Hello Everyone,

Well I have a little time so I will update on the progress. First, all the construction is DIY and the equipment list is below.

Receiver: Onkyo TX -SR605
SD DVD player: Sony 5 Disc (need to check model #)
Game System: XBOX 360 and Modified XBOX 1 and PS2
Media Center: Xbox 1
Sony PS3: gaming and Blyray
Speakers : All JBL Venue series
2 X Stadium 3-WAY 8" Dual Speaker
1 X Voice 2-WAY 5" Dual CC Speaker
2 X Balcony 2-WAY 4" on wall speaker
1 X SUB 12 12" 500w Powered Subwoofer
Projector: Mitsubishi HC 4900 1080P

Screen: DIY Blackout Cloth 86" wide

Updated photos. Not 100% complete, but close. Thought I would put these in the beginning. Some panorama shots.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/FrontPanorama1.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/BackPanorama1.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/BackPanorama2.jpg


Hello everyone. I have decided, like so many others, to track my Home Theater build here. This is my first build and I have to thank all of you for the amazing amount of information on this site. anyway on to the Project.

Beginning Summary: We bought this house in June 07. It already had a finished basement built for a live in nanny. We have no use for this and I have decided to convert one of the finished basement rooms into a home theater. I have always wanted to do this (with my other houses) but never had a chance. Anyway, some constraints
1) build with cost savings in mind
2) do not overhaul the basement
3) Re-use as much material as possible from any tear down
4) Keep my wife out until complete ;)

I posted some designs a while ago, but here is (for the most part) the one I decided to go with:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom19b.png
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom19.png

This is the basement room before any work:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Mediaroom39_23_07.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Mediaroom29_23_07.jpg

I started the tear down of some walls on 9/22/07. I am trying to preserve as much lumber as possible so I can re-use. I have tore out a part of a closet in the back corner and I will be incorporating a false wall 34" out from the back wall. I have also removed a portion of the front wall (this will be the new entrance to the room) and removed the funky bump out entrance. I have also adjusted the portion of the drop ceiling covering the ductwork. I shrunk it so the lower section takes up less space. There was a lot of wasted space above the drop ceiling, so I shrunk the "Soffit" to give more height:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Mediaroom210_22_07.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Mediaroom410_22_07.jpg

One month later I have built the screen (blackout cloth).
Screen Size 84" wide:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Mediaroom110_22_07.jpg

I have framed the wall were the funky bumpout was to create a straight wall:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom610_26_07.jpg

I have also framed the screenwall:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom210_26_07.jpg

All the framing was completed re-using the 2X4 from the teardown and yes that is insulation I am going to re-use also ;)

We recycled some of the scrap lumber in the stage when we ran out of sand. Turns out it take a LOT of sand to fill a stage.

Where are you planning to locate equipment/speakers?

Kelly

There is a closet to the left of the chairs and riser (Not really shown that well in above photos or plan) that will house the equipment. The wiring will run through above the drop ceiling.

I have hung the sheetrock on the back wall and I have started taping and mudding. The sheetrock is also recycled from the tear down.

I will get pictures up once I finish the taping, mud, and sanding.

A week later and some more work:

Painted the screen framing black:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom111_3_07.jpg

Also finished with the taping, mudding and sanding of rear wall:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom311_3_07.jpg

Also hung the screen on the wall:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom611_3_07.jpg

It's amazing how once the screen is hung, everything comes clearer.

I have constructed the frames for the fabric on the screen wall and will post more pics once I get the fabric up.

Got a bit further on the screen wall. I built 4 rectangular frames using 1X2 wood using metal L brace for the corners. I also placed a support accross the middle of the frame and used metal t-braces to secure. I painted the frames black. I baought Dazian Celtic black cloth (5 yards) and attached the cloth on the frames with staples. I stretched the cloth as best I could.

I attached the frames to the screen wall studs using small elbow brases and screws. Some pics below:

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom311_8_07.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom111_8_07.jpg

I will eventually install black painted baseboard accross the bottom. All in all, so far I am happy with the results. Next up is the riser ... stay tuned.

Another update on progress:

I have painted the walls in the room a deep purple/eggplant color. Interesting story - this is not the original color I was thinking, but I realy like how it turned out. Originally I was going to go a deep green, but then changed my mind and wanted a deep burgandy. I found a color at Lowes (Valspar) and ordered the Burgandy in flat. I left the paint desk to pick up a few addtional items. When I returned, the lady who was preparing the paint informaed me that that particular color burgandy cannot be made in flat but that she tried to "customize" another color to match. The spot she dabbed on the can top look pretty close, so I took a chance. Turns out she made the deep eggplant color that is now on my walls which is not the same as the burgandy color BUT I really really like the color. In any event, the color is custom (not one you can pick from a card) and I also like that idea. In order to get more paint, I will have to save the paint can lid that has the sticker of the mixture ingredients. It will be perfect with the GOM fabric that I have picked out fro covering the lower half of my walls. Anyway on to the pictures:

Wall color
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom111_24_07.jpg

Equipment closet behind the door
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom1311_24_07.jpg

Concession nook for popcorn machine and candy
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom611_24_07.jpg

Screen on false wall with walk behind. This will eventually have a heavy velvet curtain covering the opening.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom1011_24_07.jpg

Ceiling panels out for electrical wiring for sconces and recessed lighting above the screen.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom511_24_07.jpg

GOM Fabric sample:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/CIMG3213.jpg

GOM Fabric name and style:
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/CIMG3215.jpg

Lookin good!

Lookin great!

Progress has been slowed a bit due to life as usual. Since last update, I ran electric for lighting. I installed 4 sconces in the room. 2 in bumpout where concession stand will go and 2 in the room. I have also installed 3 3" recessed lights above the screen. Shots below.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom812_9_07.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom612_9_07.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom912_9_07.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom712_9_07.jpg

Sconces are on their own dimmer, as well as the recessed lights.

BTW: I have some shots I didn't post of the screen build if anyone is interested on how I built the screen.

Framing has started for the Riser. Bics below. Outer frame is 2X10 with inner joists are 2X6 hung with joist hangers. 16" wide X 6" high step.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Riser2.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Riser1.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/RiserStep.jpg

I would like a step light, but the ones they carry at Lowes are too bulky. Anyone with suggestions for sleeker step lights?

The riser is 99% complete. The only additional item will be base trim around where the two carpets meet. Pictures below follow the progress. I did all the work including carpet install ... not that easy! I rented a knee kick stretcher from the local Taylor Rental for $16 for one day. Beat buying one for +$70. The carpet was a remnant from Lowes 8' X 12' - normally $130 but was marked down to $35 .. unbelieveable deal. I would recommend if your on a budget to check out the remnants at Lowes! All in all I am happy wit the final product. If you decide to do the carpet yourself without much experience like me, make sure you have patience!!! On with the pictures.

I finished the framing, filled the interior with insulation, and added the 3/4" plywood

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom519_19_07.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom312_22_07.jpg

Added the carpet padding to all surfacces including wrapping around the edges. The picture below is of an early shot during the padding phase and I forgot to take one when all the padding was on. What a pain to get it around the hangover edge! Even more difficult was the carpet.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom512_22_07.jpg

Finally carpeting of the Riser. Only the finished product pictures because once I got going, I just didn't stop!

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom612_22_07.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom912_22_07.jpg


Plug in lights to the side and a step light. The lights on the side swivel and point to where you want. I will eventually paint them black. They all have a photosensor and turn off when the lights come on in the room.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom1012_22_07.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/MediaRoom1112_22_07.jpg

As mentioned at the very beginning, I am building this theater with material that already existed in the room. For the ceiling I reused the ceiling tiles by flipping them over and painting the backside black. All the wires were run prior to replacing the ceiling tiles. Here are some pictures.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Theaterceiling2.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Theaterceiling1.jpg

looks good. definitely like the way you're making good use of what's already there.

Why did you flip the ceiling tiles over before painting them?

Why did you flip the ceiling tiles over before painting them?

A few reasons.

1) Not sure if it makes a big difference, but I read that the white face cover on the tiles may reflect sound more so I turned them over to help with the refelection if any.

2) My tiles had a random design on the front with groves that would have been a pain to paint.

3) In the future, if I sell the house and the new owner does not like the black tiles, they can simply flip them over rather than buy new tiles for room. (rather than me buy new tiles also).

You are coming along. Are you going to paint the "tracks" of the drop ceiling also? Kind of cool looking as is, but cleaner the other way. Just curious.

You are coming along. Are you going to paint the "tracks" of the drop ceiling also? Kind of cool looking as is, but cleaner the other way. Just curious.

I like the look with the white tracks; however, another poster did point out that it might cause an issue with light reflection back onto the screen with use of the projector. I am waiting for the delivery of the projector and I will test this out when it gets here. If there are issues, I will probably paint them. If not, I will keep as is.

Need some ideas. I am tossed up with the fabric color. Initially I was going with the GOM Network listed higher in the thread, but now I am thinking it might be too much design and purple. I was thinking black Velvet for the bottom half of the walls separated trimmed with chair rail.
Any thoughts or opinions on a color that would work well?

Black goes with everything. So I'd look at the "show us your screenwall" thread for some ideas (maybe the picture sticky in the 2.35 forum too).

Updated photos below. I changed my mind on the fabric choice from what I showed previously. 2 reasons for the change: 1)I thought purple on purple would be a bit too much 2) I was turned on to a suede look that I saw on someone elses wall. I picked the fabric up at a local fabric store.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Cloth301_13_08.jpg

If anyone is interested, I can detail the process I used for putting the fabric and rigid fiberglass up. Since I could not get OC703 easily, I went with the Armstrong 402 ceiling tile (5/8"), peeled the face off, doubled up, and placed behind the fabric. I am about 3/4 done with the fabric for the room.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Cloth101_13_08.jpg

I also am in the process of building a column on the back wall to support the projector. Right now, it doesn't look like much of a column, but once I trim it up I think it will look pretty good.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/column401_13_01.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Backwall.jpg

The top of the column will be an MDF board (21"wide X 15" deep). I routed the edges as shown below. It still needs to be painted.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/columnshelf401_18_08.jpg

All of the trim work will be painted gold.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/goldpaint.jpg

Here is the chair rail painted gold that I will use to cap off the fabric.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/chairrail201_18_08.jpg

Thats it for now .. My projector arrived - Mitsubishi HC4900, tested and working. Can't wait to start watching movies.

Looking great. I love the way you are doing it high end but probably not spending a fortune. (thats all relative of course). Nice detail touches. You must be getting excited to start your first high def movie...

I think it came out pretty nice. The trim work really pulled it together. some pics:
Front shot
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/PJColumncomplete601_21_08.jpg

Angle shot
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/PJColumncomplete301_21_08.jpg

Another angle (shelf)
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/PJColumncomplete501_21_08.jpg

You should also paint the drop ceiling supports black too. I took a brush and painted mine flat black. It look a lot better.

Work on the room has slowed a bit because of travel last week. I have made some progress on the trim around the room. I still need to paint the window and door trim to pull it all together, but below are some progress shots.

Baseboard is now installed
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/trim0101_29_08.jpg

Bump out where concession stand/popcorn will be
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/trim0201_29_08.jpg

Column being built on opposing side wall.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/sidecolumn101_29_08.jpg

Great work for a little over 2 months in! This looks really upscale and you should be proud of it!

What are you using for speakers/amps?

To answer the question above - I am looking to upgrade the receiver and speakers for this room but I haven't decided yet. I am trying to do this on a strict budget, so I do not imagine they will be high end audiophile speakers. They will be used strictly for movies, and I am not extremely fussy when it comes to sound. As long as the speakers and sub do not rattle ( I like bass) and sound good to my ears. Once I get all my equipment, I will post the specs.

Progress pics below. I have finished the side column, tore up some carpet and replaced with laminate flooring (HW look a like - Brazilian cherry).

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/sidecolumn201_29_08.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/HWFloor302_03_08.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/HWFloor402_03_08.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/HWFloor702_03_08.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/HWFloor602_03_08.jpg

The laminate came from the local Ocean State Job lot at $20 for ~ 14 sq. ft. Kronotex - made in Germany - pretty good stuff.

Added a wet bar to this side of the theater on the new floor. Next Steps are to trim it up and treat the walls around the the bar . This will finalize the treatment/fabric on the walls.
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Cabinetsink402_10_08.jpg

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Cabinetsink202_10_08.jpg

My speaker system came in. I ultimately went with a JBL system - the Venue Series. Not High fidelity/audiophile quality, but I have listened to them in several stores next to klipsh and polk and I like the sound. The price tag worked for me (great deal online with free shipping for all speakers) since I am trying to keep this as a budget home theater. I have hooked them up through my older HK AV120 and tested the through transformers - sounds great. I am upgrading my receiver to the Onkyo TX-SR605 - which is on order. At some point, I will be getting in ceiling speakers for my sides to complete the 7.1. As for the construction, I have completed most of the trim work throughout the theater with a few more areas to complete. Once the trim is done, I will be hanging the doors and curtains where needed. I will probably wait until I am almost complete until I post the next updated construction photos. Thanks and enjoy.

All JBL Venue series
2 X Stadium 3-WAY 8" Dual Speaker
1 X Voice 2-WAY 5" Dual CC Speaker
2 X Balcony 2-WAY 4" on wall speaker
1 X SUB 12 12" 500w Powered Subwoofer
Pics below
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/packedJBL1.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/unpackedJBL.jpg

Looking great so far.

What color is the fabric on the bottom half of the room? It almost looks navy or blue. Is it suede like or velvet like?

The fabric is a black faux suede. I think the exposure from my digital camera (because of the plum top color) gives some of the cloth a bluish hue. In real life, it is dark black.

The fabric is a black faux suede. I think the exposure from my digital camera (because of the plum top color) gives some of the cloth a bluish hue. In real life, it is dark black.

Wow, it looks excellent. I can't find it anywhere. Who's the manufacturer?

To be honest, I never really checked the manufacturer since I bought from a local place. I will look to see if I can find that info and post.

To be honest, I never really checked the manufacturer since I bought from a local place. I will look to see if I can find that info and post.

That would be excellent, thanks.

The fabric is a black faux suede. I think the exposure from my digital camera (because of the plum top color) gives some of the cloth a bluish hue. In real life, it is dark black.


damn, I thought it was blue and I love it!!

Its black, it still looks great. I will search for it also. I assume its acoustically transparent, correct?

damn, I thought it was blue and I love it!!

Its black, it still looks great. I will search for it also. I assume its acoustically transparent, correct?

I doubt it's AT, but for the walls it shouldn't matter. In another thread bpape said it's not a big deal of the wall fabric isn't AT as long as it's not covering speakers.

I'd like to use this for the bottom half of my walls too. Right now I was planning on using speaker fabric (just like my screen wall), but I think I'd like it if there was a difference.

You correct Ed - Not AT as in I wouldn't put speakers behind it. Unfortunately, the fabric was cut from a large roll, and I haven't been back to the store to look at the brand. When I do, I will certainly let you know.

I added panoramic shots in the first post of this thread.

The latest addition are the two leather reclining couches. I originally was looking at the Berkline HT seats, but my wife convinced me to go with couches because of the cuddle factor. These couches are very comfortable and the entire couch can recline (2 sides). We found these at a local furniture store. They can fit 4 people each easily ... and a dog.

The next up is a candy counter that will hold a compact fridge and popcorn machine.

I will also try to take some screen shots of movies.

Well I bought a PS3 (my wife actually got it for me as a gift) and I have been setting up my XBOX as a media center. I have to say that the Blu-ray movies look and sound incredible ... a must for any home theater enthusiast!

I will try to take some screen shots and post.

Would love more pictures. Just in the design process for mine at the moment.

Here are some more pictures ...

Screen shots BluRay - my camera doesn't do it justice! From shoot 'em up
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/ScreenShot1.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/ScreenShot2.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/ScreenShot3.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/ScreenShot4.jpg

XBMC - my media center for SD DVD
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/XBMC3.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/XBMC.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/XBMC2.jpg

Some misc. Theater pics
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/TheaterMisc8.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/TheaterMisc7.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/TheaterMisc6.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/TheaterMisc5.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/TheaterMisc4.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/TheaterMisc3.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/TheaterMisc.jpg

Entrance from inside theater
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Entrance.jpg

Equipment Closet ... I need to clean it up. Cool thing is that the Remote works through the cloth screen
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Equipment.jpg

Harmony One that controls all
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/Remote1.jpg

Finally bought 2 more speakers to complete the 7.1. A pair of JBL's HTI6C. They are hooked up and in the ceiling. I need to paint them black now ... but man what a difference in sound experience with the extra 2 speakers, lossless audio, and 1080P bluray picture ....

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd35/MysticalJet/ceilingspeaker.jpg