Do you think you can't have a beautiful home AND smart home technology? You haven't heard of design-centric smart home solutions! Learn more today!

<p>The benefits of a smart home can't be beat especially when everything is hidden in plain sight! No more compromising your sweet home design for the ease and convenience of smart technology &mdash; you can use design-centric smart home solutions instead!</p>
<p>So, if you love to show off your impeccable taste AND your futuristic home, our experts have the scoop! From hiding TVs to disguising routers, we'll show you what your home can look like!</p>
<h2>What TV?</h2>
<p><img alt="Artwork disguising TV in luxury living room" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Blend-Smart-Home-Solutions_and-Design_1.jpg" title="CI_Blend-Smart-Home-Solutions_and-Design_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>We all love a big-screen TV to watch our favorite things, but when they're not in use, a TV with a blank screen is a bit of an eyesore &mdash; but not anymore. You can hide your TV in plain sight with just a few tweaks!</p>
<ul>
<li>Use bespoke frames around the TV and stream a work of art whenever no one is actively using it (you can pick the art it shows and upload your own!).</li>
<li>Cover your TV with artwork by recessing it into a wall and hanging the frame in front.</li>
<li>Install motorized lifts to keep the TV out of sight! You can choose where your TV will appear, either from the floor, down from the ceiling, or straight out of a cabinet.</li>
<li>Mirrored TVs are an excellent addition to bathrooms, closets, and bedrooms. These let you check your reflection while catching up on the news or whatever content you want to watch (some even connect to your vitals on a smartwatch!).</li>
</ul>
<h2>There's a Projector?</h2>
<p><img alt="Luxury viewing room with home bar and recessed projector in the ceiling" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Blend-Smart-Home-Solutions_and-Design_2.jpg" title="CI_Blend-Smart-Home-Solutions_and-Design_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>If you're an audiovisual enthusiast and don't want to miss out on the big-screen experience, you can still hide your projector with design-centric solutions. This way, you won't mess up the look of your home theater and make the screen come up as if by magic!</p>
<ul>
<li>Install the projector into the back wall (your integrators will know precisely where to put it for the best image!).</li>
<li>Use a motorized lift built into the ceiling, which only drops down when necessary.</li>
<li>Add a retractable screen that only comes down when you tap a button (these can also come up from the floor).</li>
<li>Remove screens altogether with projector paint on a light-colored wall so it only becomes a screen when the projector is turned on. This way, you'll finally have a sleep, uninterrupted home design!</li>
</ul>
<h2>Racking Devices</h2>
<p>Adding audio/video sources and AV receivers can take up some serious space. But don't worry; these don't have to be an eyesore. First, you'll need to rack your devices in a singular rack tower to reduce clutter, and then your integrator can hide this rack into the wall or inside a cabinet &mdash; no one will ever know it's there!</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Further disguise where the rack is by hanging artwork or other home d&eacute;cor touches!</p>
<h2>Sound is Art</h2>
<p>There's nothing quite like sound coming into a room like magic &mdash; just where are those speakers? With these design-centric solutions, they can be anywhere!</p>
<ul>
<li>Create custom speaker frames that double as art (you can also find paintable speaker cloths!).</li>
<li>Use small aperture speakers that hide behind artwork or into your recessed lights!</li>
<li>Bollard speakers are perfect for hiding in plain sight in your garden since the subwoofer and wiring are all buried underground &mdash; perfect for outdoor parties!</li>
<li>Install architectural speakers that reside behind the drywall without compromising sound. You'll never know they're there!</li>
<li>Get in-ceiling speakers that look like light fixtures for an uninterrupted design style!</li>
</ul>
<p>And the best part is that you can also find acoustic paneling that doubles as art, so it's not obvious the room has been treated for audio!</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Before building your home theater, talk to your integrators first so they can plan where all the wiring goes behind the drywall, so you don't have to worry about ugly cords marring your design!</p>
<h2>Lighting &amp; Switches</h2>
<p><img alt="Bedroom with lots of recessed lighting for warmer feel" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Blend-Smart-Home-Solutions_and-Design_3.jpg" title="CI_Blend-Smart-Home-Solutions_and-Design_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Nothing sets the mood quite like lighting, especially with modern smart technology that lets you customize your lighting design to fit your home's style. Smart lighting eliminates the need for multiple switches that disrupt your home design and cut it down to a single, flush-mounted switch or a touch panel that matches the color of your walls! And you can use smart lighting to accentuate your design:</p>
<ul>
<li>You can add smart lights underneath cabinets or shelves to spotlight certain areas or figures.</li>
<li>Use color-changing lights for different moods (you can even integrate these lights with your sound system).</li>
<li>Create false ceilings to settle your lights where you want them.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> If you're building your home, it's best to talk to a custom integrator as soon as possible so they can plan all the lighting ahead of time!</p>
<h2>Cool Shades</h2>
<p><img alt="Motorized drapes with the motor part hidden in a recessed/false ceiling type thing" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Blend-Smart-Home-Solutions_and-Design_4.jpg" title="CI_Blend-Smart-Home-Solutions_and-Design_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Smart shades are a huge benefit to any smart home, especially when you can't tell they're motorized. So this way, you can have beautiful shades or drapes that match your design style and hide the technology part. Some ways to do this include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Build your smart shades into a soffit to make them completely disappear when not in use. These soffits can also house perimeter lighting and hidden speakers for surround sound.</li>
<li>Install bottom-up shades so they rise from the floor to cover the windows.</li>
<li>Use shade valances with painted fascias that hide the motorized rollers.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Faux Boxes</h2>
<p>Besides your smart automation, home theater, and sound equipment, you probably have devices you need to hide, like your router. For these, look into faux boxes that can house them. These shallow boxes can look like anything on the outside, like a collection of books or artwork, so no one will ever know what's inside.</p>
<p>Faux boxes are your home design secret weapon!</p>
<h2>Smart Home Meets Home Design</h2>
<p>Now that you know more about how to hide <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/catalog/electronics-automation-control/" target="_blank">smart automation</a></span> and home theater technology, it's time to start planning how you want your home to look! At Real AV, we'll work with you from the start of your home project, so you can have the home of your dreams! You'll have the convenience of all the smart technology with no technological interruptions to your impeccable home!</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/contacts/" target="_blank">Contact us</a></span> today to set up your consultation appointment, and we'll take everything from there!</p>

How to Blend Your Smart Home Solutions with Your Impeccable Interior Design

How do you get the best Super Bowl party the whole neighborhood will remember? With the ultimate home theater! Learn more about what that takes today!

<p>Preparing for the Super Bowl takes more than planning which chips and dip to serve &mdash; especially if you want the best Super Bowl party ever. For that, you'll need to do some more planning, especially with your home theater.</p>
<p>And if you don't have a home theater, you're already behind! Check out the five essentials you'll need to make this game day the one the neighborhood will never forget!</p>
<h2>1. Huge Projector &amp; Screen</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with big projector screen" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Best-Super-Bowl-Party-to-Remember_1.jpg" title="CI_Best-Super-Bowl-Party-to-Remember_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>The first step to a memorable Super Bowl party is a big screen &mdash; and we mean huge! While you could go with a big screen 4K UHD TV, a projector will provide a flexible screen size so everyone can see every part of the action. And for even more flexibility, an ultra-short throw projector will take up less space and still have the benefits of a huge screen. Regardless of your choice, ensure the refresh rate is 120 Hz minimum and a 4K resolution, so you can capture all that action live and in the perfect picture!</p>
<p>With a projector, you'll also need a screen that does the picture justice. The size is up to the size of your room, but you should definitely look for an ambient light-rejecting (ALR) projector screen. These are engineered to only reflect the light coming from an ultra-short-throw projector sitting directly below and reject other light sources.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> You can even make the projector screen retractable and disappear into the floor or ceiling when not in use!</p>
<h2>2. Never Miss A Second</h2>
<p>Don't worry about missing a single second of Super Bowl Sunday just because you had to leave the room &mdash; just use video distribution. Similar to what you'd see in an electronics store, you need a video switch that shares a single video source between multiple screens to show the same picture simultaneously.</p>
<p>This will help minimize your need for multiple sources (and all those cables and wires!). And if you add video distribution to your smart home, you can effortlessly turn on and keep track of every display with your smart device. So, if you want to add a screen to your kitchen or bathroom, why not?</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Setting up video distribution can be tricky; as your local custom integrators to set it up for you!</p>
<h2>3. Smart Shades</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with blackout drapes" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Best-Super-Bowl-Party-to-Remember_2.jpg" title="CI_Best-Super-Bowl-Party-to-Remember_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Nobody wants Super Bowl Sunday to be plagued by random street noises or sun glare &mdash; that's why it's a good idea to invest in smart shades for your home theater. These smart shades pull tight over window frames to keep out any unwanted light and sound from outside so you can focus on enjoying the game day atmosphere!</p>
<p>That way, your home theater will look even more like an actual movie theater, which is perfect for the big game!</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Smart shades come in various styles and patterns to match your current design style! Some of your existing shades can even be retrofitted to motorized shades, but ask your local integrators for more information!</p>
<h2>4. Smart Lighting</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with colored lights" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Best-Super-Bowl-Party-to-Remember_3.jpg" title="CI_Best-Super-Bowl-Party-to-Remember_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>With lighting, you need just enough to see your snacks and where to go but not too much that it ruins the picture. That's why you should invest in smart lighting, so you can have the flexibility to dim or brighten the lights according to your Super Bowl needs.</p>
<p>You can even get creative and set smaller lights to dim with your teams' colors or automate it so that the lights flash in your colors whenever your team scores! And you can bring the game day fun to the outside of your house with landscape lighting that also features your favorite team colors!</p>
<h2>5. Wham! Did You Hear That Tackle?</h2>
<p>Half the fun of a Super Bowl party is watching the game, and the other half is hearing it! The standard speakers with your TV or projector won't be enough to capture every hit or commentary from the announcers. Instead, look for a surround sound system with Dolby Atmos technology, which will provide three-dimensional sound that makes it feel like you're on the field.</p>
<p>And if you don't want any visible speakers taking up space in your home theater, consider installing drywall speakers instead! You'll still get the unmistakable sound you want and the style to make your neighbors green with envy!</p>
<h2>Touchdown!</h2>
<p><img alt="Super Bowl stadium with confetti and fireworks" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Best-Super-Bowl-Party-to-Remember_4.jpg" title="CI_Best-Super-Bowl-Party-to-Remember_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>It's never too early to start making your <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/catalog/home-audio/" target="_blank">home theater</a></span> game-day-ready. And that's where Real AV comes in! Our experts will help you set up the ultimate game day haven that is the talk of the neighborhood. Everyone will always want to come to see the action at your house!</p>
<p>So, if you're ready to get started, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/contacts/" target="_blank">contact us</a></span> today! We'll set you up with a consultation appointment to review your options!</p>

5 Ways to Achieve the Best Super Bowl Party the Whole Neighborhood Will Remember

How should you bring in the new year? How about with the ultimate viewing experience? Discover the essential elements of the best home theater to have today!

<p>We've officially started 2023, and the year is bright with possibilities &mdash; especially with your home theater! And what better time than now to finally create the ultimate viewing room you keep dreaming about?</p>
<p>But what actually goes into a home theater? Lots of things, but don't sweat the small stuff. We'll review the essential items you need to create the best home theater experience!</p>
<h2>1. The Right Display</h2>
<p><img alt="Fancy home theater with projector" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_1.jpg" title="CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>When it comes to home theater displays, bigger is always better! A 4K home projector will give you a cinematic experience as if you were in an actual movie theater. Home projectors need enough distance for the best setup, so they should be mounted in the middle or back of the room in the ceiling or on a shelf. But you can also place the projector in a hidden floor console!</p>
<p>And if you want to take it a step further, you can have a 4K UHD TV display for regular viewing and a projector with a drop-down screen that you use for special movie nights!</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Talk to your integrator about the best option for your home theater. They'll also figure out the ideal placement for all your viewing components.</p>
<h2>2. Speakers</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with lots of speakers" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_2.jpg" title="CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Ahh, yes, the most crucial part of any home theater &mdash; the speakers! There are several speaker types that should definitely be included in your setup, from the front speakers to the surrounds!</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Front Left/Right Speakers:</strong> handle all the background music and special effects.</li>
<li><strong>Center Speakers:</strong> locks in the dialogue and primary vocals on the screen for every listening position.</li>
<li><strong>Surround Speakers:</strong> reproduce backfield sound effects and are typically positioned on side walls just behind the primary seating around ear level about 6ft. off the floor</li>
<li><strong>Subwoofers:</strong> are vital for capturing extremely low frequencies, so you never miss a beat.</li>
<li><strong>Front Height/Width Speakers:</strong> expands on the height or width of the soundstage, like with Dolby Atmos.</li>
</ul>
<p>Don't forget about Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers! Dolby places each individual sound or audio object in a 3-D soundscape so that you can hear sound in a virtual bubble (including left, right, front, behind, and overhead!).</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> If you prefer having hidden speakers so you can focus on the style of your home theater, mention it to your local integrator!</p>
<h2>3. Great Acoustics</h2>
<p>The one thing you should never skip out on is treating your room with acoustics &mdash; they can increase speaker performance up to 75 percent! This means ensuring the space is isolated from outside noise, reducing interior echo, and dampening high frequencies that can cause a harsh sound. That way, you'll feel surrounded by all the action.</p>
<p>Some acoustic treatments include absorbers, diffusers, and bass traps, but the types of treatment you need will depend on the size of the room and whether there is carpeting.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Treating a room is labor intensive and requires a lot of steps &mdash; leave it to your custom integrators instead!</p>
<h2>4. Source Components</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater showing source components in a cabinet" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_3.jpg" title="CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Having quality sources to feed your display is just as important, so don't forget to consider these in your list. Source components include your satellite/cable box, a 4K Blu-ray player, streaming devices, or music sources like turntables. Whichever options you have, you'll want to consider where to place them, like hidden behind a panel or in a tasteful cabinet &mdash; the choice is yours!</p>
<h2>5. Receivers</h2>
<p>On top of your display, speakers, and source components, the next vital component is your receiver, which decodes and amplifies digital audio sources to playback through your speakers. These receivers connect your speakers, video input, and display device together for a flawless viewing experience.</p>
<p>But some of the best receivers will also function as an amplifier. However, depending on your home theater setup, you can always add separate amplifiers and preamps.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> High-performance installations will have a separate sound processor and power amplifier. Your customer integrators will know what your system needs!</p>
<h2>6. Lighting</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with in-ceiling lights and sconces" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_4.jpg" title="CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Another essential aspect of your home theater experience is the lighting. Go too heavy, and you'll deal with glare, but if you don't have enough, no one will be able to see to get to their seats. But with careful placement, you can create the perfect mood to make it feel like an actual movie theater!</p>
<p>However, if you plan to have projectors, the darker the room is, the better, so think about having automated lighting that you can program to dim pre- and post-viewing and turn off when your source material starts playing &mdash; just like at the movies!</p>
<h2>7. Seating</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with super fancy seating" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q1_2023/CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_5.jpg" title="CI_Essential-Home-Theater-Elements_5.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>What's a home theater without comfortable seating? Now, the seating can be anything you want. You can choose home theater seating that actually looks like movie theater seats, complete with cupholders and recline. Some even feature built-in lighting, USB charging, power reclining, side tables, armrest storage, heated seating, or even massage!</p>
<p>But you can also change up the look with stylish modular seating that matches the rest of your home.</p>
<h2>Happy Viewing!</h2>
<p>Now that we've gone over the essential elements of a <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/catalog/home-audio/" target="_blank">home theater</a></span> setup, all that's left to do is get started at Real AV! Believe us when we say it will be worth the effort &mdash;nothing beats having a movie-theater experience every day!</p>
<p>So, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/contacts/" target="_blank">contact us</a></span> today, and we'll set you up with your consultation appointment. We'll go over what you want your home theater to look like and provide you with plenty of options!</p>

7 Essential Elements of the Best Home Theater for the New Year!

Adding a home audio setup to frequented rooms in your home is ideal. But don’t forget about these rooms where home audio works well, too. Learn more today!

<p>When you start setting up your home audio system, you&rsquo;ll likely focus on the main gathering spots, such as your living room, family room, and kitchen. After all, these areas are places where you&rsquo;d likely want music to flow through so everyone can enjoy it.</p>
<p>However, there may be some spots that you&rsquo;re missing regarding your home audio setup &mdash; and you won&rsquo;t expect what they are! Here are some rooms in the home where home audio will elevate your space and provide you with music whenever you want it:</p>
<h2>Bathrooms</h2>
<p><img alt="Luxury bathroom with hidden multi-room audio" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Unexpected-Rooms-Audio_1.jpg" title="CI_Unexpected-Rooms-Audio_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Let&rsquo;s face it &mdash; the bathroom may not be the first place you think of setting up your home audio system access. However, when you think about it, this location might not be a bad idea at all. Bathrooms are rooms that are used for many different reasons, other than necessity purposes like nighttime face care routines, daily makeup, etc.</p>
<p>When you have access to music, you can turn your bathroom into a spa-like oasis for any occasion. So, light some candles, turn on the music, and soak in your tub to relax! You won&rsquo;t believe the difference, so don&rsquo;t count out bathrooms as an ideal spot to add home audio access.</p>
<h2>Garage</h2>
<p>A garage is often more than just a storage spot for cars, it can be your workshop or even your new workout spot. If any of this is true, or you simply spend a lot of time in your garage, including this space in your home audio setup plan is an ideal notion. It will make the time you spend in your garage more enjoyable and go perfectly with your woodworking hobby or workout regimen.</p>
<h2>Laundry Room</h2>
<p><img alt="Luxury laundry room with hidden audio" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Unexpected-Rooms-Audio_2.jpg" title="CI_Unexpected-Rooms-Audio_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Think of how often you have to do laundry during the week &mdash; we bet it&rsquo;s a lot! So, why not add some fun to this endless cleaning routine by adding music to the laundry room?</p>
<p>You can turn your washing, drying, and folding area into a spot where you&rsquo;re happy to spend a little time each day. You may even tempt others in your household to do their own laundry if they know they can play their own tunes through incredible sound system at the tap of a button!</p>
<h2>Finished Basement</h2>
<p><img alt="Finished basement with hidden audio" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Unexpected-Rooms-Audio_3.jpg" title="CI_Unexpected-Rooms-Audio_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>If you have a finished basement in your home, you can turn this space into a deluxe entertainment center. And the first step is adding a home audio system to this area. Whether you occupy this space as a game room, billiards room, or general place to gather and relax, a home audio setup in your finished basement will bring the fun vibe all together.</p>
<h2>Foyer</h2>
<p>Another room in your home that could benefit from a home audio setup is your foyer. This is an area in your home where guests are welcomed in and people pass through often during the day. Adding the soft sounds of music for daily enjoyment or using your home audio system to play holiday music during the festive time of year is a great way to make use of this space.</p>
<h2>Dining Room</h2>
<p><img alt="Dining room with hidden audio" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Unexpected-Rooms-Audio_4.jpg" title="CI_Unexpected-Rooms-Audio_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>If you host a lot of dinner parties, make sure you provide home audio access to your dining room. You can play soft classical music as your friends enjoy their meal or when you host cocktail parties. If you eat in the dining room with family members, as opposed to your kitchen space, you may want to fill the room with delightful music as you dine as well.</p>
<h2>Groovin&rsquo;</h2>
<p>You&rsquo;ll find plenty of spaces to add your home audio system to your home &mdash; it&rsquo;s up to your imagination! So don&rsquo;t wait; explore the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/catalog/audio-systems/" target="_blank">home audio system</a></span> options today at Real AV! We&rsquo;ll help you find the setup that suits the needs of you and your family best.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/contacts/" target="_blank">Contact us</a></span> today and we&rsquo;ll get you started with a consultation appointment to go over your options!</p>

Unexpected Rooms to Add to Your Home Audio Setup

Only a few will know the crisp, full sound of good audio — if you believe the myths. But are the myths right? Find out what our experts have to say!

<p>A Hi-Fi audio system that wows every time seems like a pipe dream to many people. Only certain people with oodles of cash can have that sweet sound set up, right?</p>
<p>Wrong! In fact, there are quite a few myths and misconceptions about high-quality audio sound systems. You may know some, and others might surprise you, but don't worry about separating fact from fiction &mdash; that's our job! We'll shed light on the truth behind ten common audio myths!</p>
<h2>1. Room Treatment is Optional</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with acoustic panels and other treatment" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_1.jpg" title="CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>You might think that only professional studios or those with expensive sound systems need to worry about room treatment. But the truth is, if you want the best sound quality possible, you should absolutely be treating your room!</p>
<p>There are a few ways to do this, but some standard methods include using acoustic panels and bass traps. Acoustic panels help to absorb excess sound waves, while bass traps specifically target low-frequency sounds. Both of these can help improve the overall sound quality in your space.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Every room has sweet spots and dead spots, but finding them can be tricky, so it's better to consult your custom integrators first!</p>
<h2>2. Digital Sound is Worse Than Analog</h2>
<p>This myth likely stems from the idea that digital audio files are of lower quality than analog ones. But the truth is digitization has minimal impact on sound quality. Digital files can actually be of higher quality than analog ones!</p>
<p>The key to remember is that it all comes down to the encoding. If you have a high-quality file that's been properly encoded, you'll likely have excellent sound quality. But the sound quality will suffer if you have a low-quality file with poor encoding.</p>
<p>Digital is more faithful to the original sound, but if you prefer the added warmth from analog distortion, that is entirely up to you.</p>
<h2>3. Speakers Need Time to Break In</h2>
<p>When you first get a new pair of speakers, you might be tempted to give them a little time to "break in" before really using them &mdash; which you've more than likely from certain manufacturers. The thought is to loosen up the driver surround and even out the frequency response by playing sound for a while before it gets to that sweet spot. But the truth is, speakers don't need to be broken in at all!</p>
<p>Higher mass drivers like woofers and subwoofers use spiders as stiffening agents instead of thicker, more rigid materials. These do lose stiffness in their suspension with use, but it usually happens within minutes &mdash; not hours or days. If you experience something off in your sound, air compliance inside the speaker cabinet is usually more responsible for impeding cone movement than the spider or surround.</p>
<h2>4. High-End Speakers Are Only for Audiophiles</h2>
<p><img alt="Awesome sound system in apartment" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_2.jpg" title="CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>If you're not an audiophile, you might think that high-end speakers are a waste of money. But the truth is, anyone can benefit from a great pair of speakers and an incredible sound system.</p>
<p>Audiophiles might indeed be more particular about sound quality. But that doesn't mean that regular people can't appreciate the difference between a good pair of speakers and a great pair of speakers. If you have the budget for it, we say go for the latter!</p>
<h2>5. Newer is Always Better</h2>
<p><img alt="Retro speakers making good music" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_3.jpg" title="CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>When it comes to audio equipment, newer doesn't necessarily mean better. There are plenty of older pieces of equipment that still sound great!</p>
<p>Part of the reason for this is that manufacturers have been perfecting their craft for decades. So, while newer equipment might have some flashy new features, older equipment can still hold its own in terms of sound quality. But if you're creating a brand-new system, it's a good idea to get the latest models for better compatibility.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> If your old speakers worked well in the past, especially with source components like a vintage turntable, you could easily enhance the sound with a new set of amps and speakers!</p>
<h2>6. Power is the Most Important Factor</h2>
<p>When shopping for speakers, you might be tempted to go for the ones with the most power. But the truth is, power isn't the most crucial factor to consider!</p>
<p>While it's true that more powerful speakers, can produce louder sound, that doesn't necessarily mean they'll sound better. Sometimes less powerful speakers can have better sound quality. So don't get too caught up in the numbers &mdash; listen to the speakers and choose the ones that sound best to you. Remember, good speakers should fill the room, but they should never feel overwhelming!</p>
<p>However, if you truly want powerful speakers, look for speakers with larger diameters and ones with higher wattage. Just make sure that the amp is of similar power or your speakers will struggle.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Specs can be misleading, so don't rely solely on them &mdash; contact your professional integrators instead to find the speakers you prefer!</p>
<h2>7. Hi-Fi Speakers Are All You Need</h2>
<p><img alt="Hi-Fi speakers" height="400" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_4.jpg" title="CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>If you want excellent sound quality, you might think that all you need are high-fidelity speakers. But the truth is high-quality speakers are only one part of the equation. They also require a high-quality amplifier with a large power supply and high-fidelity music sources to get the best sound quality.</p>
<p>Each part of the system has to be of similar quality and compatibility to create that smooth sound. And don't forget about proper room treatment! So don't skimp on any part; balance out your needs and make the investment you crave &mdash; you'll be glad you did!</p>
<h2>8. Don't Need Better Base</h2>
<p>If you're happy with the sound of your current speakers, you might think there's no need to upgrade to a better pair. But the truth is, if you want the best sound quality possible, you should definitely invest in a good pair of base speakers!</p>
<p>Base speakers are specifically designed to reproduce low frequencies, which most regular speakers can't do well. So, add some subwoofers to your sound instead of sticking to a regular 2-channel system. Every listening experience benefits from better bass!</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Most 2-channel amps and preamps don't have subwoofer crossover, but professional technicians know how to make it happen so you can get the fullest sound!</p>
<h2>9. Speaker Wire Has No Effect on Sound Quality</h2>
<p>Using cheap speaker wires is tempting, especially when already investing significantly in the rest of your home audio system. But the truth is, doing so can harm your sound quality.</p>
<p>That's because cheap speaker wire is more likely to introduce electrical interference into your system. So, if you want the best sound quality, invest in some good quality speaker wire with adequate length, thickness, and composition to match your sound system.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> There's no need to do in-depth research on speaker wires; just leave it to your custom integrators!</p>
<h2>10. Gold-Plated Connectors Are Better</h2>
<p><img alt="Gold-plated speaker connectors" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_5.jpg" title="CI_Debunked-Audio-Myths_5.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Speaking of cables, another common audio myth that exists is the belief that gold-plated connectors sound better. This belief is likely because gold doesn't tarnish, so it's less likely to cause problems. But they're not the only connectors to make things sound better.</p>
<p>So long as you have a clean connection, the sound shouldn't be affected. However, if you use connections with dissimilar metals, some of the connectors can oxidize and deteriorate more quickly than if the same metals were used overall.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Some gold connectors only have a thing coating of gold because of the cost and will therefore wear off faster &mdash; beware of what you buy!</p>
<h2>Take Your Sound to the Next Level</h2>
<p>Now that you know which common audio myths are absolute hogwash, nothing is stopping you from taking your sound to the next level! Our experts at Real AV are ready to set you up with the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/catalog/home-audio/" target="_blank">home audio</a></span> system you must hear to believe!</p>
<p>So, please don't waste a single second; <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/contacts/" target="_blank">contact us</a></span> today to get started! We'll set you up with a consultation to see to your needs and make a plan of action!</p>

Myths Debunked: 10 Common Audio Myths That Shouldn't Prevent You From Stellar Sound

When it comes to the best home theater setup, you can't go wrong with Dolby Atmos. But what is it exactly? We'll tell you! Learn more about it today!

<p>The perfect sound doesn't exist &mdash; unless you have Dolby Atmos. Sure, surround sound gets you close &mdash; it almost sounds just like the movies. But something is still off, and Dolby Atmos is the solution!</p>
<p>So, what is Dolby Atmos? It's the key ingredient you didn't know you needed! We'll go over what you've been missing, how it works, and what you need to take your home theater experience to the ultimate level.</p>
<h2>What is Dolby Atmos?</h2>
<p><img alt="3D soundwave" height="400" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_What-is-Dolby-Atmos_1.jpg" title="CI_What-is-Dolby-Atmos_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Dolby Atmos is a sound system that creates a 3D soundscape in your home theater. It's the first codec change in over a decade working with more channels than your typical 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound systems, stunning viewers ever since. With Dolby Atmos, sound has more depth, clarity, and details, making the experience more realistic. It's basically like 4K for your ears!</p>
<h2>Why is it important for your sound system?</h2>
<p><img alt="Nuclear explosion on TV concept" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_What-is-Dolby-Atmos_2.jpg" title="CI_What-is-Dolby-Atmos_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>The great thing about Dolby Atmos is that it doesn't just add depth to the sound &mdash; it makes it feel like the sounds are coming from all around you. Atmos adds height elements to the soundstage, which, unlike surround sound where sound goes from side to side, it provides overhead sound.</p>
<p>So basically, Dolby Atmos creates a sound bubble featuring overhead action effects or subtle atmospheric and object-based sound, with you in the center of it! Whether it's the dulcet tones of a rainstorm or the explosive excitement of an action movie, Dolby Atmos brings the sound to life in a way that traditional surround sound can't match.</p>
<h2>How Dolby Atmos Works</h2>
<p>Dolby Atmos uses a 9.1 bed channel that consists of stationary sounds like background sound and music, 128 tracks, and 118 simultaneous sound objects to create an immersive soundstage. But what is a sound object? It's anything from the sound of footsteps to the bouncing ball set in a specific position in a scene.</p>
<p>With Atmos, sound creators can place sounds in exact locations and set any movement in a 3D space, which brings movie theater-sound quality to your home theater! The Dolby Atmos optimized technology analyzes audio data based on the number of speakers and their placement. It then determines the optimal playback in real-time by informing your A/V receiver how to process the audio data. So, the more speakers you have, the better your audio positioning is!</p>
<h2>Height Speakers &amp; Dolby Atmos</h2>
<p><img alt="Speakers places just right in home theater" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_What-is-Dolby-Atmos_3.jpg" title="CI_What-is-Dolby-Atmos_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>The key to getting the most out of Dolby Atmos is to use height speakers. These speakers are mounted on the ceiling in the front to add the dimension of height to your surround feel, so you can hear the discrete effects across the screen. By reflecting sound off the ceiling, they create a more immersive experience that makes you feel right in the middle of the action.</p>
<p>If you have both front and back height speakers, you'll add both directional and panning effects to your sound, but each speaker needs to be aimed toward the listening position to provide better results. In a 3D bubble, front height speakers produce the most directional sounds, either mounted on top of the front wall or slightly above your front surround speakers.</p>
<p>But even without height speakers, most Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers have upward-firing drivers to bounce sound off the ceiling just like a height speaker. In addition, almost any speaker can work with Dolby Atmos; however, only Dolby Atmos height speakers will produce the most accurate sounds that engulf the listener completely.</p>
<h2>Virtual Height</h2>
<p>Another way you can add height dimension to your sound is virtually. Dolby Atmos created a processing feature called "Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization" that makes a "virtual" Atmos experience even with non-Atmos supporting hardware.</p>
<p>This virtual sound simulates the overhead sound experience at the listener level to create a 360-degree sound field from a 5.1, 7.1, or even stereo speaker configuration. It applies height cue filters to overhead components in a mix before it travels to the speakers. So, this way, you can experience those explosions and everything else the way the creators intended &mdash; just like with Dolby Atmos speakers!</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Virtual height can only do so much and it won't be as perfect, so make sure to upgrade to Dolby Atmos height speakers to experience the full effect!</p>
<h2>Placing the Speakers Just Right</h2>
<p>One of the most important things to get right with Dolby Atmos is speaker placement. The height speakers need to be placed just right to reflect sound off the ceiling and create the desired effect. If they're not positioned correctly, you won't get the full benefit of Dolby Atmos.</p>
<p>You'll also need a minimum of four speakers, with two in the front and two in the back to create the optimal experience, plus two to four ceiling speakers. Avoid placing your Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers higher than &frac12; the height of your wall, and space them at least three feet away from your listening position (five feet or more is ideal!). And above all, don't go for more than 34 speakers &mdash; that's all your system can handle, and anything more will be overkill for your space.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Don't try to set up your speakers yourself &mdash; your custom integrators will know the exact placement and how to connect each one properly!</p>
<h2>Welcome to Your New Sound</h2>
<p><img alt="Fancy home theater with lots of speakers concept" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q4_2022/CI_What-is-Dolby-Atmos_4.jpg" title="CI_What-is-Dolby-Atmos_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Now that you know all about Dolby Atmos, there's no excuse not to take your home theater experience to the next level! With its immersive soundscape and three-dimensional sound, Dolby Atmos is the perfect way to make your movies and TV come to life. And Real AV is your first step to getting there, with the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/catalog/home-audio/" target="_blank">audio setup</a></span> and expert planning you never knew you needed!</p>
<p>So, don't wait; <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/contacts/" target="_blank">contact us</a></span> today to set up your consultation appointment!</p>

What is Dolby Atmos & Why Is It Necessary for Your Home Theater?

Looking to remodel a room into your own home theater or music room? Don't forget about room acoustics! Learn more about perfecting acoustics today!

<p>It's no secret that room acoustics play a huge role in the overall sound of your home theater or music room. So, if you're planning to remodel your entertainment room, why not contact professional installers to do the acoustics for you?</p>
<p>With professional installers, you'll actually save money on the unnecessary expenses you'd have from repairing or replacing things from doing it yourself. And you'll get the customization you dream of, whether that means a multi-room installation or using certain types of speakers.</p>
<p>So, if you're looking for the best sound every time, your custom integrators are on the job! But if you're not sure what that looks like, don't worry; we'll go through what is involved in perfecting room acoustic, step by step!</p>
<h2>Why Room Acoustics Matter</h2>
<p><img alt="Man watching program in home theater" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q3_2022/CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_1.jpg" title="CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Before we go into the nuts and bolts about room acoustics, first, we have to explain why it matters so much. Yea, room acoustics give you better sound, but what does that mean?</p>
<p>With a well-thought-out speaker setup and good acoustics, you'll be able to immerse yourself more into the content. So, if you're watching an intense film, the sound will have you feeling like you're a part of the experience. If you don't have good acoustics that balances the direct to reflected sound, you'll miss out on hearing clear and well-articulated sound in the way the creators intended you to hear it.</p>
<h2>Minimize Reflections</h2>
<p><img alt="Small home theater with lots of reflection points" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q3_2022/CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_2.jpg" title="CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Reflections are the first things your professional custom integrators will consider. Minimizing reflections is essential because they can cause sound waves to bounce off surfaces and create an echo. If the reflection separates from the sound signal by a single second, that's enough to cause a reverberation or an echo.</p>
<p>And because sound covers a large spectrum, from the tinkling of glass to the rumble of an explosion with human voices in the middle, finding all the reflections is a tough job &mdash; especially if you're dealing with a smaller room. But a professional installer knows how to keep the room dimensions and reflections into account and strategically use acoustic paneling to minimize the reflections.</p>
<h2>Sound Absorption</h2>
<p>Sound absorption is another crucial element of room acoustics. Absorption and diffusive materials regulate how much sound penetrates through the walls and ceilings and help control the noise.</p>
<p>Installers typically use insulation or fiberglass batting to achieve this. This material absorbs sound waves and prevents them from bouncing around the room, resulting in cleaner audio.</p>
<h2>Bass Traps</h2>
<p><img alt="Acoustic paneling with bass traps in the corner" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q3_2022/CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_3.jpg" title="CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Another aspect of room acoustics that you can't ignore is bass traps. These devices absorb low-frequency sound waves and diminish the negative effects of resonance that accumulate. Since low-frequency sound waves are difficult to control and often muddy up the sound in a room, you'll need bass traps to clean up the sound by absorbing these frequencies and making the overall audio clearer.</p>
<p>Typically, standard rooms require one to two traps in the corners to increase the clarity and provide an even bass response. But your professional installers will know more once they start planning out your theater room.</p>
<h2>Acoustic Positioning</h2>
<p>Probably the most essential aspect of acoustics is positioning. You have to know where to place each bit of absorption or diffusion where it is needed the most. Most often, the absorption and diffusive materials need to be interspersed in vertical bands all around the room. And if a diffuser is on one side wall, then the second diffuser should be set in the corresponding location on the opposite wall.</p>
<p>A lot more goes into it, including how to position your speakers. And rather than trying to figure out how to set each part, just leave it to your custom integrators. They have the expertise to put everything in its proper place the first time.</p>
<h2>Flooring</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with carpeting" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q3_2022/CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_4.jpg" title="CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>In addition to these elements above, there are a few other things you must consider when perfecting room acoustics &mdash; like the flooring. The type of flooring you have can make a big difference in how sound travels through your room. Carpet absorbs sound better than hardwood floors, making it a prime choice if you're looking for optimal acoustic performance!</p>
<p>But there's more that goes into perfecting the room acoustics with your flooring. Most installers will focus on controlling the mid-level frequencies and install a sound absorption pit at the first reflection point in front of the speakers. Doing this will improve the dialogue clarity and stereophonic imaging for sound you won't believe!</p>
<h2>Home Theater Furniture</h2>
<p><img alt="Big home theater with lots of furnishings" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_ci/Q3_2022/CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_5.jpg" title="CI_Perfecting-Room-Acoustics_5.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Another thing to keep in mind is furniture placement. Professional installers will often use your furniture as part of their acoustic treatment plan. By strategically placing furniture around the room, they can help control reflections and absorb sound waves to create an ideal balance of direct and reflective sound.</p>
<p>Your custom integrators can add three inches of airspace around heavy drapes, realign a bookcase to offset sound diffusion, and place decorative acoustic panels to cover acoustic material. And they can put your home theater seating in the sweet spot, so you'll always be in the peak listening spot.</p>
<h2>THX Certification</h2>
<p>Lastly, if you're really looking to take your home theater to the next level, you might want to consider THX Certification. This certification ensures that your room meets industry standards for acoustic performance. Installers who are certified by THX have the experience and expertise necessary to create a truly immersive audio experience. So don't miss out!</p>
<h2>Getting Started</h2>
<p>These are just a few things that professional installers can do to perfect room acoustics so that you'll always have the best sound possible. And if you're ready to take your <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/catalog/home-audio/" target="_blank">home audio</a></span> to the next level, Real AV can help you get started!</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.real-av.com/contacts/" target="_blank">Contact us</a></span> today to begin your consultation appointment, and we'll help you plan the home theater room of your dreams!</p>

Perfecting Room Acoustics the Easy Way with Professional Installers!

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Unexpected Rooms to Add to Your Home Audio Setup

Myths Debunked: 10 Common Audio Myths That Shouldn't Prevent You From Stellar Sound

What is Dolby Atmos & Why Is It Necessary for Your Home Theater?

Perfecting Room Acoustics the Easy Way with Professional Installers!

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