While there's something rewarding in doing it yourself, the idea of dedicated install teams coming in and building your dream home cinema from the ground up is so appealing. Here's HCC's run-down of the best in the business: DSE Digital, Musical Images, T&T Communications and Prestige Audio...
The Winner
Prestige Audio
01923 711113
Featured: HCC #141
Transferring a basement swimming pool into a home cinema was never going to be an easy project; doing it without the man of the house even knowing it was happening sounds unbelievable. But Prestige Audio pulled the stunt off with this Hertfordshire property. Working with the owner’s interior designer, Prestige delivered a startling design using a dozen Acoustic Innovation seats, a hand-painted ceiling inset with Swarovski crystals, LED floor lighting, MDF-padded fabric wall panels, motorised blackout curtains, and most importantly, a sweet counter. As for the gear, a Kaleidescape media server, Runco projector, Screen Research Autoscape screen, Sherbourn amps, Definitive Technology speakers and Diamond audio subwoofers did the business. Finishing touches included a padded toilet door and an animatronic Marilyn Monroe statuette.
A stunning piece of work making Prestige Audio more than worthy of our Installer of the Year Award.
Prestige Audio's Bob Hobson celebrates with Chris Barrie
Also nominated
T&T Communications
0870 609 3686
Featured: HCC #140
Part of a multiroom installation including lighting, CCTV, door entry, voice, data and distributed audio systems, this HD Ready system was converted from an existing garage. A good deal of preparation work including sound-proofing, replacement of the floor, ceiling, stage and facades was required, and practically every feature had a dual purpose, concealing or supporting electronics or decorative features.
The installation included D-Box Odyssee motion simulator platforms, a Wurlitzer jukebox, Creston system control, a projector lift, and blue suede decorative finishing – there’s even a floating controller in the swimming pool. Equipment included a JVC HD2K D-ILA projector, Rotel DVD player, Kaleidescape movie servers, KEF and B&W speakers, and a Screen Research screen. A stylish and flexible system which tackles many challenging demands
Musical Images
020 8952 5535
Featured: HCC #138
Part of a conversion project in what used to be a south
DSE Digital
0191 491 4141
Featured: HCC #135
With multi-room audio, PC networking, lighting control, motorised curtains and even a remote-control fireplace part of the job, the install was completed in two months. Technology included a SIM2 Domino projector and Screen Research screen in the main cinema room, Uvem multimedia servers, a Pioneer 50in plasma screen, and Speakercraft in-wall speakers throughout. The result is remarkably elegant and easy to use.
