I did my room for a fraction of what my neighbors spent and it come out better than most.
You don't need to spend crazy money.
For the components I shopped closeouts. Got quality gear at a great savings because it was last years model. Keep in mind if you buy this years, by next year, it will be last years.
For my projector I went with an Optomo HD20 1080p. The only 1080p projector under $1,000.00 at the time but was on projectorcentral.coms 10 best list. These days there are plenty to chose from sub $1k.
I went with speakers in cabinets. The concern with in wall / ceiling is if not done correctly they sound off and I like the ability to fine tune by adjusting their position. IMHO the only real advantage for in wall is aesthetics.
For a real theatre experience I personally think 60 is too small. The price of big screens is stupid low these days so why not go for 70".
Again I like a projector, the image for me is like the difference between vinyl and mp3's. The new tv's are too crisp.
I built my projector screen, $50 in materials and 2 hours labor. If you have a miter box and staple gun you are good to go. The material I used you can find on ebay for a couple hundred or go to your local big fabric store and buy 3 yards of blackout curtain for $25.00 Most of the guys on line are selling you the same thing.
3 yards will get you 108" screen when all done.
Including painting the room, curtains, media room recliners and all equipment I'm in under $5k.
We use the room at least once a week. Money well spent.
Ignore the speakers on floor, pics were taken before final placement, mounting.
