If you typed htib.com into the address bar of your web browser as a shortcut hoping to reach the HomeTheaterInABox.com website (it's still there), you will now need to type an extra A, as in htiAb.com. That's because I have decided to re-brand the htib acronym as...

"Home Theater In Boxes"

...because putting together even a basic component home theater requires an audio system (home theater receiver and surround sound speaker system), high definition video display (HD television or video projector and projection screen), multiple HD A/V sources (Blu-ray Disc player, HDTV tuner), audio and video cables, power surge protection, and more.

Even the very best Home Theater In a Box system on the market today packs just an 8-piece surround sound speaker system and a 7.1 channel home theater A/V receiver into a single 130+ pound package that's too much for one person to handle.

If you are putting together a do-it-yourself home theater, be prepared to purchase and deal with MULTIPLE BOXES. But that is half the fun of building a system, selecting each component on it own merits, properly setting it all up, and finally sharing the home theater experience with family and friends!