GOM, Crystal blue top, Baltic bottom. Ceiling and trim is Lowe's Drizzling Mist.

Here are most of the colors we used.
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSCN3303.jpg

We are just now picking colors and such. Funny how much more hands on my wife is now. :eek:

She had been leaving me alone for the most part up until now...

Funny how much more hands on my wife is now.


That's a bad thing?

;)

CJ

That's a bad thing?

;)

CJ

Its good that she is helping... agreeing on colors is another story. At least the black ceiling isn't an issue. :)

Man, I can't get over how cool that marquee looks over the bar (with the Arbor Oak Cinema text). I simply must shamelessly copy that for the marquee over my bar... although mine is going to be quite a bit smaller than yours... :D

Beautiful work indeed. I love the clean, sharp look. Awesome!

Thanks Tuck.

Excellent work Bigs! I think your biggest challenge is fending off the hoard of neighbors wanting to hang out down there!

Is a Home Theater ever really finished? ;)

Is a Home Theater ever really finished?

I sure hope not or I'm in a WORLD of trouble.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSCN3124.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSCN3303.jpg

man I just love this room and its color scheme...

Bigmouthindc, would you happen to have any left over peices of the fabrics you can mail to me? I would pay for shipping ofcourse... the fabric that really interests me is the carpet, but I would like to get a sample of the others as well. dont worry about the wood...

also on the wall behind the seats, is that paint or fabric? if paint can you give me the color?

thanks, and my wife just absolutely love this room, everyday she says, oh look at this and look at that. you did an amazing job on it...

I'm new to all this so please no laughing at my question :) What does GOM mean?

BigMouthinDC I love your theater. It's one of the best I've seen :)

THANKS

GOM is short for Guilford of Maine, the name of the company that makes the fabric. It is most frequently used for office cubicles. It is a polyester fabric and acoustically transparent. GOM makes several styles of fabric the one most frequently used is 701.

See sensiblesoundsolutions.com

Thanks for letting me know. I've been seeing it throughout this thread and have been lost every time it was mentioned.

Wow...very nice and I picked up a tip...PVC columns.

now I have the bug again...on to phase 2.

HI Big. I too am in northern virginia and just purchased a new home. I'm looking for a basement remodeling company to help redo the basement. If there was someone that helped do yours I would sure like to talk with them.

Thanks!

You are talking to him.

wow.... well congrats to you and bummer to me. i was hoping there was someone i could hire to help do my basement. i'm lucky if i can change batteries by myself much less all of the work your basement must have taken!

wow.... well congrats to you and bummer to me. i was hoping there was someone i could hire to help do my basement. i'm lucky if i can change batteries by myself much less all of the work your basement must have taken!

Fellow Northern Virginian...welcome! You'll find that most of us slave away at our builds, but I do know of a few folks that hired contractors to help with their builds. Reach out to Bill MacKrell. ("Bmackrell" here). He may have a lead or two. He hired a contractor to complete most of the work if memory serves, and he's in Ashburn. His build turned out very well.

Good luck!

CJ

I think we built our Home Theaters because we all wanted the extras, all of them. If someone was to pay a contractor they pick and chose the work. Taping or installing the rugs, maybe Pluming or Heating, wiring the home theater. The rest we do our self, because we want the extras, and we are all different in what we want rope lighting high or low on the wall, I also used rope lighting under the hand rail has a nice look to it. Stage custom work here all the Stages are special all Custom work which means Dollars. Thats one reason why we are here and also why the theater is never finish always tinker thats not bad thing. Money and Imagination Money may for short, but the Imagination never ends here. I think thats the Deal for most. Just my 2 cents, Later

wow. i've been trolling thru the threads on different homes. I don't have anywhere NEAR the talent level required to do this kind of work by myself. Much less the time.

Do any of you northern virginia-ites have any recommendations on basement remodeling companies that have some home theatre experience?

CW see PM. Thanks for the feedback. I'd like to point out that talent has nothing to do with our builds. Learning from mistakes and be willing to keep re-doing something until you get it right is all it takes. If your haven't seen the CurtisG build it's worth a look. It was his first ever home improvement project. He taught me how to hang fabric on a wall.

Also between google and this forum you can get instruction for how to do almost anything.

Now if you can't find the time that is a problem.

I lack talent, but portions of my carpenter's work I ripped out and re-did.

. Learning from mistakes and be willing to keep re-doing something until you get it right is all it takes. ......

Now if you can't find the time that is a problem.

I would agree. I had to redo several of the very first Fabric Frames i made to get them right.

Then there is the problem when are you redoing too much and when to just let good enough alone. Some times the redo is a bigger mess then the original problem. Remember we see more of the errors then our guest do, as we know where all the screw-ups are.

Suggestion on constructing anything in a prebuilt existing structure. I was in carpentry for three years and still do my own building in my house as well. The right tools make the job go MUCH MUCH EASIER! Get good measuring tools. Use the same tape measure to mark the boards as you did to measure. I have found that the Festool (http://festoolusa.com/) line of tools is fantastic to build in places where dust control is an issue. They are also much easier to obtain straight cuts and their miter setup collects dust unlike most out there. Using the right tools makes the final product easier to deal with.

Big, been doing anything with your room lately?
Any more pics to add?

I'd love to see a few overview pics of the whole thing on one post so I can present them to my wife. I can't do anything this elaborate in my current space, but I keep telling her "when we build a house I want a theater." Thankfully she is 100% onboard (she's a huge movie nerd) but I don't think she has a grasp of the scale I'm imagining. Your build is awesome. :)

I'd love to see a few overview pics of the whole thing on one post so I can present them to my wife. I can't do anything this elaborate in my current space, but I keep telling her "when we build a house I want a theater." Thankfully she is 100% onboard (she's a huge movie nerd) but I don't think she has a grasp of the scale I'm imagining. Your build is awesome. :)

Just copy all the pictures that you like into one folder on your PC and show her that way as a slide show ;)

OK, I will do an update and a fairly detailed where I am post this week. Still have the back-splash under the Marquee to finish. Also a custom poster frame I want to build otherwise the theater room 1.0 is done.

2.0 will go 1080p and a much larger 2:35 screen.

It's not often you see the word "done" in a build thread..... If you have finished ver 1.0 and are aiming for 2.0 doesn't that mean you aren't done? :)

If you have finished ver 1.0 and are aiming for 2.0 doesn't that mean you aren't done?

Yes. And he's not done 1.0 yet. That's like me saying I'm done. Except for the rest of the insulation, replacing the dricore, the ceiling clips, drywall, fabric frames, stage and bar.

I'm sure Biggy can defend himself. I do feel the need to chime in here and observe that if Biggy says he's done, then I'm really confident that there's nothing left to do. His creativity and attention to detail are excellent.

CJ

I'm sure Biggy can defend himself. I do feel the need to chime in here and observe that if Biggy says he's done, then I'm really confident that there's nothing left to do. His creativity and attention to detail are excellent.

CJ

And surely he gets major brownie points for helping countless others get 'done' too.

I will never be done because I don't want to have "builders withdrawal" like Chinadog had. :) And Tom won't either. Did Biggie ever get that remote programmed?

I always say non-committal things like "pretty much done" and "for the most part done" and such.

There are still small projects and things I want to do, but for all intents and purposes, I'm definitely approaching a final level of possibly nearing a total point of deciding if I think I might be absolutely reaching a near final level of completeness on my theater.

Did Biggie ever get that remote programmed?


Yup, I can now control everything with the Logitech 890. However, I decided not to program the remote to control my projector.

To my amazement the universal remote actually does a better job of controlling my set up. I used to have a problem with my Gefen 4:1 DVI switch which would pick up a signal from some of my other remotes. It was like it had a mind of it's own. I could be changing a channel and it would change inputs. With the 890 this problem has vanished.

Now as for my evaluation of the 890. Functionality is fine. Button layout, size of buttons, legibility of back-lit labels, brightness of back-lit buttons ALL SUCK

otherwise the theater room 1.0 is done.


Not done:

BASEMENT
Bathroom
Shower/steam room
Sauna
Workshop

OTHER
New stairs on outside deck
Organize garage
Renovation of master bath
Replace carpet in family room with Hardwood
Shed
Paint several rooms on the inside of the house
Replace water softener

It will be quite some time before I suffer any form of withdrawal!

I have no regrets tossing all of my remotes for the MX-800. All my equipment is in the other room and even my wife loves the fact that she can use one remote. The MX-800 works great on my projector as well. I have looked around and nothing I have seen makes me want to upgrade now.

Not done:

BASEMENT
Bathroom
Shower/steam room
Sauna
Workshop

OTHER
New stairs on outside deck
Organize garage
Renovation of master bath
Replace carpet in family room with Hardwood
Shed
Paint several rooms on the inside of the house
Replace water softener

It will be quite some time before I suffer any form of withdrawal!

Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh...

I don't want to hear that.

LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA

I can't hear you..

My worst fear... It never ends...

I already know this of course but I am in a state for perpetual denial.

Now as for my evaluation of the 890. Functionality is fine. Button layout, size of buttons, legibility of back-lit labels, brightness of back-lit buttons ALL SUCK

I concur, but you forgot the buttons occassionally not registering the press. Otherwise, it is a pretty good remote for the price:).

Now as for my evaluation of the 890. Functionality is fine. Button layout, size of buttons, legibility of back-lit labels, brightness of back-lit buttons ALL SUCK

I just picked up a Harmony One ($150 after rebate from Amazon). So far I like the ergonomics, buttons (back-lit), etc.

I was especially impressed by two things:
1) it just seems to work
2) if it doesn't quite work (daughter walks in front during the power on sequence and the PS3 doesn't go on), you just hit 'help' and it walks you through questions to figure out what is wrong and fix it.

Any special reason you decided not to program the projector to the Harmony?

Quote:
Originally Posted by BIGmouthinDC
otherwise the theater room 1.0 is done.

Not done:

BASEMENT
Bathroom
Shower/steam room
Sauna
Workshop


Splitting hairs, are we (and I say that with all due respect)?

Hmmm...now I have to go back and review the challenge to determine wether or not to admit defeat.

Woohoo!!! updated photos coming this week.

Any special reason you decided not to program the projector to the Harmony?

I want to control the on/off manually to avoid any possible misfires while fiddling with everything else. For bulb life and general nuisance issues.

I want to control the on/off manually to avoid any possible misfires while fiddling with everything else. For bulb life and general nuisance issues.

I decided to go with a URC MSC-400 that will allow me to program time outs for shutting things down and such and time delay to ensure the projector cools off, etc.

Bty, I like your room alot. I looked for the dimensions of it, but I wasn't able to find it.

Bty, I like your room alot. I looked for the dimensions of it, but I wasn't able to find it.


Overall it's about 44x22 ft. Standing at the screen and looking back it does a dogleg left at 28 ft.

Overall it's about 44x22 ft. Standing at the screen and looking back it does a dogleg left at 28 ft.

I think I can clear that dogleg with an 8 iron easy, maybe a 9 iron :D.

BigmouthinDC,

VERY NICE HOMETHEATER IT IS ONE THE BEST HT I'VE EVER SEEN.
Hi there can you tell me what color, brand, of the paint in your wall and so
with the bottom trim they look gray (top) and blue (bottom)
what paint brand and color names please...I really like the color scheme.

Thanks I appreciate it,

Peter

Overall it's about 44x22 ft. Standing at the screen and looking back it does a dogleg left at 28 ft.

Good lord. Did you use any sound isolation construction methods or did you just have at it? Also, do you mind me asking if this is in your basement? It's a very large room by any standards.

BigmouthinDC,
Hi there can you tell me what color, brand, of the paint in your wall and so
with the bottom trim they look gray (top) and blue (bottom)
what paint brand and color names please...I really like the color scheme.


Thanks,

Walls are GOM FR701 fabric. Crystal blue on top, Baltic blue on the bottom.

Ceiling and trim molding is painted with Lowe's Drizzling mist. Flat on ceiling, Semi-gloss on trim.

Good lord. Did you use any sound isolation construction methods or did you just have at it? Also, do you mind me asking if this is in your basement? It's a very large room by any standards.

Yes, it is in the basement of my McMansion. I think there is about 1800 sq ft total in the basement. My first house had 900 sq ft TOTAL, so it does seem huge.

As for sound isolation, I put insulation in the ceiling, used RC2 channel and two layers of DW. GG wasn't on the market when I hung the drywall.

Replaced ductwork and built muffler boxes for the return supply.

Haven't done anything to the door at the top of the stairs and right now it's my weak link. Having wood floors above the theater doesn't help one bit.

Thanks,

Walls are GOM FR701 fabric. Crystal blue on top, Baltic blue on the bottom.

Ceiling and trim molding is painted with Lowe's Drizzling mist. Flat on ceiling, Semi-gloss on trim.

Good lord. you put fabric on ALL of the walls? Sheesh. I hope you found a decent deal. What made you decide on putting fabric on all the walls instead of using paint/acoustic panel method?


Yes, it is in the basement of my McMansion. I think there is about 1800 sq ft total in the basement. My first house had 900 sq ft TOTAL, so it does seem huge.

My basement total is about 1400 sq ft. The area I'm finishing is roughly 3/5ths of the space - or about 800 sq. ft. of it.


As for sound isolation, I put insulation in the ceiling, used RC2 channel and two layers of DW. GG wasn't on the market when I hung the drywall.

Replaced ductwork and built muffler boxes for the return supply.

Haven't done anything to the door at the top of the stairs and right now it's my weak link. Having wood floors above the theater doesn't help one bit.Ya, I'm using the whisper clips/hat channel route, along with GG between two layers of 5/8" gypsum drywall, and then I'm putting GG between two layers on the opposing walls. I was going to do all sorts of funky duct work stuff, but in the end I'm just running a couple of seperate lines off the main system with baffles. It was going to add significant cost to my build if I tried to put in additional zones, and I really don't need a special heating zone down there. I really needed a better method of keeping it cool, but my system works pretty darn well, and will suffice.

Your room is very, very nice. I wish I had that kind of space.

When I hooked my speakers up in the basement for fun before my project started, I had drop ceiling down there, and with things cranked, I could barely hear a thing upstairs. Now I have that ripped down and drywall single layer right on the joist, r-30 insulation and the same hardwood floors above it as before, I hope I dont end up with a nightmare, where things are now crystal clear on the first floor, because that may not fly with the wife...grrr

Thanks,

Walls are GOM FR701 fabric. Crystal blue on top, Baltic blue on the bottom.

Ceiling and trim molding is painted with Lowe's Drizzling mist. Flat on ceiling, Semi-gloss on trim.

Thank you for the information.

Good lord. you put fabric on ALL of the walls? Sheesh. I hope you found a decent deal. What made you decide on putting fabric on all the walls instead of using paint/acoustic panel method?



It's hard to tell from the pics but the fabric and wall treatments are only on the front, and front half of the L/R walls. There are some natural stop points with my stairway and dogleg. The rest of the walls are painted same color as ceiling. Drizzling Mist.

Why I went that route:...... I was having a tough time with the WAF for wall treatments and I showed my wife the pics of Kirk's Uptown Paridiso and her eye's lit up and she said "Now that is what I want"

When I hooked my speakers up in the basement for fun before my project started, I had drop ceiling down there, and with things cranked, I could barely hear a thing upstairs. Now I have that ripped down and drywall single layer right on the joist, r-30 insulation and the same hardwood floors above it as before, I hope I don't end up with a nightmare, where things are now crystal clear on the first floor, because that may not fly with the wife...grrr

When you put a hard surface like drywall, tight to the ceiling joists you basically created a huge passive radiator for sound. With wood floors, ceiling joists, and single layer of drywall. All the sound energy in the basement starts the ceiling vibrating and it acts like a giant speaker for the floor above. You were better off sound wise with the drop ceiling.

Now if you used isolation clips, channel, double layer of drywall (mass) and green glue (damping) the floor wouldn't vibrate as much.

Splitting hairs, are we (and I say that with all due respect)?

Come on Tom, can we play nicely in the sandbox

When you put a hard surface like drywall, tight to the ceiling joists you basically created a huge passive radiator for sound. With wood floors, ceiling joists, and single layer of drywall. All the sound energy in the basement starts the ceiling vibrating and it acts like a giant speaker for the floor above. You were better off sound wise with the drop ceiling.

Now if you used isolation clips, channel, double layer of drywall (mass) and green glue (damping) the floor wouldn't vibrate as much.


OUCH!. That is definitely the last thing I needed to hear...well, now that I am a bit worried for what will happen in the end, how bad will it really be? Is it going to be as horrible as you make it sound, or will this just mean that whatever I watch in the basement, you will be able to hear on the first floor? I Guess then this might also mean that the section of return air duct that is also in the theaters ceiling space will also take all the sound and take it throughout the house. Please say something to calm me down, the ceiling is being finished as we speak, there is no more going back now, say something to calm the nerves, to ease the possible WAF woes that the theater now rattles the house. :(

OUCH!. That is definitely the last thing I needed to hear...well, now that I am a bit worried for what will happen in the end, how bad will it really be? Is it going to be as horrible as you make it sound, or will this just mean that whatever I watch in the basement, you will be able to hear on the first floor? I Guess then this might also mean that the section of return air duct that is also in the theaters ceiling space will also take all the sound and take it throughout the house. Please say something to calm me down, the ceiling is being finished as we speak, there is no more going back now, say something to calm the nerves, to ease the possible WAF woes that the theater now rattles the house. :(
If you can stop it, stop the build. It's going to be much worse than what you had with your drop ceiling. Your drop ceiling was decoupled from your floor joists above, which helps absorb the sound. Those ceiling panels - at least 90% of them anyways - are made of material which is conducive to absorbing sound. In addition to that, the air cavity between your joists and the drop ceiling added another layer of protection. Now, all of those things are gone...

Please say something to calm me down, the ceiling is being finished as we speak, there is no more going back now, say something to calm the nerves, (

Decent surround sound earphones and a butt-kicker for the captains chair won't set you back too much. Also hopefully a good percentage of your viewing may include the whole family so who cares what it sounds like upstairs.

Face it, you did not design your build for sound containment. I imagine you put in a bunch of recessed lights as well?

Decent surround sound earphones and a butt-kicker for the captains chair won't set you back too much. Also hopefully a good percentage of your viewing may include the whole family so who cares what it sounds like upstairs.

Face it, you did not design your build for sound containment. I imagine you put in a bunch of recessed lights as well?

Oh yeah, are recessed lights a bad thing too? Truth is, I did a lot of planning on my own, just reading on here and looking at things. When it came to thinking about sound containment, I can certainly say I didnt think too hard about it. I read a ton of things about GG and DD, but the only thing I had to worry about was sound going up so the walls didnt need any treatment like that. So at the time of my testing with the sound, I had no idea the drop ceiling vs drywall would make such a huge difference. I mean it is possible that I am only getting myself more worked up than I should. I guess if I am down there alone, watching normal TV (Hockey or say CSI) it wont be cranked way up, so things might not be too bad. Then like you said if I do have things cranked, most likely the wife is down there with me and we are watching together so I dont even think about the sound traveling to the first floor. It isnt an apartment where the guy upstairs is going to get me evicted. I have learned to now, I have a Panny 50" just tv speakers in the living room, the bed room is right above it, I turn things down to 6 when the wife goes to sleep, otherwise I rarely get told to turn things down. Therefore, when I am in the basement hopefully things wont be too bad on the second floor, for it would be a waste to build this whole theater when i could have just gotten surround head phones and sat in the living room.

As the man Big says, if you like it loud and need it contained, then I'd fix the isolation issues now. It is a big hassle and more expensive to do it later, if you even ever get to it. There are a long list of people here who have redone rooms for sound isolation, myself included.
My wife hates loud movies and has supersonic hearing. Even when I had the thing set on 4, I'd hear complaints. This will be a thing of the past when I'm done. :D

As the man Big says, if you like it loud and need it contained, then I'd fix the isolation issues now. It is a big hassle and more expensive to do it later, if you even ever get to it. There are a long list of people here who have redone rooms for sound isolation, myself included.
My wife hates loud movies and has supersonic hearing. Even when I had the thing set on 4, I'd hear complaints. This will be a thing of the past when I'm done. :D

Yeah I hear you, but to think about ripping down sheetrock, to add track or isolation clips, to install and finish sheetrock again...I just cant imagine if it is worth the cost and if it would even go over with the wife. I understand when you say people have re-done rooms because they need the isolation, but if I think about it as a whole, I am not sure if there needs to be super isolation. I am thinking some sound on the first floor will be OK, but I guess the wife and I are going to have a little talk in the morning. Cant wait.

I promised a status report of my not quite done HT1.0 What remains is a wall treatment above the back bar and under the marquee. Then I intend to do a custom back lit poster for the wall next to the stairway.

If you have a sharp eye you will note that I repainted the third row back bar and redid all the trim molding to lighten it up. My original paint was too dark and you couldn't even see the bar stools sitting in front because there was no contrast.
Anyway here are some shots I took this evening:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250012.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250014.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250021.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250029.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250034.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250035.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250043.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250055.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250070.jpg

Looking just as spectacular as ever BIG! And I think this is the first time you've given us all a peek of the different views with all the pics. Bravo!

Thanks,

Walls are GOM FR701 fabric. Crystal blue on top, Baltic blue on the bottom.

Ceiling and trim molding is painted with Lowe's Drizzling mist. Flat on ceiling, Semi-gloss on trim.

without going to Lowes, can you tell me what this color actually looks like? is it a greyish blue? I ask because it took some convincing to get the wife to accept a black ceiling in my theater room, but if a guy of your stature doesnt go with black, it leads me to believe that black might not be completely necessary? Maybe a greyish color? Looking at the pictures it is a bit deceiving. thanks also, what is your ceiling height?

Place looks amazing by the way.

Having seen Bigs place in person - the "wow" factor is just as impressive if not more when you see it up close. What really strikes me is the seamless flow of the bar area into the theater - it really translates into an incredible entertainment area.

without going to Lowe's, can you tell me what this color actually looks like? is it a greyish blue? I ask because it took some convincing to get the wife to accept a black ceiling in my theater room, but if a guy of your stature doesnt go with black, it leads me to believe that black might not be completely necessary? Maybe a greyish color? Looking at the pictures it is a bit deceiving. thanks also, what is your ceiling height?

Place looks amazing by the way.

Thanks. This may be helpful:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/drizzlingmist.jpg

On my monitor drizzling mist on the right does not have an in your face blue tone but if you look at it in the right light adjacent to the right colors you might say it has some blue in it.

As for black versus gray. WAF said no to black and the problem with my size room is where to stop, so I put up that circular patch of black GOM immediately over the screen to help with reflections around the screen.

Recently I was over at Tupelev's house holding up one end of his huge screen (Now officially on my HT2.0 list) and I found that His black ceiling and very dark walls really made the image POP! So if you really want the best overall environment for perceived contrast I would go black, If it doesn't work in your space I would just go as dark as possible.

Big,
Awesome...very nice build! I hope this does not constitute a hijack of your thread, but I would really value your opinion given your build. I need to make a decision very quickly on whether my second row will be on a riser or a bar/counter with bar seats similar to your third row. Can you offer any experience on that relative to feedback from your guests? i.e., are people favoring the HT seats over the third row? How's the comfort level of the bar seats, etc?
I'm torn...my wife likes the bar/counter idea, and it would allow for an extra seat, but I do like the comfort of HT seats.
Thanks

That's a good question and I haven't done enough entertaining yet to give a good answer. Finding really comfortable and affordable bar stools was a challenge. I ended up going with a Commercial Restaurant furniture supplier - MTS Seating. I sat in one of their bar stools at a bar, turned it over and looked at the label then found a local rep who was happy to take my money for the 6 chairs.

http://www.mtsseating.com/images/catalog/details/933-30.jpg

Got to pick the exact color seats, paint finish etc. really sturdy.

If you happen to have a Baja Fresh restaurant in your area it's what they spec for their seating, I have padded seats however. Frames are about the same.

Maybe some of the AVS guys who have come over and sat at the bar will comment. There is no doubt that 2 hours in a HT recliner is a whole lot more comfortable than 2 hours on a bar stool. However from observation I believe that some among us probably have more experience with the later.

Thanks - that helps and I'll check them out. By the way, I tried to find your original info on this - how big is your screen, and how close is your first row to the screen?

Ah, my screen is only 100 inch diagonal and is actually too small now for the space as it ended up evolving. Sitting 11.5 ft in the front row.

When I started the room we actually thought of a 70 inch sony XSRD RP TV and a sofa/sectional in front of it. Then I discovered this AVS forum and the theater theme took over my basement. If anything my project could be named "My theater ate my basement".

However from observation I believe that some among us probably have more experience with the later.
ROFLMAO! :D That was funny!

I thought the bar seats were quite comfortable. I wouldn't want to sit in them for a 2 hour movie, but for a football game when you're getting up and down for drinks, potty breaks, etc I think they would fine. Personally, I'm a "swiveler" so I'd look for something very similar but that swivels. I like the height of the bar too. I plan to copy (OK, steal) the design for my place. Just wish I had room for as many as Big has.

Big knows what he's doing! Pay attention when he speaks.

Confirmed - I've sat in Big's stools, very comfortable and accommodating. Totally forgot to ask you Bigs where you got yours before I purchased mine. Admittedly they were a bit of an afterthought with my HT but overall pleased with them:

http://www.restaurant-bar-furniture.com/prodimages-cdls/hd-/hd-4366-826-830.jpg


They're called the Cottage Swivel Counter Stool - they swivel and as Tom noted good for a game not a movie.

Absolutely beautiful!! Can't say that enough.

Old.

Big, I've always admired your build, and thank you for the numerous questions you have answered for those going down the same road.

I do have one question for you though. What happened to those sweet bounty rolls that integrated so well with your bar? I figured those would make great comfy foot rests when hanging out at the bar. :D
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC01186.jpg

Absolutely jaw dropping!

Thanks everyone.

Bass Addict: don't worry I've still got plenty of Bounty.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/DSC02047.jpg

Thanks everyone.

Bass Addict: don't worry I've still got plenty of Bounty.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/DSC02047.jpg

and POPCORN!

Yes, it was on sale at Costco a few weeks back. It was less than $5.00 for 32 servings and a 2 year shelf life. That's less than 16 cents per bag. Cookies were left over from Halloween.

That's a good question and I haven't done enough entertaining yet to give a good answer. Finding really comfortable and affordable bar stools was a challenge. I ended up going with a Commercial Restaurant furniture supplier - MTS Seating. I sat in one of their bar stools at a bar, turned it over and looked at the label then found a local rep who was happy to take my money for the 6 chairs.

http://www.mtsseating.com/images/catalog/details/933-30.jpg

Got to pick the exact color seats, paint finish etc. really sturdy.

If you happen to have a Baja Fresh restaurant in your area it's what they spec for their seating, I have padded seats however. Frames are about the same.

Maybe some of the AVS guys who have come over and sat at the bar will comment. There is no doubt that 2 hours in a HT recliner is a whole lot more comfortable than 2 hours on a bar stool. However from observation I believe that some among us probably have more experience with the later.

Confirmed - I've sat in Big's stools, very comfortable and accommodating. Totally forgot to ask you Bigs where you got yours before I purchased mine. Admittedly they were a bit of an afterthought with my HT but overall pleased with them:

http://www.restaurant-bar-furniture.com/prodimages-cdls/hd-/hd-4366-826-830.jpg


They're called the Cottage Swivel Counter Stool - they swivel and as Tom noted good for a game not a movie.

Is this one of those situations where you guys cant say anything, or are you guys able to post a $ figure as to how much you spent on such chairs. I am going to need a few stools for my counter area and figure to start researching some pricing. thanks

Jeff,

I am amazed at your attention to detail... Eye candy for the HT enthusiast. Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanks HeyNow.

Smakovits: my chairs in a grade 9 vinyl (faux leather) were $142.25 each plus tax and shipping ended up $174 per chair.

Thanks HeyNow.

Smakovits: my chairs in a grade 9 vinyl (faux leather) were $142.25 each plus tax and shipping ended up $174 per chair.

sweet that is nothing, I was thinking 3-hundo at least. thanks. this makes me feel good that I can get 4 nice stools for around 800. I guess I will pay a few bucks extra for better paint now at sherwin williams...

sweet that is nothing, I was thinking 3-hundo at least. thanks. this makes me feel good that I can get 4 nice stools for around 800. I guess I will pay a few bucks extra for better paint now at sherwin williams...

Thats because you only need 4. Try needing 10 with 8 matching poker table chairs. Here are mine http://www.bar-stools-barstools.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idProduct=402

They sent the chairs unfinished so I could stain them myself to match my room.

Big- Thanks for the updated photos. Just an outstanding job

I'm always amazed when I come back to your thread. It's definitely one of my favorites. I think yours is the one that inspired me to do the granite bar behind the seating.

Can't wait to see 2.0. :)

I like ALL that. I can appreciate the sign, the colors, and the curves. That granite is flat-out beautiful man!

Is this one of those situations where you guys cant say anything, or are you guys able to post a $ figure as to how much you spent on such chairs. I am going to need a few stools for my counter area and figure to start researching some pricing. thanks

Sorry for the belated response - I got mine at barstools.com (http://www.barstools.com/counter-height-stools/metal/cottageswivelcounterstool.cfm) for $140.00 a chair (free shipping included and no tax to Virginia).

These are the stools we got (gunmetal cushions instead of black to better tie in with the carpet)... $99 each with free shipping:


http://www.allbarstools.com/Alston-4214-XV1103.html


http://www.mostlyharmless.org/theater/stool.jpg

What is this the show me your stools thread? I can see such a thread going really awry.

Great to see the space from all angles Big. Just a great space.

What is this the show me your stools thread?

Yeah...what about that? I can see plenty of stools in my back yard. Oh, wait...you must mean the kind you sit on, NOT the kid the puppy leaves behind.

BIGmouthinDC, I do not think this will ever be topped ! Your attention to detail is par none. :eek:

Are you all done, do we get the final shots?


http://www.titebond.com/images/Products/Titebond2TB.gif
I have been woodworking for 26 years, no glue is better


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Boman20Theater20044.jpg

Where is this shot from? your entrance?

Did you do all of the work yourself?

Thanks for the feedback. Yes it was a DIY, except taping the drywall seams, installing flooring, and the doing the granite counter tops. That entry way in not mine it's an image I have saved for future reference but it was part of the influence for the front of the back bar.

As for final shots my update pics in post #315 is where the theater sits today. I still need to do the back wall under the signage with something interesting in tile and one wall is missing a poster case I want to build.

Right now I'm gathering my wits to attack the bathroom/spa.

VERY impressive! One day if I ever have a basement.....

I can't believe your entrance, it's fantastic. I only have one door to my basement and it's from my kitchen - I have no chance of doing something so extravagant! I wish!

That entry way in not mine it's an image I have saved for future reference but it was part of the influence for the front of the back bar.


Not mine

Big does great work and is ALWAYS so thoughtful with his images and links.

Which means he's not actually WORKING on his theater, which is good for me......

Is there such thing as "theater envy"? That is one very nice theater BigMouthinDC! You have this theater stuff down pretty good.

very nice!

excellent looking theatre!

First time I have seen this thread. Very Impressive!

Hi Big,

i live in the area and would love to see you Ht. i willing pay for a ticket. lol:D
Please PM me.


keith

How do you like the stools on the carpet? I was planning to put wood or tile where my stools would go in fear that the carpet would not play nice. However, I also notice that you used a tighter carpet. I was thinking to go more plush? like a shag not not as long, I know you know what I mean...I was thinking that route for softness. I dont know much about carpet, but with a tight weave like you have I guess legs would not leave imprints like I fear. But how is it for softness. Being in the basement, I want to ensure that the floor will be super soft to my precious bare feet when I go down there. Is that possible with the style of carpet that you have there?

My carpet is From Masland and is out of their home office collection. I don't go around in bare feet but I do walk around without shoes on occasion.

I have wood behind the snack-bar area because I knew that area would get the most abuse and spills. We thought about it in front of the bar where the stools are but decided against. I think if I had people over on a weekly basis the amount of wear and tear might lean me in that direction.

Like you I dont plan to have people over weekly, but I want to avoid the imprint in the carpet like I have upstairs if I move a dresser or something. I want the best of both worlds, soft yet durable...Right now I am leaning toward all hard wood on the side where my sink and counter are. Instead of Islands of wood and then the rest carpet, I may be better off sticking with my original thought, all hard wood in that area nad hten carpet in the rest of the basement. Hmm. good thing I am not quite ready for carpet just yet.

Big Mouth, I did find one improvent you can make that would make your theater the best in America <<< Click Here >>> (http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=zh-CN&u=http://www.pcpop.com/doc/0/365/365938.shtml&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=9&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dswan%2B2.3b%26start%3D10%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN) We have these on display here in Cleveland and these are just as amazing as the room you have created.

My computer goes crazy on that link. It keeps opening a Chinese translation header window repeatedly but never shows anything.

But I did a work around and found the Swans. Basically I exited AOL

http://img5.pcpop.com/ArticleImages/500x375/0/966/000966349.jpg


Yes those would be great!!!! how tall are they? I would be happy to store them for you. I'm sure they are taking up way too much space in your showroom. It sure would be a shame though to put them behind a false wall.

For a better link to the Swan 2.3B system <<<Click Here>>> (http://www.swanspeaker.com/product/htm/mview.asp?id=415) .
I have some personal pics. I was in a huge hurry to get these hooked up so please do not judge my set up by appearance, stop buy and listen :D. (Just moved in this house so my set up was thrown together.)

Front towers are 34" wide and 78" tall. I just found this movie here <<< Click Here >>> (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vl3eDWpZi4o)

http://i814.photobucket.com/albums/zz70/ClevelandPlasma/System%201/DSC_0023.jpg
http://i814.photobucket.com/albums/zz70/ClevelandPlasma/System%201/DSC_0022-1.jpg
http://i814.photobucket.com/albums/zz70/ClevelandPlasma/System%201/DSC_0026.jpg
http://i814.photobucket.com/albums/zz70/ClevelandPlasma/System%201/DSC_0025.jpg

Chris it's hard to get to your web-page, something about a certificate.
Are you still in Garfield Heights?
Or are you snowed in.

That will be fixed tomorrow, just click ok or except. We are actually in Solon, Ohio.

holy mackrel. What are those speakers?

They sound BETTER than they look to ;)

Swan makes some nice line-array.

Those are some serious speakers...especially for a non-dedicated space...

They make your fireplace/TV setup look small.

Overkill? Nah! :)

How did my build thread become an advertisement for Swan Speakers? I need a kick-back.

If you look at the pics real quick you might even mistake them for doors!

How did my build thread become an advertisement for Swan Speakers? I need a kick-back.


Since your thread gets hit so much, could I sell some golf clubs out of my shop over your thread? I'm sure we could come up with some kind of fair percentage for you ;)

If you look at the pics real quick you might even mistake them for doors!

When I saw those things it immediately reminded me of a really old episode of the Tonight show when Bruce Willis was in the early stages of his career. Apparently Bruce bought a home in one of the exclusive neighborhoods and much to the frustration of his neighbors proceeded to turn his speakers up to the point requiring some calls to the police. Of course the tabloids ate it up.

On the show Johnny brought up the topic. Bruce told him that he was doing some renovations in the back yard and when one of the neighbors asked if he was building a pool house his response was "no those were his new speakers".

Since your thread gets hit so much, could I sell some golf clubs out of my shop over your thread? I'm sure we could come up with some kind of fair percentage for you

I don't think Big golfs. But I do. Feel free to go over to MY site. I'm sure we could work SOMETHING out.

I don't think Big golfs. But I do. Feel free to go over to MY site. I'm sure we could work SOMETHING out.

Yep. You do that and you pretty much guarantee that Tom will never finish.

BIGmouthinDC, there is nothing that could top your theater build. When I got these in I was thinking that they were a little over kill for what I have but would be sweet in your theater. ( Easy to remember your theater, I do not think it will ever be topped in my eyes) Maybe we can share.

Chris, are you married?! My wife would never allow those in my family room! :)

CJ

Maybe we can share.

Ok I'll take them August to January, you can have them February to July.

That means an August 7 east coast demo of the Swans sponsored by CP. I'll provide the beer and chips.

That means an August 7 east coast demo of the Swans sponsored by CP. I'll provide the beer and chips.

Road trip! :)

Chris, are you married?! My wife would never allow those in my family room! :)
CJ
I was going to put those in the side living area, and I was told "NO" they are going in the family room. :D

I clicked his link and I must be missing something. Where are the speakers all of you are talking about?

Regards,

RTROSE

For a better link to the Swan 2.3B system <<<Click Here>>> (http://www.swanspeaker.com/product/htm/mview.asp?id=415) .
I have some personal pics. I was in a huge hurry to get these hooked up so please do not judge my set up by appearance, stop buy and listen :D. (Just moved in this house so my set up was thrown together.)

Front towers are 34" wide and 78" tall. I just found this movie here <<< Click Here >>> (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vl3eDWpZi4o)

I take it you're not married. :D

I've always wondered if those who like tall line arrays are compensating for other SHORTcomings in their life.

I've always wondered if those who like tall line arrays are compensating for other SHORTcomings in their life.

<snicker>

So what is the deal? Is 1.0 complete? No new pics since November. Are you left with finishing Tom's for him?

8k post milestone just around the corner. Any big plans for it?

So what is the deal? Is 1.0 complete? No new pics since November.

No progress to report on the two remaining cosmetic items of the theater.

Minimal progress on the bathroom.

When you have 4 other bathrooms in the house the motivation to finish the one in the basement isn't that great.

I can however guarantee that I've made more progress than Tom and his new dog.

I can however guarantee that I've made more progress than Tom and his new dog.

No doubt. I have been avoiding the "kennel club" thread. His basement may have flooded again and he probably wouldn't notice unless the dog jumped on his lap soaking wet.

How about a "before" pic for the bathroom? I have to finish mine as well and I could use some... inspiration.:)

How about a "before" pic for the bathroom? I have to finish mine as well and I could use some... inspiration.:)

Will do, It is mostly rocked and taped. Next step is to bust up the shower floor a bit and center up the drain. Then need to create the shower base and put up backer board in preparation for tiling the shower/steam room.

Will do, It is mostly rocked and taped. Next step is to bust up the shower floor a bit and center up the drain. Then need to create the shower base and put up backer board in preparation for tiling the shower/steam room.

I Was getting ready to finish our bath room by the theater. We started with a tub, but i'am ready to pull it out and put in a tile shower.

Are you using a pre-fab shower pan. Or will the floor be tile also? I would be interested in seeing how a custom shower pan is built. I know you can have it hot moped or I have seen some done with a plastic membrane. How does a custom pan smoothly transition up the wall?:confused:

Here is a plastic membrane one (http://www.ontariotile.com/preslope.html)

Are you using a pre-fab shower pan. Or will the floor be tile also? I would be interested in seeing how a custom shower pan is built. I know you can have it hot moped or I have seen some done with a plastic membrane. How does a custom pan smoothly transition up the wall?:confused:


Mine will be tile. There is some documentation in this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=952789

There is a pretty good pictorial tutorial in HD's book Tiling 123. I have it scanned in an e-mail from that OP somewhere but I spotted the book at a closeout vendor for $3 and grabbed a copy. Bottom line is you build up a mortar sloped base, then a rubber membrane then another mortar base. There is a floor drain that works in concert with the membrane.

You bring the membrane up the sides of the wall (like 6 inches or so) then mount your backer board and whatever else you are putting on the wall on top of the membrane. I'm doing steam so I need a waterproofing layer on all wall and ceiling surfaces in addition to the floor membrane.

Update: looked at your link and it is pretty much like I remember from the HD book. Thanks for the reference.

All I know is when I build my home theater, I hope big mouth does not mind copy cats :rolleyes: The only big problem I will have will be the speaker system. I have a 30' by 20' unfinished room above the garage that CP is going to have to pay for to turn into a theater/swan room :D

I've always wondered if those who like tall line arrays are compensating for other SHORTcomings in their life. Not sure how I should take that as in prior posts I remember we were going to share these speakers ;)

Big, is this a floating floor in this space here?http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/Theater%20Dec%202008/2008_11250012.jpg

I too want some hard wood by where I will have my cabinets, but being in the basement I obviously cant have a normal nailed down floor unless I put down a wood subfloor, and seeming as i dont want a lip where it meets the carpet that I trip over everyday, that is not very possible. Therefore, i started searching about basement wood floors and discovered there are 2 options, glued, or floating. and for me the later sounds like the better option. this is where I thought of you and your space, yes I was thinking of a guy last night...pretty bad I know but it is for a theater, so I think that makes it OK. Either way, let me know what you did and how, please, as this will help me decide what I will do. thanks.

Big, is this a floating floor in this space here?

I too want some hard wood by where I will have my cabinets, but being in the basement I obviously cant have a normal nailed down floor unless I put down a wood subfloor, and seeming as i dont want a lip where it meets the carpet that I trip over everyday, that is not very possible. Therefore, i started searching about basement wood floors and discovered there are 2 options, glued, or floating. and for me the later sounds like the better option. this is where I thought of you and your space, yes I was thinking of a guy last night...pretty bad I know but it is for a theater, so I think that makes it OK. Either way, let me know what you did and how, please, as this will help me decide what I will do. thanks.


I used a floating floor in my kitchenette area and put the floor in after most of the cabinets. I also shimmed up the cabinets a bit (1/2" plywood) to make the toe kick panel fit right, though that is obviously optional.

Coincidentally, BIG and I both used Mirage engineered wood flooring. I went with the glued directly to the concrete (after TKO vapor barrier) route as per Mirage instructions. But I have to say that floor gets COLD! Nonetheless, extremely pleased with how the floor looks though.

While I didn't enjoy pulling out my checkbook to pay for Mirage, think 3x the cost of floating alternatives, that is what I ended up going with because of WAF and the fact that the Guy we selected to do the carpet sold it. My wife was at the "just get it done" stage of her patience on the theater project.

It is glued down and has been a trouble free product so far. When they came to install they had a can of the matching stain they were using to stain the quarter round and I asked if I could keep it. I have only needed to touch up one scratch so far.

It's amazing what skilled/experienced installers can get done. I think it took about 3 hours to do my area. I noticed that glue was bubbling up in a couple of joints and called them and they came back in the afternoon and cleaned it up.

I'm sure at my speed it would have been 2 days for the floor and a day on the quarter round coupled with coffee breaks and flapping my gums on the forum.

Big, is this a floating floor in this space here?

I too want some hard wood by where I will have my cabinets, but being in the basement I obviously cant have a normal nailed down floor unless I put down a wood subfloor, and seeming as i dont want a lip where it meets the carpet that I trip over everyday, that is not very possible. Therefore, i started searching about basement wood floors and discovered there are 2 options, glued, or floating. and for me the later sounds like the better option. this is where I thought of you and your space, yes I was thinking of a guy last night...pretty bad I know but it is for a theater, so I think that makes it OK. Either way, let me know what you did and how, please, as this will help me decide what I will do. thanks.


I did the same thing. I went with the floating floor so I could keep it isolated from the rest of the house, and in my adjacent room I don't a sub floor, just a heavy mat/carpet. I simply built a threshold to handle it.

Check out the last post in my HT thread, and you will see the doorway that has the raised threshold to handle the different heights of the floors.

I also went the floating floor route as it was easier to get it leveled out on the concrete.

HAHA, just called a place local here and asked about Mirage, she said $9 per sqft. I responded, wow, yeah, thats a bit much for a basement. she replied, yeah, I dont know why you would want to do that anyway, unless you have a lot of money.....I just laughed.

On the other hand, I asked about floating floors, and those were more reasonable starting at about 1.50 per sqft. So I think I will go take a look. Now, the question I have, is a floating floor the same as say the pergo that they have at HD? I know I have looked at stuff at HD and it has like a foam on the bottom...not really sure if it is all the same though.

HD starts at like 1.97 for the cheapest pergo and then the average appears to be about 2.97, so starting at 1.50 is going to make me go up to this store tonight just to look. The only thing I wonder is, where does the price go when you start adding the pad and vapor barrier, or is that a cost that would still be required at HD? Or is the foam on the bottom of the stuff at HD the pad and vapor barrier already included? Thanks guys, but I am certainly clueless when it comes to this stuff right now.

HAHA, just called a place local here and asked about Mirage, she said $9 per sqft.

Smaks, is that including installation? Because the quote sounds very very high. You also have to be very specific as Mirage makes many different kinds of flooring (hardwood for the upstairs, engineered wood for the basement, lock-like pergo, etc.) that come in different colors (Red oak, mahogany, etc.) and finish (cashmere...). I will admit though that the Bostik TKO glue and MVP #4 vapor barrier are indeed expensive. Don't know off the top of my head but recall my GC complaining about it.

yeah, I talked to the wife and told her I want to try and get up to the place before they close tonight, just to get an idea of what is out there and talk to people that know whats going on as opposed to the people at HD. I think the price for mirage was the nice stuff, true hard woods, because the lady said it is too nice for a basement...

I think the price for mirage was the nice stuff, true hard woods, because the lady said it is too nice for a basement...

The way to increase the resale value of your home is to finish off the basement with finish quality equal to that used in the rest of the house.

You slap up some Faux wood paneling, a cheap suspended ceiling and the cheapest laminate floor you can find and a buyer won't place much of a value on the space.

Of course if that is what you have upstairs..... never-mind.

You slap up some Faux wood paneling, a cheap suspended ceiling and the cheapest laminate floor you can find and a buyer won't place much of a value on the space.

Of course if that is what you have upstairs..... never-mind.

LOL. Way to keep it in context Jeff. So true. I have to say, I'm as budget conscious as others on the forum, but I'm taking a different approach with my home. I like good things...good woodwork, quality craftsmanship, and great design. I'm not unique there.

In my build, I'm using the stuff that my wife and I like...if it costs more, then so be it. I'm not going with extreme top-of-the-line stuff...rather, we're using the stuff that we like, and are trying to keep in line with what's in the rest of the house (or "upgrade" the rest of the house as we go along to match the basement). I think it was Michael that told me it's a two+ year build....you have plenty of time to spread the cost over.

After all, it's my HOME.

Biggy's set a really high standard. Every time I go through this thread, I'm reminded how well all the parts fit together and of the high quality of workmanship and attention to detail. He may never make a good GC, but his speed (and that of most of us) is more than made up by the quality of his end product.

CJ

Thanks CJ,

Speaking of basements there is an interesting concept in home design worth bringing up.

Today most cookie cutter McMansions have a decent to large foyer and grand stair case leading to the second floor. If you look around, somewhere you can find what looks like a closet door leading down a tunnel of a stairs to the "basement". Some places actually make it a hidden door.

I've been to a few homes where they treat the stairway going down stairs to the same openness and finish quality as the one going up. The basement is then finished with the same materials as the rest of the house. The impact of this design it that you think of the space down below as the lower level with all kinds of activity spaces and extra rooms instead of "the basement"

Don't know If I will ever be building a custom home in my lifetime but if I did I would really consider this concept.

I agree and have been wondering why are basement entries hidden and not have more pizzazz? I can't do much with my basement entry due to the way it's placed, but I'm been noodling how I can dress it up.

I'll come up with something...I'm not going be happy until I can make it more distinct.

CJ

Are you all takin' about Cellars? :)

Big,
Have you seen a product called pre-pitch and quick pitch? I did a couple of custom pans in our new house and used them. They worked well for me.

Here's a link "http://www.markeindustries.com/" of who makes them.

Are you all takin' about Cellars? :)

On your side of the border, I believe they are called cellars (short for root cellars I'm sure). That's what they're called in Appalachia too.

CJ

DK, Looked at those products and I think I will go over to my local dealer to check the price. Luckily My area isn't too big. It looks like it makes easy work of getting the right slope. Thanks.

DK, Looked at those products and I think I will go over to my local dealer to check the price. Luckily My area isn't too big. It looks like it makes easy work of getting the right slope. Thanks.

The Quick Pitch seems like an interesting product. I was looking for something like that when I did my shower. I did mine the "old fashioned" way and it turned out good. Not perfect, but good. It drains well, but I made it a little steep in a few places. Granted, it's one of those things that only I can see, but it's there....

CJ

Big,
Have you seen a product called pre-pitch and quick pitch? I did a couple of custom pans in our new house and used them. They worked well for me.

Here's a link "http://www.markeindustries.com/" of who makes them.

Intresting products, they take out all the guess work.

The way to increase the resale value of your home is to finish off the basement with finish quality equal to that used in the rest of the house.

You slap up some Faux wood paneling, a cheap suspended ceiling and the cheapest laminate floor you can find and a buyer won't place much of a value on the space.

Of course if that is what you have upstairs..... never-mind.

Well, had a guy out yesterday to look at our bathroom. the wife is thinking about upgrading the master bath for some reason, but I just smile and nod, as I guess I cant say much as I build out the basement. Long story short, the guy does tile, wood floors, kitchens, baths, what have you. All interior stuff, so I had him take a look at my work, if we do go ahead with the bath, I can lower some cost if I can move electrical for him and do this type of stuff that I can handle from my project. I started discussing when I was goign to put my counters and flooring and he said my floor samples I got arent worth it, because for about the same I can do an engineered floor. I said i have no idea what that mean but he said it is better, so I had him take measurements so he can quote it. I also told him to quote some cabinets. I figure if he does the labor for cheap, then I might as well get it the hell done...

when I told him my project is almost a year in the works though, he laughed, he said I thought this was a month, but then I had to explain a few hours on weekends and an hour hear and there adds up quickly, and then he understood. But I figure if I pay labor for a few hours and get something done that would take me days, it might just be worth it, especially with what I have going on out at my grandmas trying to get her house into shape to sell (more on this to come in my own thread, so stay tuned...).

Sometimes is just as rewarding to play the General Contractor role and hire someone to do some of the heavy lifting of your creation.

I hired a guy to tape and mud, best money spent.

It is great to hire a professional to do the stuff that you do not like. For me it is the drywall taping, mud work and the drywall texturing. The pro can knock it our in less then a week. For me it takes a month or so.

Or somthing like the shower pan that takes a lot of, knowing all the in and outs. Plus if you screw it up the water can cause a lot of damage and tile redoes are expensive. Not like just redoing a fabric frame in the theater.

It is great to hire a professional to do the stuff that you do not like. For me it is the drywall taping, mud work and the drywall texturing. The pro can knock it our in less then a week. For me it takes a month or so.

Or somthing like the shower pan that takes a lot of, knowing all the in and outs. Plus if you screw it up the water can cause a lot of damage and tile redoes are expensive. Not like just redoing a fabric frame in the theater.

funny, speaking of water damage with bad drainage in a shower...http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15950409#post15950409

the way to increase the resale value of your home is to finish off the basement with finish quality equal to that used in the rest of the house.

You slap up some faux wood paneling, a cheap suspended ceiling and the cheapest laminate floor you can find and a buyer won't place much of a value on the space.

Of course if that is what you have upstairs..... Never-mind.



.....lol:d

Good god, AWSOME build.

As a man also in construction, their is some really nice details done there. Congrats

Are you also in construction of some sort? Seems like you got that talent, and as a newbie of this forum I dont know the inside scoop!!

Got some work? My retirement portfolio is sucking wind.

Got some work? My retirement portfolio is sucking wind.
Yea what he said! But I can say my biz is striving due to the stim package.......kind of weird booming in bad times. All most feel guilty

May I add my compliments to the remarkable results you have achieved in your theatre and thank you for the many ingenious ideas you have shared.

I see than velcro is much used - I`ve used it myself to attach DW laminate to a base for my screen - but I am concerned that it may come unstuck at some point! When looking for alternatives I came across a a supplier of frames and screens for self assembly. The screen fabric is attached to the frame using 3M Dual Lock. They say they can supply sizes up to 500cm x 500cm (about 16` x 16` max) so I conclude it must be a secure method for attaching screen materials to a frame.

Have you contemplated using 3M Dual Lock in any application or is it just not cost effective versus velcro?

From looking at their website, Harkness mostly supplies large commercial applications. Their venture into the home cinema market seems to be recent.

Got some work? My retirement portfolio is sucking wind.
Tell me about it.. Does a market for HT constructions projects still exist? Used to be a lucrative business here in NoVA. Use Dennis E. for engineering, hire local crews for construction. You act as the general contractor/biz dev.

Hey BIG! I don't know if anyone told you yet but you're officially famous now. I am on the train reading my recent issue of Electronic House. Guess whose first post is featured in the "Tech Talk" section? They picked out your input on carefully picking your first screen size. The very advice that you gave me months ago, contributing to my getting a bigger screen.

One other thing I need to mention though is the issue also featured a DIY HT in the basement that had castle-like walls. In the feature they mentioned "Candy selected...Armstrong ceiling tiles to prevent sound from seeping into or out of the theater." Had I read this quote a year ago I would have been foolishly misled. Shame on EH for misinforming their readers!! Where's Ted when you need him!

Wow...Big, please sign a NEW TABLE napkin and send it to me. You are a legend.

This is all news to me and not that I mind, but I haven't been asked for my permission or notified in any way.

Queen, do you have a link? I've got to put that on my resume as a contributing author.

This is all news to me and not that I mind, but I haven't been asked for my permission or notified in any way.

Queen, do you have a link? I've got to put that on my resume as a contributing author.

I don't typically go to their electronic version so I'm not sure if they post it online. I have a free mail subscription (sadly my last issue). It's the March/April edition on page 71. They do this every issue, where they grab some posts from the forum about various tips/advice. They seem to have pulled these directly from the what I'd do differently thread. If you like, next work day I'll get it scanned.

Ok, just figured out how to access the electronic version but it won't let me cut and paste into here. So the scan offer still stands.

Queen, Yes please scan.

Here it is

http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k242/BritInVA/HT/big_is_famous.jpg

Here it is


THANKS! Score two for the NoVA brain-trust. I bet Bill doesn't know he was quoted either.

I see they even corrected one of my typos.

Guess it's official, I'm a contributing author

Shouldn't you get some sort of royalties?

Somehow, I knew a fellow AVSer would beat me. Thanks Brit. The anticipation was probably killing BIG :D.

Yes your royalties are going to make you filthy rich! The question is will you still remember all of us little people now that you hit the big time? :D

Maybe they could give you some shares in a bank to help your 401k

Now that I am rolling in the dough from my royalty checks thought I should get some real work done.

Working on the Spa Bathroom off the theater.

The plan for the drain in the steam/shower

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02375.jpg

Rent a weapon:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02391.jpg

2 hours and 20 min later with one break:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02396.jpg

I think you put a hole in that horizontal pipe. :D

Man, I wish i had that much room in my basement. Coming along nicely, mate.

Now that I am rolling in the dough from my royalty checks thought I should get some real work done.

Working on the Spa Bathroom off the theater.

The plan for the drain in the steam/shower

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02375.jpg

Rent a weapon:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02391.jpg

2 hours and 20 min later with one break:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02396.jpg

I'm no Plumber BIG, but I think you went outside the lines. Congrats on the mention; does your PM box overfloweth?

CD

I think you put a hole in that horizontal pipe. :D


Yea, thank God it is downstream from where I will be cutting in so that piece gets tossed. I was much more careful after that first oops.

lol. I bet. At least no harm no foul. :)

I'm no Plumber BIG, but I think you went outside the lines.
CD

I wasn't exactly sure which direction the pipe headed off to connect with the sink drain. I had a general idea but once I found the pipe I had to uncover it back to where I can put in an angled fitting (45 maybe) and get the drain to the centered location. Didn't want to do a 90 turn to improve drain flow. It's kind of like surgery you think you know where everything is but sometimes you take a look and go from there.

Finally breaking ground on the bathroom, huh? I am curious how this (spa) is going to turn out.

I am curious how this (spa) is going to turn out.
It's going to be BIG.

I just read today in my Electronic House magazine. Sweet!

It's going to be BIG.

We would expect nothing less...:D.

I hate being technical, but the part of the pipe you punched a hole in is upstream no? If it was downstream, wouldnt that be the direction you need to go? But then again I dont know much when it comes to plumbing, so I could be the one sounding foolish right now.

I will be curious how it turns out. Your neighbors will love you, you can have them over for a movie and a steam bath, the perfect combination.

Perhaps upstream would be the proper word choice. I have a propensity for ignoring what I actually say aka "BIGmouth"

That looks like a pretty small chisel (or whatever it actually is). How hard was the concrete? I had to use the most powerful shot I could find for my Ramset to get the nails to actually set. Otherwise they just chipped out a little chunk. MAN, two hours, I'd be in bed for a week.

Keep at it!

Dry fit of the new pieces, discovered I could just go straight over and avoid the 45 fitting.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02399.jpg

That looks like a pretty small chisel (or whatever it actually is).

I was thinking the same thing. I did something very very very similar, deja vu in fact, at my old place and had big stand up model and was done in less than 10 minutes.

Looks good, oh the memories.

How hard was the concrete?

Did you really just ask that?:eek:

I'm guessing it was as hard... as say... concrete...:D

Ok, on the (pardon the pun) surface it looks like a stupid question. But THERE ARE NO STUPID QUESTIONS.

There are different densities. I kept breaking tapcon drill bits when I was trying to replace the windows in the basement. Not all concrete is created equal.

I was thinking the same thing. I did something very very very similar, deja vu in fact, at my old place and had big stand up model and was done in less than 10 minutes.

Looks good, oh the memories.

I've used both the big stand up and this model before. For small jobs I kind of prefer the small more controllable version. As it was I managed to mangle the buried pipe. I would hate to think what it would have looked like if I brought in the big boy.

Since my rental place has a full day minimum on both sizes it doesn't make sense either from a $$ perspective.

Wow very cool read. I'm new here and I just read or skimmed all 15 pages of this thread. I partially designed my house and even though it is a "cookie-cutter" 2-story with walkout basement, I changed about 40% of it during the build process with custom stuff. My builder was unique in the fact that he didn't care what I changed and let me build about 30% of the house myself. Because of this I saved about $100,000. (For example, I was able to raise my basement ceilings to 9.5 feet for about $500!)

I'm currently finishing up my basement and I'm in the middle of my 3rd year. So like you, I take my time and do as much as it myself to get it just right. If I don't have the money for something I need, I don't just buy the cheapest thing to fill that spot. I wait and save and then buy exactly what I need or build it myself.

Once I finish up, I think I will post some pics too. Very cool thread. You went fantastically over what I would have attempted myself. I'm very impressed.

Progress is slow but there is progress. Measured 5 times, cut twice, primed, glued and leveled it up.


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02403.jpg

All that time and hard work... down the drain.


:D

Slow and steady Big, slow and steady...:)

Remember to leave enough room for the mortar base, rubber compound, second later of mortar, thinset and tile (to the top of the drain plug).

Congrats on the article. I read it last week and had meant to post something about it, but I was occupied elsewhere.

CJ

(For example, I was able to raise my basement ceilings to 9.5 feet for about $500!)

Welcome...there's plenty of folks who would kill for the extra height, so tread lightly my friend...tread lightly. :D

I'm not one of them, but I've heard from them a time or two...

CJ

With that steam shower you can recreate the famous shower scene from pyscho. Then when you are done filming you can watch it in the black/grey theater. Always difficult taking a shower after watching that movie.:eek:

Remember to leave enough room for the mortar base, rubber compound, second later of mortar, thinset and tile (to the top of the drain plug).
CJ

I followed the directions on their web site which indicated that the underneath of the big white flange sits directly on top of the sub-floor (concrete) then the first layer takes it to the top of the flange and then the center part is adjustable for the height of the second layer and tile. Here:

http://www.siouxchief.com/Resource_/ProductMedia/301/821%20Installation%20Instructions.pdf

Please let me know if this isn't correct.

Plumbing is one of those things i simply leave to the pros.

Jeff:

Excellent picture. That's exactly right!

Keep plugging along. It will look great in the end.

CJ

Hey smak, I edited your quote just a little for you.:D

Plumbing...and trim work is two of those things i should simply leave to the pros.

Man I have been waiting to comment on that forever...:D

Looking good Big. Keep it going.

Actually if Smackovits had more than just a chain saw for cutting wood and piece of twine for measuring, it would have been much tighter.

Hey big what are the chances of you doing a local area get together??

hey big what are the chances of you doing a local area get together??

100%

Holy smokes, now you're doing plumbing work and digging up concrete?! Is there any task that you can't do?:)

On the other hand, I think I read a few pages back that your permit was pulled like 6 years ago?:eek: You have some serious patience!!

But to the topic of your build - with all of the help you have given me I am ashamed of myself for not commending you on your build before now. It is simply stunning.

Thanks Shawn, But now after 8000 posts and seeing so many great theaters come together like yours there are many things I would do differently.

I actually hope some day I move and have a chance to build again.

I actually hope some day I move and have a chance to build again.
And if you do move, I hope to one day buy your house just so I could have your theater!! :D

A couple more baby steps

Got the supplies and tools

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02410.jpg

put the rocks back in, bent the steel into position and washed away all the dust.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02408.jpg

Filled it up.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/DSC02413.jpg

Turned out to be a one bagger. Now I have to carry the other back to the store along with the extra one in my car that I had "just in case".

All that time and hard work... down the drain.

I laughed so hard after reading this, my wife had to check that I was OK! :D

BIG - You know that you have made it now, not only are you the quoted in the trade mags but your build is still one of the most active threads in AVS, and you are finished! Of course, the fact that half the people here owe you their first born (for all the help you have provided) probably has something to do with it. :rolleyes:

And for the record - IMHO your build is still one of the best here.

Hey Beerparty thanks for the comments.

I will share two secrets, to make your thread popular you have to link it in your signature, then when you make a post in a newbies thread they say WhoTF is this guy and click on my link. The other way is when the thread is dead is to post an update on your progress like "today I changed out a burned out light bulb and now I really see the light".

If you look at Sandman's thread when it hasn't received a comment for a while he'll post something like "Hey I just got a new camera".
For ChinaDog it was "Hey I just bought a cabin in the mountains"

A couple more baby steps


Turned out to be a one bagger. Now I have to carry the other back to the store along with the extra one in my car that I had "just in case".

Damn there is the Deja vu again!

Looks great!

Hey Beerparty thanks for the comments.

I will share two secrets, to make your thread popular you have to link it in your signature, then when you make a post in a newbies thread they say WhoTF is this guy and click on my link. The other way is when the thread is dead is to post an update on your progress like "today I changed out a burned out light bulb and now I really see the light".

If you look at Sandman's thread when it hasn't received a comment for a while he'll post something like "Hey I just got a new camera".
For ChinaDog it was "Hey I just bought a cabin in the mountains"
I think BIG neglected to mention a third simple little trick to making your thread popular: simply do as he has done and build an incredible extraordinarily awesome, professional quality theater and bar, and include a litany of expert advice for others to learn from. It may be a cheap old trick, but it seems to work for BIG!

There are tons of build threads with signatures and trivial bump posts, but there is still only one BIGmouthinDC build ... and build thread.

Well, excluding Logan's of course, but then he's actually not building a HT, so much as blogging about one day thinking about planning one, right?! ;)

BIG - Of course, the fact that half the people here owe you their first born (for all the help you have provided) probably has something to do with it. :rolleyes:

Bigsy, I was wondering how my son was doing and if he remembers us anymore. I hope you're sending him to a good college.

Well, excluding Logan's of course, but then he's actually not building a HT, so much as blogging about one day thinking about planning one, right?!

HEY! I'm getting there. And I've had my permit for less than 4 years.

And this is the FOURTH tip for having a popular thread...hijkack someone's thread that is more popular than yours. And then insult the poster in that thread until they have to go to your thread to repsond. Are you listening hanesian, you pansy-ian?

It all part of the plan, man. It's all part of the plan.

And this is the FOURTH tip for having a popular thread...hijkack someone's thread that is more popular than yours. And then insult the poster in that thread until they have to go to your thread to repsond. Are you listening hanesian, you pansy-ian?



That right there is funny!

HEY! I'm getting there. And I've had my permit for less than 4 years.

And this is the FOURTH tip for having a popular thread...hijkack someone's thread that is more popular than yours. And then insult the poster in that thread until they have to go to your thread to repsond. Are you listening hanesian, you pansy-ian?

It all part of the plan, man. It's all part of the plan.
And a damned grand plan it is, too, my friend! Very grand!

Just doing my best stealth forum slimy terrorist imitation: locate the big targets, sneak in under the cover of darkness, hit 'em hard and hit 'em fast and run like hell before they realize what happened!! :cool:

I'll grant you it may be cowardly and below contempt, but a guy's gotta play the cards what he's been dealt. And if you even skimmed my pathetic so-called build thread you would realize that in my case what I got dealt was a hand full of ignorance and mold, and that's about it! Still, I doubt it will take me a day over 4 years to finish, so there! HA! I fart in your gen-er-al direction, you filthy English K-nig-ht!!! :p

Mon Dieu! I've been on this unsecured internet line far too long already - my elctro-transsplicer-ometer ring alarm is going off which means someone is reverse engineering my signal and coming perilously close to homing in on my location, and then I'll be Loganed before I know what hit me!

Peace, out!

For ChinaDog it was "Hey I just bought a cabin in the mountains"

In my defense, I do plan on reusing my old projector at the cabin. :p

Bud

Big what height did you run the linacoustic up to on the walls - 48"?

Big, first of all, I just love this theater and all you have done and are doing to it.

I was wondering if you were ever considering redoing your front screen wall and going scope?

Also, I cant wait to see the creation of your new bathroom.

I was wondering if you were ever considering redoing your front screen wall and going scope?



HT2.0 = 1080P, 2.35:1 AT, DIY Masking, and maybe some BIG speakers. It's in the planning stages.

Delivery sometime in the future or when My projector decides to go to Projector Heaven whichever comes first.

BIG,

I am very interested in what projector you choose and why. Please share when you can.

Thanks,
SDean

That right there is funny!
One way to kill a thread is to have Randy mention he is coming to visit;)

BIG,
I am very interested in what projector you choose and why. Please share when you can. Thanks, SDean

Undecided.

I like DLP, I also like Bright, I also like the way the new Panasonic does the poor mans CIH, I like the super-wide 2.0 wide system in the new Optoma, I have yet to audition any Mits, Marantz, Planars or JVCs, I've see a few Sonys.

I keep hoping that someone will come out with the PERFECT unit. Aren't we all?

I think BIG neglected to mention a third simple little trick to making your thread popular: simply do as he has done and build an incredible extraordinarily awesome, professional quality theater and bar, and include a litany of expert advice for others to learn from. It may be a cheap old trick, but it seems to work for BIG!

There are tons of build threads with signatures and trivial bump posts, but there is still only one BIGmouthinDC build ... and build thread.

Well, excluding Logan's of course, but then he's actually not building a HT, so much as blogging about one day thinking about planning one, right?! ;)

Hey...BIG's thread has only got 476 posts; mine has got 320. Of course, 300 or so are from me. :D Is this what you meant by how to keep your thread in the public eye Jeff? :p

Of course I kid because I love...your room. I know you can't help but be thinking if you only knew then, what you know now (like I wish I could go back to High School and date...lol)...and be planning that all-world v2.0 (or is it 3.0?), but I agree that yours is still one of the nicest rooms on the boards.

CD

Undecided.

I like DLP, I also like Bright, I also like the way the new Panasonic does the poor mans CIH, I like the super-wide 2.0 wide system in the new Optoma, I have yet to audition any Mits, Marantz, Planars or JVCs, I've see a few Sonys.

I keep hoping that someone will come out with the PERFECT unit. Aren't we all?

???

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee136/CDLehner/digital-projection-titan-1080p-dual.jpg

CD

Undecided.

I like DLP, I also like Bright, I also like the way the new Panasonic does the poor mans CIH, I like the super-wide 2.0 wide system in the new Optoma, I have yet to audition any Mits, Marantz, Planars or JVCs, I've see a few Sonys.

I keep hoping that someone will come out with the PERFECT unit. Aren't we all?

BIG, since I know $$ is no object with you ;), how about the new Sim2 3-chip DLP? It's supposed to be plenty bright!

BIG, since I know $$ is no object with you


That was the 2007 Big. Big is now on a budget. My sign that I hold at the stop light now reads "will work for 1080P projector"

That was the 2007 Big. Big is now on a budget. My sign that I hold at the stop light now reads "will work for 1080P projector"

Oh, come on BIG, the new 1080p projector would depreciate slower than your portfolio so go ahead and take the plunge :p!

I will move a projector at cost to add to your sweet project ;)

JVC DLA-HD750 ??

Where the heck is this steam shower already?

Detour, I've been putting down a hardwood floor in the family room.

Ordered an Oppo Bluray, Bought a Rumba robot it arrived yesterday and it is currently seeking out and destroying my dropped popcorn in the theater. So much fun that I haven't focused much on the steam room.

Preview of the project. I will have another thread on this topic. The hardwood is 80% down but this is the Green Glue sub-floor part of the project. And thanks to BritinVA for helping with the heavy lifting and strategic planning.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/_DSC2545.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/_DSC2549.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/_DSC2561.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/_DSC2564.jpg


Update: the robot found it's way back to home base and parked it's butt on the charger.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/_DSC2561.jpg


That's amazing- you copied the seemingly random green glue pattern exactly as they have it on the website! ;)

I think that you have even more projects in your house than I do. The only difference is that you appear to finish yours, while mine just keep going!

CJ

Intriguing. Are you trying to keep the sound from the family room traveling down into your basement?

I can't wait to hear your feedback on the Oppo and whether it's worth all the hype.

I second the Oppo feedback comment from queendvd2. My hand was shaking frantically last night as my mouse pointer hovered over the "buy" button, but I managed to take control and decided to hold off until I could see some reviews/opinions.

Wait a minute...BIG, you bought the BDP-83...and no 1080P projector?? Mmm, me thinks a projector upgrade would perfectly compliment that shiny new piece of blu-ray playing goodness... :)

Intriguing. Are you trying to keep the sound from the family room traveling down into your basement?

I can't wait to hear your feedback on the Oppo and whether it's worth all the hype.

Yes the family room is 60% over my office and 40% over the front of my theater and I am trying to minimize the acoustic damages of going from carpet and pad to hardwood. When I'm done I will write a thread on the process and my impressions.

On the Oppo this will be my third player from them and I am a sucker for Hype. I've been really pleased with the performance of the other two and really impressed with their customer service.

Wait a minute...BIG, you bought the BDP-83...and no 1080P projector?? Mmm, me thinks a projector upgrade would perfectly compliment that shiny new piece of blu-ray playing goodness... :)

Yes this may be the domino that starts the HT2.0 journey. However 1080 material that I get over the Satellite already looks spectacular on my 720P projector so I know I will enjoy BD. Also at a meet and greet an AVS brother brought over his BD player so I know what I'm expecting.

Hey BIG, that's a beautiful room. Well, ya know...I mean, it was. :D

CD

Wow man you are a machine :D

this may be the domino that starts the HT2.0 journey

Don't let that first domino fall, man. You'll be sorry!

In our old house, the LOGANESS wanted to replace the Sears portable dishwasher. I KNEW that replacing the $200 dishwasher would cost at least $15K. She wanted an under-counter. New elctric would need to be run to the new location. The counters were 50 years old so that would mean new counters. IF we did that, the fridge wouldn't fit....

So we just bought a new house with a bigger kitchen instead. It was easier.

In some This Old House article I read that the most expensive trap that a DIYer falls into is the "while I am at it I might as well just......" Already my HT2.0 is hanging a new projector and screen but I while I am at it I might as well build some new speakers and subs. Of course that might take some electronics.

My one comment is

http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k242/BritInVA/beast.jpg

Yea, but I don't think it comes close to that steel desk of yours that we hauled to the dump! Oh and I forgot to tell you that the misses said "you know what? why don't we get a new HD flat panel in there instead" Don't worry I'm going to offer it up to my yard guys if they want to carry it out of the house.

are we talking about the TV or the cabinet as I am sure they are both equally heavy...

Yes the family room is 60% over my office and 40% over the front of my theater and I am trying to minimize the acoustic damages of going from carpet and pad to hardwood. When I'm done I will write a thread on the process and my impressions.
I think you're being smart with that. I wish I had been thinking ahead when I put hardwood down in my living room & dining room 9 years ago (before I even imagined building a HT), as it is right above the soon-to-be HT area, and when my wife or daughters walk on that floor with heels on it can sound like someone using a hammer! Now I have to try and treat that from the basement ceiling side.

"while I am at it I might as well just......" Already my HT2.0 is hanging a new projector and screen but I while I am at it I might as well build some new speakers and subs.
Boy that sounds familiar!
The GG is a great idea, I bet it will it make the floor "feel" not as hollow too, or something like that :)

are we talking about the TV or the cabinet as I am sure they are both equally heavy...


The TV is heavy and awkward, the cabinet is heavy but is actually two pieces. But it is bulky and a finger smasher. I used up all the IOUs in my account. Next project I'm going to have to pick on the Logonator because I'm sure Brit will discover he has a conference call that he can't miss.