OTHER TECH

1.TAKE STOCK The first step is to evaluate your current system and see if you can salvage any of its components. While a total "out with the old, in with the new" philosophy is great if you have the bucks, hanging on to some of these golden oldies can save your budget.

Source components like tape decks and VCRs are prime candidates for recycling, because you probably don't have many options for playing your old audio cassettes and VHS tapes. And you can always change them out later.

Before hanging on to any of the components from your HTiB, make sure they work with other gear - and are just plain worth salvaging. (To be honest, though, most HTiB systems use the cheapest components possible and probably shouldn't be used in your new rig.) Often, the speakers have proprietary connectors or must run through the bass module for proper equalization. Also, speakers are typically rated at 4 to 8 ohms. If yours are outside that range, they might pose a challenge to your new system. Is the subwoofer up to the task of anchoring your new rig? HTiB systems often include a wimpy bass module that can't produce the kind of deep, loud bass you get in a good movie theater. Does the receiver have enough inputs to accommodate your current and future gear?

Remember: you want to upgrade for better performance. If something doesn't meet that goal, kick it to the curb.