Beginner: Choose between a ready-made home theater or more custom solution

[gmarkoma81]

Hi everybody,

I am new here. In a few months' time, I am moving to my own house and I am thinking of improving the audio, currently, we have 2 x Apple HomePods. My current Sony TV has eARC HDMI. I am thinking or the Sony Bravia Theater Quad with an additional subwoofer. or to buy AV receiver, speakers, etc., separately (5.1 probably). The living room is not that huge, I would say 20-25 square meters. I am wondering if the ready solution is not good for the future and the custom solution will stay more years. Although as I am not expert, I would have to get some knowledge about the custom solution. Also, I do not want huge speakers because of space availability. Behind the couch, there is a wall, so I should leave some space for the back speakers there. I would appreciate any feedback regarding the solutions. I would like to give up to around 2500 euros, I could go a bit more for something exciting maybe but I have other important stuff to do also. Of course, any good solution that supports remote back speakers would be great. Thanks!

 

[daytona600]

AV receiver from Denon , Marantz , Yamaha etc .
5.1 Elipson Planet & if funds allow use the extra channels & add matching speakers for Atmos
add extra speakers on wall/ceiling or ( in-ceiling per below )
5.4.2 Atmos Below ( 5 .1 + 4 Ceiling Speakers + extra Sub )

 

[Messiah]

Personally I would go the AV receiver route. Whilst you would need to wire the rear speakers I feel this would sound far better and offer more flexibility in the long run.

You can start at 5.1 and build from there. Personally I use a Denon Receiver and Monitor Audio Radius speakers which are quite small as speakers go. My space is much smaller than yours but it still works well.