When set up correctly, a SimTheatre gives users an immersive space to practice their game and a place where families can watch their favourite movies or games come to life.

Beyond the most immediate appeal of making their designated room a dual-use space, building a SimTheatre can leverage a significant portion of the hardware used for one purpose towards the other.

WHAT ITEMS ARE NEEDED FOR THE GOLF SIMULATOR?

To fulfill the demands of the golf simulator side of the SimTheatre formula, three main components are required: a launch monitor, a computer, and golf simulator software.

Launch Monitor

The centrepiece of every golf simulator is the launch monitor. This is used to measure all the data associated with your golf swing, allowing the simulator to determine where and how the ball will travel in the virtual golf course.

Computer and Software

A PC and golf simulation software are required to render the virtual golf course where the simulation plays out and to convert the raw data into a visual representation of the flight of the ball. While most launch monitors come packaged with sufficient software for a basic simulator, avid golfers looking for the most detailed and accurate visuals might want to consider software that can pump out simulations in 4K resolution.

WHAT ITEMS ARE NEEDED FOR THE HOME THEATRE?

The hardware needed specifically for the home theatre portion of a SimTheatre depends on the user's preferences.

Cinema lovers may opt for a Blu-Ray player to play physical media, others may want to watch streaming series on a device such as Amazon Fire Stick, or Apple TV. Additionally, a good SimTheatre space can be used for console gaming.

WHAT CAN BE SHARED BY BOTH GOLF SIMULATOR AND HOME THEATRE?

A key benefit for building a SimTheatre in your home is the ability to utilise hardware between the two activities, which include the sharing of a projection/impact screen, a sound system, and a projector.

Impact Screen

Impact screens are projection screens that can withstand the impact of the hits that result from the golf simulator. These screens are qualitatively different from the average protection screen, with an outer layer dedicated to reflecting the light of the projected image coupled with mesh to reinforce the absorption capabilities of the screen.

Sound System

To help create a truly immersive atmosphere for the golfer and movie watcher, the SimTheatre should have an adequate surround sound system paired with their video content; this ideally would consist of two pieces of audio equipment: an Audio/Video Receiver (AVR) and a 5.1 speaker setup.

Projector

The final item shared by the home theatre and golf simulator is also one of the most vital pieces of hardware: the projector. Choosing the right device for your movie watching and immersive golf play is something that should be considered carefully.

5 Things You Need to Keep in Mind When Choosing a SimTheatre Projector:

  • 4K Resolution and HDR
  • Colour Accuracy and Colour Calibration
  • Throw Ratio and Ease of Installation
  • Audio Compatibility
  • Dedicated Golf Mode

How to get started

Whether you’re an avid golf enthusiast and casual movie watcher, part of a family of console gamers or any combination of the above, having a SimTheatre space can change the way you experience both home practice and entertainment. Picking the right equipment, hardware and shared peripherals is key to getting set up right from the start.

BenQ has a network of professionals to help you find the perfect golf simulation projector – within your room size and budget. Visit the BenQ Website here to start your SimTheatre journey.