Home Audio System Question - how much?

[Bigworm]

Hello,

New member here. My wife and I just purchased a home (1,650 square feet total) that is not wired for audio in any way. We would like to install a system that gives us surround sound with in-wall or in-ceiling speakers in the main living area (~30' x 25'), 1-2 speakers outside (right next to the main living area), and 1-2 speakers in the master bedroom (above the main living area). We are starting from a blank slate - we have no amp (mine crapped out right before we bought the house), no speakers, and like I said no wiring. The question is - how much will it cost to wire up the house for all of this? I've seen a huge range of estimates from $500 to $3,500+. I realize beginning with a blank slate means the total cost can be extremely variable, but I think getting the house wired should be pretty consistent?

Any help is appreciated.

 

[markw]

The haddware costs can be mamaged but having wires professionally run will be the most expensive part of the deal. Running wires in a walled house can be a PITA and take some doing and the pros charge avvordingly.

As for sound, unless you really, really insist on it, try keep the front three speakers standalone for better sound, and save the cost of having more wires professionally run. If you must, you can use in-wall or in-ceiling for the surrounds but standalones are better soundwise here as well.

As for what it costs, different areas of the country have different pricing. You might want to get some estimates from some local pros for the costs of running wires, but know where you want the speakers to be and also where the main system will be located. All wires will need to terminate there. Likewise, if you want the sub on a different ewall from the receiver you may need a wires run there, too.

also, while you're at it. will you need HDMI cables run from the receiver to the TV?

 

[herbu]

Have you considered running wires thru your basement or crawlspace instead of thru the walls? I simply drilled small holes in the floor, pulled the wires down thru the holes, thru the basement, then back up thru another hole at the AVR/amp. If you already have a drill, the cost is nothing, and you could put ALL your money into the system, (except for very good cables). All wires can be easily hidden.