Need some help with basic set-up

[hjdelaney]

I actually have a two-part request.

First, I'm interested in knowing what you guys (the experts) think about my set-up for a home theater. I'm pretty much a novice when it comes to all the intricacies - but appreciate the good sound I've gotten from this system the last 10 years or so (I've only used it for audio and now want to incorporate a home theater); KG-1 (front), KG-.5 (rear), KV-1 (Center) and SW-8 (Sub). I just bought a Harmon-Kardon AVR 130 Receiver.

Secondly, I'm a complete dope when it comes to hooking everything together. I've never really felt like I've had the proper set-up (speakers/receiver) and now with the big screen TV, new receiver and older speakers, I'm lost. Is it worth it to have a specialist come to my house to help wire everything togeter? The manuals are enough to make me nuts.

Thanks guys!!

[glennbarn]

Try the links below for more info.

http://manuals.harman.com/HK/QuickStart%20Guide/AVR%20130%20QSG%20FINAL.pdf

http://www.harmankardon.com/product_support/support_detail.asp?prod=AVR%20130&stype=PRODFAQactive

I bought the AVR 525 ( AVR 5550 here in Australia ) and I just love it.

[htxpert]

{Quote}

Is it worth it to have a specialist come to my house to help wire everything togeter? The manuals are enough to make me nuts.

Yes it is

Proper system termination, correct placement of the speakers in relationship to your listening /viewing area

and professional calibration of the Audio and Video equipment

will make your system perform to its maximum ability These installation procedures will have the most

impact on how your completed system is going to sound You can gain allot of knowledge from this and various other forums but you must be willing to invest the time and purchase the proper tools to install the system yourself there is allot to learn if you are unwilling hire a pro

Good Luck

RLA Home Theater & Hi-Fi

www.rlahometheater.com

[ssh]

Welcome to the Forum. I can't answer #1. #2 is a little tricky, because I really don't know if you're a real "complete dope", or if you're just a little overwhelmed at looking at the whole process instead of looking at it just one step (connection) at a time. I'm going to assume that you have more time than money to invest in this project, & that you can follow instructions & ask questions when needed. Learning what you don't know will be fun, so go for it one step at a time.

Place each piece where it will be in your system & measure the length of wire or interconnect needed (better to measure long than short-remember that some wire may drape to the floor) so you have the right pieces when you begin assembling. Be sure you have the right connections on each end.

Take your manual & put it next to your equipment.Point to the connection in the manual, & then the one on your unit. Plug them up like the picture & then kick back with some music.

Don't get frustrated if you have to figure something out more than once. All it takes is a little planning, some time, & patience.

If you're not comfortable following these instructions, then pay someone to hook it up for you.

SSH

[ccsakura]

Try this:

http://www.monstercable.com/MonsterWired/issue19/website_issue19/r_csg_homeTheater.htm

DIY for hooking up the speakers have more fun than paying to the others..... seriously

If I have time I'd like to do more on those DIY too

[hjdelaney]

Thanks!! This was very helpful...I'm going to give it a shot.