Home Theater Systems Buying Guide
Home Specialists Chris Barnhart
Chris Barnhart
Sales & System Designer
Simplifying Technology Since 2021
Montgomeryville, PA Showroom
I've transitioned from a life of making music to a life of enjoying music. I want to spread the joy of music to everyone, and help realize the creator's intent in the homes of all my clients. Taking someone's entertainment system to the true next level has become my favorite part about working with clients. Chris
I've been working in the technology and AV space since 2016 and found my home with World Wide Stereo in 2021. I specialize in high-performance stereo and home theater design and I have a McMasters Certification from McIntosh Labs.
Music is where it all started for me. I grew up playing the Trombone, from 4th grade through to a collegiate level. I have a background in recording studio engineering and I have my Bachelors from degree in music composition and music technology which has greatly informed where I am today. I pride myself on my knowledge and passion of the products and brands we sell, and love to share that passion with my clients and colleagues.
Favorite song: You Look Good To Me by Oscar Peterson
Favorite movie scene: The First Challenge (The Race) from Ready Player One
Featured Projects:
Testimonials
Excellent store with a great selection of high end audio equipment. Ryan and Chris helped me with all of my needs. They are very knowledgeable and helpful staff. I would recommend anyone looking for a true high end audio/visual experience …
Featured Articles:
New Gear from McIntosh, Cambridge Audio, SVS, Samsung and...Polaroid?! April 2023
April showers bring McIntosh power! And Cambridge Streamers. And all new SVS products. And a whole lot more...see what's new in April at World Wide Stereo—PLUS—we've got 2 pop quizzes this month for a chance to win a World Wide Stereo Gift Card.
New Gear from Marantz, Sony, Audeze, Klipsch and more! March 2023
Welcome to our New Gear video series! Every day at World Wide Stereo we're adding new products, brands, and even entire categories to our site which don’t get the love they deserve. This new series will quickly round up what we’re most excited about, a little glimpse into what’s coming soon, and a few notable sales we can share.
New JBL Bar 1300X Review: Immersive Audio Experience
The JBL Bar 1300X Pro, complete with sound bar, wireless subwoofer, and rechargeable wireless rear speakers may be the perfect solution to getting surround sound where you never thought possible before.
Klipsch Subwoofers Reference Premiere
At long last, Klipsch fans will get a clear answer when they ask which sub pairs with their Reference Premiere speakers. The Klipsch Reference Premiere subwoofer lineup has arrived to replace the SPL subs, and it boasts improvements across the board. Those classic copper woofers have been redesigned from the ground up, placed in a streamlined cabinet, and packed with more power than ever before. Measuring better than its predecessors and beating out some key competition, the Klipsch Reference Premiere subs are sure to impress.
Review: Marantz CINEMA 40 Receiver
After refreshing their affordable-luxury SR5015 and SR6015 in the Fall of 2022, Marantz has saved the best for last: the Cinema 40 has arrived to replace the SR7015 and serve as the flagship AVR. Marantz has given the Cinema 40 a visual refresh, as well as noteworthy-yet-understated reworking of what’s under the hood. Check out our deep dive into this new product, right here.
Review: Devialet Mania Portable Smart Speaker
Mania is Devialet's first high-fidelity speaker with 360° stereo sound. Read our review to learn more.
Review: Victrola Stream Carbon Turntable for Sonos Streaming
A turntable with Sonos built-in? Yes, indeed. That means easy streaming of your record collection throughout your home with no hard-wired connection or additional components needed. Find out what happened when we sent this streaming turntable home with one of our vinyl-loving techs.
Top 5 Features to Look For In Floorstanding Speakers
Shopping for floorstanding speakers? Here are the top 5 features to consider.
Where Should You Place Your Tower Speakers For Phenomenal Sound?
So you’ve taken the plunge and purchased beautiful floor-standing speakers for your main setup. You might have thought the hard part was choosing the right speaker, but placing your speakers in the room is essential to maximizing your experience. Read on for expert tips on achieving ideal positioning for tower speakers.
Home Theater Systems Vs. Surround Sound Systems: What is the difference?
It’s fairly common to hear the terms “surround sound” and “home theater” used interchangeably. Sure, any proper home theater will incorporate surround sound, but there are other criteria that set home theater systems apart as a special entertainment experience. Whether you’re moving in to your first house or finally finishing that basement, read on to discover what distinguishes home theaters from surround sound.
Review: JBL PartyBox 710 Bluetooth Party Speaker
The JBL PartyBox 710 is the second largest speaker in the PartyBox lineup. It's equipped with Bluetooth, a built-in RGB light show, and probably my favorite feature...built-in sound effects. Check out my full review to learn more.
Review: Cambridge Audio Alva ST Wireless Turntable
This is the Cambridge Audio Alva ST. The Alva ST takes some of the best new features from its counterpart the Alva TT V2 at a fraction of the price. We had to ask ourselves, is there a sacrifice in audio quality? Check out our review to find out!
Review: Devialet Dione Dolby Atmos Sound Bar
Boasting 17 high-end drivers, 8 built-in SAM®-powered subwoofers, and adjustable center channel, the Dione is Devialet's first-ever, all-in-one sound bar. Check out our full video review to learn more.
Review: Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2 Bluetooth Direct Drive Turntable
This is the Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2. One of the newest members of the Cambridge Audio turntable family, it's packed with tons of new updates and features.
Review: Bluesound HUB
Turn any old-fashioned music player into a hi-res audio streaming source. Welcome to the world: Bluesound's all-new HUB, a wireless audio source adapter and network preamp... and a game-changer for music lovers. Check out our deep dive into this new product, right here.
Review: Samsung The Freestyle Smart Portable Projector
Check out our video review of Samsung's new portable projector, The Freestyle. The Freestyle features a 180 degree design with 360 degrees of sound, giving you the flexibility to make almost any space into a theater.
