Project is finished. Here are INITIAL screenshots of the home-theater before the screen, seating, final equipment went in. Final pictures can be found here - http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18094233#post18094233:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4694.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4696.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4699.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4702.jpg


Here's the original beginning of the thread:

Am finishing a 1,500 foot basement and am now at the stage of ready to begin the "hard stuff" with the home-theater room.

Our goals for the room are:

Mainly movie watching
92 or 100in screen for a projector
Center, Right, and Left speakers free-standing, surrounds in the walls
Room for five family members
5.1 surround; 7.1 if possible (but room size may be an issue)
Leave back open to open up the room to bar area of the basement (see photos)
Manage sound as our master bath is over the bar area (room adjacent to the HT room)

Room measurements:

Length - 15ft
Width - 12ft
Ceiling - Almost 9 feet
Soffit Height (around entire room) - 8 ft

Room framing is completed (metal and wood) framing, and all outlets/wiring has been run. HVAC and plumbing complete. Electrical is complete with a Grafik Eye 3104 (4 zones) in place. All ethernet, speaker (7.1 is run), subwoofer, audio & video, and IR has been run. I did everything except the HVAC and plumbing.

Major issues under consideration for this week are:
- What to insulate with? Immediate thoughts are mix of R13 on the sides, then R25 in ceiling. R13 would go in soffit areas.
- What can I prepare for prior to drywall?
- What special considerations should be taken considering the back is open to the bar area?
- What to prepare for in cleaning up the acoustics of the room? Been reading the acoustics thread quite a bit lately.

Basically, What Would You Do?! (WWYD) :p

Would appreciate the guidance, and I'll post more photos as it progresses.

Here's entrance to the room, from the bar area - door is 62in in width:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2400.jpg

Front of the room where screen will sit:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2402.jpg

Right side with rack placement in the back right corner:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2403.jpg

Left side, back of the room:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2410.jpg

Rack - patiently awaiting drywall:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2406.jpg

Projector placement - to the right is a 20amp line for it, and to the left is the 15amp line for the dimmable rope lighting that will go in the tray ceiling.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2408.jpg

Subscribed.:D

great looking space. you got a ton of wiring going on there at that equipment rack and PJ location. what are your plans?

i am no pro, but for insulating the ceiling it really depends on what your goal is. what i have seen is if you want some serious sound control then you put mineral wool (also called rock wool) up. heck i have even seen threads were r19 was put up after this stuff.

keep the pictures coming and keep asking questions. there are some pretty smart DIY'ers around here who will help you.

later.

great looking space. you got a ton of wiring going on there at that equipment rack and PJ location. what are your plans?

i am no pro, but for insulating the ceiling it really depends on what your goal is. what i have seen is if you want some serious sound control then you put mineral wool (also called rock wool) up. heck i have even seen threads were r19 was put up after this stuff.

keep the pictures coming and keep asking questions. there are some pretty smart DIY'ers around here who will help you.

later.

I've wired the basement plus the main floor of the house with a combined ethernet & 16/4 speaker wire for a planned Russound CAA66L system. That's the bulk of the wiring. Here's the picture of the inside of the closet:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2418.jpg


Let's put it this way, Monoprice just upgraded me for discounts! :cool:


In addition I have:

- Projector cabling - every cable possible for it - I know it's overkill, and most likely few will get used except the 2xHDMI;
- Have an HDMI ran to the FRONT of the room in conduit in case that 100in plasma drops in price (ha!);
- Another HDMI for a bar-based PLASMA (future);
- Few audio inputs for the Russound system;
- 2xethernet, 1xtelephone, 2xcable (purpose is for networking, and for a HTPC) - multiple coax will permit lots of recording the the HTPC. I also have a 1.25TB server so you can imagine, I'm into the networking; and
- finally, I have a side panel for connecting random equipment easily to the system. It sits close to where the seating will be.

Here's a screenshot of the side input panel in the HT room:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2405.jpg


IMHO, one can never have enough wiring. Let's hope it gets used!

^^^^ so true. right after my drywall went up i realized i wanted a HDMI run from the theater equipment closet to the snack bar plasma area. so very true.

Brief update for everyone. I ripped out the plastic barrier between the metal studs and the poured concrete wall. I replaced it with cut strips of 0.5 in polystyrene. I then greatstuff'd between the polystyrene. See below for a final photo. Here's the thread in case you're curious (thanks to all): http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997968

The issue will definitely go into the thread of "What I'd Do Differently Next Time!"

Moving on:
I've been insulating like hell across 1,300 sq feet of basement using mix of R-19 for the 2x6s, R-13 for the 2x4s, and R-30 for the ceiling. In addition, I've received several quotes on 4,200sq feet of drywall that needs to be done. I anticipate selecting a guy this week, with a start date of April 1.

Here's my dilemma/questions on the HT room with respect to insulation:
- Based on the size, 15ft length x 12ft width, (mostly poured concrete all around (except for 1/3 of left side and the rear), what should I add to the interior of the walls for insulation? See above photos.

- I was thinking R-19 in the 2x6s in the rear, but then adding mineral wool. Might be better to add another layer of drywall if that's the case.

- I'm already going with 5/8 drywall in the HT room. Should I go with 2 sheets of 1/2 all the way around? Will I get much in return of 2 sheets vs. 5/8. I'm not planning on GreenGlueing.

- I am going to build sound-panels of OC703 on the sides (need to research if linacoustic goes on bottom, then OC703 on top - seems like I've read that), then put in OC703 bass triangle traps for the corners.

Latest photos of the HT build:

Ceiling R-30 and polystyrene for sides:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2521.jpg

Installed Grafilk Eye 3104 and installed rack rails (with DVD shelf) in the framing:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2522.jpg

Better picture of the polystyrene with Great Stuff:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2520.jpg

Why so many wires to your PJ? couldnt you have a matrix switch back at your AV cabinet and then just send one HDMI to your PJ?

lol, I actually ask myself why I have two cat5e and a HDMI cable run to my PJ too....I think I know your answer :D

Why so many wires to your PJ? couldnt you have a matrix switch back at your AV cabinet and then just send one HDMI to your PJ?

lol, I actually ask myself why I have two cat5e and a HDMI cable run to my PJ too....I think I know your answer :D

I know what you're saying (and I've been asking myself the same). To be honest, part of me isn't sure on the actual projector and I figured that with the well-priced wires from one of our favorite sponsors, I might as well put them in.

If you look at the rack pictures, do you see the purple wires - those are combo cat5e & 16/4 speaker wire for complete in-home audio system. Think I've got about 10+ of those ran into the speaker cabinet!

Looks Great so far!!! I will post more pics of mine soon. I will keep an eye on your progress.

So had to snap these photos of the basement and the home-theater with the drywall going in. Haven't posted any information on this, but the HT build is part of a larger finishing basement project. About 1,300 feet is being finished - office, playroom, bar area, bedroom, and bathroom.

I got about five quotes on the drywall, going with least expensive one. It's amazing what a team of drywallers can do. They ended up hanging the whole basement in a day, then on the second day they put first layer of mud down along with all corners. This is one aspect of the basement that I'm glad to have outsourced.

Also, purchased three cases of GG for the 15x12 home-theater placed between sheets of 1/2 sheetrock. We did it together on the ceiling, soffits, walls, and then the exterior wall of the entrance to the HT

This is the new office (previous owners had a drop ceiling in it):
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2597.jpg

Bedroom/closet:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2598.jpg

Bathroom with toilet (and yes a urinal) :cool::
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2601.jpg

Home theater - notice the smattering of green glue against the wall where the scren goes!!!!!!!
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2603.jpg

Rack and Grafik Eye (they survived the drywalling):
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2604.jpg

Entrance to the HT leading to the bar area and then the playroom:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2605.jpg

Bar area with a roughly built bar. Did this with bar plans online. Notice the green tubes? ;)
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2606.jpg


Playroom:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2607.jpg

Latest update:
- Cleaned up the drywall, vacuumed up the dust off the soffits, walls, and floors with my Rigid vacuum (special drywall dust filter got clogged easily and often)
- Sherwin Williams had a good sale going on last weekend, and picked up 15 gallons of wall primer for fresh sheet rock, two gallons of grey primer for the HT, and five gallons of white paint for ceilings

Bought this fun tool to get it done - thank you Costco!
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2800.jpg

Here are pics of primered HT and some of the bar area:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2795.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2796.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2798.jpg

Next steps:
- Paint ceilings
- Install ceiling speakers for multiroom sound
- Have drywaller do some slight cleanup on some areas of the installed sheetrock
- Choose colors for the rooms and the HT. If you have any suggestions, let me know.
- Begin painting rooms

Think I'm done with the sprayer as it got the job done for prepping the walls. Now will use the roller attachment on the ceilings and a brush for cutting.

Received speakers for the ceiling for the other rooms throughout the house. I ordered Phoenix Gold ATC6DMs in bar area, as well as rest of basement. Here's some unpacking and shots of them. Let's hope these will fill the rooms sufficiently with good music.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2784.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2787.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_2788.jpg

The white paint's for the ceilings other than the theater, right?

The white paint's for the ceilings other than the theater, right?

Yes. Have the bar area, playroom, bedroom, bath, and office to paint with the 5-gallons. For the HT, am definitely going with a dark color - leaning towards black (matte) or something that will minimize fingerprints, but also have that flat look.

Seems like I read on some paint that was matte instead of flat that met those conditions.

Looks good so far. What part of GA are you in? I am finishing about 1500 sq ft in basement and could always use another drywall bid. I am in Gwinnett.

2 things, the first, what rack did you use? Is that just the do-it yourself jobs you get at Lowes where you by the rails and such and built it into your space?

second:did you run the wire to the projector in conduit? or did you just run it in the rafters?

lastly, I must say your son looks thrilled to be stuck with the sweeping duties...

...I ordered Phoenix Gold ATC6DMs in bar area...

Let's hope these will fill the rooms sufficiently with good music.

I think the operative terms here are fill...sufficiently (hopefully - report back) and good music (there's no accounting for taste :D).

Great thread - keep it up!

Yeah, gotta put the pre-K son to work when I can - I mean someone has to instill the 'puritan work ethic into the kid! :)

For the rack, I simply installed rails into the 2x4s (cut grooves). I then screwed few drywall screws through the 2x4 into the rail holes. Now, you're probably wondering WHY did I have to put them in grooves of the 2x4s as opposed to placing them on the inside of the frame.

Well...... I ended up being little short in width on the rack space, and the individual shelves would not fit if I had put the rails on the interior of the 2x4s (design issue - needs to go into the thread of "What I would Do Differently Next Time!")

Yes, ran conduit from the rack area to the projection. You can see in the photos of the back of the rack, you'll see two gray electrical conduits.

Thanks guys - more to come once I get through the anguish of picking paint colors!!!!!!!!:mad:

Activity over the summer:
- Primed and painted - choosing colors took some weekends, gotta love it.
- I sprayed the primer throughout and also the ceiling paint, then power-rolled the paint on. Three colors chosen: Rustic City, Safari, and Olive something Green from Sherwin Williams. Two coats needed.
- Painted HT ceiling and soffits with black flat paint from Sherwin Williams.
- Installed all final lighting and outlets, including 2x20amps for bar and ht
- Upper- and Lower-bar lights are working, dim perfectly
- Vent registers installed - painted the HT and office ones
- Used Sherwin Williams satin black to spray paint the can lights and vent register for the HT - took 2-3 coats, worked great
- Lot more I can write about that got done - in due time

Next Steps
- Install purchased insulation for HT - will publish how I did that
- Complete installation of doors - will publish my thoughts on that with photos
- Purchase fabric for HT
- Complete installation of 1in furring strips for HT
- Begin crown and baseboard installation
- Continue door installation throughout - 8 sets (mix of single and double doors, window, pre-prime, pine)
- Complete 7xwindow jambs, caulk, paint, etc.

Latest photos for your enjoyment:

Playroom - complete except for crown, base, window jambs and carpet
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3300.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3299.jpg


Bar photos - complete except for crown, base, window jamb, and some sort of hardwood glued to concrete or tile. Oh and I need to finish that bar that I built! :eek:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3285.jpg

Lowe's lighting:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3286.jpg

20 amp outlet, plumbing, and a dimmable outlet that dims with the lights above the bar - for lower bar lights (yes, I know this is against code!)
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3287.jpg

HT closet:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3297.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3298.jpg

Bathroom - Need to complete tile for floor and shower, crown, wainscoting, baseboard, shower valve, urinal, and toilet.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3279.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3276.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3244.jpg

I hate crown already - my first attempt ever on bathroom cabinets...
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3243.jpg

Tight assembly on the sink, notice the flex tubing I had to use to complete the assembly of the drain.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3245.jpg

Close-up of the sink for your enjoyment.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3277.jpg

Office - need base, crown, carpet, final door and window jambs - going for a stained burgandy look in here similar to the bathroom cabinets.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3273.jpg

Double doors that I installed (wife helped) - contributing to the Home Depot stock price!
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3274.jpg

Home-theater with the beginning of 1in furring strips. Will go into detail on this real soon for everyone's enjoyment. Going with a 100in screen, will be hanging furring strips to support a Carada screen.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3288.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3292.jpg

Thick door jamb with four layers of 1/2 in drywall separate by GG, and 1in furring strip.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3293.jpg

Main hallway - needs carpet, base, and crown.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3275.jpg

Bedroom - needs carpet, baseboard, crown, double entry doors, and closet louver doors.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3281.jpg

Close-up of Lutron lighting and dual fan/light:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3283.jpg

Thanks for looking.

Made progress over the weekend, and got the sound insulation in place. Feel free to critique the install - using OC703, linacoustic-equivalent, and poly batting.

Here's front of the theater - front wall with linacoustic and bass traps. Two sets of boards in the center are for hanging the screen, along with ability to move the screen up/down if needed.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3390.jpg


Closeup of the traps. I put 1in furring strips on the sides, then sprayed the strips with a spray-on glue to hold the triangles in place.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3391.jpg


Spray-on adhesive from the big orange box - used this with the linacoustic-like material and the two layers of poly batting, works like a charm:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3405.jpg


Side of home theater - linacoustic-like about 47 in high, slightly above the ear, then two layers of poly batting from Jo-Ann Fabrics (double it up to get approx 1in of thickness).

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3392.jpg


7.1 side and back speakers are in at sitting ear level. Due to the fact that I can't install bass traps in the back of the theater, I put in 1in layer of OC703 in the back. Any thoughts on this? Or, should I go with the linacoustic-like material.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3394.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3393.jpg


Sound sealant for sealing the outlets. I've got 5 large tubes left - time to sell leftover materials.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3396.jpg


Need to complete back insulation, not sure what to use - am thinking poly batting above the OC-703.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3398.jpg


On good note, Russound CAA66L came in - working great, 6 sources, 6 zones.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3401.jpg


Only the Russound is in place in the cabinet, and the wires are already taking over. Have ordered some help from Monoprice to help organize the wires.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3402.jpg


Leftover OC703 - think I overbought by an extra 4x8 sheet, possibly two! :eek:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3406.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3407.jpg


I used table saw outside to cut the OC-703. Went very fast, wore gloves, mask, eyeglasses. Strongly recommend this method.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3408.jpg


Leftover linacoustic-like material - need to sell this along with the 5 large tubes of sealant. Am guessing I've got 50 feet by 47in tall. Any takers in the Atlanta area?

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3409.jpg

Thanks for viewing, next steps are to get fabric in place.

Subscribed... and you have a PM. :)

IMHO, one can never have enough wiring. Let's hope it gets used!

I presume all the wiring is rated for in-wall? It doesn't look like it is. Are you pulling a permit for this project? If yes, then you will want to run CM, CL2, or CL3 rated wire at the least...

Carl

Wire is the one that's available from Monoprice, likely not CL2. Speaker wire is CL2. No permits.

Great looking theater!

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe instead of making frames you are simply applying furring strips and OC703 to the walls and then covering with GOM? The GOM will probably run horizontally and the seams covered with baseboard, chair rail and perhaps crown molding.

Looking good man. Where did you get the bathroom vanity and cabinet?

SatelliteGuy - Correct on your assumptions. Exactly:
- On Front Wall, GOM or equivalent, one top application, then one bottom application - there will be a seam running horizontally between the two applications, but it will be minimal. No chair rail applied.
- On sides, same dark or black GOM as front wall up to the chair rail. Then, apply a different fabric (patterned) on the upper part of the walls. Chair rail will be applied between the two types of fabrics.

I just got the bathroom (tiled), and the bar area (8-foot bar and wood laminate) installed/completed, so the HT has taken a 'back seat to these activities. I'll post photos of the theater once I make more progress.


Finally, the vanity and linen closet came from Home Depot. The actual marble sink/top came from Home Depot Expo.

Two more questions. :)

1) Where did you find 1" furring strips?

2) How did you apply the wooden frame around the outlet boxes? Did you use construction adhesive and nail or screw into the stud on the one side of the box?

Two more questions. :)

1) Where did you find 1" furring strips?

2) How did you apply the wooden frame around the outlet boxes? Did you use construction adhesive and nail or screw into the stud on the one side of the box?

Easy questions, the 1" exact furring strips came from Home Depot as well. Hopefully, they carry them in your area. I've seen others post that other HDs also carry them.

The outlet boxes are those that can be adjusted in/out because they have a screw on the side (also HD). This allowed me to adjust to the 1in of dry wall, and the 1 in of furring strips.

I used a simple Tough As Nails glue to attach the strips around the outlet box.

Easy questions, the 1" exact furring strips came from Home Depot as well. Hopefully, they carry them in your area. I've seen others post that other HDs also carry them.

The outlet boxes are those that can be adjusted in/out because they have a screw on the side (also HD). This allowed me to adjust to the 1in of dry wall, and the 1 in of furring strips.

I used a simple Tough As Nails glue to attach the strips around the outlet box.

You just made my day. Thank you so much for answering my questions.

I was going to use the adjustable outlet boxes, but decided not to at the last minute in order to save money. Now I need to go buy outlet extenders which will actually cost more than the extra cost of the adjustable boxes. Live and learn. :)

Basement bath and bar area has been taking up my time. Added laminate flooring and almost completed the bar. That HT is getting 'tackled next after some final baseboard/crown/window trim cleanup.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3799.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3817.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3856.jpg


Here's the tiling of the bathroom/shower and the wainscoting for the future urinal and toilet:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3806.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3808.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3813.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3866.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3868.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3869.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_3871.jpg

Nice thread. My next one will be a similar size. I'll be watching.

i cant wait to see the urinal on the wall!

What rack did you end up using? I'm looking for just a frame like that.

What rack did you end up using? I'm looking for just a frame like that.

I ended up purchasing simple rack rails, then using a metal cutting blade on my miter saw to trim them down to fit the opening. I used simple wood screws to attach the rails to the 2x6s on the sides. I then dropped in a few shelves to make sure all is level, looking good. After all the shelves were in, I then put the trim kit which covered up the shelve bolts. I'll be glad to take some up-close pics if you want me to.

In the end, it wasn't elegant, but it worked out well.

Weekends have been busy with kids and family, and of course the entire project gets only some attention few hours during the weekend.

I've made progress though.

Bathroom is complete, except for a shower door. Here's the requested picture of the urinal and toilet. I wainscoted the area with oak paneling from HD, along with oak trim from specialty moulding store. I used Minwax, wtih three coats to try to get it close to matching the cabinets from HD.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/n542342884_1339062_8336.jpg

Bar is 100% complete with the sink being put in. I purchased a Blanco Silgranit sink and a cheap knock-off faucet, both from Ebay. Sink was $160 which included shipping.

Here's pics of final work:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4294.jpg


Notice the Studer Valve to properly vent.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4295.jpg


Fabric has begun and here's the front wall with the stereo fabric from Jo-Ann. This is first time I've ever done this, and so far we've been able to make this work. I ended up building a long furring strip for the top, attaching the fabric, then attaching a SIDE piece with the fabric. I then was able to get my nailer up in the fabric and firing in the 2 1/2in finishing nails to hold it in place. For the final side (right), I used a glue to attach it (after stapling it in place). Everything went in cleanly, this approach was good!

Bass trap covered up first:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4296.jpg

Then, front wall:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4298.jpg

Must finish the lower part with second piece of stereo fabric:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4299.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4301.jpg

I ended up using my air stapler to get the staples in place - it went a LOT faster than using an electric stapler. Was also easier to hold, and staples went flush more easily. Don't recommend the electric staplers.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4297.jpg


Will post more progress on the fabric.

Lower fabric is painstakingly being put in place.

This picture shows the finished product on the right side of the theater.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4344.jpg


Left front corner against the base trap. Base traps got fabric first, then the front wall, then the lower sides. Thinking this through made the hiding of the staples fairly easy.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4338.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4355.jpg


Rear left wall and a picture of the outlet. Getting the fabric staples very close to the outlet covers is important in order to hide the staples. I was mostly successful and didn't have to go purchase larger outlet covers.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4337.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4343.jpg



Here's the Media Connections that are built into the wall. With an outlet, plus an HDMI outlet, along with an S-Video, RCA (yellow, red, white), Component, Coax Audio, Optical Audio, and finally an ethernet connection. Anyone who wants to bring over their favorite game machine can do so, or can easily connect up a digital/video camera, etc. Hopefully, it's future proofed for next 5+ years! :cool:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4342.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4353.jpg

So end is finally in sight. Here are some photos of where the lower layer of black fabric was fastened to the wall, then the baseboard. Next steps are to:

- Place the upper fabric in place with the furring strips
- Struggle/figure out how to put fabric around the tight space around the cabinet
- Then put in final moulding, door and chair rail
- Touch up flat black ceiling, minor touch ups

My work area for cutting the trim, allows me to easily walk it into the home-theater.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4615.jpg


These are the stacks of finished, stained trim ready to be cut for the HT and the office - chair rail, baseboard, and door trim:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4614.jpg


Finished front corner with lower fabric and baseboard.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4610.jpg


Completed 45-degree cut ready for placement.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4617.jpg


Stain the ends prior to placement.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4618.jpg


This is the corner where the piece is going in:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4611.jpg


Piece is in place.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4609.jpg


Finally, here are the three rolls of fabric that will be hung on the wall. Each was pre-cut to the specified length, plus 1-2 inches extra for ensuring fit. This will be the next step.

Fabric came from local store that has several options, choices. You can't really tell the pattern as they are rolled inside out - should look good.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4612.jpg

Love the stain color against the black!

Very nice job on the stain and also clever on the stain after the cut (which by the way looks like a real tight inside corner - nice!). We share the same base trim :).

That trim fits like a glove, nice work. Is it because your skills have improved since the bathroom crown pic or is crown that much more difficult to cut than trim? Your room is very well done. Agree with queen - staining after the cut is quite clever.

Stain is Red Chesnut from Minwax (I believe they have phased it out). My process for putting it on was:
- Do two coats within 1 hr
- Let dry overnight
- Then apply 3rd coat, rubbing this one in - remove excess to avoid the tackiness
- Then apply one coat of Satin Poly, wait over night, sand with 220, wipe, then apply second coat, wait over night, lightly sand, wipe

The results came out very well. I use the 220 grit sanding foam pads to perform the work on baseboard. For more complicated nooks in wood such as the chair rail, I used light steel wool. I'm not a fan of the wool as little bits of wool fly off on to the wood, which requires more thorough rub down after.

With respect to getting the corners tight, that's very hard for anyone who has done it. With white painted trim, you just caulk and paint over to remove the imperfections. Here, there's no room for imperfections. There are two corners that didn't come in perfect as this one - such is life.

I've learned that it's much better to prestain this stuff, poly it, then hang it versus putting the wood up and then blue taping, staining, and polying. Carpenters that I had preferred to do it that way - that was nuts.

Just a silly question, but why are you cutting your base trim at angles. Have you ever tried coping the base? You end up with a very tight corner and don't have to stain the ends.

Just a silly question, but why are you cutting your base trim at angles. Have you ever tried coping the base? You end up with a very tight corner and don't have to stain the ends.

I've tried coping, and really didn't do a good job at it. I hear ya that it's smarter to do it this way, and it looks tighter/better. The effort to use a coping saw and get it exact just didn't look good when I tried it.

I did see a tool that connects to a jigsaw, and apparently it did a much easier and higher quality job of coping.

You're dead on nevertheless, better to do it that way if you can do it.

July 4th weekend, worked all three days for final push to get basement finished. Ended up hanging the final three fabric walls, along with completing the chair rail and rack.

First, purchased a length of 16foot 2x4 (here it is on the steps):
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4622.jpg

Rip'd this 2x4 to get 1in thick furring strips to match the remaining strips throughout the theater:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4623.jpg

Cut the lengths down to match the required lengths for each wall, then stapled the fabric on the top corner, leaving 1in on each side for the side furring strips:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4624.jpg

Sometimes you need pushpins to get the fabric tight, then you can complete tough corners or short-lengths of fabric:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4627.jpg

Here's photo of the side wall prior to hanging the fabric:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4621.jpg

Using the wife to help, we would put small bead of glue against the wall, then push the frame (one side and the top) into place. Then, we'd take a framing nailer with 2 inch nails and shoot a few holding nails UNDER the fabric to hold it in place. This method worked well.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4628.jpg

Hanging the door side of the fabric:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4630.jpg

After completing, you then need to PULL the fabric down to get it tight, then start stapling against the middle furring strip where the chair rail will go. After, cut off the excess.
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4629.jpg

Clean it up, make sure all threads gone, check tightness of the fabric, then start putting in the chair rails. This is the right side completed:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4633.jpg

Taking a step back, the rack was a nasty one. In short, I crafted some 1inch furring strips with small 1/8 inch thick, 2 1/2 inch wide pieces of wood that would sink between the rack and the dry wall. I then attached fabric strips to this, stapling them in place tightly. Here's a photo of the rack prior:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4631.jpg

What you end up is a nice tight set of fabric over furring strips around the rack. Then, I attached the wall of fabric against these furring strips. The end result was the following:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4634.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4637.jpg


Next on the list to complete
- Dremel down the installed IR flasher for the GrafikEye so that it will fit behind the cover
- Fill in nail holes with putty
- Cut the 4xSconce holes, install the sconce lighting on each side
- Carpet (scheduled for next week)
- Go get that projector and screen (oh boy........)

Thanks for reading.

Carpet is in. Went with the color "Manhattan" in the HT and "Torte" for rest of basement. Both are from Home Depot and are ~60 ounce Nylon with stain resistance built in - Shaw is the manufacturer. 8lb carpet pad went in over the concrete floor, no plastic barrer on it (prefer to let the concrete breathe!).

For those of you interested, I paid $35 Home Depot to measure the carpet, then decided to shop around. Here in Atlanta, I called some of the carpet outlets in Dalton, GA, and was able to save $1.00/sq foot for the same exact brand of carpet. They even recommended someone who could haul the carpet and install it. The hauling was only $50 for 147 sq yards (covers the entire basement). PM me if you're looking for more detail.

Current equipment is following:
- For the 12x15 room, went with Aperion Audio 4Ts for Left and Right - http://www.aperionaudio.com/home.aspx
- For center speaker, upgraded and went with their 5C
- Subwoofer is Aperion's 8D (for larger rooms, obviously one should look at their larger series of subs/speakers). Also, I purchased their used A-Stock which were returns by customers who upgraded. Saved me some good $$$$.
- AV Receiver is a refurb Onkyo SR-705: http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=TX-SR705&class=Receiver. Purchased from the online Onkyo Store.
- Blu-Ray player is a new, Samsung BD-2550: http://reviews.cnet.com/blu-ray-players-recorders/samsung-bd-p2550/4505-9991_7-33229263.html


Here are final photos of the home-theater. Next step is to purchase the screen, projector, and then seating (likely a U-shaped, split couch).

Final note, I picked up David Gilmour Blu-Ray as my introductory concert DVD - WOW is all I have to say. Amazing! Link is here: http://www.amazon.com/David-Gilmour-Remember-Albert-Blu-ray/dp/B000UD08HW

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4694.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4696.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4699.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_4702.jpg

Looks really good. What a tremendous amount of work. Congrats on such a fine job.

Do you know what projector you are going to use?

Thanks CSO!! Considering a used JVC RS-1 or a new Panasonic AE-3000U with a Carada screen. Am hoping the projector is installed in next 2-3 months.

The cloth on the walls is still crazy to me. Every time I see it I am amazed. I just dont have the required patience...Place looks sweet.

Well, it looks great but we or I am wondering what the final project looks like.:D
you must be in the home construction business? a layman doing all that work unless you are a gifted person with a lot of patience, anyways it is a excellent finished basement.

Did you hook up a PJ yet? I'm wondering how viewing on 100 inches or so is working out for you in the room since it's looks smaller then what most people use for the size screen you went with. Just curious

Looks good
Judd

Looks real good. Can't wait to see her completed.

Where did you purchase the material for your AV shelf/ cabinet.

Where did you purchase the material for your AV shelf/ cabinet.

Stayonline.com is what I used. I purchased the RACK rails only, not a rack. Installed those into the wall studs. Then I installed the shelving with the screws, then put up the finishing trim.

I did have to use a miter saw with a metal blade to cut the trim and the rails.

Here's complete price list/SKUs:

1. Product ID: 5614
Product Name: Middle Atlantic DWR-RR24 - Set of 10-32 Rack Rails for 24U DWR Wall Mount Rack
Unit Price: $39.00
Quantity: 1

2. Product ID: 3296
Product Name: 0.5 in. 10-32 Phillips Head Rack Screws - 50-Pack, Black
Unit Price: $9.00
Quantity: 1

3. Product ID: 9527
Product Name: Middle Atlantic TA - 45U Trim Strip Kit - Black Brushed and Anodized
Unit Price: $42.00
Quantity: 2

4. Product ID: 6545
Product Name: Middle Atlantic DVD - 5U 19 inch W Rack Mount DVD Storage Container
Unit Price: $99.00
Quantity: 1

5. Product ID: 3111
Product Name: Middle Atlantic U317 - 3U x 17 in. D x 19 in. W Vented Rack Mount Shelf
Unit Price: $39.00
Quantity: 2

6. Product ID: 9889
Product Name: Great Lakes 7206-FM - 19 in. W x 18 in. D 2U Vented Rack Shelf
Unit Price: $44.00
Quantity: 3

7. Product ID: 5610
Product Name: Middle Atlantic DWR-RR12 - Set of 10-32 Rack Rails for 12U DWR Wall Mount Rack
Unit Price: $24.00
Quantity: 1

No "after" shot of the finished room?! I want my money back! :cool:

Great job - enjoyed the virtual journey with you!

First, thanks for the comments as well as the request to post final photos. Second, here for your enjoyment are some attempts at getting some final shots with the HT seating and the screen in place.

Here's the entry from the hallway/bath/bottom of stairs into the bar:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5193.jpg

Behind the bar:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5199.jpg

Entrance into the home-theater:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5194.jpg

HTPC is up and running on the 100inch Carada Screen:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5176.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5174.jpg

Seating is four chairs with motorized recliners - custom made to fit into the room. Leather Creations was the company here in Atlanta. Also, purchased couple of Lovesacs for additional seating.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5187.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5173.jpg


Don't have the best digital camera to take such photos. Here's screenshot from Dark Knight Blu-Ray playing over my HTPC:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5180.jpg

And of course, the courtesy shots of newest Ice Age:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5183.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5181.jpg

Installed the JVC-RS2 late summer (good thing those fingerprints don't show up while watching movies):
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5188.jpg

Here's final list of equipment and seating:

Speakers
- Aperion Audio 4Ts for Left and Right - http://www.aperionaudio.com/home.aspx
- For center speaker, upgraded and went with their 5C
- Subwoofer is Aperion's 8D (for larger rooms, obviously one should look at their larger series of subs/speakers). Also, I purchased their used A-Stock which were returns by customers who upgraded
- Klipsch KHW-5 for sides and rears (in-wall hidden behind the fabric) - http://www.klipsch.com/na-en/products/khw-5-overview/

Equipment Rack
- AV Receiver is a refurb Onkyo SR-705: http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=TX-SR705&class=Receiver. Purchased from the online Onkyo Store.
- Blu-Ray player is a new, Samsung BD-2550: http://reviews.cnet.com/blu-ray-players-recorders/samsung-bd-p2550/4505-9991_7-33229263.html
- Installed a Russound CAA66L unit for multi-room sound throughout basement and main floor of the house
- XBOX 360 Elite with HDMI to AV Receiver
- Home-theater PC running Windows 7 - Connects to a home-server with 4TB of music, pics, home-videos, and ripped DVD/Blu-Rays
- Logitech Harmony 880 Remote - http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/440/3864&hub=1&cl=us,en?WT.z_sp=Image
- Waiting on the Dish VIP922 STB for regular TV - http://hd.engadget.com/2009/01/08/dish-networks-vip-922-and-slingguide-unveiled-first-slingload/

Projector and Screen
- JVC RS-2 Refurb from AVScience (power buy) - http://www.projectorreviews.com/jvc/dla-rs2/index.php
- Carada 100inch Precision Series Cinema White - http://www.carada.com/Projection-Precision-Series-Projector-Screens.aspx

Seating
- Leather Creations custom couch for four (fills up the 12 foot width with ample room to walk around); Berklines just wouldn't fit in this room. Added motors to each seat. http://www.leathercreationsfurniture.com/
- Two Lovesacs (Supersac models) - http://www.lovesac.com
- Combined seating allows for 6-7 adults; 8-10 children

Fabric/Paint/And Such
- Home-theater - For frontwall and sides, used Jo-Ann speaker fabric. Covered the OC703 bass traps and linacoustic perfectly. Used generic light brown fabric that passed the blow test from local fabric shop.
- Home-theater Ceiling - Sherwin Williams Flat Black
- Rest of basement: Sherwin Williams Satin 'Rustic City" and "Safari" (for darker areas like hallway and closets)
- HT Carpet: Manhattan from HomeDepot; Torte for rest of basement
- HT Lighting: Lutron Grafik Eye model 3104 (4-zones, rope light in crown, side sconces, 2xFront Can Lights, 4xBack Canlights (total of 6 can lights in the HT)
- Side Sconces: Murray Feiss WB1220ORB - http://www.amazon.com/Murray-Feiss-WB1220ORB-One-Light-Collection/dp/B0007P618S
- Bar: Built myself, plans from Barplan.com
- Bar Chairs and Table: ECI Pub Table and Chairs, purchased additional chairs: http://www.allbarstools.com/ECI-Furniture-1220-25-PGT-ECI1054.html

Don't have the best digital camera to take such photos. Here's screenshot from Dark Knight Blu-Ray playing over my HTPC:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a317/huntrm/IMG_5180.jpg


Everything looks fantastic, really top notch. Aspect ratio looks wrong on this though, you doing some zoom/stretch work to 2.40 content?

Everything looks fantastic, really top notch. Aspect ratio looks wrong on this though, you doing some zoom/stretch work to 2.40 content?

No stretching here. What you see here is the IMAX scenes from Dark Knight, where it fills the entire screen, then it reverts to 2:40 with black bars on my 1.78 screen.

Unless something odd is being done by the HTPC during playback of the Blu-Ray.

Nice final set up.:cool:

very classy indeed....... Your woodwork really sets things off. Bravo!!

Looking good. Nice touches, like the lights under the bar.

Is there any benefit to running Windows 7 rather than Vista on the HTPC?

Looking good. Nice touches, like the lights under the bar.

Is there any benefit to running Windows 7 rather than Vista on the HTPC?

Out of the box, Win7 is just a magnificent experience over Vista - faster, more solid, better integration with Windows Media Center.

If you add to WMC the following, you get solid playback of Blu-Rays:
- MyMovies interface
- Virtual Clone Drive to mount the Blu-Ray
- ArcSofoft Total Media Theater Platinum HD for Blu-Ray Playback

When the HTPC comes on, it initiates a Wake-On-Lan command to the server where all the content is stored.

Works really, really well.

Different topic

Latest change I just did was connecting my Airport Express to the Russound system. I took an ethernet connection into the Airport Express, where it can integrate directly with our home-server. Am now getting uninterupted, much better sound quality from that PC. So now I can use the Remote App on my iPhone which wakes up the server, plays iTunes over ethernet into the Airport express, which then connects to the Russound system via RCA cables.

The Airport Express can also do this wirelessly, but I had the available connection in the AV rack.

Prior, I was using a wireless solution from Creative. The Creative system worked fine, but everytime the iPhone would hit the WLAN, there would be mid-air collisions, and the music would get static in it for few secs (slightly annoying).

Funny thing was I had forgotten about the Airport Express, was sitting in a drawer. I was planning some sort of elaborate Cat5e/Balun connection for stereo, wired sound out of the Home Server to the Russound. No need for that now.

For $60 for a used Airport Express, it's a 'gem of a device that has solid quality.

Out of the box, Win7 is just a magnificent experience over Vista - faster, more solid, better integration with Windows Media Center.

If you add to WMC the following, you get solid playback of Blu-Rays:
- MyMovies interface
- Virtual Clone Drive to mount the Blu-Ray
- ArcSofoft Total Media Theater Platinum HD for Blu-Ray Playback

When the HTPC comes on, it initiates a Wake-On-Lan command to the server where all the content is stored.

Works really, really well.

Different topic

Latest change I just did was connecting my Airport Express to the Russound system. I took an ethernet connection into the Airport Express, where it can integrate directly with our home-server. Am now getting uninterupted, much better sound quality from that PC. So now I can use the Remote App on my iPhone which wakes up the server, plays iTunes over ethernet into the Airport express, which then connects to the Russound system via RCA cables.

The Airport Express can also do this wirelessly, but I had the available connection in the AV rack.

Prior, I was using a wireless solution from Creative. The Creative system worked fine, but everytime the iPhone would hit the WLAN, there would be mid-air collisions, and the music would get static in it for few secs (slightly annoying).

Funny thing was I had forgotten about the Airport Express, was sitting in a drawer. I was planning some sort of elaborate Cat5e/Balun connection for stereo, wired sound out of the Home Server to the Russound. No need for that now.

For $60 for a used Airport Express, it's a 'gem of a device that has solid quality.

Hey great build BTW. It came out real nice. Great use of the space!
I have to chime in and say I do that same for iTunes on my Nuvo GC. I have 2 iPod docks but wanted another solution so not to have to go to the keypads to pull up the metadata. I hooked up a airport express and stream also and use the remote program on my iPhone. Works great. Here's something that might interest you. If you make a playlist of your fav radio stations on iTunes you can control them from the remote app. You can't select diff stations without a playlist. My wife and I use a bunch of the iTunes radio stations. I never knew about the radio playlist thing until a couple of months ago.

Jim

Hey great build BTW. It came out real nice. Great use of the space!
I have to chime in and say I do that same for iTunes on my Nuvo GC. I have 2 iPod docks but wanted another solution so not to have to go to the keypads to pull up the metadata. I hooked up a airport express and stream also and use the remote program on my iPhone. Works great. Here's something that might interest you. If you make a playlist of your fav radio stations on iTunes you can control them from the remote app. You can't select diff stations without a playlist. My wife and I use a bunch of the iTunes radio stations. I never knew about the radio playlist thing until a couple of months ago.

Jim

Jim -

Many thanks for the playlist suggestion. I'll tackle that this weekend.

Do you have any suggestion about how to play Pandora? Right now am playing with Airfoil which captures an application (in this case the browser), and will broadcast the sound through the Airport Express. Would be nice if Pandora could be incorporated into iTunes.........

huntrm,

Not sure why, but I just got to view this thread. Great result! Nice color, finish, and trim choices. And the bar area in the theater entrance; really sets a nice "stage" on the way to start an evening of movies (or for intermissions).

I see you got in on a JVC PJ from AVS. I picked up an RS1 from Jason about 18 months ago and remain very happy, "not a hitch or hiccup". How do you like the RS2?

huntrm,

Not sure why, but I just got to view this thread. Great result! Nice color, finish, and trim choices. And the bar area in the theater entrance; really sets a nice "stage" on the way to start an evening of movies (or for intermissions).

I see you got in on a JVC PJ from AVS. I picked up an RS1 from Jason about 18 months ago and remain very happy, "not a hitch or hiccup". How do you like the RS2?

CuzEd -

Thank you for the kind words! And same to you, just went through large bulk of your thread - don't you love the fact that these basements are neverending.

It's my first projector, so difficult to compare it to others. Paired up with the Carada Cinema White screen, I gotta say, I love it. There've been few times, where I giggle like a kid when I see it in action because of the picture quality.

Only thing missing is a good set-top-box to go with it. I'm a Dish subscriber, and am waiting on their VIP922 DVR. U-Verse just launched in my neighborhood, but everyone says I'd be disappointed in the HD picture quality vs. the satellite providers.

Back to the RS2, I did some minor tweaks, used Digital Video Essentials as well - but mostly, it came out of the box with a spectacular PQ. Couldn't be happier with the PQ.

The RS2 was the icing on the cake for the theater!

Jim -

Many thanks for the playlist suggestion. I'll tackle that this weekend.

Do you have any suggestion about how to play Pandora? Right now am playing with Airfoil which captures an application (in this case the browser), and will broadcast the sound through the Airport Express. Would be nice if Pandora could be incorporated into iTunes.........

The radio thing will be easy. Just pick some radio stations and drag and drop into a playlist.

ya know I never got into airfoil. It pretty much makes all audio on mac into airtunes correct?

Question: so you send pandora music over airfoil to the AE. can you control this on your iphone? or just from the host computer?

jimi

The radio thing will be easy. Just pick some radio stations and drag and drop into a playlist.

ya know I never got into airfoil. It pretty much makes all audio on mac into airtunes correct?

Question: so you send pandora music over airfoil to the AE. can you control this on your iphone? or just from the host computer?

jimi

Yes. I basically remote desktop into our home server from, let's say work laptop. Start up Firefox, go to Pandora, and then it starts playing over the Russound multiroom sound system.

Airfoil must be started (which is an option when the PC starts up), and the Airport Express is selected (along with Firefox). Works fine, just bit more hassle to get it started.

Other option I have is with my Samsung Blu-Ray player, I can start up Pandora, but that requires turning on the projector, selecting Pandora, then turning off the projector. It's bit more reliable doing it this way vs. the server. But, easier to start it up using remote desktop and Airfoil.

Funny thing about Airfoil is that you can also direct audio to your iPhone/iTouch if you have their free app installed. I don't have any practical use for this, am sure someone can come up with one....

Ideal would be somehow, someone is able to hack iTunes where there's an option to 'fire up Pandora and one can see it on the Remote software. Am sure I'll get bunch of responses in the HTPC message board if I post the question.

Finally, the one thing about Airfoil is that it will NOT work with Windows Media Center. If you select WMC, it flat out tells you it doesn't work with it - I find this interesting because clearly it was coded this way for some reason. The reason why I'd like this to work is that my PC cannot output HDMI Audio and Stereo at the same time (unlike my set-top box or my Blu-Ray player). If Airfoil could somehow seize the audio, and play it to the Airport Express, I'd be in good shape!

huh the airfoil app program would only be good in a situation where (you don't want to use the host computer) your docked ipod say on your russound system is in a central location in your house which still isn't the easiest thing in that case. i know my docks are in the closet with the main Nuvo unit.

jim

huh the airfoil app program would only be good in a situation where (you don't want to use the host computer) your docked ipod say on your russound system is in a central location in your house which still isn't the easiest thing in that case. i know my docks are in the closet with the main Nuvo unit.

jim

Airfoil is good for working with the Airport Express, and using other programs besides iTunes (in my case, using firefox which then allows me to play Pandora over the Express).

Otherwise, Airport Express is just limited to iTunes.