More and more people are making messy wires and power cables a thing of the past by switching to streaming services like Netflix, and compact media devices like Amazon's FireTV or Roku powered by an HDMI ports. If you are among the millions of streaming-only subscribers who have "cut the cord," you may no longer require a sophisticated home entertainment setup, but your media system is more than just a collection of electronic devices.
It’s important that the furniture that houses your system is engineered to protect and present your media investments for years to come. Whether you enjoy playing video games, listening to vinyl on your turntable, or watching sports on a widescreen, how do you determine which furniture is going to satisfy your needs and your style? Here are some things to consider when selecting an entertainment systems for your space.
Equipment
Sound bars, TV and game consoles come in a variety of shapes, sizes and price tags. While larger sound bars often offer more drivers - and therefore the potential for fuller sound - bigger is not always better. Take some measurements before you start shopping to ensure that the furniture is at least as wide as your TV so the base rests securely, and fits any other devices you may need stored. Not only will the TV be in better visual balance, it will be protected from unintentional bumps and accidents.
Sizing Up
Avion 8929 Home Theater Cabinet
Will you put your home theatre furniture against a large wall or in a corner? Corner TV cabinets or models that swivel are a great way to make use of a small space. Position a television at or just above eye level to minimize neck strain. Most sofas sit approximately 18" to 22" off the floor, putting eye level around 40" to 48", depending on your TV size. In an office or the bedroom, the TV may be positioned higher so it can be viewed from a seated position.
Design
Elements 8779-ME Media Cabinet
Steel, tempered glass and glossy finishes provide a contemporary look, and work well when combined with modern interiors. Natural wood finishes are available in a variety of styles, ideal for both traditional to contemporary styles. Open TV stands, usually constructed of some combination of glass, steel and wood, giving a contemporary appearance and providing easy access to your components.
If you prefer your TV to be the star of your home theatre set-up, then an enclosed cabinet may be the way to go. You can conceal components, speakers and even media behind closed doors, keeping them out of sight but still within easy reach.
Features
Semblance Media System 5454-GH
Over time, your home theatre may change and grow, and you’ll need furniture that can adapt with it. Features such as adjustable shelves are a must so that you can reconfigure your system as your needs change, while maintaining easy access to your components and connections.The best home theatre furniture has an integrated wire management system that allows you to easily connect and keep cables organized.
Look for furniture that includes wheels for easy movement and/or has removable back panels to make set up and maintenance a breeze. Keep in mind, while many components are lightweight, receivers and multi-disc changers can weigh around 40 pounds. Add a 75-150 pound TV, and you'll see why you need sturdy support!
Home theatre furniture shouldn’t only look cool, it needs to be cool. Electronic components give off a lot of heat, and that heat has to go somewhere. Your furniture should include built in ventilation to promote airflow, allowing this heat to escape and to protect your home theatre equipment.
It’s true with furniture as it is with anything else: you get what you pay for. Entry-level TV stands have their place, but may lack the features, premium materials and design elements of higher quality furniture. Our selection of entertainment units from BDI are designed to be sturdy, full of user-friendly features and engineered to last. Quality home theatre furniture can offer you a lifetime of enjoyment.