u003cpu003eThe most common mistake in home cinema design is spending heavily on electronics before the room has been addressed. A great amplifier into an untreated room will always sound less satisfying than modest components in a well-controlled space.u003c/pu003eu003ch2u003eWhat the Room Doesu003c/h2u003eu003cpu003eEvery room reflects, absorbs, and diffuses sound. The first reflection points, floor-to-ceiling modes, and corner bass buildup all shape what you hear. No amount of EQ corrects the geometry of reflections.u003c/pu003eu003cblockquoteu003eTreat the room. Then choose the electronics.u003c/blockquoteu003eu003ch2u003eStarting Pointsu003c/h2u003eu003culu003eu003cliu003eSide wall first reflection absorptionu003c/liu003eu003cliu003eCeiling cloud above the listening positionu003c/liu003eu003cliu003eBass traps in corners to reduce low-frequency buildupu003c/liu003eu003c/ulu003e