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[Chad R]

Based on the criteria listed, I picked expert. I am capable of setting everything up without looking at any manuals, can properly space speakers and such.

 

[lubmar]

I have "Good Knowledge ...", I just do not have patience "...to finish"

 

[MrFong]

Auto features can be handy to get you close, but fine-tuning by ear to your own preferences is the best way to be happy with your system.

 

[jlindsey86]

I choose "good knowledge" even though my experience in setting up a HT is somewhat limited as I have a two channel rig. Though I have set up other peoples systems and I feel completely confident that I could set up my own with the right tools.

 

[adrwong]

I chose Basic!

In all honesty, I have setup a number of systems, I have no problems following manuals and instructions. If I can hook up my big screen TV with 4 other devices, I am sure I can figure out wiring for loudspeakers. But I know for sure from reading all of forums, that I won't be able to calibrate my speaker setup properly in my room. Restrictions for a 6.1 axiom sound system that I envision include the wall that sits directly behind my sofa (so how will i mount rears as they will be right next to or on top of the viewer's head) and how do I configure the fronts as my tv is sitting on a 45 degree angle to the viewers and it will be almost impossible to have equal distance from left channel and right channel physically....

Setting up the wires, yes I can manage. Setting up for good listening, I can't confirm. So i chose basic. Hey, who am I gonna fool but myself!

 

[vasubandu]

It used to be so easy

I am perfectly capable with systems from 10 years ago, but am baffled by the back of my receiver today. Just joined the forum in the hope that I can get the advice to make a good decision without having to learn everything that make sit a good decision.

 

[vasubandu]

It used to be so easy

I am a basic knowledge guy. I am perfectly capable with systems from 10 years ago, but am baffled by the back of my receiver today. Just joined the forum in the hope that I can get the advice to make a good decision without having to learn everything that make sit a good decision.

 

[nygren]

I've setup systems with manual and auto setup
and have helped friends and family calibrate their systems.

 

[Leander]

I do a pretty good job of reading the manual and tring to understand what most of the features mean and do.

 

[10010011]

Good Knowledge - ie can set it up from start to finish

This isn't rocket science after all, but I would not call myself an "expert".

 

[keltontrey]

I voted good because because I am familiar with almost all discussion regarding however I might need some guidance in the actual processes of doing some of the things I know.

 

[Dank]

I have set up a few home theaters. I will generally measure distances to set delay or use the auto-setup if avaliable. Thought about getting an spl meter to measure volume properly, but am not sure I would notice the difference.

 

[MatrixDweller]

Not quite an expert yet

I've done a lot of research in the area of acoustics and Audioholics has been an integral part of that research. I'm building a dedicated HT room so I needed help. Six months ago I was a real newbie. I'd consider myself between Good and Expert now. Probably closer to the good knowledge side.

 

[star_gazer]

Basic/Good

I'd like an option between basic and good. I voted basic, emphasizing "setting it up properly". Out of the box, connected, and functional, check. Beyond that, not much. Especially on the audio side. I know that my 5.1 setup doesn't give me that enveloped feel, so I know its not done "properly".

I can follow manuals well and am not afraid to tinker with equipment or wires. But have not used SPL or light meters or what have you.

 

[aarond]

Good/Expert

I voted good but if after reading the choices again I would pick expert.
I have set up and calibrated most of my friends systems. Every time someone buys a new component I get a call to help set it up. I do everything except go into the service menus.

 

[WeAreSurrounded]

"Good Knowledge" is my choice.
I started with HT of mine 3 years ago, configured it and updated several times since then, never required any outside help, except those bonzos from COX N.Virginia*, when the SA 8300HD started to perform poorly.
I also helped my sister and some friends to setup their systems.
As most of mine past and present equipment is based on Denon, whose user's manuals are just hell to read and follow, I should really have some kind of "Sliver Star" awarded, shouldn't I ?
Learning great deal from my good pal and (mostly?) from Forums like this, also from AVS, Audioholics, CNET, Sound&Vision reviews as well as from the ebay (!) - you can learn a lot from items description and direct emails with the ebayers.

As a vivid surround-sound enthusiast, I try all posssible connections and sometimes use them alternatively. And DenonLink3 is a blessing in this matter, although I still prefer 5.1 analog connections for SACD.
---------------------------------------------------
* I call them "bonzos" because not only they ignore the HDMI output of this STB (they OFFICIALLY DON'T SUPPORT IT !), they are not willing to even entertain the thought of upgrading the firmware for that box, so we can start using the HDMI switching of our receivers (well known SA 8300HD HDCP "shake-hand"problem).

 

[boleng]

practice

I've figured every project out that I've undertaken by trial and error and through the internet, often in combination. This means I have broken many things, fixed many things, spent days on a tiny problem that would have taken a minute had I known what i was doing, doing things the hard, really hard way, as well as being the most knowledgeable person on the topic among people I know for putting myself through these ordeals. Despite the sweat, strife, and stress, it's been rewarding and I've come a long way. What I don't know today, I'll try to figure out tomorrow.

 

[Gatoraide]

Moderate to Good

I used to be a DJ when I was younger and now Home Theatre is where my head is at. I enjoy reading up and learning about new technology, hardware, etc. before spending my money. I get a kick out of setting up and tinkering with Multi-room Stereo and home theatre. DTS is better than DD and good speakers make all the difference.

Steve

 

[emaileverything]

Good -> Expert

I think I am between Good and Expert, since I have read all the issues of HT magazine, S&V magazine for more than 5 years now, and read almost all the HT review I can find online.

 

[Blue Dude]

I guess I'm an expert since I have used a SPL meter in anger and that seems to fit the question. I feel more like a monkey though since all I'm doing is following in the footsteps of much better tech types than myself. The real experts are those who came up with the tools and procedures to begin with.