FEMALE NEWBIE NEEDS EQUIP Advice with $7500 BUDGET

[BMXTRIX]

Yes, I realize that much like many other household projects, this can be done yourself, but when someone wants an A/V system installed and ready to go, then there must be some accounting for the skill set or lack thereof which may accompany such a request. Yep, $60/hr is cheap labor. Yet on an install with two guys and two full days, it can be had from some install companies that aren't trying to shove Runco junk down your throats.

But, it will be location dependent and installer dependent, which can be an issue. But, $7,500 starts to look weak when someone else is doing the installation work.

But - once that installation work is completed, then the wiring is in place and typically proper cabling is in place forever which is nice for the non-techie types.

 

[ACsGreens]

Professional Assistance

I would like to 2nd the idea of bringing in a professional to help. Not only do you know it will be done properly but you will have someone to go to bat for you if things were to break down. $60/hr is cheap, though i would argue that most projects, aside from whole home installation, do not need 2 guys for 2 days, but that depends on how good/efficient they are. People may be more than happy to recommend someone to you if you care to let us know where you are at.

 

[Bryceo]

Take a look at this
http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/beginners-audiophytes/80742-$2500-complete-system-any-newbie-should-buy-take-advantage-summer.html

 

[rruthlyn]

poor girl is getting so much info . takes me back to when i was a newbie.

I got soooooooo much information. I am going to print and compare! Tomm, I am going to an audio store and will price everything and report back.

 

[manwithnocape]

Bah you still are a newbie. Compared to the good doctor we are all newbies.

i resemble that remark lol. facts be facts... im not a huge theater type guy, but i love me some good audio

 

[lsiberian]

I got soooooooo much information. I am going to print and compare! Tomm, I am going to an audio store and will price everything and report back.

Remember not to let a good salesman hook you. Take your time.

 

[manwithnocape]

Remember not to let a good salesman hook you. Take your time.

YES!! take your time and listen/watch. you will be able to discover what you like and what your preferences are.

i used to be a audio sales guy, and believe me, the vast majority are just pushing what they can maximize on their commission.

 

[hizzaah]

I got soooooooo much information. I am going to print and compare! Tomm, I am going to an audio store and will price everything and report back.

I'm not versed in projectors or speakers in your price range, but doing research and auditioning everything you can is a good starting point. Plenty of good articles on the Audioholics main site to start learning (a handful have been linked to already). Good luck!

All other noobs take note: she mentioned she was a chick and her thread is getting 5x the views and helpful responses as most of the other ones tells a bit about the user base here lol

 

[rruthlyn]

Just to give everyone an update. I went to Magnolia in Best Buy. The salesperson along with the "project manager" came to my home to inspect the space. At the end of the 30 min in home meeting, the sales rep said that he would put together (good, better and best). Based upon our discussion he said that the estimate would range from $10k to $20k. When I asked for specific (equip), and breakdown of all charges/costs, he asked for a $1500 deposit first "because" it's a lot of work.

He left upset because I did not write him a check. I advised that the estimate was required so that I could determine if I wanted to proceed. It was such a game of trickery.

I am in the Baltimore area. I will pay to have it professionally installed. I am goin to report back with my finalized equip and have a professional install it.

 

[templemaners]

Just to give everyone an update. I went to Magnolia in Best Buy. The salesperson along with the "project manager" came to my home to inspect the space. At the end of the 30 min in home meeting, the sales rep said that he would put together (good, better and best). Based upon our discussion he said that the estimate would range from $10k to $20k. When I asked for specific (equip), and breakdown of all charges/costs, he asked for a $1500 deposit first "because" it's a lot of work.

He left upset because I did not write him a check. I advised that the estimate was required so that I could determine if I wanted to proceed. It was such a game of trickery.

I am in the Baltimore area. I will pay to have it professionally installed. I am goin to report back with my finalized equip and have a professional install it.

BMXTRIX is in the DC area. Perhaps he or someone he knows could help you with your install.

 

[agarwalro]

All other noobs take note: she mentioned she was a chick and her thread is getting 5x the views and helpful responses as most of the other ones

Last time someone opened with that card, the poster got labeled a troll and received snide comments. Then again, the posts were suspect and some folk (myself included) may have jumped the gun.

When I asked for specific (equip), and breakdown of all charges/costs, he asked for a $1500 deposit first "because" it's a lot of work... He left upset because I did not write him a check.

If you consider that several posters on this forum can put together a list of equipment in 10 minutes, that makes 30 minutes for 3 options. So the Best Buy guy's billing rate is $3000/hr . You did good showing him the door.

 

[lsiberian]

BMXTRIX is in the DC area. Perhaps he or someone he knows could help you with your install.

If you can get BMX to do it then by all means do so. You know even if it's a little more you are getting quality service. He is a true expert on projectors and screens. I suggest you make contact with him via PMs and see if he's able to help you. I realize this is an internet forum, but even so I've seen him post good advice ever since I came here. He will certainly get you the most bang for buck he can.