Podcast Summary: Home Theater Geeks 489 - The End Game Theater

Release Date: July 3, 2025

Introduction

In episode 489 of Home Theater Geeks, host Scott Wilkinson delves into the impressive build of Patrick Williams' latest home theater, aptly named The End Game Theater. Moving beyond his previously profiled Force Theater, which was a tribute to Star Wars, Patrick aimed to create a more expansive and superior cinematic experience in his new residence in Springfield, Missouri. This episode provides an in-depth look into the planning, design, construction, and technological advancements that make The End Game Theater a standout in home cinema setups.

Planning and Design

Patrick’s primary objective for The End Game Theater was to surpass his previous setup in both size and performance. He expanded the seating from seven to ten, necessitating a larger room to ensure optimal viewing distances and sound distribution.

• Quote:
  "His primary goal was to make it bigger and better... no seat was too close to a wall or the back or super close to a speaker."
  (02:15)

Patrick collaborated with Quest Acoustical Interiors, with Sean Byrne and Sharon Thayer spearheading the layout design. Gary Lemay, president of Quest AI, conducted a pre-build acoustical analysis to ensure the room’s acoustics met the highest standards. The design adhered to the principles of CEDIA's recommended practice for immersive audio systems (RP22), ensuring state-of-the-art sound performance.

• Quote:
  "This is the real deal."
  (04:30)

Construction Process

Construction began with laying the concrete shell, allowing for precise dimensions essential for a high-performance home theater. Framing showcased the room's substantial size, accommodating the increased seating and advanced audio-visual equipment.

• Quote:
  "You know, it's so great when you can start with exactly the right dimensions and build the room really from scratch."
  (05:10)

The use of hat channels and IB1 clips facilitated sound isolation, essential for maintaining pristine audio quality. Additionally, the theater was engineered as a room within a room, incorporating a dedicated HVAC system to control temperature without compromising soundproofing.

• Quote:
  "The sound isolation was really important to him, as was a dedicated heating, ventilation and air conditioning system."
  (08:45)

Audio-Visual Equipment

Patrick spared no expense in equipping The End Game Theater with top-tier audio and visual technology:

• Sound System:

  • Trinov Altitude 16 Surround Processor: Enhances immersive audio capabilities.

  • QSC Power Amps: Powers the main channels, ensuring clarity and depth.

  • JTR Captivator Subwoofers: Four subs strategically placed—two in the front and two behind the rear seats—for comprehensive bass management.

  • Ascendo 12 Speakers: Surround and overhead speakers from Ascendo provided a detailed and expansive soundstage.

  • Quote:
    "He wanted more speaker channels than he had in the Force for greater immersion and the ability to really recreate the theatrical immersive spatial experience."
    (07:20)

• Visual System:

  • JVC DLA-NZ9 Projector: Chosen for its ability to deliver bright images without compromising black levels.

  • Stuart Studio Tech 130G4 Screen: A 15ft wide screen with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, providing a true cinema experience.

  • MAD VR Envy Extreme Video Processor: Ensures seamless image processing.

  • Panamorph Anamorphic Lens: Stretches the image to fit a 16:9 display, enhancing visual fidelity.

  • Quote:
    "JVC is the champion of blacks in projectors."
    (10:05)

Acoustic Treatment

The End Game Theater's acoustics were meticulously crafted to deliver unparalleled sound quality:

• Materials and Techniques:

  • Double 5-inch 58-inch Drywall with Green Glue: Provides superior sound dampening.

  • R19 Insulation: Installed in all cavities for enhanced soundproofing.

  • Floating Floor: Minimizes vibrations and sound transmission.

  • Hybrid Acoustic Treatments: Diffusers and absorbers from Quest AI tailored to optimize sound distribution.

  • Quote:
    "The acoustical analysis was very carefully done to optimize the sound of the room."
    (12:50)

The walls and ceiling were equipped with hat channels and IB1 clips, allowing the drywall to be isolated from the frame, thereby reducing sound leaks. The extensive use of fabric-covered walls not only contributed to the room's aesthetic but also played a crucial role in acoustic management.

• Quote:
  "He covered all the walls with fabric... giving it a real 3D look."
  (14:30)

Seating and Comfort

Comfort was a key consideration in seating arrangement and design:

• Riser Design:
  A large riser accommodates five seats, ensuring no obstruction for any viewer.

  • Quote:
    "It's going to fit five seats in it that are not close to any walls or speakers."
    (13:15)

• Seating Choices:

  • Seatcraft Diamante FX Recliners: Front row seats with retracting headrests to prevent sound blockage.

  • 5HT Design Waveland Recliners: Rear row seats without headrests, maintaining optimal audio clarity.

  • Quote:
    "The front row seats are from Seatcraft... retracting headrests so you don't have to worry about them blocking the sound."
    (15:00)

Cost and Budget

Building such a high-end home theater comes with significant costs:

• Equipment Costs:
  Approximately $250,000 MSRP, but Patrick sourced gear for around $155,000 by seeking deals and purchasing used equipment.

• Construction and Labor:
  An additional $40,000 to $45,000, even with Patrick undertaking much of the work himself, such as building and installing speaker boxes and acoustic treatments.

  • Quote:
    "The MSRP of all the gear was around $250,000, but he was able to get it for around 155."
    (16:20)

Final Thoughts

The End Game Theater stands as a testament to Patrick Williams' dedication and expertise in creating a superior home cinema experience. Unlike his previous themed setups, Patrick opted for a design reminiscent of an IMAX theater, focusing on performance over theme. The meticulous attention to acoustics, visual quality, and comfort culminates in a space that not only rivals commercial cinemas but also sets a benchmark for home theaters.

• Quote:
  "He wanted something that mimicked an IMAX feel... no distractions that pull you out of the experience."
  (17:20)

Scott Wilkinson concludes the episode by commending Patrick on his remarkable achievement, suggesting that The End Game Theater is likely the pinnacle of his home theater endeavors—though, as any enthusiast knows, the pursuit of perfection in home cinema is unending.

• Quote:
  "Patrick did a lot of work himself... it truly is an end game."
  (17:55)

Engagement and Community

Listeners are encouraged to engage with Scott Wilkinson by sending in questions to Home Theater Geeks (HTG) and to explore more content through TWiT TV Club for an ad-free experience and exclusive member benefits.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the informative aspects of the episode.