sometimes a layout helps drum up some suggestions.

True, true...I forgot the plan.

I did this in MS paint so don't laugh.

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58906360.PLAN_LAYOUT.jpg

Let me try to convince you to ceiling mount the projector. Its really not that hard (a few friends bribed with beer work well). With limited width, you don't want to give up the best seats to the projector.

Also, there is sometimes a brightness issue with floor mounting. When you floor mount, the light comes up to the screen and then bounces off towards the ceiling. When you ceiling mount, it goes the other way - with the light reflecting back down toward you.

Anyway, consider it. I think it would be worth it.

True, true...I forgot the plan.

I did this in MS paint so don't laugh.

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58906360.PLAN_LAYOUT.jpg

Where's the door? You said it doesn't really work in the side wall and you put a couch all the way across the back...

You could also add some type of built in shelving in the area between the current built-ins. You could use them to hold DVD's or theater accessories. You could also put a popcorn machine there.

Where's the door? You said it doesn't really work in the side wall and you put a couch all the way across the back...


Now you see my dilemma...I might bring the side wall in to match the built-in depth to make the side hallway larger and put the door in the side.

I also agree that it stinks that the best seats in the house are being given to the projector. It seems that the nature of the CRT projectors is you want easy access to the insides to mess around with stuff.

I might build the tried and true unistrut mount for ceiling mounting but I would hate to keep having people come over to help me get it down and up and down and up....

You can still access the insides when its on the ceiling (because it is upside down). Unistrut works well. That's what I used to hang my M8500 in my last room.

Good luck with whatever you choose.

Have you thought of turning the whole thing 90 degrees? If I understand your comments thus far, you are planning seating for 5. 3 in the couch, and 2 theater seats? You have your projector noted as 11 feet from the screen.

You should have the room to do one row of 5 seats, have the projector at 11 feet, and be able to use the current doorway. In some instances the "longer" dimension actually works better as the 'width' of the theater.

I also agree that you should ceiling mount the projector.

Have you thought of turning the whole thing 90 degrees? If I understand your comments thus far, you are planning seating for 5. 3 in the couch, and 2 theater seats? You have your projector noted as 11 feet from the screen.

You should have the room to do one row of 5 seats, have the projector at 11 feet, and be able to use the current doorway. In some instances the "longer" dimension actually works better as the 'width' of the theater.

I also agree that you should ceiling mount the projector.


I have thought of that because that is how the room was setup when we bought the house. I didn't like the feel. I thinkt that a longer narrow room will give a more theater type feeling than one wide row of seating. Just my preference but thanks.

I am seriously considering ceiling mounting now and will have to look into this....

I also suggest turning it 90deg. You could put in one wide arc of seating in that space.

.... and mounting of the projector on the ceiling.

Best of luck.... either way it will be a nice space.

NICE photo blog. keep em coming.
Id almost be tempted to put the screen between the 2 dvd bookcases instead of the other wall.. although you will loose secondary seating but you can fit more of the theater style seats in a row (if you ceiling mount too).
11' away for the seating should be plenty, but you will suffer when it comes to the image's size. also. i own those same Bic Accoustechs as well.. after proper break-in, its going to sound KILLER in that small room.. you will not need to upgrade the sub.. youll see

Ok, so I will entertain ceiling mounting the projector but there is no way I am doing the short wide theater. I just don't like how it looks. I like feeling more like an actual theater!

Here is an updated "plan".

http://i.pbase.com/o4/83/439483/1/58941043.PLAN_LAYOUT_REV2.JPG

I am thinking about continuing the soffit all around the theater to maintain some continuity around the screen. I have removed the equipment rack and will most likely place it closer to the projector behind the wall with maybe only a dvd player in the actual theater and everything else behind the scenes. I can also bring the left wall in a bit to not make the theater so right hand lopsided but more narrow which is bad. I am looking at it.

Any thoughts on the soffit or the new layout? Thanks guys.

Here is a pic of the soffit I am thinking of...I just now thought of putting the center channel speaker in there too!

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58941309.SOFFIT.jpg

A little update. I have people coming over to my house and I couldn't resist in getting something done! So I threw up some paint. I am building a BOC screen now and may start to build a riser next week.

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/61233723.P1010947.jpg

Still Wet!

I am going to have the bottom half with some sort of black fabric or cloth...something cheap.

Man I hate trim work.

A little update. I have people coming over to my house and I couldn't resist in getting something done! So I threw up some paint. I am building a BOC screen now and may start to build a riser next week.

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/61233723.P1010947.jpg

Still Wet!

I am going to have the bottom half with some sort of black fabric or cloth...something cheap.

Man I hate trim work.

looking good so far, but someone needs a lesson on how to apply paint properly and evenly.

I like the color, I assume it will dry flat and not glossy?

looking good so far, but someone needs a lesson on how to apply paint properly and evenly.

Hey! I don't paint for a living and it is WET in the picture...so yes it is FLAT black and EGGSHELL burgundy wine. It dries smooth and even. Thanks for the comments though...this is a temporary fix to make it look nice to get all my friends on the same page as myself...right now they think I am crazy!

Hey! I don't paint for a living and it is WET in the picture...so yes it is FLAT black and EGGSHELL burgundy wine. It dries smooth and even. Thanks for the comments though...this is a temporary fix to make it look nice to get all my friends on the same page as myself...right now they think I am crazy!

i was referring to the roller marks. you shouldn't paint in an up/down motion as it doesn't spread the paint evenly...you should try to paint in a "W" "N" or "M" motion, criss crossing so the paint is even and blends.

as i said, it looks great....just a tip for future reference....

here are some tips to make it easier:
http://www.paintquality.com/diy/content/howtopaint.htm

I don't paint for a living either :) ... though one would think so, given the amount of color i have in my house and the number of times I've painted each room

i was referring to the roller marks. you shouldn't paint in an up/down motion as it doesn't spread the paint evenly...you should try to paint in a "W" "N" or "M" motion, criss crossing so the paint is even and blends.

as i said, it looks great....just a tip for future reference....

here are some tips to make it easier:
http://www.paintquality.com/diy/content/howtopaint.htm

I don't paint for a living either :) ... though one would think so, given the amount of color i have in my house and the number of times I've painted each room


Ok, ok, ok...guilty...I have always gone up and down like Mr. Miagi taught me.

You can't tell once it dries...at least from my experience...but if you come over to my house and point out my painting errors I will kindly ask you to leave! Once the lights off no one will see anything anyway right!

Thanks for the tips...pretty sure I have seen that on some TLC shows before though.

One more vote for a ceiling mounted projector.

I could not stand giving one of the best seats in the house to the dam projector. My NEC 9PG+ is ceiling mounted. it is very easy to get to. The cover just drops down. On the floor you have the cabinet and theater chairs to deal with.

Plus on the floor the lenses are subject to damage. Also on the floor it is going to get moved and pushed out of alinement.

Here is a photo:

http://www.stargateunofficial.com/Gallery/Pic/HTBright06.jpg

Once the lights off no one will see anything anyway right!


100% correct! :)

One more vote for a ceiling mounted projector.

I could not stand giving one of the best seats in the house to the dam projector. My NEC 9PG+ is ceiling mounted. it is very easy to get to. The cover just drops down. On the floor you have the cabinet and theater chairs to deal with.

Plus on the floor the lenses are subject to damage. Also on the floor it is going to get moved and pushed out of alinement.

I have pretty much decided to mount on the ceiling but for this unoffical unveiling in three weeks I will most likely not have time...heck I doubt I can even get the risers and carpet in!

I am trying to find out what I should do about bass shakers or butt kickers for my risers...maybe just buy the actual unit without amp right now and just wire them up for later purchase of amp...not enough cash flow for them right now but once the riser is up and carpeted there is no going back...does everyone fill there riser with something? sand? insulation? nothing?

Greg,
Most people stuff the riser with insulation....

I received and installed my Insteon dimmers

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/61700983.Ahq5MPsa.jpg

and controller(I thought this was wireless!).

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/61700985.rsdbAG24.jpg

I made a quick BOC screen with some velvet trim. The BOC was from Rosebrand and had some spots on it! Too late to turn back now though...it is only a temporary fix and will serve the purpose just fine for now.

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/61700988.gdOmMCOu.jpg

Now I am looking for solutions for lining the bottom half of the room. I have thought about using linacoustic with fabric over top or possibly just the fabric over top for this first little gathering. I will have to decide, and cost may be the deciding factor.

and controller(I thought this was wireless!).

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/61700985.rsdbAG24.jpg


It is.
Its just not battery powered. ;)

ted

The screen looks good in the pic, what kind of material did you use? What size is that screen? I see your location is IA/IL, I was wondering if you are in the quad cities?

i was referring to the roller marks. you shouldn't paint in an up/down motion as it doesn't spread the paint evenly...you should try to paint in a "W" "N" or "M" motion, criss crossing so the paint is even and blends.

as i said, it looks great....just a tip for future reference....

here are some tips to make it easier:
http://www.paintquality.com/diy/content/howtopaint.htm

I don't paint for a living either :) ... though one would think so, given the amount of color i have in my house and the number of times I've painted each room

Ok, I'll join in on the constructive paint criticism too.
Always do the cut in first, unless you are doing some crown molding or something.

Looks good. Room dimensions are similar to what I am faced with too except I have a rectangular space. I'm setting mine up long and narrow too. I have yet to get started. Still trying to figure out all these wall isolation techniqes. These isolation clips just seem overkill and cost so much money. Anyway, getting off topic.

Keep it up, can't wait to see the rest.

Man, let the paint bashing keep coming...I will hold the rooms shots until I get the painting done and show you all it doesnt matter. LOL

The screen looks good in the pic, what kind of material did you use? What size is that screen? I see your location is IA/IL, I was wondering if you are in the quad cities?


I used BOC or Black Out Cloth, and the screen is 110". I am indeed located in the quad cities.

thats cool, I grew up just north of the quad cities in Camanche, IA. My dad still lives in Bettendorf.

Snake,

You must be follwing me...

I lived in the Quads for 13 years - Bettendorf specifically. Sometimes I miss it up there. I get back up there now and then for a wedding or the Bix but not often enough.

Greg,

Looking good. Keep it up. Looking forward to seeing the finished pics. Once you get things up, you'll love the pic that the NEC will throw.

Bryan

Snake,

You must be follwing me...

I lived in the Quads for 13 years - Bettendorf specifically. Sometimes I miss it up there. I get back up there now and then for a wedding or the Bix but not often enough.


Bryan


Yeah I get up there every few months, to see family. But I like it down here.

I used BOC or Black Out Cloth, and the screen is 110". I am indeed located in the quad cities.



Where did you find BOC that big to make a 110" screen?

Where did you find BOC that big to make a 110" screen?

www.rosebrand.com

Before!
http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/58904326.CIMG0677.jpg

After!!
http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/61972512.sTS9WBWM.jpg

getting closer to the initial unveiling...but far from done!

Greg,

Looking good. Your upper wall color is similar to mine. I would agree to continue the soffit around the screen and right sided wall, then add molding and up-lighting. Would give the room some symmetry and really adds to the wow factor. We love that we did this with ours. Good luck!

Greg,

Looking good. Your upper wall color is similar to mine. I would agree to continue the soffit around the screen and right sided wall, then add molding and up-lighting. Would give the room some symmetry and really adds to the wow factor. We love that we did this with ours. Good luck!

do you have any pictures of your room? I would be curious to see what a possible finished product would look like. Thanks.

Hung the screen, pretty simply I might add. I had two 2' pieces of 1x2 pine from making the screen. I screwed one to the wall and one to the frame and just laid one on top of the other...there seems to be enough weight so the screen just sits there...I know not the best but works great for now.

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/62356022.4zUOVUKq.jpg

I have the NEC "set-up". I have about 45 minutes into what will end up being about a 20 hr exercise trying to get this thing up and running. Give you an idea of what the whole theater feel will be.

A few Screen Shots

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/62356025.F0x5BKzf.jpg

I like what I am seeing so far...just need to work on edge and corner focus now!

I named the theater!

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/62356023.vlbVynvD.jpg

Oak Knoll Cinema for those that can't see that well! I made the blender animation that Reaper is helping everyone with.

I have put the "hush-box" around the NEC for the party but I will eventually be ceiling mounting it.

Looks good bro!

As for the paint stuff...I agree it doesn't matter. Good paint can be put on any way and you can't see any roller marks or whatever. Those who are busting your balls about that must use cheap ass paint for them to think it matters.

Oh and before any of the paint critics say I'm wrong, I painted my last HT and basement and didnt do any "key technique" and there were NO PROBLEMS and looked like any good paint job since i used....good paint.:) I do initially slap it on the wall in a V shape but that is about as far as the "technique" goes.

Updates...

Couple new toys....

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/63985486.VWHgxu1J.jpg

Need a bit of TLC and some new speakers to replace the lowly jbl nsp's. I got a good deal on some used stuff through the for sale section...

http://i.pbase.com/g4/83/439483/2/63985488.ZuzY9dJe.jpg

Nice!!! get that room done as I await the final product:)

What color of red is that and what color of carpeting are you going with?

@cburbs

The red color is called burgundy wine. I really like it. The darn theater seats are a bit more red but they will look ok.

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/66651088.R3WdNPNr.jpg

I have put a bit of work into the theater seats and just need to paint the backs and finish installing.

I am getting closer to the riser stage of my theater and would love to get that done, however, the whole getting married in two weeks has put a damper on construction. Some people say that I need to get this done before I get married but I think she is more excited about the little knick knacks of decorating it than I am. Oh well.

I have been picking up little vintage items of photography and film like this...

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/66651091.1xKTk4Vp.jpg

and this...

http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/66651092.VjnJb3Kl.jpg

How many seats are you going to have in each row?

Great color scheme - What color carpet and any more pics of any room changes?

No more pics as of right now...that is the problem with having the projector set up in the room already, no work gets done. Seriously though, once I get back from Bahamas I am setting it in high gear to finish this thing off.

I am hoping for three riser rows, from back to front 2 seats x 2 seats x 3 seats with space up front for future addition of theater style recliners (think a set of three Coaster Showtime).

If you refer to page 1, you can see a diagram of what I wanted to do. I will post a new plan once I get a chance that shows the new ideas. I still want to put a wall along the back but now I want an aisle along the wall, and of course the projector is going on the ceiling.

Still to do:

-Build riser
-install buttkickers
-Build back wall of theater with door
-Get Carpet (thining a really dark grey almost black, either that or a red and black design)
-Run wires for speakers and projector install
-Purchase or build sub (darn LLT's look interesting)
-Put lineacoustic along lower half of room and on screen wall with some sort of GOM or equivalent covering.
-Build small stage solely for decoration not a functional speaker stand if you will
-Install curtains in front of screen that I just purchased from Walmart, black velvet

So as I make this list, I see I am very far from done and it makes me sad, but I will finish!

Here is where I am heading as of now...hopefully I have enough room to pull this off! I need to get downstairs and do some measuring.


http://i.pbase.com/g3/83/439483/2/66707702.af31Vtjm.jpg

Hello Greg,

I like the room design. May I ask where you were able to pick up the theater seats and how much (approx) the run?

Regards,

I bought them used off eBay from a guy in Chicago. I paid $300 for 8 seats. They needed a little TLC but they were in nice shape, the upholstery was anyway. I spoke with the seller and he told me he bought a whole semi load from a Canadian theater that was remodeling and has been selling them on eBay to get rid of the ones he doesnt need. He told me the last bunch sold for $700 so I got a steal! To think, I was planning on spending over $300 per seat...now I have seating for almost 10 in my theater for little cost.

I am getting ready to purchase some cables from Monoprice. Here is what I have in my cart so far, I would appreciate input as to what I may have forgotten.

2 x PREMIUM 25FT 3-RCA Component Video Coaxial RG-6 18AWG 75Ohm Cable

1 x DVI Male Digital/DVI Male Digital Dual Link (24AWG) Cable - 25FT (Gold Plated/Black)

2 x High-quality Digital Coaxial Audio RCA Cable M/M RG59U 75ohm Gold connector S/PDIF Subwoofer - 3ft

3 x High-quality Digital Coaxial Audio RCA Cable M/M RG59U 75ohm Gold connector S/PDIF Subwoofer - 6ft

These subwoofer cables were cheap and I figured if I buy them it will push me to purchase some separates!

5 x BNC M/M RG59U - 25ft

I was planning on running a normal VGA cord, and possibly adding in here an HDMI cord god forbid.

So I have Component x2, VGA(already own), HDMI (probably buy), 5xBNC for RGBHV (for the cRT guys). I was thinking of running an IR emitter, and possibly adding in two runs of cAT6...probably not necessary but can't be too careful.

Does anyone just buy the bulk 1000ft from monoprice? Which one do I need to buy or does it matter...then I suppose I need to learn how to terminate them! Oh man that seems like a nasty prospect.

Anyway, anything I am forgetting?

Ok, ok, ok...guilty...I have always gone up and down like Mr. Miagi taught me.

You can't tell once it dries...at least from my experience...but if you come over to my house and point out my painting errors I will kindly ask you to leave! Once the lights off no one will see anything anyway right!

Thanks for the tips...pretty sure I have seen that on some TLC shows before though.


Just make sure you don't "Wax on, wax off."

great thread keep pics coming. The paint is great. I think i will use monoprice to get my wires and etc.

wap

Slight update...I have the theater seats all done and assembled...pics to come soon.

Questions about riser construction...

Double plywood top with buttkickers? I heard you only want one so that the shake doesnt get too damped. Should I use the roofing felt between layers if I go with two? Roofing felt between all wood to wood connections to stop vibrations (I mean it should be stable if I use enough screws!).

I plan on three rows for my riser with 6" rise for each row. I was planning on just building three 6" stud walls basically on the floor and stack them one on top of the other. The bottom 6" wall would cover the entire footprint of the riser and be the largest with the next 6" wall covering the top two riser footprints and the top 6" wall being only the top riser. Add a few step lights on the side and rope light under the overhangs, fill it with insulation and top it off with some carpet. Sound like a plan??

I will probably be getting to this pretty soon. Any tips would be appreciated. If no replies, I will just proceed as I have discussed.

You can look here for some info:
http://www.ronniejackson.com/theater/

Then click on seating -

I still need to do mine as well - just have to figure out how high to go with the riser with such a short ceiling height.

Thanks, that is pretty much what I have been envisioning. Doesn't help with the Buttkicker questions. One or two sheets of plywood for the buttkickers!? I will probably do two just to be safe from any sort of vibration/hollow sounds coming from the riser when you step on it...plus I am bolting down the theater seats to it and want the extra support.

Well, the theater will take a back seat for a second.

Stupid deer!
http://ct.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/69173279.Mts6LVxi.jpg

I wish I was in the back seat!

Might want to see how this pans out before I spend any fun money!

Everyone was OK, so that is good.

Things better now?

How's the theater coming along?

Hows the theater coming along?

Yes...all better. New "leased" car and a hole in the wall for the A/V rack. Getting prepped to hang the projector and build a riser.

I....must....work....on....theater....

Projector mounting in progress!!!

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/73927200.71NeunKT.jpg

Upgraded a speaker!!!!

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/73906080.CJeXAEwp.jpg

Waiting for the second buttkicker to arrive so that I can get to work on the riser....I am questioning though to just leave the buttkickers screwed into the top of the riser so they aren't trapped inside...still thinking about it.

To Do:

Finish up A/V rack stand and trim w/door
Mount Projector
Build Riser
Finish Frames with GOM or Dazian
Wrap room in Lineacoustic
Finish DIY Sub

my list is going the wrong way!

Projector mounting in progress!!!

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/73927200.71NeunKT.jpg

Upgraded a speaker!!!!

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/73906080.CJeXAEwp.jpg

Waiting for the second buttkicker to arrive so that I can get to work on the riser....I am questioning though to just leave the buttkickers screwed into the top of the riser so they aren't trapped inside...still thinking about it.

To Do:

Finish up A/V rack stand and trim w/door
Mount Projector
Build Riser
Finish Frames with GOM or Dazian
Wrap room in Lineacoustic
Finish DIY Sub

my list is going the wrong way!

you are going to love that center channel...by far one of the best I've heard.

Oh No!...

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/73906080.CJeXAEwp.jpg

It looks like someone stuck a finger in your dome tweeter on that Bigfoot :(. Gently massage that thing out of there and it should be fine.

Oh No!...

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/73906080.CJeXAEwp.jpg

It looks like someone stuck a finger in your dome tweeter on that Bigfoot :(. Gently massage that thing out of there and it should be fine.

Looks fine to me...sounds good too!
http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/74460606.TpgvwYGC.jpg

Have my weekend project now...

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/74460603.UL7J0Znx.jpg

bigger roll than I thought...

mock up...

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/74460604.2ejg5ejV.jpg

Some cables and power ran...
http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/74460605.M3sOJs7S.jpg

the aftermath of trying to piece together another htpc
http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/74460607.e1l50Lgr.jpg

Hopefully more to follow...

Ahh...not a dome tweeter :o. I guess they've changed that.

Looks fine to me...sounds good too!
http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/74460606.TpgvwYGC.jpg

It has...a.... NIPPLE! :eek:

SC

My basement is too cold I guess...

Trying out some of the Dazian fabric right now...hopefully I wont have to paint all the frames!

covered most of my 42"x42" frames with the Dazian fabric...sorry no pics right now...while doing this I had a revelation on the seating layout.

The whole plan all along was to use my two rows of two and one row of three theater style seats as temporary main seating until I could afford the 1 row of three luxury theater recliners...but until now I have been struggling to come up with scheme that lets me keep all in place once the recliners get here.

I was thinking about using the angled wall and remembered how I had it set up temporarily for a house party I had not too long ago.

Forgive my terrible skills in sketchup and another program, Softplan, which I am no where near learning..I have attached a pdf document that shows a rough sketch of what I am planning on doing.

This way the recliners are brought back and viewing distance will be roughly 10' from the recliners..

Let me know what you think..

Ok, disregard the color schemes, I can't find the right colors or even know how to change them all...this is what I am envisioning with my last PDF layout...Of course the front three are recliners and all others are theater style seats...you get the picture hopefully...I think it will all fit...

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/74728414.8Z0xJGqI.jpg

We got some major work done last night! Started at about 8:30 pm and went until 2:30...thank god for a heavy sleeping wife!

Starting out.....

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75438748.mDWaSGj1.jpg

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75438749.534ZAiWI.jpg

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75438750.e5K2SVL0.jpg

Assembling......

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75438752.AXsBahn2.jpg

Almost done now.....

http://i5.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75438753.lMiGXned.jpg

Just need some plywood sheets, pink stuff, roofing felt and it is done. I haven't quite determined how I want to do the rope light...but I have some time to think about it now.

Thanks to HawkeyeJosh for basically building this for me...he gave me the easy jobs while he flew through the rest.

I like friends that are motivated! :cool:

More progress...

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75496035.KdF9s2PE.jpg

All filled with pink stuff...

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75496043.6ANvcCfx.jpg

Light it up!

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75496049.gjZe46NY.jpg

50 foot of rope light with a pretty efficient routing job if I say so myself!...just need to secure it more often so it doesnt swoop down like this...

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75496057.IvkdOp07.jpg

Starting to look more like a theater now!

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75496065.4RaszMVN.jpg

just need to finish up the A/V rack, linacoustic the entire thing, and finally hang the projector!(need to wait on the projector to make me keep working and not just watch movies...

Looking good....yes don't put that projector up or you will never finish the room.

I put mine up and that put me off on finishing the 2nd row in the room as the front row was in.

Risers looks great. Looks like it was built by a couple of professionals ;)
Can't wait to see what it looks like when its all finished!

Projector is up! Pictures to follow tomorrow night....need batteries charged first.

First, never have your camera plugged into the computer when you are starting the computer up...second..now for the pictures courtesy of a card reader...

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75672120.fHYz062z.jpg

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75672121.tgyrkE6D.jpg

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75672124.jby3Tyam.jpg

A view from the back row...pretty low but I will get it set up to see...once you are sitting down and I get a black cover over the projector it shouldn't be that bad...plus, who cares about those in the back row...they are the friends that show up late!

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/75672127.5Ziaw7gu.jpg

Had some family and friends coming up this weekend so I committed the cardinal sin again! I set everything up real quick so we could enjoy it. I only spent about 10 minutes setting up the projector and it was driving me nuts but no one else seemed to notice all the picture issues I was seeing!

I watched Ant Bully HD-DVD and Shrek SD-DVD and played lots of Wii and Xbox.

This week promises to be just as busy as last week at work so I will probably not get much done.

Oh yeah...

I changed the name to the Oak Knoll Cinema thread because there are way too many "budget theater" threads and I didn't want mine to get lost in the shuffle.

Err..anymore lost in the shuffle.

Hey Greg,

I see that you ordered the stretcher bars. Did you get them from Rob @ www.frenchcanvas.com? How do you like them?

Your theater is starting to look fantastic and the riser construction is friggin' awesome!!!

FYI... My theater is still going through the insulation and re-sheetrocking phase after the pipe burst water damage fiasco. I'm taking the opportunity to change the design around so though I'm still going to the stretcher bars, I'm to change the configuration a bit.

Good luck on the rest of your build!!! It's looking really good!!!

EDIT: HOLY S#!T dude!!! I didn't realize the projector your using!!! Makes my Optoma HD72 look like dog poop in comparison.

Hey Greg!!

Great thread! The room looks great! Keep the updates coming!

Not sure if I missed it somewhere earlier in the thread but, where did you get your seats from? They look pretty nice and also look bigger than a typical theater seat.

BTW, how's the Wii on the projector? I've only had mine hooked up to the 50" DLP and haven't tried my projector yet.

John

Thanks Johnny.

I got the theater seats from ebay! I got 8 of them for $300!! It was a steal, but I had to paint them...luckily they were close enough to me that I could pick them up.

Due to the amount of legs that I received I am only able to use 6 of the seats.

The Wii was awesome on the 110" screen. Bowling was a blast and so was tennis.

EDIT: HOLY S#!T dude!!! I didn't realize the projector your using!!! Makes my Optoma HD72 look like dog poop in comparison.

I bet the picture makes yours look like dog poop too! :p j/k

Greg, you're a little ahead of me - I'm getting mud/tape this weekend - but, as fellow Iowa CRT guys (we're talking an exclusive club, here!), a visit to each others' theaters might be in order.

The room looks great, though considering that weird blue thing you started with! Now, quit watching movies.... and GET TO WORK!

SC

Stupid projector preventing me from getting any work done! Final four and movies don't help any either.

I was going to get carpet this last weekend but I found out it would cost only $240 to get it installed so I decided to just save up and schedule it to be professionally done.

I also have been busy on other projects.

Here is a teaser...

http://i.pbase.com/o6/83/439483/1/76637055.3rffcwcM.img_226.jpg

Long time no worky....a bit of progress today. Threw up some linacoustic.

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/81439725.q4stKnQu.jpg

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/81439726.cgoFKZDy.jpg

Waiting to get some carpet and build the entrance wall with a new door. Have been enjoying the projector way too much. Need to finish!

Anxiously awaiting the addition to our family (our first!) I decided I needed to get our entrance up so I could get a carpet guy over here pronto! If I don't get done soon I fear that it will sit on hold or in the state of "half finished" for eternity!

http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/82460637.ZcIawNIm.jpg

No top plate yet. Just sizing it up.
http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/82460639.PnRAsYcz.jpg

ooo. Might have to move a light.
http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/82460640.TF978Lwk.jpg

Got the curtains up...the left side is jerry rigged as you can tell.
http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/82460642.2Tl6OvjY.jpg

My last hurrah still unfinished!
http://i.pbase.com/g6/83/439483/2/82460643.sq0YkFyt.jpg

I think that once I get the rest of the linacoustic up and the carpet installed I will just be compelled to get the rest done! Well, hopefully I have time and money after next week!

I'm not seeing any of your photos?

Ok. I have transported all my photos over to photobucket since they are more geared toward forum posting and such. I will eventually go back through the thread and update the links but for now I will just post a bunch of before and after shots to make myself feel better about the progress I have made...

Way before
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904339.P1010739.jpg

In between
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82460643.sq0YkFyt.jpg

After
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82647073.1HMOOHIf-1.jpg

Before...all clean and domestic looking
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904326.CIMG0677.jpg

Gradually getting closer....

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/66707702.af31Vtjm.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/74728414.8Z0xJGqI.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904332.P1010729.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904333.P1010730.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904334.P1010731.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904338.P1010738.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/58904339.P1010739.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/61972512.sTS9WBWM.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/62356022.4zUOVUKq.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/66651094.NwPwYZYm.jpg

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/74460604.2ejg5ejV.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75438748.mDWaSGj1.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75438749.534ZAiWI.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75438750.e5K2SVL0.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75438752.AXsBahn2.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75438753.lMiGXned.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75496035.KdF9s2PE.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75496043.6ANvcCfx.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75496049.gjZe46NY.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75496057.IvkdOp07.jpg

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75496065.4RaszMVN.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75672120.fHYz062z.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75672121.tgyrkE6D.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75672127.5Ziaw7gu.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/81439725.q4stKnQu.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/81439726.cgoFKZDy.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82460637.ZcIawNIm.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82460639.PnRAsYcz.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82460641.U9EEeBqb.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82460642.2Tl6OvjY.jpg

Theater seats...
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/63985486.VWHgxu1J.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/66651088.R3WdNPNr.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/75496065.4RaszMVN.jpg

Screen
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/61700967.1SsGjZut.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/61700988.gdOmMCOu.jpg

Wall covering
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/74460603.UL7J0Znx.jpg

There! Hopefully they show up for all now!

They do. Pretty amazing before and after!

Looking good Greg - how high is that ceiling? Doesn't have the same head bumping projector feeling mine has (7.5' or so). Are you going to hush box it?

Greg, Looks Great!

I love to see how you took the angled wall and worked it right into the layout.

What's the material on your floor? is it layed over concrete?

They do. Pretty amazing before and after!

I know..but I sooo loved the blue and white paint job before.

Looking good Greg - how high is that ceiling? Doesn't have the same head bumping projector feeling mine has (7.5' or so). Are you going to hush box it?

It is the standard height 8'...probably 7-10".

My second row of seating can be a head banger if you are not watching. The wife wants me to get a little digital. Sure as soon as she wants to cough up the money!

I like the wider angle lens...makes the room look pretty big.

Greg, Looks Great!

I love to see how you took the angled wall and worked it right into the layout.

What's the material on your floor? is it layed over concrete?

Tony,

Originally there was laminate flooring in the room, or should I say echo chamber! It was terrible. I ripped out the laminate and gave half to my dad and the other half to the left side of my garage (wife is happy about that part!).

Currently it is just riser on concrete but Wednesday at 5pm we will be getting an estimate to get it carpeted. I wish I could find a sample of the carpet we picked...perhaps online somewhere...IT WILL BE DARK!

Does this work?

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/th_9a59b05b.jpg (http://s203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/?action=view&current=9a59b05b.flv)

it works......very nice!

I just got a carpet estimate from Lowe's. $1800 for this little room!!

The installer told me it would take extra time to "upholster" the risers so his installation price would be higher. He also told me that Lowes tacks on an extra 30% to his price.

Lowes gave me around $1000 for the material and over $600 for the installation. It was 10% off this last week but still it is way over what I expected!

I am looking at ways to make the installation more cost effective.

I am contemplating putting a trim around the perimeter of each of the riser steps and just laying carpet flat on the top and not tucking it underneath. I haven't worked out all the details but that should bring the material down a little and the installation down a lot.

I am not committed to this carpet but still am a little down right now because I thought I could see the finish...now I just can't afford it! :mad:

Oh yeah. I had a deadline to meet but I missed it slightly. We just had our first child last Monday. So I am hoping that the room will still get finished!

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/82891667.E9l6SESX.jpg

So I am hoping that the room will still get finished!



Don't hold your breath :eek: ! Your life has officially just changed. Congrats on the baby. Boy or girl (the black and white photo is very gender neutral)?

Baby girl. Named Reese Marie. Thanks.

Baby girl. Named Reese Marie. Thanks.

Congratulations!!!.....but yes, your life has definitely just changed!! My goal was to finish my theater/rec area before my little guy showed up (which I did), but now he's six months old and I thought I'd be building a bar this summer (the easy part, right) and.....well, that just isn't happening!!! :( I haven't even started it yet and everything I talk about it, the wife gives me "the look" and that's where the conversation ends.... :rolleyes:

What does everyone think of doing the floor and riser in two different colors of carpet.

Pad on the riser??

What does everyone think of doing the floor and riser in two different colors of carpet.
Depends on the colors :) Could look nice, could look like you ran out of carpet.

Pad on the riser??

Absolutely.

What does everyone think of doing the floor and riser in two different colors of carpet.

Pad on the riser??

I used one color on my riser, one my aisles and black on the stage.

http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb101/Arwenmark/Picturesapril07038.jpg

and yes by all means use a pad on the riser but not over the lip.

My room is pretty small and I have really loud (bright red!) chairs, so I didn't need any additional colors in the room. I used the same carpet on the riser as the rest of the room, and I think it turned out really awesome. I also used the same pad on the riser that I used on the concrete. It's a low-pile commercial nylon over a light wool pad. It's not super comfy to sit or kneel on, but since I won't be sitting or kneeling on the floor to watch movies, I think it's fine. ;)

As for additional colors, usually there's enough going on with chairs, fabric treatments, dark paint colors, throws, etc. in these rooms without adding even more colors on steps or risers (all due respect to McCall, of course.)

SC

Basically what i wanted to do was black with silver stars for floor and entrance and then cheaper all black for the riser. i am getting closer to just buying the carpet and having my installer do it under the table...so unethical i know!

McCall, did you have a theater thread? I am curious to see more pictures.

Great intro and congrats on the beautiful baby girl! Your life is about the change pal!

Bud

Thanks Bud.

I got the door bought and put in the opening. I am trying to figure out how to shim it properly. Pictures to follow shortly....

So many family here this weekend for the baptism.

Wait until next week...hopefully more time to finish painting and the new entrance...maybe some new tracklighting.

Ok. I just bought carpet from Menards today!

It was on sale for $.60 cheaper per sq ft than normal.

It is Mohawk Alladin carpet and it is 100% nylon in Black Swan color. It is very dark gray. I am getting pumped now. I have an appt. to get it installed on Sept. 14! It is almost over!

Trying to finish up a few items prior to the carpeting coming...

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_7210.jpg

and from outside

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_7215.jpg

Don't laugh. I obviously have no idea what I was doing but I think it turned out pretty good so far. That is just one pass on the mudding. That is my first door as well! I put one side flush and shimmed the right and top...not sure if that is right. It opens and closes though!

Just need to now smooth off the sharp corners on my risers. My carpet guy said that the carpet would wear at the corner of the OSB if I don't file those down. I don't know how to do it but I don't want to manually file the entire perimeter of each riser!

Any ideas?

Looks nice... Both the HT and new addition to the family!

Try a router with a 1/2" (or maybe 3/8") round over bit. Something like this: http://www.freud-tools.com/freudrounovb1.html

EDIT: Fix link.

I wonder how long that would take. I don't know if i have to do the top side and the bottom side? I would think just the top because it will see all the traffic but didn't know if because he was wrapping the carpet over both sides needed to be routed down. Darn...I will have to call him I suppose.

Another option is two pieces of 1/4 round put together to make a 1/2 round and applied to the edge.

http://www.reedsplace.com/Theater/P3264397sm.jpg

Another option is two pieces of 1/4 round put together to make a 1/2 round and applied to the edge.

http://www.reedsplace.com/Theater/P3264397sm.jpg

That looks like a great idea! How did you fasten it to the OSB? Did you nail them together and then to the riser or separately?

I glued the two 1/4 rounds together first and then glued and brad nailed the whole thing to the OSB lip.

What did you do at the corners?

I am thinking that a router would be quicker though?

What did you do at the corners?

I am thinking that a router would be quicker though?

I just fit them together. It doesn't have to be perfect because its covered with carpet. A router would work fine but would be messy. If there is no lip on your riser then I would just route the top. If there is a lip, though, I'd do what I did because you probably can't route the underside.

I went to menards and I saw the 1/4" quarter rounds in 8' lenths. They were about $3.50 a piece! That might add up with my riser. I would need about 14 of them I estimated quickly.

I know not much when you look at it but yes it probably requires more work. I will do a good measure and see.

I do have a lip so routing the underside will be an issue....hmmm.

I am finishing up painting the back of the theater now that I have my new wall installed and before the carpet gets installed next Friday!

A few questions:

1. Do they sell precut door trim packages? Paint grade hopefully as they will be painted.

2. I want to yank out the three cans at the back of the theater and swap in some track lights. I was imagining I can just pull the can and connect the track light transformer right up to the romex. Right? Either that or I will get some single spots and aim them at some movie posters on the wall.

Well I went out and bought a 1/4" roundover bit for my rotozip and went to town on my riser. 10 minutes later I had this...

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti203.jpg

I had to mess with the height adjustment a bit because I was getting this!

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti205.jpg

Here is the setup...I didn't even buy the router attachment I just used the normal guide.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti207.jpg

I decided that the bottom half is not required based on how they will pull the carpet tight around the top corner and that corner gets the foot traffic.

Disappointed today. I found out that the carpet installer has another job backing him up so he cancelled my install!

Maybe next week he said but he won't know until Monday. :(

I am finishing up painting the back of the theater now that I have my new wall installed and before the carpet gets installed next Friday!

A few questions:

1. Do they sell precut door trim packages? Paint grade hopefully as they will be painted.

2. I want to yank out the three cans at the back of the theater and swap in some track lights. I was imagining I can just pull the can and connect the track light transformer right up to the romex. Right? Either that or I will get some single spots and aim them at some movie posters on the wall.

1. Menards is the best location that I've found for the trim. Doors are standard sizes so I imagine they will have precut pieces... in the event they don't, its not that difficult to cut. If you're going to be painting you obviously dont want Oak, so go with a pine or another cheaper wood (depending on how hard / soft you want it).

2. The track lighting will have a single point connection just as your can light will. Depending on the type of track light you get, they generally come with a transformer of sorts that you connect to the romex. Then the transformer twists into and locks into place on the actual track itself. Once you've got all that wired up (obviously with the power still off) you'll secure the track to your wall / ceiling... I just used drywall screws. Next, twist and lock in place the actual lights, turn on the power and you should have light! Hopefully the can light opening will not be larger than the track light transformer.. otherwise you may find yourself patching the ceiling!

1. Menards is the best location that I've found for the trim. Doors are standard sizes so I imagine they will have precut pieces... in the event they don't, its not that difficult to cut. If you're going to be painting you obviously dont want Oak, so go with a pine or another cheaper wood (depending on how hard / soft you want it).

2. The track lighting will have a single point connection just as your can light will. Depending on the type of track light you get, they generally come with a transformer of sorts that you connect to the romex. Then the transformer twists into and locks into place on the actual track itself. Once you've got all that wired up (obviously with the power still off) you'll secure the track to your wall / ceiling... I just used drywall screws. Next, twist and lock in place the actual lights, turn on the power and you should have light! Hopefully the can light opening will not be larger than the track light transformer.. otherwise you may find yourself patching the ceiling!

1. Yes, I saw 36" precut packages at Lowes. I suppose I will just purchase these and cut the top down to size [30"]. I am doing oak on teh outside and painted on the inside. I will get two sets.

2. I think I want to try the conversion from the 6" cans to the GU10 halogens that I found previously in another thread. They are 20 a piece but it will not involve me patching 6" holes in my textured ceiling [which would not turn out pretty.].

Hopefully carpet comes Tuesday now but I haven't heard anything yet.

Thanks.

I got my KeypadLinc to install at the entrance to the theater but am having a bit of a difficult time figuring out how to install it. Hopefully someone here can help me.

Here is the diagram they give you to install the device.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/smarthome3way.jpg

Here is what I think I have...

http://www.the-home-improvement-web.com/information/images/wiring3l.jpg

I need to unwire what I have done already to find out which wire is my line wire in the primary switch junction box but I was starting to get confused at 930pm after a very long day.

Can anyone help?

If you know which is the primary switch, it's just a matter of trial and error.

Disconnect the traveler on the secondary switch (usualy red), and tie together the two black lines at the secondary switch. This bypasses the secondary switch for now. Now you should be able to hook up the Insteon at the primary location. With a meter you should be able to test which wire is the one carrying power to the switch. You connect the black Insteon wire to this line. The red Insteon wire goes to the fixture load. Connect neutral and ground as well. Turn the power on and test to see if the light works. If it does, you can go a back and at the secondary location just hook up the line, neutral and ground insteon cables.

But please, I'm not an electrician. Don't trust a word of what I'm saying if you have any doubts in your ability to test things safely. Good luck!

The Insteon switch wiring seems confusing at first but they are actually pretty easy. Just wire up your load, line and neutral and that should be it. Hopefully, you ran a neutral to the box...

What are you replacing with it? What other Insteon switches will it control?

One thing about it, its BRIGHT - even in the dim setting so hopefully it is at least behind you.

http://www.the-home-improvement-web.com/information/images/wiring3l.jpg

Which switch is the primary switch? I thought primary meant that it was between the power and the load. So that would make it the switch on the left with 2 things of romex coming into the gang box, right?

Yes, 3-way switch #1 is the "primary". Keep in mind, you wouldn't necessarily even need a load connected to the keypad - depending on exactly what you are controlling and how you want to control it.

Yes, 3-way switch #1 is the "primary". Keep in mind, you wouldn't necessarily even need a load connected to the keypad - depending on exactly what you are controlling and how you want to control it.

You are right, but there has to be some Insteon switch that runs the fixture, even if it's not the a keypad. Matter of fact, just like you are suggesting, I wouldn't use the keypad as a dimmer at all. That would make the programing of the scenes a lot easier.

You are right, but there has to be some Insteon switch that runs the fixture, even if it's not the a keypad. Matter of fact, just like you are suggesting, I wouldn't use the keypad as a dimmer at all. That would make the programing of the scenes a lot easier.

Right - so he could put a regular Insteon dimmer on what is now his primary 3-way (which he probably already was going to do) then just cap off the traveller and hook the keypad up to just the neutral, line and ground and program the keypad however he wants. This would eliminate the issue of the "On" and "Off" buttons automatically operating the main load hooked up to the keypad (which may not be what he wants in this kind of setup).

I will be putting the keypadlinc at my entrance to the theater (outside the door so bright lights won't be an issue) and it happens to be in the primary position.

I want the On Off buttons to control the three cans at the back entrance to the theater, so that is a non-issue for me. I have another insteon device in the theater near my seating that will be cross linked to this set of cans as well.

Hopefully I can trouble shoot this thing tonight. Thanks for all your help guys.

Finally some real pictures.

Here is my primary box with the hot wire indicated...black wire

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti210.jpg

12-2 coming up from the bottom and 12-3 going out the top. There is also a red wire capped in the back of the box...but it was hooked up to the switch.

Here is my secondary box with the hot wire indicated...

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti212.jpg

12-3 coming in from the top. That's it. The white wire is hot.

I need to get this knocked out and I am getting frustrated here. It would be much easier to trouble shoot with the buddy system ;).

The red wire is the traveller - you don't need it. The white wire you said is hot should have black electrical tape on it. Is it twisted with a black wire...? You do have neutral's in there, right?

On the primary (keypad) side, wire the hot wire to the "line" (black) wire on the keypad. I assume the other black wire is going to your lights so wire it to the "load" (red) wire on the keypad. And then hook up the neutral wire to the "neutral" (white) wire on the keypad.

On the secondary side wire the hot and neutral wires on the switch and cap off the red wires both in the box and on the switch (not together but separately). Then you just need to program the secondary to be linked with the keypad primary (or other buttons) and you are good to go.

The confusing thing to a lot of people (and really electricians) about Insteon in 3-way setups is that there is no wired link between the secondary switch(es) and the load they operate. Its all done with Insteon linking instead.

Oh one more thing - of course you're doing all of this with the breaker turned OFF at the main panel. I've watched electricians wire in switches hot before but don't try it. Not only can you fry yourself but you can easily fry the Insteon switch too.

Thanks for the help. What I dont get is that the white wire is now hot(yes should have been taped with black electrical tape but it wasn't), so which wire is my neutral?

I was connecting all the black wires together at the primary keypad box. Perhaps I will try this with the black wire going to the red wire on the switch.

Sigh, the carpet was a fiasco this morning. Going to work and they will finish Saturday morning.

Moral of the story stay away from Menards!!!

...so which wire is my neutral?



Probably the white wire on the other romex coming into that box...

Thanks for the help. What I dont get is that the white wire is now hot(yes should have been taped with black electrical tape but it wasn't), so which wire is my neutral?



For my own piece of mind I would backtrack that circuit to figure out why the white wire became the hot wire. Something might have been miss wired further down the line. Keep in mind that even the neutral wires can carry some current, so if you are just taking a basic reading with one of those proximity ciruit testers it may appear to be hot.

For my own piece of mind I would backtrack that circuit to figure out why the white wire became the hot wire. Something might have been miss wired further down the line. Keep in mind that even the neutral wires can carry some current, so if you are just taking a basic reading with one of those proximity ciruit testers it may appear to be hot.

Cathan - Yes, it is a proximity detector but it is the only wire that sets the detector off so I know it is the line voltage.

ebr - There is only one romex coming into my secondary box thus my confusion. If the only white wire is line voltage, than which wire is neutral?

A guy from work is coming over to help me trouble shoot so hopefully we can figure it out today.

ebr - There is only one romex coming into my secondary box thus my confusion. If the only white wire is line voltage, than which wire is neutral?



Its possible there isn't one. Hopefully, that's not the case, though.

Wow, ok so after about 2 1/2 hours a friend from work and myself figured it out. Good things breakers don't wear out from turning them on and off [wait maybe they do :cool:].

Here is what we came up with...

Primary switch [keypadlinc]
black wire on switch to 12-2 black to 12-3 red to 12-3 black
white wire on switch to 12-2 white to 12-3 white
ground to ground

Secondary switch [switchlinc dimmer]
black on switch to red wire from 12-3 to black from 12-3
white wire on switch to white wire from 12-3
red wire capped
ground to ground

I think that is what we did anyway. I tried initially to program the switchlinc but was unsuccessful. The keypadlinc is successfully controlling the can lights and the switchlinc has power to it so I am pretty sure that I have it wired up correctly.

I will email smarthome to see what they say. They haven't been very helpful as of yet thru email besides saying the generic..."each switch needs a hot, neutral and ground", duh!

Smarthome is going to ask you if that white wire in the secondary box is a neutral wire. I see you hooked it to the white in the primary (assuming that 12-3 is the same wire) so if that is a neutral, it should be too now. I'm not good enough with electricity to know how to find out if the white is properly hooked up to neutral.

Put some black electrical tape on the red wire in the secondary box.

Oh yeah - I assume you had the RF repeater modules installed....

Yes, I have the RF modules installed in two different outlets. I have been using Insteon for the main theater lights for about a year now. Try to unprogram and start over tonight.

The keypadlinc has successfully been programmed to control another insteon switchlinc!

The keypadlinc has successfully been programmed to control another insteon switchlinc!

Excellent. :)The software does make programming a ton easier. Of course that means sinking more money into the project. If you end up putting in Insteon in the rest of your house, you may want to consider it.

Excellent. :)The software does make programming a ton easier. Of course that means sinking more money into the project. If you end up putting in Insteon in the rest of your house, you may want to consider it.

I second that - especially if you want to use timers and events. But if its only the theater, probably not worth it.

I found that moving my RF Links around helped when some of my switches refused to communicate reliably. Just something to try as it appears you have the wiring figured out.

Yeah, I might get the software but I don't plan to have an HTPC in the theater anymore, rather an xbox 360 as an extender. we will see, that may change. I would like to have a programmer though and get some other insteon stuff for around the house. I am not sure if that would add value to the house or not...might confuse a potential home buyer, then I would have to spend another $40 to change out all the dimmers to dumb dimmers.

Anyway...the big news is...THE CARPET IS DONE!!!!!

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti261.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti266.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti260.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/xti276.jpg

I thought they did a great job given all the weird angles and overhangs.

Now to finish the paint and the fabric panels on the lower half. I want some theater seating and a few movies, Woohoo![/quote]

Greg

What did they tag you for your carpet & install

Greg

What did they tag you for your carpet & install

It was $1100 for the Mohawk carpet and 6lb 1/2" pad and $410 for install.

Total - $1510

They did a great job. I actually used the carpet estimator from Lowes by taking his card and then calling him direct once I found the carpet I wanted [not from Lowes].

Does it really ever get finished? Several reasons to explain why I haven't really done ANY work on the theater since the carpet install.

1. new baby
2. already functional
3. really lazy
4. like to be able to tell people...it is a work in progress
5. really lazy

Well here is how it sits today. I really want to finish up the entrance wall and get the back all painted up. I also have all the materials to finish up the paneling and chair rail type trim.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_7987.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_7990.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_7992.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_7993.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_7999.jpg

Maybe over the holidays I can get the back of the room done! Hah, I will be traveling, darn.

Yet another example of "never install the projector until you are finished". ;)

Thanks for the encouragement! :p

I seriously want to get done, but I have 0 motivation once I get home and on the weekends we have been out of town so much recently.

What I need to do is get task oriented!

-Finish drywall mud and paint of entrance door wall
-Finish touchup paint of added back area
-Put door trim up on the inside and outside of entrance door
-Install chair rail trim
-Finish fabric on screen wall

There...that should last me at least 6 months. Hopefully I can post pictures of each step in this process...:D

Thanks for the encouragement! :p

I seriously want to get done, but I have 0 motivation once I get home and on the weekends we have been out of town so much recently.

What I need to do is get task oriented!

-Finish drywall mud and paint of entrance door wall
-Finish touchup paint of added back area
-Put door trim up on the inside and outside of entrance door
-Install chair rail trim
-Finish fabric on screen wall

There...that should last me at least 6 months. Hopefully I can post pictures of each step in this process...:D

Are you done with any of these items yet?

Ditto

Busting my balls guys. The only update I have is very minor. A xmas present from my wife gets the ugly couch out of there!

Of course it is still in there it just isn't ugly anymore. Sure enough, she got me a slip cover that is black microfiber. I have never been more happy to get something so lame!

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8212.jpg

For a slight moment, I did feel like finishing the door but my laziness and tiredness made me sit down for long enough so that I didn't have enough time to even start it.

I am guilty as you can see in the picture of using my room before it is finished! Gasp! My goal is to get to it before it gets nice out again!

Ok so they are small updates but progress nonetheless...

Inside door trim cut and installed.
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8229.jpg

Door frame gap filled with foam (why I decided sound isolation was critical here and nowhere else is beyond me at this point).
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8241.jpg

I placed the chair rail trim in place to get an idea of how it would look. I like it. I will need more though.
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8232.jpg


And here is the keypadlinc for those that have never seen these. I still need to come up with some creative button covers. Pretty nice and easy for the wife to figure out.
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8227.jpg

Bought a few a500 amps. Lots of power. Pretty good sound if you ask me. Seems dialogue is easier to hear without making the movie too loud, if that makes sense.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8413.jpg

Put the cover back on the projector since it is recommended for hushbox use evidently.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8406.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8405.jpg

Helping my dad renovated his kitchen completely, so the theater is taking a back seat for now...he needs to come up here and help me finish this thing after!

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/DSCF1351.jpg

Update on the kitchen project....

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/CIMG1824.jpg

On to my theater a little bit...having finished up most of the back wall and painted the exposed part. Finished up installing the door casing.

Rearranged the rack with additional components and raised it up a bit for better viewing.

Pictures to follow of the theater tomorrow.

Rack looks much better now. Maybe I won't sell it off. I like the appearance now. :p

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_8571.jpg

Rack looks good! Thanks for the update. The kitchen looks like a lot of work but looking good!

Greg - remind me again what the top three components are in your rack?

Looks good! What are those flexible lights that light up your equipment rack? I am looking for something like that to light up the rear of my AV cabinet. Thanks.

Greg - remind me again what the top three components are in your rack?

They are Behringer A500 amps. Gives me 500W for each of the front three speakers.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Behringer-A500-500W-ReferenceClass-Studio-Power-Amplifier?sku=480780

Looks good! What are those flexible lights that light up your equipment rack? I am looking for something like that to light up the rear of my AV cabinet. Thanks.

It is a rack mountable light but I decided to just set it up top as I didn't like its appearnce in the rack.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Nady-RL2-1U-Rack-Light-System?sku=183714

http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/0/6/8/390068.jpg

I am liking the rack more and more...it is just all of my non-rack mountable equipment that gets under my skin. Those clamping shelves are expensivo!

500 watts a channel?!? I guess you don't need to worry about not having the juice to drive your speakers at reference level. ;) I was thinking I look at around 250 watts per channel. Not sure I even have the rack space for 7 separate amps.

They sure are ppppurdy though...

500 watts a channel?!? I guess you don't need to worry about not having the juice to drive your speakers at reference level. ;) I was thinking I look at around 250 watts per channel. Not sure I even have the rack space for 7 separate amps.

They sure are ppppurdy though...

You can never have too much reserve power ;).

500 watts a channel?!? I guess you don't need to worry about not having the juice to drive your speakers at reference level. ;) I was thinking I look at around 250 watts per channel. Not sure I even have the rack space for 7 separate amps.

They sure are ppppurdy though...


Just for the front three! The surrounds (rears only now) will only be getting 55W from the H/K.

Need a Tim the Toolman Taylor grunt here for 500W!

One small addition to the HT. No build progress though. Too fun watching movies.

Cold weather is just around the corner though...

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_0671.jpg

wow nice job!

Had a bunch of my wife's coworkers and husbands over last night and had a good time. Ended up in the theater for about three hours. I was surprised that we were able to hang out in there and talk, about 8 of us, even with the risers. I always thought the room wouldn't support that type of gathering, but it did awesome.

We left the lights on but dimmed a little and had a few music BR's playing in the background while everyone sat and chatted.

This is of course after we watched about 15 trailers I had on the PS3 and had several compliments. These people weren't A/V enthusiasts, so take that for what it's worth. A nice guy I met ended up telling me about his Bose lifestyle system. He actually told me that he wasn't that impressed with it once he got it home. I tried not to grin or laugh and just listened.

Anyway, I ended up sprucing up the room a bit for people coming over. Added some wall panels (no acoustic benefits yet, just decoration) and almost finished up the side trim. Just need to paint the door and trim and then get my cabinets/countertop in place.

Sorry for the poor pictures, was in a hurry.

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_1205.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_1211.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_1212.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_1223.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_1216.jpg
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_1217.jpg

They are Behringer A500 amps. Gives me 500W for each of the front three speakers.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Behringer-A500-500W-ReferenceClass-Studio-Power-Amplifier?sku=480780



It is a rack mountable light but I decided to just set it up top as I didn't like its appearnce in the rack.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Nady-RL2-1U-Rack-Light-System?sku=183714

http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/regular/0/6/8/390068.jpg

I am liking the rack more and more...it is just all of my non-rack mountable equipment that gets under my skin. Those clamping shelves are expensivo!

Do those amps have 12v trigger inputs on them? How are you turning them on and off?

Looks to me as though someone is slacking of on hanging some speakers....http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/greg_mitch/IMG_1217.jpg

Do those amps have 12v trigger inputs on them? How are you turning them on and off?

I am running them using switched outlets. I have my Harman AVR plugged into an always on outlet and when the receiver turns on it signals my power center (Belkin PF60) to turn on the switched outlets. All of the amps are plugged into the switched outlets and always have their power button in the "on" position.

Hope that answers the question.

Looks to me as though someone is slacking of on hanging some speakers....

Yes and no...;)

I got those Insignias when they were on sale but I never really had any intention of using them in the theater. I was trying out 7.1 but don't really need it.

Want the speakers? :p