> (an audio control monitor/scope doesn't hurt either...).  For me to
 > renovate an entire room in my house for the sole purpose of audio is
 > somewhat out of the question right now, therefor I focus on my car.  I
       I'd have to guess that about 90% of everyone I have ever talked with 
about Audio are in the same boat you are. I sure as hell cannot afford a room 
specifically for Home Theater. But the good news is that there are sufficient 
products and information available to make rooling your own...in your 
living/family room much easier than it once was. True, it is not the same as 
having one of the sound proofed chambers you see every once in a while in the 
periodicals. But on reflection, I don't believe I would want one. I want to 
live in my house, not tip toe around it. I treat my audio gear very very 
carefully and don't allow anyone...grandkids included, within 5 feet of my 
loudspeakers. But at the same time I will fire up the system so they can 
watch 
one of thier Disney movies/cartoons, eat their sugar ration for the month in 
one sitting and dance around the room to the music. 
       On the equipment side there are numerous electronic pieces that have 
very reasonable price tags and acquitt themselves as well or better than the 
ultra high price spreads. Careful loudspeaker selection can yeild amazing 
results for a reasonable amount. An example is a gentleman I recently met in 
my area. With a huge budget for a new system he spent months auditioning. He 
ended up with the new Adcom amp and a pair of Paradigm Reference 
loudspeakers. 
I could only wonder just how good they could sound. I was absolutely amazed. 
It is by far one of the greatest systems I have ever heard...bar none! The 
speakers were less than $2,000 and they are the first ones I have heard that 
even compare to mine. They were extrordinary!!!!! And I have listened to many 
while looking for mine! The amp...wasn't there. That is the best I can 
describe it. There was more than enough power yet no trace (noise or 
indication) that an amp was in line. It disappeared. I am not a big Adcom 
fan. 
But disappearing is about the highest praise I can lavish on an amp....any 
amp. I have a stack of Carver amps and have been very happy with them. The 
new 
Adcom tops them easily.
       If space is a problem there are bookshelf speakers like the ones from 
ACI, the mailorder outfit in Ill, that are spectacular, are under $1,000 and 
are very easily placed. Spica is clearing out their "T" models and have one 
that got superb reviews for $399 per pair, are easily placed and have truly 
excellent sound. Subs are readily available and if you follow the thread 
going 
on, will get some ideas on the best placement.
       So having truly excellent Audio/HT in you livingroom is actually 
possible and can be had with some careful selections, at a great price.
Happy Hunting!
Cheers, John
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