Another factor to consider is whether or not the media server connects directly to the web. This feature allows users to stream radio, video or other applications, whereas some units just connect to devices on the home network.

Digital video recorders (DVRs) allow you to record standard- or high-definition programming and lets you pause, rewind and fast-forward TV as you view. You’re not still watching television by the broadcasters’ schedules, are you? These devices, often referred to as TiVos after the popular, pioneering DVR brand, come in stand-alone varieties as well as being part of common set-top cable and satellite TV receivers. Some accessory drives enable you to extend the amount of programming you can record; DVR hard drives can fill up quickly, especially with HD content.

Universal remote controls eliminate the need to fumble through a bunch of electronic devices just to change the channel. Today’s universal remotes can operate all of your audio/video equipment and often other systems. From installation to control, many of the models are so easy that even your kids can do it. Check the remote’s memory: If you plan to program a lot of activities, or “macros,” which allow you to dim the lights, flip on the TV, and fire up the DVD player with one button, you’d better choose a remote that can store those settings.

Almost every type of remote supports infrared (IR) technology. IR has a shorter range, mainly because it requires line of sight—meaning you have to point the remote at the equipment if you expect anything to actually happen. There are also radio frequency (RF) remotes that work through walls and other obstacles.

Most remotes still come with the hard buttons that you know and love. Also, many have the wow factor of a touchscreen. Aside from smudgy fingerprints, a touchscreen can display graphics with channel logos, program info and other features. 

Multiroom A/V systems, by definition, can accommodate more than one area, or zone, with audio and video, with distributed music being the more popular. Look at the number of zones a system can handle, as well as the number of sources that can be connected and routed. Some systems are hard-drive based, meaning they store digital audio and video, while others can connect to DVD players, CD players, set-top boxes and more.

There are systems that have a built-in amplifier, which means that one unit can power speakers without additional components. Hard-wired and wireless versions are available, and control options often include keypads that mount to your walls. Products are sold as part of a package or as a single controller.
Another feature to check for is whether the system can pass high-definition video. After all, if you are going to include video, you may as well go for the gusto. Finally, make sure a system is web enabled. Some systems may offer options to download or stream audio and video, and a web connection is key for system upgrades.

Power conditioners don’t get the limelight, but these products will be the first you thank the next time a brownout or electrical storm strikes while you’re kicking back in the home theater. These products typically provide clean, interference-free AC power and surge protection to your electronic gear. Some feature an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), and others include protection for your coax signal, telephone and modem, local area network (LAN) and data line. Power conditioning and protection products range from those that can handle small entertainment setups to housewide systems.

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