The Ultimate Home Theater

Xtend Technologies customizes full-scale, in-home theater systems to fit virtually any budget.

By: Beth Newcomb
Date: 01/07/2010
With Super Bowl XLIV slated for Sunday, February 7, Tony and Nick Fabrick, owners of Xtend Technologies, suggest that the biggest question on the minds of game watchers everywhere may have less to do with who will win, and more to do with how best to fully enjoy the thrill of every play—and the million-dollar commercials.

“If you want to be immersed in watching the game, and be able to feel the room shake when a tackle is made, then you should have a system that can handle it,” Tony says.

Xtend can help you turn virtually any room in your house into the ultimate home theater experience. “We specialize in projection systems,” Nick says. “You can’t find them at a big box store, but we have dozens of different configurations to choose from.”

A true home theater system includes a screen and projector, optimal sound equipment, a Blu-ray player and universal remote.

“Most people put their systems in great rooms, but home theaters can be installed in rooms as small as 12 feet by 15 feet,” he continues. “Screen sizes start at 80-inches diagonal and go up from there. You can really go as big as you want, even something as large as a movie theater screen.”

At the brothers’ showroom in Broadview Heights you can view a complete movie-style home theater installation, which includes plush reclining seating and soundproofing. The acoustics are phenomenal and the screen on display is an enormous 106-inch model. In fact, the picture is so clear, you can practically read the inscription on the umpire’s wedding ring.

Once you experience the real deal, nothing but the best may do. But Tony stresses that your heart shouldn’t rule your wallet.

“Come in with a budget in mind and stick with it,” he says. “Some clients are initially hesitant to share their budgets with us, but it’s really the most important element of any home theater installation. If we know what you are realistically able to invest in the project, we can select components and features that work within the range you’ve provided and maximize the dollars you’re willing to spend.”

“Value is the key to what we’re all about,” Nick interjects. “We’re going to put together the best combination of the highest quality products and let you know in advance exactly what the costs will be so you never experience sticker shock.”

After you select the components, the Xtend service model kicks into overdrive. “Most companies don’t tell you that installation, wall-mounting, hiding wires, relocating plugs, and programming all of your components are billed as individual charges, which could add up to hundreds of extra dollars tacked on to the total cost,” Tony reveals.

At Xtend, you’ll know exactly how much you’re going to pay for everything, including installation, before you make your purchase decision. “We don’t nickel and dime you for each service,” he adds. “That way, we know our customers are getting a better value.”

And although Xtend’s showroom is located in Broadview Heights, Tony and Nick say they’re happy to bring the experience to you.

“It’s a good idea to do an in-home consultation because it provides us with the opportunity to measure your space and determine exactly what components will work within that space,” Nick says. “Installing a home theater, no matter how extensive you plan to go, is all about customization. All components are ordered specifically for your space.”

If you already have a dedicated room and just want the components, Tony says that in just two short weeks your system can be up and running. And if you plan to have your system installed in time to fully enjoy the Super Bowl, now is the time to call.

Because Xtend is one of the area’s largest electronics service providers, with a staff of experts on-site, they can build a home theater system from studs to finish materials.

“Starting from the ground up really provides the opportunity to customize,” Nick says. “We can incorporate extras like wet bars, exercise rooms, a gaming area, whatever you might be looking for.”

Xtend also features a complete line of home theater seating in a variety of fabric choices. The complete experience, Tony says, incorporates everything from the projector, screen and surround sound, to the décor and furnishings.

“We can install a better system than the kind found at your local movie theater so the entire family can enjoy it,” he says, noting that many clients are pleasantly surprised to find that their teens prefer to stay at home and invite friends over once the system is installed, rather than going out.

“These systems can do everything,” Nick promises. “In addition to offering the same quality as a standard TV on a much larger scale, you can hook it up to your cable or satellite, play video games, and listen to music.”

That’s another advantage. The sound quality is remarkable. “You can clearly hear every instrument,” he adds.

“The sound is as important, if not more important, than the type of projector you choose. “

Xtend recommends either the 5.1 surround sound system, which includes a left and right speaker, a center speaker, two rear speakers and a sub woofer, or the 7.1, which adds an extra two side speakers to the package.
Another important component is the universal remote control. This feature is key, Nick says, because it can control all components, including the lights in the room, at the touch of a button.

“A good remote makes the system easy to use,” Nick promises. “After we hook everything up and calibrate it, we make sure you know how it all works, and that includes the remote.”

Visit Xtend Technologies at 7981 Broadview Road (in the Marc’s plaza), in Broadview Heights. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The phone number to schedule an in-home consultation is 440-526-7500. Find out more online at www.XtendAV.com.

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