This is an automated archive.

The original was posted on /r/hometheater by /u/schaka on 2024-01-24 12:44:44+00:00.


I’m currently doing research on a proper home theater setup. In recent years, I’ve gotten back into consuming media almost as much as I did in my teens and early 20s.

But I decided I’d like to treat myself to a better setup this year. I don’t have a specific budget in mind, but I’m definitely someone who doesn’t spend past the point of diminishing returns and I’m still in the process of learning all I need to know before I feel like I can make an informed purchasing decision.

Currently, my setup is as follows

  • Zidoo Z9X Pro as Jellyfin client, capable of playing full disc (Blu-ray) via SMB if ever wanted/needed
  • LG C1 77" getting content via HDMI from the Zidoo
  • Sonos Arc connected via eARC, audio passed through the TV from the Zidoo

Obviously a soundbar is not great for sound. It was a gift from a friend, way before I even owned the C1. The TV can’t pass through DTS:X or DTS:HD, TrueHD works just fine - obviously I’m not yet getting any benefit from extra audio channels with a single soundbar.

What I’m wondering is mostly:

  • do I need an AVR. especially regarding sound codecs?
  • is there a sound setup, that allows me to integrate/keep the soundbar, or should I just ditch it?
  • can I keep the Zidoo (it supports everything, but has only 1 HDMI)?

Basically before I try to go through which products are worth purchasing at what price, I’m figuring out what my setup should even look like by the end of it.