In the second series on Home Theaters, Smart Home World, provides a preview of the latest products launched and highlights the most popular brands preferred by homeowners and professionals alike.
Everyone dreams of having a high-end luxury home theater. A well-designed home theater seamlessly combines state-of-the-art technology with exquisite design. This includes high-definition projection systems and large OLED screens, complemented by multi-channel surround sound and speakers—often featuring Dolby Atmos—delivering an immersive audio-visual experience that matches that of commercial cinemas.
Comfort is also equally important, where plush custom seating and tiered layouts enhance viewing angles. Additionally, smart home integration ensures effortless control of lighting and temperature, creating a truly exceptional entertainment space. Sharing her view on personalizing this space as per the client’s brief and the multipurpose use of this space, Ar. Shilpa Jain Balvally, Principal Architect, Studio Osmosis, says, “These bespoke spaces can be personalised to reflect the homeowner’s style, making them not just functional but uniquely inviting. Beyond movies, luxury home theaters serve as versatile venue for gaming, live concerts, and virtual reality experiences.”
Integration with Smart Homes Theaters
The integration of smart technology marks another new phase in this segment, allowing seamless connection between your entertainment setup and the rest of your home, creating a truly immersive experience. Adding his insights on the emerging technology and advancements, Mehernos Pervez, Proprietor, Sound Decisions adds, “We have designed many high-end Home Theaters where we have reimagining Home Entertainment, imagine walking into your living room, and your home knows it’s movie night. The lights dim just right, the screen comes alive, and the sound wraps around you like a warm blanket. This isn’t sci-fi; it’s the next step in home tech that we are bringing to life. No more hunting for remotes or hopping between apps. Picture everything—from the lights to the sound to the screen—responding to a single touch or a casual voice command. It’s not about control; it’s about effortless harmony in your space.”
Keeping abreast on the trends he foresees in Home Theaters, Pervez informs, “Home Theaters are becoming smarter they understand what you like. Imagine your system knowing exactly how you like your movies—whether it’s the sound cranked up for action scenes or the lights dimmed just right for a cosy vibe. Soon, everyone in the family could have their own profile, making sure the experience feels perfect for whoever’s watching. With 3D sound that seems to come from every corner and ultra-clear, vivid screen, watching a movie at home will feel more like stepping into another world. The tech that was once only in high-end cinemas is coming to your living room. Home Theaters are no longer just for movies. They’re turning into all-around entertainment spaces where you can game, listen to music, or even explore virtual worlds. Imagine a room that easily transforms depending on what you’re in the mood for—whether it’s a blockbuster, a concert, or a gaming marathon. Your home theater will soon be more connected than ever. It won’t just be about the movie; it’ll be about creating the perfect environment. Imagine starting a film and having the lights automatically dim, the temperature adjust, and even the doors lock—all without lifting a finger.”
Many research predict that VR and AR are making their way into home theaters, offering experiences that go beyond traditional viewing. Watching a movie where you feel like you’re inside the scene, or playing a game that turns your room into the battlefield. It’s going to be a whole new way to interact with entertainment.
Plus, streaming services are constantly evolving, and your home theater will be ready to keep up. Whether it’s watching the latest interactive film or catching a live event, your system will be here are some key players like Bose who offer soundbars and speakers that integrate seamlessly with smart home systems, allowing for voice control and multi-room audio capabilities. Specializing in wireless speakers, Sonos systems are designed for easy integration with various smart home platforms, enabling users to create a synchronized audio experience throughout their home. With its SmartThings platform, Samsung offers a wide range of devices that work together, including TVs, sound systems, and smart appliances, creating a cohesive home automation experience. Apple’s HomeKit ecosystem allows for deep integration with Apple devices, enabling users to control their home theater setup through Siri and the Home app, alongside seamless compatibility with other smart devices. While, LG smart TVs offer compatibility with major smart home systems, allowing users to control their TV and connected devices easily.
The Latest Range Launched in Sound And Video Technology
As per Zachary Comeau, Senior Editor, CE Pro, “This year new immersive and powerful home theater displays and sound systems dominated the CEDIA Expo 2024.” The Expo showcased a stunning array of new technologies, right from cutting-edge displays, advanced sound systems, and innovative designs from top industry brands.
Samsung unveiled its latest projectors—the Premiere 7 and 9—both engineered to deliver extraordinary brightness and contrast. The Premiere 9 boasts an impressive brightness of up to 3,000 lumens and a staggering contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1, while the Premiere 7 offers 2,200 lumens and a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. Both models leverage Samsung’s proprietary Quantum Dot technology, which significantly enhances colour accuracy and vibrancy, allowing for a truly immersive viewing experience. Samsung also introduced massive 98-inch television models, designed as an alternative for those seeking a cinematic experience without the complexity of projection setups. Featuring a super-sized picture enhancer algorithm, these TVs maintain exceptional clarity and sharpness, even on their expansive screens.
Sony’s offerings are equally impressive, with the debut of the BRAVIA Projector 8 and 9, both representing a leap forward in native 4K-laser projection technology. The BRAVIA Projector 9 delivers an astonishing 3,400 lumens, while the 8 model reaches 2,700 lumens, positioning them as formidable contenders in the home theater market. A significant highlight is the upgraded processor, which enhances cinematic HDR performance, providing deeper blacks and superior detail in shadowed areas—an essential upgrade for serious film buffs. Moreover, the projectors feature HDMI 2.1 connectivity and an incredibly low input lag of just 12 milliseconds, making them ideal for both movie watching and gaming. This integration into Sony’s broader BRAVIA family signals a commitment to unifying home entertainment under a single, high-performance umbrella.
LG displayed a large-format 163-inch Fine Pitch Direct View LED display. This cutting-edge technology represents LG’s commitment to delivering large, high-resolution screens that are suitable for luxurious home environments. LG also showcased its direct-view LED and micro LED Luxury Home Displays, with sizes ranging from 108 inches to an astonishing 325 inches, catering to various consumer needs. In addition to these flagship displays, LG’s extensive OLED lineup—ranging from 42 to 97 inches—continues to be a major draw for customers seeking premium home entertainment solutions. David Park, Marketing Manager, LG, emphasized the advantage of the brand’s extensive OLED offerings, allowing consumers to outfit their entire home with consistent, high-quality displays.
Origin Acoustics made a significant impact with the debut of the Ambisonic Marquee Home Theater System. This system marks the first entry into the Ambisonic brand, set for release in early 2025. It features a comprehensive range of On-Wall and In-Wall Loudspeakers, including Bi-amped front speakers, surround speakers, and in-ceiling options, all equipped with the brand’s renowned magnetic planar ribbon tweeter technology. Jill Escol, Director of Marketing, Origin Acoustics, shared insights on the system’s design and performance, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to high-quality audio experiences that seamlessly transition from outdoor to indoor settings.
Harman Luxury Audio showcased JBL Stage 2 surround-sound system, designed as an accessible entry point into high-fidelity audio. For enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance, the JBL Synthesis demo featured cutting-edge technologies, including the SCL-1 speaker, which incorporates dual 12-inch compression drivers.
The introduction of the MA series of AV receivers, including models like the MA310, MA510, and MA710, to provide versatile solutions for every audio need. With features like 8K support, HDMI with eARC, and room EQ capabilities, these receivers are poised to meet the demands of modern home theaters.
Quantum Media Systems introduced the XDR Pro Cinema Video Wall. Designed for high-end home theaters, these video walls deliver cinema-quality images through strict quality control standards and proprietary processing technologies. Quantum emphasizes the capability of its products to achieve Hollywood-level brightness for SDR, EDR, and HDR content, ensuring reference-quality images that elevate any viewing experience.
Epson’s new Q Series with three models features high-brightness capabilities and advanced image processing technologies, including 4K and HDR compatibility. With a focus on integrating seamlessly into various home environments, Epson’s Q Series offers flexibility without compromising on performance.
We highlight leading brands and their offerings that enhance Home Theaters
BenQ Home Cinema Models: W5800
BenQ has focused on developing projectors that deliver cinematic quality right into the comfort of your home. They are harnessing cutting-edge technologies such as DLP and solid-state illumination (SSI) such as 4LED(RGBB), RGB Laser, and Blue Core Laser Light Sources to guarantee unparalleled performance.
Setting industry benchmarks, BenQ’s projectors deliver high colour accuracy, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut and Filmmakers mode. BenQ’s proprietary CinematicColor™ technology ensures immersive, true-to-life colors.
BenQ has recently developed a specialized software for projectors, Qcolor. This software provides a seamless colour calibration experience. Their focus remains on enhancing colour performance for their high-end Home Cinema Models: W5800 for an authentic calibration. This dedication results in a cohesive, optimized colour management ecosystem that professionals and cinephiles can rely on for true-to-life colour representation.
With W5800, you can experience up to 200” screen with laser-sharp clarity at the comfort of your home. It is a perfect choice for premium Luxury Home Theatre Rooms. Some of its Key Features at a glance are: True 4K UHD resolution (3840×2160) with 2600 ANSI Lumens brightness from a laser light source. It offers 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage upto 1700 ANSI Lumens brightness, ensuring vibrant and accurate colours.
With features like Local Contrast Enhancer, Dynamic Black Technology, and HDRPro™ along with HDR10/ HLG Support for perfect details in dark & bright scenes. It offers flexible installation and 1.5-2.45 throw ratio, 1.6x motorised zoom, vertical ±50% and horizontal ±21% motorized lens shift, and 2D keystone correction for flexibility and ease of installation.
With HDMI 2.1 support along with ARC/eARC, it delivers superior image and sound quality. USB-A port with media reader support to play 4K stored content. They are compatible with leading automation devices & software with the help of LAN and RS-232 port.
DENON AVC-A1H: 15.4 Channel 8K AV Amplifier
The Denon AVC-A1H is a powerhouse in home audio, featuring 15 channels of amplification that provide a truly immersive sound experience. With a robust transformer, meticulously selected components, and a high-rigidity construction, this amplifier supports configurations of up to 9.4.6, delivering a professional theater experience right in your home cinema.
Designed and manufactured in Japan, the AVC-A1H boasts an impressive 190 watts per channel and supports 8K Ultra HD for stunning visual clarity. It also features advanced 3D audio capabilities, enhancing your cinematic experience. The amplifier includes HEOS built-in for seamless streaming and connectivity, with seven HDMI inputs to accommodate all your devices. Experience unparalleled audio performance with the Denon AVC-A1H, designed for true audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike.
Polk Signature Series 5.1 Package
Polk Signature Series 5.1 package, the Dynamic Speaker Package elevates your home theatre experience with the Polk Audio bundle. This package features the HTS 10″ subwoofer, driven by a 200-watt Class D amplifier for deep, powerful bass. It includes the Signature Elite ES50 tower speaker, offering 150 watts of dynamic sound, the Signature Elite ES30 centre channel speaker with a deep booming bass, and the Signature Elite ES10 bookshelf speakers equipped with Dolby Atmos and DTS technologies for a truly immersive sound experience.
Mythos Series
Experience iconic Definitive Technology sound with the Mythos Series passive on-wall sound bars and LCR speakers. Designed to deliver the powerful clarity, dynamic range, and extended response of full-size systems, these ultra-slim, designer cabinets fit seamlessly into any space. Their IP66 rating makes them perfect for both indoor and covered outdoor home theatre setups, as well as whole-home audio and light commercial applications. Featuring a two-way, five-driver configuration with four 3.5” XTDD midrange drivers and a 1” aluminium dome tweeter, these speakers project robust, full-range sound across a wide area.
KEF LSXII- HiFi over WiFi
Welcome to a world of High-Fidelity sound that is true enough to touch. This all-in-one speaker system in its second generation: upgraded to deliver a more balanced sound in higher resolution with all-inclusive connectivity. Simply stream anything including Air Play 2, Chromecast, Spotify and Tidal, or seamlessly connect the LSX II to your laptop, TV and many other devices. With streaming capabilities up to 24-bit/384kHz, these speakers provide exceptional sound quality in a compact size, making premium audio accessible to all.
Theory iw25 High-Output In-Wall Loudspeaker System
The Theory iw25 is a standout in-wall loudspeaker, designed from the acclaimed sb25 model and enhanced with a built-in enclosure for seamless in-wall installation. This speaker surprises with its ability to deliver rich, powerful sound that fills large spaces, making it ideal for both background and foreground audio applications without compromising on aesthetics. The iw25 can be configured for low-Z (4-ohms) operation or, using its included internal power transformer, for high-Z (70V/100V) operation. Power Handling: 200W, Max Output: 117dB, Warranty: 5 years, Frequency Response: 51Hz -23kHz
JBL Stage Series- 5.1 Package
The JBL Stage 5.1 is a cutting-edge home stereo and home theaters speaker system that brings the excitement of a live concert right into your living room. It features 1″ aluminium dome tweeters with a high-definition waveguide design and 8″ woofers that deliver deep, signature JBL bass. This combination ensures that every audio detail, from the highest highs to the deepest lows, is reproduced with stunning clarity and richness. Available in a distinctive two-tone wood finish, the JBL Stage 5.1 adds a unique touch of elegance to your home theaters setup. Whether you’re enjoying movies or music, your home sound will reach new heights.
REVEL Architectural Series- 5.1 Inwall Speaker Package
Presenting an entirely new range of 5.1 in-wall loudspeakers that combine Revel’s best-in-class sound quality with a patented tool-less installation mechanism and a sleek new look that integrates easily into any décor. All models feature Revel’s low-distortion motor structure designs with aluminum dome tweeters and Micro Ceramic Composite (MCC) cone woofers for true audiophile-grade performance and easy timbre-matching to Revel in-ceiling, floor standing, monitor and centre channel loudspeakers.
Common Specifications • Includes Zero-bezel Magnetic Grille Finished 10.9” Roller Lock Tool-free Installation Mechanism • Compatible with Wall Material Thickness Range: 0.5” – 1.0” (1.3 cm – 2.5 cm) • Pre-construction Bracket and Fire-rated Back-box Accessories Available.
Marantz
Marantz has introduced several significant technological innovations in its latest AV receivers, particularly in the new Cinema Series. Marantz has made significant strides in its latest AV receivers with the introduction of the new Cinema Series, featuring advanced technological innovations that elevate home entertainment. One of the standout enhancements is 8K video support, available in models like the Cinema 40, 50, 60, and 70. These receivers are equipped with HDMI 2.1, enabling high-resolution video playback and compatibility with the latest HDR formats, including Dolby Vision. The inclusion of eARC HDMI connections allows for seamless audio integration with TV apps and remote-control functionality.
In addition to video advancements, Marantz has integrated Dirac Live room correction technology into its receivers, optimizing audio performance based on the room’s acoustics for a more immersive listening experience. The Cinema Series also boasts discrete amplifiers with a robust power supply, ensuring dynamic audio performance. Marantz guarantees that its receivers deliver a significant percentage of their rated power across multiple channels, which is crucial for achieving the best results in home theater setups.
Furthermore, many Marantz receivers come with built-in HEOS technology, facilitating multi-room audio streaming and seamless integration with smart home systems. The incorporation of features such as 8K video support and HDMI 2.1 ports ensures compatibility with the latest video formats and devices. With multiple HDMI inputs that can handle both 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz signals, Marantz receivers are designed to deliver high-quality audio and video transmission, making them an excellent choice for gaming and high-definition content.
ArtSound Speakers
ArtSound meticulously plans speaker configurations to support various immersive formats. For instance, setups can range from 5.1 to 7.1.4 systems accommodating overhead speakers to achieve height in sound positioning which is crucial for formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Their systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with other audio-visual components ensuring compatibility with streaming services and digital content that support immersive audio playback.
ArtSound offers the following range of speakers The Intimi Series from ArtSound features in-wall loudspeakers designed for high-quality audio integration in various environments. These speakers are engineered to provide an unobtrusive audio solution making them ideal for residential and commercial spaces where aesthetics and sound quality are paramount.
The Happi Series by ArtSound features in-wall loudspeakers designed for both aesthetic appeal and high-quality audio performance. The name “Happi” which translates to “open” and “oxygen” in Finnish, reflects the series’ commitment to delivering a pure and inviting sound experience, The Happi speakers are robust enough to withstand moisture making them suitable for various environments including bathrooms and outdoor areas also it has Minimalistic Aesthetic with a wafer-thin chassis and built-in magnets under the grill these speakers offer a sleek and unobtrusive look that integrates well into any decor.
The Flat Series by ArtSound features a range of in-wall and in-ceiling loudspeakers designed for minimalist aesthetics and high-quality sound, The speakers have an extremely thin frame of just 1 mm, making them almost invisible when installed. This discreet design is complemented by a finely meshed grill that feels soft to the touch also despite their small size, the Flat Series delivers surprisingly clear and warm sound. The speakers are engineered to perform well in small spaces making them suitable for various environments such as homes, offices, and waiting areas, Models like the FL101BT include Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easy pairing with devices for wireless audio streaming. This makes them ideal for modern setups where convenience is key.
Formovie Projectors
Formovie Projectors have emerged as a leading option for home entertainment in India, offering an impressive range of models with industry-first specifications. These projectors can deliver image sizes of up to 150 inches, creating a cinematic experience at home, complemented by superior sound systems. Exclusively distributed by Aytexcel Pvt Ltd, Formovie projectors are distinguished by cutting-edge innovations like ALPD® Technology (Advanced Laser Phosphor Display). Most models offer 4K UHD resolution for sharp, detailed visuals, transforming any space into a home theater. They support Dolby Vision and HDR10+, enhancing color depth with richer blacks and brighter whites. UST projectors can be placed just inches from a wall, projecting large, clear images, making them perfect for compact spaces.
High-end models, such as the Formovie THEATER—the world’s first Dolby Vision and Atmos UST projector—feature built-in Dolby-certified sound systems with speakers designed by Bowers & Wilkins, delivering an unparalleled immersive audio experience.
The Cinema EDGE projector from Formovie, for example, comes with Google TV, allowing direct access to Netflix for a seamless viewing experience. With a UST ratio of 0.23:1, it requires just 49 cm from the wall to project a 150-inch screen.
Powered by FengOS, Formovie projectors facilitate easy content streaming and intuitive navigation, while Google Assistant enables effortless voice control. Connectivity options include HDMI, USB, and wireless capabilities, ensuring compatibility with various devices.
Integra
Integra is one of the most renowned names in custom-install, and with good reason. Key members of the Integra product development team were themselves custom installers for decades, and they bring that experience with them to address specific pain points they themselves have faced in the field. Small features like white backplates to make connecting wires in rack easier with better visibility, to major integrations with providers like Domotz, and the inclusion of advanced HDMI diagnostics makes the Integra range of AVRs the most custom-install friendly by a wide margin.
The flagship Integra DRX 8.4 has 7 XLR connections for long cable runs, RS232 programmability, and in a first, the ability to add subwoofers to Zone 2 and Zone 3. But perhaps the most impactful technological inclusion is the ability for installers to use Dirac Live calibration, at no extra cost, to provide their customers the best possible home theater given room limitations. Dirac Live is the world’s most advanced room calibration software, and while a full bandwidth license costs $350, in our Integra range, the license is included in the price.
HDMI 2.1 and 8K video have always been a priority for Integra, as required for a brand on the cutting edge of technology. In fact, back in 2021, Integra was one of the first brands ( alongside sister brands Onkyo and Pioneer ) to launch a fully functional 8K solution – one that took competing brands ( Denon, Marantz, and Yamaha ) a full year to catch up on.
Realizing the increasing importance of video, Integra’s newest launch, and one that we are very excited about, is the DTM 7.4, a 2.1 network stereo receiver. With 4 x HDMI 2.1 inputs and 1 x HDMI 2.1 output with ARC, 110W a channel, and a new groundbreaking Class G amplifier design, the DTM 7.4 sets a new standard in stereo living room setups where a customer needs a pair of speakers connected to their TV. Including every streaming service you can think of including Spotify, Tidal, and Prime Music, compatibility with Airplay2, Roon, and Chromecast, and the inclusion of Zone A/Zone B switching, the DTM 7.4 is an excellent stereo amplifier. And as with every Integra product, the DTM 7.4 has HDMI diagnostics, web setup and monitoring, multiple 12V triggers, and every other CI feature Integra has become known for.
With the growing popularity of Innovations in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), with the rise of 8K content and enhanced sound technologies, the industry is poised for significant growth, driven by technological evolution and the desire for unparalleled entertainment.
