I recently had the chance to set up an AWOL short throw projector in my basement to demo. The kids loved it, and I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised.
For years, we’ve spec’d out elaborate high-end theaters for clients. Top-tier projectors, surrounds with separate amplifiers, pre-processors, top-of-the-line speakers, and the finest video players on the market.
And while I love that kind of theater experience, watching my kids’ response was a reminder there’s still tremendous value in simple setups.
So what does it cost?
You’ll need four things:
- A projector
- A screen
- A surround sound system
- A media player like a Roku or Apple TV
- Projector
- AWOL projectors run $3,000–$4,500. I’d plan on the $4,500 Aetherion Max unless there’s a budget constraint.
- Screen
- AWOL has a traditional fixed screen at familiar price points. For an existing space, you’ll want one of their floor-rise models — it rolls up from the ground, and honestly it’s awesome. ALR or basic, 100–130", $1,500–$3,900.
- Surround
- You can use a third-party system like Sonos. To keep it simple, I’d use the Soundbase setup from AWOL. The projector acts as the center channel; the Soundbase gives you surrounds and subwoofers. $1,499 with one sub, $1,999 with two subs — a full 5.1.
- Cabinet
- You can set everything on the floor or an IKEA media cabinet. That’s the charm — it’s simple. If you want it to look really cool, AWOL’s custom cabinet hides the projector and screen until use. $3,999–$4,999 depending on screen size. That’s what I’d recommend.
Total package — my setup at home
- 120" ALR floor-rise screen
- Aetherion Max projector
- 5.1 surround setup
- Custom media cabinet
If you don’t need the custom cabinet, our turnkey Signature package is $9,997 and includes the Aetherion Max, 120" ALR floor-rise screen, and 5.1 surround.
Is it any good?
Yes. It’s really good. Surprisingly good.
I’ve lived in a world where media rooms are dedicated, no windows, $30k projectors, $100k surround systems. I’m not saying this compares to that. But having demoed and installed dozens of setups like that, I’m genuinely impressed with the experience.
For a living room or dual-purpose media room — where your wife doesn’t want it to look like a theater room, but you and the kids want the big game or some Madden — it’s really tough to beat.
Honestly, it’s a game changer.
My kids haven’t stopped using it since we set it up.