THE CONNECTED LIFE

How to Prepare for Your Next Big A/V Purchase

John Sciacca  |  Jul 29, 2024

I can remember sitting in the hospital room writing that month’s edition of this column (called “The Custom Installer” at the time) after my daughter, Lauryn, was born in November 2006. Fast-forward to 2024, and now Lauryn is 17 years old, taking college classes, and driving. All that meant that my family needed a new vehicle. But it has been 18 years since I purchased a vehicle, back when we bought an SUV right before Lauryn was born, which we handed down to her. And it’s an understatement to say there have been an incredible number of technological improvements since that last purchase. And after attending CES this year, and seeing the proliferation of smart, autonomous vehicles, I’m wondering if my other daughter, Audrey, now 8, will ever drive!

While I deal with people at my custom installation business who are looking to make major technology investments, sometimes exceeding six figures, the roles aren’t often reversed, and I’m the one looking to make the spend on something I really don’t know much about.

Going through the car buying process, I saw a lot of parallels between my experience as the buyer collaborating with a salesman and trying to understand my options. And it is a similar experience that many of you likely have or will go through on a big tech purchase, especially if it’s been a few years since your last upgrade.

I went into this buying process like many people who are looking to make a major home technology investment, be that a home theater, whole-house music system, or some smart home automation. I was semi-informed, had an estimate of my budget, and a decent idea of what I wanted.

With that in mind, here are three tips to help you prepare for your next major upgrade!

Educate Yourself
It is understood that you should try to educate yourself ahead of time to begin the shopping process with at least some basic knowledge. Read reviews — both professional and end-user — and look over specs to familiarize yourself with a product’s basic performance along with its high and low points. Get an understanding of the key features and options available so you can choose things that are best for you.

With some products, like TVs or receivers, the number of choices and features can be overwhelming. And while the entry model may not serve most people, they usually don’t need the flagship either. With the car, I wanted every bell-and-whistle, but couldn’t afford the top trim, so finding which make and model offered the features and options I most wanted worked best for me. Likewise, you might not need a 9- or 11-channel receiver but you might find that those models offer step-up features over basic models that you do want, like better room correction or multiroom functionality.

I’m old school and prefer browsing an physical book where I can examine and compare features and look at pretty color pictures, but only two of the car companies had that classic “book” that showed all the models, trims, and options. Similarly, the days of physical literature for A/V gear are mostly over; very few electronics manufacturers still produce literature. So, plan on visiting company websites and doing most of your research online.

Be Flexible and Be Prepared
If you know exactly what you want, then great! But chances are if you go in set to buy product/model X, you’re going to get sold X. But maybe Y is better for you. Having an idea of which features and level of performance are important to you will help a good salesperson guide you to the right solution. For us, we knew we wanted a vehicle with third row seating that wasn’t a minivan, but beyond that, we were fairly open. It then came down to how each model/trim stacked up for us and how easily Audrey could get in and out of the third row.

Also, be willing to spend more than you’d initially planned. With A/V gear, the difference between good and great can sometimes be just a few hundred dollars. In many cases, this is an investment you’ll have for years, and if a major improvement costs just a bit more, don’t be pennywise and pound foolish.

Have key information and pictures ready when you begin your shopping adventure. If you need a TV to fit into a specific space, have measurements of that space. If you’re wondering if a cable can be run from point A to point B, take pictures of the area. If you’re integrating new products with existing gear — especially a whole-house audio system — take pictures of your gear and any controllers. And if it’s a new build, bring your blueprints.

Relationship Is Key
The best salesperson I met got me excited about features I didn’t even know I was interested in. Maybe all the vehicles had these features, but the way he highlighted them told me he really knew the product. Conversely, when I got a bad salesperson I felt like I had to drag information out of him, which left me disinterested and knowing I did not want to work with him.

Depending on the size of your project, your relationship with a technology installer can last years, so choose wisely and follow your gut. The buying stage is like the honeymoon, and if you get a bad vibe up front, it’s probably best to move on.

The Author
Since 1998, John Sciacca has worked as a custom installer in South Carolina. In his free time, he enjoys drinking craft beer, playing pickleball, and watching movies on his 7.2.6 surround system.

COMMENTS
mround's picture
Submitted by mround on July 30, 2024 - 8:56am

I have a bunch of old AV equipment that serves well, but ...

The Denon amp needs a little TLC, perhaps. But recapping and restoring in general is likely to cost many hundreds of $$, perhaps approaching a $K. OTOH, anything new that's comparable seems to be close to $2K. So "make or buy" is a point. Is modern gear *that much better* that I should pay, say, 30-40% more to replace, knowing that the modern gear probably will not last 30 years (more than I'll be around, of course), like the Denon has, and certainly will not be repairable, or usable without an app running through somebody else's server.

Then there's the living room TV that I won't get into right now...

clearholidays's picture
Submitted by clearholidays on August 12, 2024 - 2:49am

Just as John Sciacca reflects on navigating major technology upgrades with a fresh perspective, it’s also important to approach planning for travel with the same level of preparation. If you’re looking for a new adventure, consider exploring options like cheap tour packages in India in India. These packages can offer incredible value and help you get the most out of your travel budget, just like carefully evaluating your next big A/V purchase. Whether upgrading your home technology or planning your next journey, thorough research and clear goals are key to making the best choice.

A2Bookmarks's picture
Submitted by A2Bookmarks on August 12, 2024 - 2:59am

In his blog post, "How to Prepare for Your Next Big A/V Purchase," John Sciacca draws a parallel between purchasing a new vehicle and investing in high-end audio/visual technology. Reflecting on his personal experience of buying a new car after 18 years, Sciacca highlights the rapid advancements in technology that can be overwhelming. This comparison serves as a useful guide for readers preparing for significant tech investments, particularly in an era where technological options seem endless and continually evolving.

Sciacca's insights are particularly relevant as he shares his journey through the car-buying process, emphasizing the similarities between navigating a high-tech vehicle purchase and upgrading A/V equipment. This perspective is invaluable for anyone considering a major technology investment and can help streamline decision-making by drawing on Sciacca's real-world experience. Sharing this on the Norway 2025 Social Bookmarking Website will offer Norwegian readers practical advice on making informed technology purchases in today's rapidly changing market.

Mike John's picture
Submitted by Mike John on August 24, 2024 - 12:26pm

Hey,
Great article, John! Your insights on preparing for big A/V purchases resonate with anyone facing similar decisions. The parallels between car buying and tech upgrades are spot on—especially the importance of research and flexibility. Thanks for the practical tips, especially the emphasis on building a good relationship with your installer. It really makes all the difference in ensuring a smooth and satisfying purchase experience.

jhone545's picture
Submitted by jhone545 on August 31, 2024 - 2:43am

When preparing for your next big audio/visual (A/V) purchase, it’s essential to start by assessing your specific needs and the space where the equipment will be used. Consider the size of the room, the type of content you’ll be consuming, and the level of sound and picture quality you desire. Research the latest technology trends, such as 4K or 8K resolution, HDR capabilities, and advanced sound systems like Dolby Atmos Natasha Fester Car Accident, to ensure you're investing in future-proof gear.

TvsCube's picture
Submitted by TvsCube on October 18, 2024 - 1:44pm

TVS Cube offers professional 2D Animation Services services, bringing your ideas to life with engaging visuals. From character design to motion graphics, we deliver high-quality animations tailored to your needs.

TvsCube's picture
Submitted by TvsCube on October 18, 2024 - 1:46pm

TVS Cube offers professional https://tvscube.com/2d-animation-services/, bringing your ideas to life with engaging visuals. From character design to motion graphics, we deliver high-quality animations tailored to your needs.

Devid1945's picture
Submitted by Devid1945 on November 28, 2024 - 9:14am

AK8AUD is a leading online casino tailored for Australian players, offering an exceptional gaming experience with a wide range of pokies, table games, and live casino options. Known for its user-friendly design and secure platform, AK8AUD ensures seamless gameplay on both desktop and mobile devices. Players can enjoy generous bonuses, regular promotions, and a rewarding loyalty program. With secure payment methods, fast withdrawals, and 24/7 customer support, [AK8AUD](https://ak8aud.casino/) has become a trusted destination for those seeking excitement and big wins in the online casino world.

SakuraS's picture
Submitted by SakuraS on December 12, 2024 - 2:07am

You should open an online checking account WestStein in advance and then you will be able to make any payments on the Internet and make any purchases. I have already opened an account there and have had no problems. This service has helped me out many times, everything is always safe and also fast. You can use it at your own discretion.

Jackson9's picture
Submitted by Jackson9 on December 24, 2024 - 5:42am

To prepare for your next big A/V purchase, start by assessing your needs and budget, research the latest technologies, compare features and reviews, consider the space where the equipment will be placed, ensure compatibility with existing gear, and plan for future upgrades or expansions.

X