When most people think of a home theater system they often think only of the DVD player and sound console with its accompanying speakers.  In reality, a home theater system should be thought of as a combination of the TV, the DVD player, speakers, and in the case of a projection-based system the projector and screen. 

Home theater systems can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.  Price alone is not the sole factor that you should consider when selecting a home theater system.

The items below should provide you with some ideas of the important factors that you should consider:

1. Read consumer reviews.  Do not base your decision solely on brand or price. 
    
2. Once you decide which room will hold the home theater system, measure to ensure that there is enough space.  Make sure that you have electrical outlets in the proper locations.
    
3. If you have friends who own home theater systems, ask their advice.  The best way to gauge the quality and usability of a particular home theater system is to ask someone who already owns one.
    
4. You may be much better off to buy the TV and the sound system separately.  Unless the store offers a real package deal that meets your needs, there is no need to buy everything in one place.
      
5. Think of your home theater system as a long-term purchase.  In other words, don't just buy a system that works for the time being - think about how it will fit into your home and its decor for the next several years.
    
6. If you live in an apartment, don't buy a sound system that will 'rock' your neighbors.  Just because you own a grand 1,000-watt system doesn't mean that they want to hear every movie that you watch through the walls.
    
7. Whenever possible, visit a store that has demo booths for each different brand and type of system.  Make sure that you experience the quality of the home theater system to ensure that it meets your needs.