Patent Publication Number: US-2009238384-A1

Title: Method and support structure for integrating audio and video components

Description:
This application is a continuation-in-part and claims priority to (a) provisional patent application No. 60/632,187 filed Jan. 6, 2005 and to (b) utility patent application Ser. No. 11/325,485 filed Jan. 5, 2006, the entire disclosures of which are each incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to audio and video home entertainment equipment typically configured for use in the home. 
     2. Discussion of the Prior Art: 
     Many home entertainment enthusiasts have configured audio and video playback systems including several components stacked on or under shelves, stands, carts, cabinets or tables, and these components are usually connected to one another with many signal cables and power cords. A system configured in this way typically includes components for receiving, detecting and demodulating audio and video signals, players for playing various forms of media, video displays and audio amplifiers, processors and two or more speakers. In most conventional systems, components such as an AM/FM radio tuner, digital video disc (DVD) player/recorder, satellite/cable television box, a digital media server and other audio playback components are provided as separate modules, each on its own chassis and in its own enclosure. 
     The many possible combinations of connections and settings for each component have lead to significant confusion. Polk Audio, Bose and others have answered by integrating DVD players and amplifiers with speakers into a type of system known generically as the “home theater in a box.” But even these integrated systems have disadvantages. 
     A home entertainment system, generally speaking, is able to read media and to process and amplify signals and to provide audiovisual outputs. A home entertainment system need not be located in a home. A home entertainment system may be part of a home theater. One definition of a home theater is a home entertainment system that provides an experience similar to viewing in a cinema, namely brilliant, sharp, large video images with enveloping surround sound. A home theater system generally comprises a screen display, a surround sound system and a source or sources for movie content (e.g., a DVD player) along with audio speakers and visual displays. For purposes of the present description, the terms “home entertainment system” and “home theater” are synonymous. 
     In one popular configuration of home entertainment system, a television set or other video monitor is featured as a center-piece. In this configuration, the television set is supported on a stand. The stand further comprises shelves, usually below the surface that supports the television set. Alternatively, a home entertainment system may comprise a home entertainment unit rather than a stand. A typical home entertainment unit is a piece of furniture comprising a rectangular enclosure in which shelves are mounted. The various components are supported on the shelves. A typical system may also comprise a radio tuner, television set or television tuner and monitor, audio amplifier, audio preamplifier or “surround sound” unit, a video disc player, and speakers including one or more subwoofers (low frequencies), midbass drivers (mid bass frequencies), midrange drivers (mid frequencies), and tweeters (high frequencies) which are optionally included in a center channel, left front channel, right front channel, and two or more surround or rear channel speaker units. An example of such a television stand is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 5,216,211. It is noted that the terms high, mid and low frequency are relative, and do not necessarily specify a particular range of frequencies. Audio environments utilize a number of speakers which interact. Generally there are left, center, right, left rear, right rear and subwoofer speakers. Newer arrangements comprising additional speakers are coming into use. 
     The conventional practice of providing a number of components has complicating consequences. Each component is generally dedicated to one function, such as tuning, amplifying or decoding signals. The components comprise modules of a system. Each of the modules must be connected to one or more other modules. This may result in a veritable “rat&#39;s nest” of wires behind the home entertainment system. Technically unsophisticated users may require a great deal of time to make the proper interconnections. In addition, most of the modules have their own separate line cords for connection to AC power. Generally, an additional wiring device, e.g., a power strip, is required to connect the modules to a wall outlet. In older homes, the total current draw of the different devices may provide a burden on an individual power circuit. The array of modules also occupies more space than an integrated unit would occupy. Some modules are designed to have decorative value and may be the subject of design patents. In other systems, combinations of modules that are functionally well matched may have an aesthetically displeasing appearance due to dissimilarity in external design. 
     The prior art has not provided a satisfactory solution for many users. U.S. Pat. No. 5,194,963 discloses two video cassette decks in a single housing. While there are two units in one housing that have each previously been included in separate housings, the single housing is still dedicated to video recording and video playing. A central purpose of this apparatus is to enable tape-to-tape reproduction in a manner avoiding degradation of video information content. A multifunction system is not integrated into one housing. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,741,708 avoids the problems of the tangle of wires behind a home entertainment unit by interconnecting modules, speakers or other components through wireless coupling. This approach entails the expense of transmitters and receivers. The provision of a number of wireless radio frequency sources requires use of a number of frequency bands or coding schemes, which increases system complexity. Wireless units may also produce interference with other wireless units or with tuners and amplifiers in a system. Having to interconnect separate components wirelessly leaves fewer frequencies open for use in coupling to speakers. 
     In prior systems, the electronics modules and the subwoofer units have not been integrated. One disincentive for such integration is the mechanically deleterious effects on electronics modules of vibrations and heat generated when a subwoofer is energized. 
     Another shortcoming of the prior art is in the placement of the center channel loudspeaker. The center channel is a loudspeaker system that may comprise of a plurality of drivers reproducing a center frequency range, also referred to as the center channel. The center channel frequency range sent by a surround sound processor is the range in which voices and most musical tones fall. Different manufacturers specify different frequency ranges for the center channel. However, one nominal center channel range is 100 Hz-20 KHz. Center channel speaker units have not been adequately integrated into stands and home entertainment units. They may be supported on a stand. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,672,465 discloses a television stand having an upper surface to support a television set and a lower shelf that can support entertainment modules. A shelf intermediate the lower shelf and the upper surface supports and magnetically shields a center channel speaker unit. This construction requires that one shelf be dedicated to the center channel speaker unit. The illustrated center channel speaker unit is constrained to have a width less than that of the shelf. Size constraints of the center channel also constrain the level of acoustical power that can be supplied from the center channel. To produce desired sound levels, center channel output must combine both in frequency and sound pressure level (SPL) with outputs from subwoofers. The smaller center channels may not be capable of delivering the same high SPL levels of the subwoofer. Therefore the power that the subwoofer is designed to provide must also be limited to stay at the lower SPL limits of the center channel. If the subwoofer is not limited and continues to be played louder than the center channel, the bass may become overbearing and sound unnatural. The total system performance either suffers by unnatural sound or limited maximum sound output depending on the system design. 
     Generally, it is difficult to obtain good performance from a small center channel speaker unit (as compared to a larger center channel speaker). “Wife Acceptance Factor” and other constraints tend to limit both the size of the center channel speaker unit and the number of modules that can be stored on the shelves of the television stand. One particular aspect of this shortcoming is that the SPL output of a small bass speaker in the center channel unit must be blended with the output of a subwoofer frequency and SPL. The subwoofer requires floor space in addition to that required by the stand. The small speaker&#39;s maximum sound pressure level (SPL) at a low frequency is lower than that of a larger speaker. The level of audio output applied to drive the small speaker must be limited so as not to overdrive the small speaker. The small speaker&#39;s limited audio output thus limits performance of the entire speaker array. In smaller designs of center channel speakers, another commonly encountered drawback is that sound must be transmitted from speaker drivers into cabinet walls of the stand, causing further audio degradation. 
     There is a need, therefore, for a support structure and method for integrating audio and video components which overcomes these problems and provides a simple, attractive and technically advanced method and support for integrating and operating a home entertainment or home theater system. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with the present invention, a simple, attractive and technically advanced structure and method for integrating and operating a home entertainment system provides a plurality of modular configurations, each integrated in a single enclosure. The component modules may share a common power supply and heat dissipation components. The enclosure comprises a stand on which a video display unit such as a television set may be supported. A support, such as a shelf, and an interface may be provided for a discrete component such as a cable box. A center channel speaker unit may be supported between the enclosure and the shelf. 
     In a further form, the center channel speaker unit provides for optimum placement of speakers for a given size enclosure and superior acoustic summation to the subwoofer in the enclosure. The optimum center channel placement may also provide superior sound imaging to the TV display. The center channel speaker unit may also be provided as a stand-alone unit. 
     The above and still further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of a specific embodiment thereof, particularly when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals in the various figures are utilized to designate like components. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of a support structure for integrating audio and video components in an operating environment, in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a front axonometric view of a similar embodiment, in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a rear axonometric view of another similar embodiment, in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a partial detailed axonometric view illustrating one form of the modular shelf and center channel, in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a cross sectional elevation taken along line  5 - 5  of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  is a plan view of the apparatus of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a block diagram of one form of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is an axonometric view of a center channel speaker unit. 
         FIG. 9  is a cross sectional side elevation taken along line  9 - 9  of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a front axonometric view of a similar embodiment including integrated center channel and multiple smaller subwoofers. The auxiliary shelf is moved to the bottom of the entertainment system; in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates another system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a diagram which illustrates the top or plan view of a center channel loudspeaker enclosure with integral left and right channel loudspeakers, in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a diagram which illustrates the right side of the modular base, in accordance with the present invention 
         FIG. 14  illustrates another system and support structure for integrating audio and video components, in accordance with the present invention 
         FIG. 15  illustrates another system and support structure for integrating audio and video components, in accordance with the present invention 
         FIG. 16  is a schematic diagram illustrating the connections among integrated audio and video components, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention 
         FIG. 17  illustrates another system and support structure for integrating audio and video components, in accordance with the present invention 
         FIG. 18  illustrates the system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 20  illustrates another system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 22  illustrates another system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 24  illustrates another system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 25  a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 26  illustrates another system and support structure for integrating audio and video components in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-18 , a home entertainment environment  1  located in a room  2  is described in general with respect to  FIG. 1 . A user  4  may utilize a remote control unit  6  to control operation. The home entertainment environment  1  comprises the apparatus, which creates an entertainment experience for the user  4 . The home entertainment environment  1  comprises a home entertainment system  10  and may comprise a video display  12 . The video display  12  may be part of a television set including tuners and an amplifier. Alternatively, the video display  12  could comprise a video monitor. The home entertainment system  10  is housed in a modular base  8 . The home entertainment system  10  comprises components which provide different functions and which are integrated. Particular modules in the home entertainment unit  10  are described in further detail with respect to  FIGS. 5 and 6 . At the present time, commonly provided components include a radio tuner, digital video disc (DVD) player/recorder, compact disc (CD) audio player/recorder, digital video recorder (DVR), amplifiers and other audio units. It is foreseeable that other forms of media players will supersede present forms. Audio units may comprise amplifiers; surround sound units and other components for processing audio signals. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, modules are integrated within the home entertainment system  10 . 
     A subscriber interface unit  14  may be provided for connection to the home entertainment system  10 . The subscriber interface unit  14  could comprise a cable box, satellite television tuner, video-on-demand box or other source of media. The subscriber interface unit  14  could be included in the home entertainment system  10 . However, most homes utilize an interface unit provided by and belonging to a media provider. Therefore, subscriber interface unit  14  will generally, although not necessarily, be a component separate from the home entertainment system  10 . 
     Audio is generally provided by a speaker array. Many different forms of speaker arrays may be provided. In one conventional array, a center channel  16  is provided in a location in horizontal registration with the home entertainment system  10 . Prior systems may locate the center channel  16  on a shelf in the home theater  10  or on top of the video monitor  12 , for example. Right and left speakers  17  and  18  are located on either side of the television monitor. First and second surround sound speakers  19  and  20  are located on either side of the video monitor  12  and displaced from the video monitor so as to be placed behind a user  4 . In alternative systems coming into greater use, the speakers  19  and  20  need not be behind the user  4 . A subwoofer  22  is usually located at or near floor level in the vicinity of the video monitor  12 . Additionally, the home entertainment environment  1  may comprise a microphone  24  placed in a reference position in the room  2 , for example, at a listening position in the room  2 . The microphone  24  provides a feedback signal to an acoustic room correction feature in the home entertainment system  10 . The acoustic room correction feature may adjust equalization of various speakers. Acoustic processing may include psychoacoustic processing. Psychoacoustic processing takes in to account differences in perceived sound from sound that is theoretically harmonious based on relationships of frequency components included in the sound. 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective front view of a home entertainment system  10 , which is similar in shape but not identical to the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . The home entertainment system  10  comprises a first enclosure  30 . The first enclosure  30  may be fastened to and supported on a base plate  32 . The base plate  32  provides stability to prevent the first enclosure  30  from tipping over. Leveling adjusters  34   a - 34   d  may provide adjustment for each corner of the base plate  32  to provide for leveling the home entertainment system  10 . In the present illustration, the base plate  32  is rectangular. In the illustration of  FIG. 1 , the base plate  32  is trapezoidal. Both functional and ornamental features may be included in the base plate  32 . Alternatively, in the absence of a base plate  32 , ballast may be provided at a bottom of the first enclosure  30  to create a low center of gravity to provide for stability. However, when a large video monitor  12  is to be supported at a top of the first enclosure  30 , providing a sufficiently large weight of ballast may be impractical, and stability is provided by using a sufficiently wide base plate  32 . Sufficient width is determined by the force moment about a center of the base plate  32  exerted by a center of gravity of the home entertainment system  10 . First enclosure  30  width may be increased to provide adequate support for the video display  12  without the use of base plate  32 . 
     Mounted above the first enclosure  30  is a housing unit  36 . As further described below with respect to  FIG. 4 , the housing unit  36  may comprise a rectangular modular shelf unit  38  to support the subscriber interface unit  14  and may also have a closed portion  39  comprising the center channel  16  and may also comprise an upper support base  88 . A support surface  40  is provided on which the video monitor  12  may be placed. The support surface  40  may comprise an upper surface of an upper support base  88  having a width greater than the housing unit  36  or may simply comprise a top of the housing unit  36 . Taken together, the first enclosure  30  and the housing unit  36  comprise the modular base  8 . 
     The first enclosure  30  is further described with respect to  FIGS. 2 and 3 .  FIG. 3  is a rear perspective view of another form of the first enclosure  30  shown separately from the housing unit  36 . The first enclosure  30  may have any of a number of shapes for its horizontal cross section. In the illustration of  FIG. 2 , the cross section comprises a trapezoid. In the illustrations, the first enclosure  30  comprises a front panel  42 , a right panel  44 , a left panel  46  and a rear panel  50 . Terms such as front and rear are used to describe relative location. They do not indicate position with respect to a datum. In the present illustration, the positions are labeled to correspond to orientation as viewed by the user  4 . The first enclosure  30  has a top surface  52 . An electronics plate  56  may be located in an opening in the rear panel  50 . The electronics plate  56  serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  30  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  30 , as further described below. 
     The first enclosure  30  may house first and second subwoofers  53  and  54  ( FIG. 2 ) housed in side panels  44  and  46  respectively. By integrating the subwoofers  53  and  54  into the first enclosure  30 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. The need for a second, bulky, separate unit is eliminated. Subwoofers are a source of low-frequency vibration that could potentially have a deleterious effect on components in the first enclosure  30 . By mounting the subwoofers  53  and  54  substantially in spatial opposition, the vibrations produced will be opposite in direction and substantially in phase. Therefore, the vibrations transmitted from the subwoofers  53  and  54  to the first enclosure  30  substantially cancel each other. Acoustical ports  47  may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  30 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. Illustrated in ( FIG. 2 ) acoustic ports  47  may be mounted on first enclosure  30  walls  44  and  46 . Said acoustical ports  44  and  46  may be mounted to first enclosure  30  front  42  or back  50  walls. 
     Because the first enclosure  30  is designed to be both a stand as well as a speaker enclosure, the first enclosure  30  may be larger than prior art speakers but smaller than prior art home entertainment systems. If the first enclosure  30  were a stand-alone speaker unit, it would be regarded as unduly bulky. Commercial appeal of such a unit would be reduced. However, due to the number of functions provided, the first enclosure  30  will warrant greater consumer acceptance as it may be much smaller than traditional home entertainment systems. Since the first enclosure  30  acts as a soundboard, for a given size speaker, a smaller amplifier and smaller magnet driver can be used than would be necessary in the smaller sized enclosure normally associated with the given size speaker. 
     The front panel  42  ( FIG. 2 ) provides portions of the home entertainment system  10  with which the user  4  may interact. These portions include a group of controls  60 . The controls  60  may include on-off switches, component selectors, volume controls and other controls. The user  4  may operate the selected ones of the controls  60 . Alternatively, the user  4  may operate the remote control unit  6  to perform selected tasks. A sensor  61  is mounted in the front panel  42  of the first enclosure  30  to receive signals from the remote control unit  6 . The sensor  61  interfaces with a remote control circuit further described below. The sensor  61  is selected to be compatible with the remote control unit  6 . For example, the sensor  61  may comprise an infrared sensor, and the remote control unit  6  may transmit pulses on an infrared carrier. 
     A number of components have portions mounted for access or display at the front panel  42 . A disc player/recorder  62  includes a door which may be opened to receive one or more CDs or DVDs. The disc player/recorder  62  could comprise a disc changer which can hold a plurality of discs, playing a selected disc in response to a command. Alternatively, an optical media player/recorder other than a disc player may be used. A display  66  may take any of a number of forms. The display  66  may include fields to display information concerning the media being played, such as title and elapsed or remaining time on a track. The display  66  may be coupled to a radio tuner and display frequency and band to which a tuner is set. The display  66  may also include a text field for radio broadcast signals that provide text information. The display  66  may also include setup controls for the surround sound and room equalization. 
     If desired, other, separate components may be interfaced to the home entertainment system  10 . The front panel  42 , the rear panel  50  or both may comprise further input means to receive further media signals for processing by components in the home entertainment system  10 . In the  FIG. 2 , a group of input ports  68  is provided on the front panel  42  to receive a variety of inputs. A currently preferred form of input port is a USB port. However, new standards continue to evolve, and another form of port may be provided. A digital media reader input and output (I/O) and audio/video (AN) I/O  64  may be provided on the front panel  42  as well. As seen in  FIG. 3 , additional (I/O) sockets and jacks  72  are provided in the electronics plate  56 . The additional input sockets and jacks  72  may be provided in accordance with any of a number of analog or digital protocols. The integrated disc recorder and/or DVR may record media from any one of the digital media or A/V inputs. Audio outputs  74  may be provided on the electronics plate  56  for interface to speakers. A subwoofer volume control  78  may also be mounted in the electronics plate  56 . Subwoofer crossover adjustment  79  and phase adjustment  80  may be mounted to electronics plate  56 . Additionally, a line cord  76  communicates through the electronics plate  56  to supply AC power to the home entertainment system  10 . 
       FIG. 4  is an axonometric view of the housing unit  36 . As mentioned above, the center channel  16  is housed in the center channel enclosure  39 . The center channel enclosure  39  is supported on the first enclosure  30 . The center channel enclosure  39  may either be modular or unitary with the first enclosure  30 . The upper support base  88  spans a top of the center channel enclosure  39 . The modular shelf unit  38  comprises an open box  84  having an inner support surface  86  on which the subscriber interface unit  14  (not shown in  FIG. 4 ) or other apparatus may be placed. The center channel enclosure  39  has an upper support surface  87 . It is generally desirable to have the center channel enclosure  39  situated above the modular shelf unit  38  so that the source of sound is closest to the video display  12 . If desired, the modular shelf unit  38  could be over rather than under the center channel enclosure  39 . 
     In the illustration of  FIG. 4 , the upper stabilizing base  88  extending horizontally past either side of the housing unit  36 . The upper stabilizing base  88  is fastened to the housing unit  36 . Many different forms of fasteners could be used. In the present illustration, screws  90  extend through apertures  92  and are each received in a threaded aperture  94  ( FIG. 3 ). The modular shelf  38  may be removable by apertures  92  each in registration with a threaded aperture  94  adjacent a corner of an upper surface of the housing unit  36 . Similarly, apertures  92  are provided in the surface  86  of the modular shelf unit  38  each in registration with a location with a threaded aperture  94  adjacent a corner of an upper surface of the center channel enclosure  39 . The upper stabilizing base  88  may be removable in order to allow substitution of alternate upper stabilizing bases  88  to accommodate a wide range of television bases. Alternatively, a smaller television may be supported directly on the upper support surface  87 . 
     The structure of the present embodiment permits the center channel enclosure  39  to be wider than the first enclosure  30 . This larger horizontal dimension allows for use of larger speakers than many prior art center channel units in an enclosure, and provides a larger than normal enclosure volume. The midbass driver further described with respect to  FIGS. 8 and 9  below may be mounted in portions of the center channel enclosure  39 , which overhang the first enclosure  30 . Acoustical obstruction by the first enclosure  30  or by the modular shelf  38  is avoided. This construction lends itself to match the “single speaker surround sound” format. The center channel enclosure  39  in the preferred form has a slim height and large width yielding a form, which is generally regarded as aesthetically pleasing. 
     The components of the home entertainment system  10  are illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6 .  FIG. 5  is a cross sectional elevation taken along line  5 - 5  of  FIG. 2  illustrating an interior  98  of the first enclosure  30 .  FIG. 6  is a plan view of the apparatus of  FIG. 5 . The plurality of modules may be embodied in many ways. A plurality of chassis, each comprising a different module could be provided inside the first enclosure  30 . In another form, the modules may comprise separate circuit boards, each circuit board being associated with a particular function, integrated in a multifunction unit and connected to a common power supply. The modules may easily be upgraded or replaced in the event a unit fails. This prevents replacing the entire unit, instead only the component needing upgrade or repair. In a further embodiment, for example as illustrated in  FIG. 7 , one circuit board may be associated with a plurality of modules. For example, a processor board could be provided to do signal processing for a plurality of modules. Processing capacity may be shared between boards such as a tuner and a surround sound unit rather than providing a separate processor on each board. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , a bracket  100  is fixed to the inner surface of the electronics plate  56  and supports a card cage  102 . The card cage  102  supports selected circuit boards which together provide the functions of various modules and which provide interfaces to media source inputs and audio outputs. The functions assigned to various boards in the present illustration are representative of the different forms that may be provided. Components performing a particular function may be distributed over a plurality of boards. It is also possible to centralize a performance of function on a single board serving each module. In the present illustration, a power supply card  110  is supported in the card cage  102  and connected to the line cord  76 . The power supply card  110  comprises power-conditioning circuitry  112 . 
     The power conditioning circuitry  112  generates heat. Heat exchange apparatus  114  is mounted on the card  110  adjacent the power conditioning circuitry  112  to dissipate heat. Depending on power dissipation of the power supply  110  and an amplifier further described below, the heat exchange apparatus  114  may or may not include radiation fins. In selected embodiments, the heat exchange apparatus  114  may be thermally coupled to or comprise a portion of the electronics plate  56  ( FIG. 3 ). Well-known forms of heat exchange apparatus may be used. The selection will be dependent on the heat sensitivity of modules to heat and the power level dissipated by the power-conditioning circuitry  112 . In many applications, heat-radiating fins will be suitable. Other applications may utilize active cooling components such as fans or heat pipes. The power supply card  110  replaces the separate power supplies that would each be included in discrete modules. 
     The provision of a single power supply reduces component count, the number of connectors that must be provided and the volume occupied by power supply circuitry. Nominal module power supplies have efficiency levels of 30% to 60%. In one preferred form, the power supply  110  is a switching power supply. A nominal efficiency level for a switched power supply is 60% to 90%. A switched power supply is capable of converting differing input voltage levels. 
     A digital media reader card  64  may be connected through cable  138  to board  190  on the card cage  102 . Digital media player/recorders may read many different forms of media, such as movies, photographs, audio and video camera outputs. A cable  132  may couple the disc drive  62  to the digital media reader card  130 . Decoded sound signals are processed by a processor and sent to an amplifier card  150  for provision of audio signals to speakers. The amplifier card  150  may include preamplifiers or may receive an input from a preamplifier on another circuit board. In one embodiment, the amplifier card  150  is also mounted to make use of the heat exchange apparatus  114 . The amplifier card  150  will comprise at least one amplification channel. Outputs from the amplifier card  150  are provided by a cable  134  to the audio speaker terminal bank  74 . Other output interfaces could be provided. Further sound processing is provided by a surround sound processing card  160 . The surround sound processing card  160  includes at least one surround sound decoder. In many applications, the number of amplifier channels in the amplifier card  150  will be a function of the surround sound decoder capabilities. 
     A receiver card  170  is coupled by a cable  136  to receive signals from the sensor  61  in response to inputs from the remote control unit  6  and converts inputs from the control unit  6  to control activation of selected modules and selected operating functions within modules. A tuner card  104  may be provided to tune to selected radio bands. Currently popular bands include FM, AM radio and satellite radio provided by such services as Sirius and XM radio. Further interconnections may be provided via an interface board  190 . The interface board  190  may steer signals as appropriate between the other circuit cards and may be coupled to a group of cables  140  to interface all other inputs and outputs to the home entertainment system  10 . 
       FIG. 7  is a block diagram of one form of integrated entertainment system. In  FIG. 7 , an integrated system  200  is illustrated on a single circuit board. The same reference numerals are used to denote components corresponding to those in  FIGS. 1-3 . The line cord  76  is connected to a power supply  202 . The power supply  202  provides drive mechanism power from a terminal  203  to drive mechanisms such as the disc player/recorder  62 . The power supply  202  also provides high-level power to components illustrated as a power circuit  206 . Components drawing high levels of power include audio amplifier channels. Additionally, the power supply  202  provides power to integrated circuitry and processors in the integrated system  200 . This provision of power is illustrated as a connection to a bus  210 . Data and control signals are transmitted over signal-carrying portions of the bus  210 . A central processing unit  220  coupled to the bus  210  comprises a data memory  222  and a program memory  224 . The program memory  224  comprises programs for decoding digital signals representing audio and video signals. Alternatively, the functions performed could be depicted by illustrating a decoder for each form of signal to be processed. While the integrated system  200  will generally be used to process only one medium at a time, multiplexing capabilities may be provided to process more than one medium at a time. An interface circuit  226  is coupled between the media sources such as disc player/recorder  62  ( FIG. 2 ) and the bus  210  in order to coordinate timing of signals to be processed and to match input impedances to the bus  210 . 
     A tuner chip  230  comprises a coupler  232  which connects to an antenna  234 . The antenna  234  may comprise an array of multiband antennas. The tuner chip  230  may include an FM, AM and satellite section. In the present embodiment, video tuning is done by a tuner in the television set  12  ( FIG. 2 ). However, a separate video tuner could be provided in the integrated system  200 . Additionally, a receiver chip  240  is provided to respond to control signals from the remote control unit  6 . The processor  220  may interpret the control signals and direct selected signals accordingly. A media circuit  260  illustrates additional audio, video and other processing functions. 
       FIGS. 8 and 9  illustrate the center channel speaker unit  16  housed in the center channel enclosure  39 . For purposes of illustration, the center channel enclosure  39  is shown as having transparent walls, for example of Lucite or Plexiglas.  FIG. 8  is an axonometric view.  FIG. 9  is a cross sectional side elevation taken along line  9 - 9  of FIG.  8 . The center channel enclosure  39  has a front wall  301 , right and left side walls  302  and  303 , a rear wall  304  and upper and lower walls  305  and  306 . The center channel enclosure  39  may conveniently be made of a number of different materials. Suitable plastics include polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Other suitable materials include extruded aluminum and wood. A speaker grille  310  ( FIG. 9 ) may be mounted in front of the front wall  301 . A midrange-midbass divider wall  320  parallel to the front wall  301  divides the center channel enclosure  39  into first and second chambers  324  and  326 . In the chamber  326 , first and second braces  330  and  332  are provided to support weight transmitted from apparatus supported above the center channel enclosure  39 . 
     In the embodiment of  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the center channel speakers comprise a right mid range speaker  342 , tweeter  344  and left mid range speaker  346  received in apertures  352 ,  354  and  356  respectively in the front wall  301 . Preferably, the tweeter  344  is centered in the front wall  301 , and the right mid range speaker  342  and left mid range speaker  346  are symmetrically spaced from the tweeter  344 . Right and left midbass speakers  358  and  359  are supported to the lower wall  306 . The speakers  358  and  359  project sound through apertures  366  and  368  respectively. The right and left midbass speakers  358  and  359  are preferably placed symmetrically and sufficiently close to the right and left walls  302  and  303  respectively so as to overhang the modular shelf  38  and the first enclosure  30 . Consequently, sound is delivered into the air and is not muffled by enclosure walls. Midbass ports  370  and  372  in the right and left walls  302  and  303  respectively allow for air movement created by flexing of cones in the midbass speakers  358  and  359 . A crossover circuit  380  distributes various drive signals to appropriate ones of the speakers  342 ,  344 ,  346   358  and  359 . 
     The arrangement of  FIGS. 8 and 9  is exemplary, but other numbers of speakers could be included. Speaker systems with additional speakers are gaining in popularity in use. Many different arrangements of modules may be provided in order to construct embodiments of the present invention. At a minimum, the home entertainment system  10  will comprise audio and video player/recorders and amplifiers. 
     Another embodiment is illustrated in  FIG. 10 , wherein left channel loudspeaker  18  is configured with a tall and narrow enclosure forming a left side columnar support which opposes the symmetrically aligned right channel loudspeaker  17  which is also configured with a tall and narrow enclosure forming a right side columnar support, such that each provides a load bearing column to support the opposing laterally projecting left and right sides of upper support base  88 . Enclosure  39  provides a central columnar support for upper base  88  and includes the center channel loudspeaker  16  with drivers including tweeter  344 , midrange  347  and midbass  358 . A plurality (e.g., four) right side woofers  53  are optionally included on the central columnar enclosure&#39;s right side and the front preferably includes a media server or media player docking station  69  and a DVD or CD drive. A user subscriber terminal or cable box is preferably also accessible from the front, preferably on modular shelf  38 . There may also be one or more left side woofers (not shown) or a left side mid-base (not shown) and additional components or loudspeakers. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 11-17 , a simplified home entertainment system  400  incorporates left speaker  18  and right speaker  19  integrally into the center channel enclosure  16 . As best seen in  FIG. 12 , the left midbass  601  is mounted to the center channel enclosure&#39;s lower wall  306  through midbass aperture  611  occupying left midbass enclosure volume  605 . The center midbass  620  is mounted to the center channel lower wall  306  through the center midbass aperture  630  occupying center midbass volume  623 . The right midbass  640  is mounted to the center channel lower wall  306  through the right midbass aperture  650  occupying right midbass volume  643 . The left mid loudspeaker  602  is mounted to the center channel front wall  301  through the left mid aperture  612  occupying left mid volume  606 . The center mid loudspeaker  621  is mounted to the center channel front wall  301  through center aperture  631  occupying center mid volume  624 . The right mid 641 may be mounted to the center channel front wall  301  through right aperture  651  occupying right mid volume  644 . The left tweeter  603  may be mounted to the center channel front wall  301  through the left tweeter aperture  613 . The center tweeter  622  may be mounted to the center channel front wall through the center tweeter aperture  632 . The right tweeter  642  may be mounted to the center channel front wall  301  through the right tweeter aperture  652 . The left, center and right terminal  660  may connect to the internal amplifier card  150  through the LCR connection  660 . The LCR may connect through an automatic connection system  661  to prevent external wire connections to the electronics plate  56  and LCR connection  660 . The LCR connection  660  may be mounted to the center channel lower wall  306 . The LCR auto connection  661  may be mounted in the base top panel  52  and connect internally to the amplifier card  150 . The LCR auto connection  661  may be simplified to only include the center connection if the left and right are not integrated into the center channel enclosure. It may also be expanded if additional channels are added to the center channel enclosure  39 . The LCR connection  660  may connect to the crossover  380  mounted inside the center channel enclosure  39 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , for a shallower stand enclosure, right side woofers  53  and  531  are mounted to right panel  44  and left woofers  54  and  541  are mounted to panel  46  and are smaller than a comparable single larger woofer. Multiple smaller woofers may allow for the Z dimension to be reduced without sacrificing low frequency output. The Xmax or speaker cone excursion and power handling may be optimized to produce the same or more acoustic output as a comparable single woofer loudspeaker. 
     Turning now to the embodiment of  FIG. 15 , a shallower stand enclosure is provided with right side woofers  53  and  531  mounted to right panel  44  and left side woofers  54  and  541  are mounted to left panel  46  and, here again, may be smaller in size when compared to a single larger woofer. The smaller woofers may allow for the Y dimension to be reduced without sacrificing low frequency output. The Xmax or speaker cone excursion and power handling may be optimized to produce the same or more acoustic output than a single woofer solution. To further improve low frequency acoustic output, tuned right port  47  may be mounted to right panel  44  and tuning left port  48  mounted to left panel  46 . 
     Lower modular self supports  322 A,  322 B, 322 C and  322 D may be attached to the lower support base plate surface  324  and joined to lower modular self upper support surface  323  creating a space to place external devices such as cable box, VCR and game console. Multiple external devices may be connected simultaneously to many input/output (I/O) ports of the entertainment system  10 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 16 and 17 , the computer controlled integrated entertainment system is an all in one media center capable of downloading, sharing, editing and playback through the integrated speakers. Via a built in interactive touch screen display  701 , wired or wireless mouse  707  and keyboard  706  one could navigate the software controls to operate the system. As a media center, media may be transferred via a plethora of protocols in both analog and digital domains. Both analog and digital content may be imported and exported but not limited to paths such as Bluetooth, Infrared, USB, Fire wire, network (wired or wireless), optical media and solid state cards. The entertainment system may be setup as a standalone system or a file sharing hub for multiple devices local or remote. The system may be the master controller or be controlled remotely. 
     The computer  709  provides a programmable backbone to the entertainment system, providing processing power to control the plethora of internal and external devices. The built in touch screen monitor  701  may offer easy navigation through system controls, media selection and data organization. There may be multiple monitors or display screens where specific tasks of the entertainment system could be displayed. A small display  701  may be built directly into the entertainment system that could be controlled via an independent video card  710  and mouse driver. This control display  701  may control all aspects of the system when the main display is not active. This would allow a user who wishes to listen only to music, select their content without turning on the main display or television. When the entertainment system is powered on for the first time, a welcome screen will appear on the control display. The welcome screen may include setup guides such as auto display dimmer, speaker selection, auto EQ, auto update, remote control, maximum display resolution. All setup features are accessible at any time after initial user setup. The control display  701  may be navigated via its&#39; touch screen  711 , or an external mouse  707  and keyboard  706 . The external keyboard  706  and mouse  707  may be wired or wireless. The mouse function  711  of the control display  701  touch screen, keyboard  706  and external mouse  707  may transition to additional displays or television. By controlling multiple displays the operator may multitask by watching a movie on one display, surf the internet on another, and arrange files on the other. Each display may be driven from an independent video card which could allow the operator to optimize the display resolution for each display. Custom software may allow the system to display specific programs and features to a specific display improving navigation efficiency. 
     A display auto dimmer  712  allows the user to set the dim level and time to dim on the control display  701 . It is common in home theater environments  1  to dim light sources to minimize any distraction from the viewing source  12 . It is desired to dim the control display  701  shortly after a selection is made to minimize the detractions from the main display  12 . There may be an ambient light sensor  702  to auto detect the light in the room which may give further information for the auto level adjustment  712 . In a bright room such as in the daylight, the control display  701  may be adjusted brighter than in the dark. A brighter control display  701  may allow for easier visibility and user selection during use. 
     Smart controlling software and hardware  713  may auto route the audio signal to the entertainment system  10  or television  12  depending on the operating mode. When using speakers external  16 ,  17 , and  18  to the television  12 , the TV speaker volume in commonly minimized to reduce interaction with the external speakers. Playing both television  12  and external speaker  16 ,  17 , and  18  could drastically degrade the audio performance. The smart controls  713  could sense if the system is active and determine whether to route the audio internally or external to the TV  12 . If the entertainment system  10  is turned on, it could auto switch the audio path and remote control  6  back to the entertainment system  10 . If the entertainment system  10  is turned off, it could reroute the audio and remote control  6  back to the TV  12 . The system could transmit a signal to the remote control  6  telling it to switch the path volume control from the entertainment system  10  or TV  12 , whichever is selected. The entertainment system  10  could have the capability of remembering the volume control for each mode and recall when activated. User audio path routing setting may be setup during the initial system setup screen or any time afterward. 
     Being computer based (e.g., with CPU  709 ), the entertainment system  10  is perfect for multimedia interaction between external device such as camcorders, digital cameras, mp3 players, phones or PDA. Data could be imported or exported between the external device and the entertainment system  10 . The external device may communicate to the main system through wired or wireless means such as Bluetooth, Infrared, USB, Fire wire, network (wired or wireless), optical media, HDMI, Infrared, serial, parallel, eSate, and solid state cards. If the attached device allows for it to be controlled remotely, the entertainment system  10  may be setup to share the device through it&#39;s plethora of I/O ports. 
     If the entertainment system  10  is connected to a wired or wireless internet connection  235 , software updates may be downloaded and installed. These updates may include visual functions, database updates, and bug fixes. During initial setup, the user or operator may select to actuate a feature entitled “auto update” to execute or run a routine check and download updates automatically, or through a software setting check for updates manually. If the entertainment system  10  is not connected to the internet, the files may be downloaded to a remote computer and transferred to the entertainment system  10  through one of its I/O ports  64  or  68 . 
     A headphone port  714  may be provided for a wired or wireless connection. When a multichannel source is being played through the entertainment system  10  to the two channel headphone port, hardware or software simulated surround sound algorithms may be decoded and implemented. In the solid state option, the algorithm may be programmed into the chip directly. With the software solution, the processing power of the CPU  220  may provide the decoding. Both methods may be updated through the software updating process. 
     The center channel  16  may connect through an automatic connection system  660  and  661 . This connection system  660  and  661  would eliminate the need for external wires running from the amplifier plate to the center channel  16 . If the center channel enclosure  16  is adapted to include the left and right channel loudspeakers, the left and right channels may be connected to the automatic connection  660  and  661 . This would further simplify the setup by eliminating physical wire connections to the external speakers  16 ,  17 ,  18  and amplifier  150 . The connector  660  may protrude from the bottom of the center channel enclosure  39  and mate with the corresponding connector  661  on the main housing  30  of the entertainment base  8 . With the plethora of center channel configurations such as  FIGS. 10 ,  11  and  15  corresponding custom DSP and equalizer settings may be needed to optimize the sound. A speaker identification protocol  715  may be implemented through the LCR connection  660  and  661  and detected through one or more pins. A resistor or controller detection may be part of the LCR connection system  660  and  661 . When a speaker with a given ID is detected, a preset equalization, protection, and soundstage shaping setting may be loaded from memory to the audio path. The main base  8  may be common, while several center speaker  16  solutions could easily be connected to the system and optimized automatically. If new speakers solutions are released after the customers has purchased their system, new software settings may be downloaded or installed on the system. 
     The remote  6  for the entertainment system may be universal in design allowing, for custom controls and communication codes to be programmed to operate external devices. A wide range of external devices could be programmed such-as TV, Satellite, cable box, Optical players. A TV on-screen device selection menu built into the main system  10  could provide the proper program codes for a given device. Once the code is selected it will automatically be transmitted to the remote and programmed. At any point, it a piece of equipment is replaced or updated the remote  6  programming screen may be accessed for new codes. The program codes may be updated over the internet if a connection is established through  235  or downloaded and transferred from another computer. The remote  6  may have a built in screen  703  which would allow the user to view audio/video content titles for easy selection. If the content on the main system  10  contains artwork such as album art or movie covers, the artwork preferably appears on the remote&#39;s screen  703 . From the remote  6 , mouse/remote or keyboard  706 , the user may scroll through the media content. There may be a dedicated button on each of the controlling devices to prompt the main screen  12  to jump to a media selection window for easy content selection. 
     The computer controlled integrated entertainment system of the present invention is an all in one media center capable of downloading, sharing, editing and playback through the integrated speakers. Via a built in interactive touch screen display  701 , wired or wireless mouse  707  and keyboard  706  a user may navigate the software controls to operate the system. As a media center, media may be transferred via a plethora of protocols in both analog and digital domains. Both analog and digital content may be imported and exported via channels or paths such as Bluetooth, Infrared, USB, Fire wire, network (wired or wireless), optical media and solid state cards. The entertainment system may be setup as a standalone system or a file sharing hub for multiple devices local or remote. The system may be the master controller or be controlled remotely. 
     Turning now to the embodiments of  FIGS. 18-26 , it will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that a number of configurations can be advantageously employed. For any of the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 18-26 , a computer controlled integrated entertainment system (e.g.,  400  or  500 ) comprises an all-in-one media center capable of downloading, sharing, editing and playback through the integrated speakers. A user navigates software controls via a built in touch screen display, wired or wireless mouse and keyboard to operate the system. As a media center, media recordings or files may be transferred via a plethora of protocols in both analog and digital domains. Both analog and digital content may be imported and exported to the entertainment system by a wide variety of communication channels or paths such as Bluetooth signal transmission, Infrared signal transmission, USB signal transmission, Fire wire signal transmission, network data (wired or wireless) signal transmission, analog or digital (e.g., optical) media and solid state (e.g., SD) data storage cards. The entertainment system may be setup as a standalone system or as a file sharing hub for multiple devices local or remote. The system may be the master controller or be controlled remotely. 
     The computer preferably provides the backbone to the entertainment system and provides processing power to control the many internal and external devices. The built in touch screen monitor may offer easy navigation through system controls, media selection and data organization. There may be multiple monitors or display screens where specific tasks of the entertainment system could be displayed. A small display may be built directly into the entertainment system that could be controlled via an independent video card and mouse driver. This control display may control all aspects of the system when the main display is not active. This would allow a user who wishes to listen only to music, select their content without turning on the main display or television. When the entertainment system is powered on for the first time, a welcome screen will appear on the control display. The welcome screen may include setup guides such as auto display dimmer, speaker selection, auto EQ, auto update, remote control, maximum display resolution. All setup features are accessible at any time after initial user setup. The control display may be navigated via it&#39;s touch screen, or an external mouse and keyboard. The external keyboard and mouse may be wired or wireless. The mouse function of the control display touch screen, keyboard and external mouse may transition to additional displays or television. By controlling multiple displays the operator may multitask by watching a movie on one display, surf the internet on another, and arrange files on the other. Each display may be driven from an independent video card which could allow the operator to optimize the display resolution for each display. Custom software may allow the system to display specific programs and features to a specific display improving navigation efficiency. 
     Smart controlling software and hardware may auto route the audio signal to the entertainment system or television depending on the operating mode. When using speakers external to the television (e.g., center channel  416 ), the TV speaker volume is commonly minimized to reduce interaction with the external speakers. Playing both television and external speaker could drastically degrade the audio performance. The smart controls could sense if the system is active and determine whether to route the audio internally or external to the TV. If the entertainment system is turned on, it could auto switch the audio path and remote control back to the entertainment system. If the system is turned off, it could reroute the audio and remote control back to the TV. The system could transmit a signal to the remote control telling it to switch the path it&#39;s volume control to the entertainment system or TV, whichever is selected. The system could have the capability of remembering the volume control for each mode and recall when activated. User audio path routing setting may be setup during the initial system setup screen or any time afterward. 
     The entertainment system (e.g., any of  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  800 ,  900 ,  1000 ,  1100 ,  1200  or  1700 ) is well suited to control multimedia interaction between external devices such as camcorders, digital cameras, mp3 players, phones or PDA. Data is imported or exported between the external device and the entertainment system. Each external device communicates with the main system through wired or wireless means such as Bluetooth, Infrared, USB, Fire wire, network (wired or wireless), optical media, HDMI, Infrared, serial, parallel, eSate, and solid state cards. If the attached device allows for it to be controlled remotely, the entertainment system may be setup to share the device through the many I/O ports. 
     If the entertainment system is connected to a wired (e.g., Ethernet) or wireless (e.g., 802.11) internet connection, software updates may be downloaded and installed. These updates may include visual functions, database updates, and bug fixes. During internal setup the operator may select auto update which may run a routine check and download updates automatically, or through a software setting cheek for updates manually. If the system is a not connected to the internet, the files may be downloaded to a remote computer and transferred to the entertainment system through one of its I/O ports. 
     A headphone port may be provided for a wired or wireless connection. When a multichannel source is being played through the system to the two channel headphone port, hardware or software simulated surround sound algorithm may be decoded and implemented. In the solid state option the algorithm may be programmed into the chip directly. With the software solution, the processing power of the CPU may provide the decoding. Both methods may be updated through the software updating process. 
     The center channel may connect through an automatic connection system. This system would eliminate the need for external wires running from the amplifier plate to the center channel. If the center channel implements a multi-speaker solution such as including the left and right, these may be connected to the automatic connection. This would further simplify the setup by eliminating physical wire connections to the external speakers and amplifier. The connector may protrude from the bottom of the center channel enclosure and mate with the corresponding connector on the main housing of the entertainment base. 
       FIG. 18  illustrates a standard electronics configuration of the system, which is a new industrial design without a modular shelf under the center channel enclosure and with added glass support on top of the center channel enclosure to provide added support for the Television or video display  12 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 18 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  400  comprises a modular system  408  (sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  or  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure  430  which is affixed to and supported by substantially planar base plate  432 . First enclosure  430  preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  454  and supports a housing unit  436  which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  416 . An upper support base  488  is preferably made of a planar segment of glass and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure  430  and the housing unit  436  comprise the modular base  408 . First enclosure  430  is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 and 3 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  430  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  430 . First enclosure  430  may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  454 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure  430 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. The need for a bulky, separate subwoofer unit is eliminated. Subwoofers are a source of low-frequency vibration that could potentially have a deleterious effect on components in the first enclosure  430 . By mounting the subwoofers substantially in spatial opposition, the vibrations produced will be opposite in direction and substantially in phase. Therefore, the vibrations transmitted from the subwoofers to the first enclosure  430  substantially cancel each other. Acoustical ports may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  430 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports may be mounted to first enclosure  430  on front or back walls. 
     Because the first enclosure  430  is designed to be both a stand as well as a speaker enclosure, the first enclosure  430  may be larger than prior art speakers but smaller than prior art home entertainment systems. The front panel provides portions of the home entertainment system  400  with which the user  4  may interact. These portions include a group of controls optionally including on-off switches, component selectors, volume controls and other controls. A sensor is preferably mounted in the front panel of the first enclosure  430  to receive signals from the remote control unit  6 . The sensor interfaces with a remote control circuit. A number of components have portions mounted for access or display at the front panel. If desired, other, separate components may be interfaced to the home entertainment system  400 . The front panel the rear panel or both may comprise further input means to receive further media signals for processing by components in the home entertainment system  400 . 
     The center channel  416  may either be modular or unitary with the first enclosure  430 . The upper support base  488  spans a top of the center channel enclosure and housing unit  436 . It is generally desirable to have the center channel  416  situated so that the source of sound is closest to the video display  12 . 
     In the illustration of  FIG. 18 , the upper stabilizing base  488  extends laterally or horizontally past either side of the housing unit  436 . The upper stabilizing base  488  is fastened to the housing unit  436 . Many different forms of fasteners or bonding could be used. The upper stabilizing base  488  may be removable in order to allow substitution of alternate upper stabilizing bases  488  to accommodate a wide range of television bases. Alternatively, a smaller television may be supported directly on the upper support surface under base  488 . 
     The structure of the present embodiment permits the center channel enclosure to be wider than the first enclosure  430 . This larger horizontal dimension allows for use of larger speakers than many prior art center channel units in an enclosure, and provides a larger than normal enclosure volume. The midbass driver (described with respect to  FIGS. 8 and 9 ) may be mounted in portions of the center channel enclosure, which overhangs the first enclosure  430 . Acoustical obstruction by the first enclosure  430  is avoided. This construction lends itself to match the “single speaker surround sound” format. The center channel  416  in the preferred form has a slim height and large width yielding a form which is generally regarded as aesthetically pleasing. 
     The internal components of the home entertainment system  400  are similar to those illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6  or  FIG. 16 , with a plurality of modules in a single chassis or each module may optionally be housed in a separate chassis inside the first enclosure  430 . In another form, the modules may comprise separate circuit boards, each circuit board being associated with a particular function, integrated in a multifunction unit and connected to a common power supply. The modules may easily be upgraded or replaced in the event a unit fails. This prevents replacing the entire unit, instead only the component needing upgrade or repair. 
       FIG. 19  illustrates another standard electronics configuration of the system, which is a new industrial design without a modular shelf under the center channel enclosure and with added glass support on top of the center channel enclosure to provide added support for the Television or video display  12 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 19 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  500  comprises a modular system  508  (sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  of  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure  530  which is affixed to and supported by substantially planar base plate  532 . First enclosure  430  preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  554  and supports a housing unit  536  which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  516 . An upper support base  588  is preferably made of a planar segment of glass and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure  530  and the housing unit  536  comprise the modular base  508 . First enclosure  530  is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 and 3 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  530  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  530 . First enclosure  530  may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  554 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure  530 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. Acoustical ports may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  530 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports may be mounted to first enclosure  530  on front or back walls. 
     Because the first enclosure  530  is designed to be both a stand as well as a speaker enclosure, the first enclosure  530  may be larger than prior art speakers but smaller than prior art home entertainment systems. The front panel provides portions of the home entertainment system  500  with which the user  4  may interact. These portions include a group of controls optionally including on-off switches, component selectors, volume controls and other controls. A sensor is preferably mounted in the front panel of the first enclosure  530  to receive signals from the remote control unit  6 . The sensor interfaces with a remote control circuit. A number of components have portions mounted for access or display at the front panel. If desired, other, separate components may be interfaced to the home entertainment system  500 . The front panel the rear panel or both may comprise further input means to receive further media signals for processing by components in the home entertainment system  500 . 
     The center channel  516  may either be modular or unitary with the first enclosure  530 . The upper support base  588  spans a top of the center channel enclosure and housing unit  536 . It is generally desirable to have the center channel  516  situated so that the source of sound is closest to the video display  12 . 
     In the illustration of  FIG. 19 , the upper stabilizing base  588  extends laterally or horizontally past either side of the housing unit  536 . The structure of the present embodiment permits the center channel enclosure to be wider than the first enclosure  530 . This larger horizontal dimension allows for use of larger speakers than many prior art center channel units in an enclosure, and provides a larger than normal enclosure volume. The midbass driver (e.g., as described with respect to  FIGS. 8 and 9 ) may be mounted in portions of the center channel enclosure which overhangs the first enclosure  530 . Acoustical obstruction by the first enclosure  530  is avoided. 
     The internal components of the home entertainment system  400  are similar to those illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6  or  FIG. 16 , with a plurality of modules in a single chassis or each module may optionally be housed in a separate chassis inside the first enclosure  530 . In another form, the modules may comprise separate circuit boards, each circuit board being associated with a particular function, integrated in a multifunction unit and connected to a common power supply. The modules may easily be upgraded or replaced in the event a unit fails. This prevents replacing the entire unit, instead only the component needing upgrade or repair. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 20 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  600  comprises a modular system  608  (also sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  of  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure which is affixed to and supported by substantially planar base plate. The first enclosure preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  654  and supports a housing unit  636  which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  616 . An upper support surface is preferably planar and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure and the housing unit  636  comprise the modular base  608 . The first enclosure is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 and 3 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure. The first enclosure may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  654 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure, space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. Acoustical ports may be used to reduce pressure within the first enclosure, thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports may be defined in the first enclosure&#39;s front or back walls. 
     Turning now to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 21 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  1700  comprises a modular system  1708  (also sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  of  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure  1730  which is affixed to and supported by substantially planar base plate  1732 . First enclosure  1730  preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  1754  and supports a housing unit  1736  which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  1716 . An upper support surface is preferably planar and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure  1730  and the housing unit  1736  comprise the modular base  1708 . First enclosure  1730  is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 and 3 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  1730  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  1730 . First enclosure  1730  may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  1754 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure  1730 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. Acoustical ports  1717  may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  1730 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports  1717  may be incorporated in first enclosure  1730 &#39;s side walls or the front or back walls. 
       FIG. 22  illustrates a standard electronics configuration of the system, which is a new industrial design with an added glass support shelf  888  on top of the center channel enclosure to provide added support for the Television or video display  12 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 22 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  800  comprises a modular system  808  (also sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  of  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure  830  which is affixed to and supported by substantially planar base plate  832 . First enclosure  830  preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  854  and supports a housing unit  836  which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  816 . An upper support surface is preferably planar and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure  830  and the housing unit  836  comprise the modular base  808 . First enclosure  830  is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 ,  3  and  11 - 14 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  830  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  830 . First enclosure  830  may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  854 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure  830 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. Acoustical ports may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  830 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports may be mounted to first enclosure  830  on front or back walls. 
       FIG. 23  illustrates a standard electronics configuration of the system, which is a new industrial design without a modular shelf under the center channel enclosure, which provides a support surface on top of the center channel enclosure to support for the Television or video display  12 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 23 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  900  comprises a modular system  908  (also sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  of  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure  930  which is affixed to and supported by substantially planar base plate  932 . First enclosure  930  preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  954  and supports a housing unit  936  which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  916 . An upper support surface is preferably planar and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure  930  and the housing unit  936  comprise the modular base  908 . First enclosure  930  is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 ,  3  and  12 - 14 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  930  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  930 . First enclosure  930  may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  954 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure  930 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. Acoustical ports may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  930 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports may be mounted to first enclosure  930  on front or back walls. 
       FIG. 24  illustrates a standard electronics configuration of the system, which is a new industrial design without a modular shelf under the center channel enclosure and with an added glass support on top of the center channel enclosure to provide added support for the Television or video display  12  and an added lower shelf over base  1032  to define a storage volume therebetween. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 24 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  1000  comprises a modular system  1008  (also sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  of  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure  1030  which is affixed to and supported by substantially planar base plate  1032 . First enclosure  1030  preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  1054  and supports a housing unit  1036  which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  1016 . An upper support surface is preferably planar and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure  1030  and the housing unit  1036  comprise the modular base  1008 . First enclosure  830  is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 ,  3 ,  12 ,  13  and  15 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  1030  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  1030 . First enclosure  1030  may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  53 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure  1030 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. Acoustical ports may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  1030 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports may be mounted to first enclosure  1030  on front or back walls. 
       FIG. 25  illustrates a standard configuration of the system, which is a new industrial design without a modular shelf under the center channel enclosure and with added left and right channel speaker enclosures projecting upwardly to support the center channel enclosure which provides support for the Television or video display  12 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 25 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  1100  comprises a modular system  1108  (also sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  of  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure  1130  resting upon a substantially planar base  1188 . First enclosure  1130  preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  1154  and supports a housing unit which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  1116 . An upper support surface is, preferably planar and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure  1130  and the housing unit comprise the modular base  1108 . First enclosure  1130  is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 ,  3  and  10 . A left channel loudspeaker  1118  is configured with a tall and narrow enclosure forming a left side columnar support which opposes the symmetrically aligned right channel loudspeaker  1117  which is also configured with a tall and narrow enclosure forming a right side columnar support, such that each provides a load bearing column to support the opposing laterally projecting left and right sides of upper support base  1188 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  1130  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  1130 . First enclosure  1130  may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  1154 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure  1130 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. Acoustical ports may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  1130 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports may be mounted to first enclosure  1130  on front or back walls. 
       FIG. 26  illustrates a standard configuration of the system, which is a new industrial design with a modular shelf over the center channel enclosure to provide added support for the Television or video display  12 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 26 , a system and support structure for integrating audio and video components  1200  comprises a modular system  1208  (also sharing many of the characteristics of modular system  8  of  FIG. 2 ) including a first enclosure  1230  which is affixed to and supported by substantially planar base plate  1232 . First enclosure  1230  preferably includes at least a first subwoofer  1254  and supports a housing unit  1236  which defines an enclosure for a center channel loudspeaker system  1216 . An upper support surface is preferably planar and supports the monitor or TV  12 . 
     Taken together, the first enclosure  1230  and the housing unit  1236  comprise the modular base  1208 . First enclosure  1230  is similar, in many respects, to the embodiments shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 2 ,  3  and  11 - 17 . An electronics plate (not shown) serves to support various components inside the first enclosure  1230  and to allow access to various controls and other components from outside of the first enclosure  1230 . First enclosure  1230  may house first and second subwoofers (e.g.,  1254 ) housed in opposing side panels. By integrating the subwoofers into the first enclosure  1230 , space that would be wasted in a traditional television stand is used to provide a subwoofer enclosure. Acoustical ports may be used to reduce pressure within first enclosure  1230 , thus further reducing vibration to surrounding components. The acoustical ports may be mounted to first enclosure  1230  on front or back walls. 
     It will be appreciated by those having skill in the art that the support structure of the present invention makes a new and more convenient media integration method available. The method for integrating and supporting components in a unitary, one-piece computer controlled integrated entertainment system comprises: providing a support structure (e.g.,  400  or  1100 ) for integrating audio and video components (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 16 ) and including a first media source (e.g.,  705 ), an amplifier  150 , a decoder and a power supply  202  configured to provide power for said components; providing said support structure with an integral, modular base having a first enclosure (e.g.,  430 ) configured to receive and support said components; said modular base first enclosure having a front wall segment having a first selected width and a base plate (e.g.,  432 ), said modular base projecting upwardly from said base plate; wherein said base plate projects laterally to define a second width that is substantially greater than said modular base enclosure&#39;s first selected width; and said support structure further including an upper support base (e.g.,  488 ) which projects laterally to define a third width that is (i) substantially greater than said modular base enclosure&#39;s first selected width and (ii) selected to provide support for a video or television display  12 ; said support structure further defining an enclosure dimensioned to carry at least one integrated speaker (e.g., center channel  416  and/or subwoofer  454 ); and configuring said support structure to carry a CPU  709  configured and programmed to control said media source, said amplifier, said decoder and said integrated speaker, and (d) programming CPU  709  to control the media source, amplifier, decoder, integrated speaker and display in response to user commands. Having described preferred embodiments of a new and improved apparatus and method, it is believed that other modifications, variations and changes will be suggested to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings set forth herein. It is therefore to be understood that all such variations, modifications and changes are believed to fall within the scope of the present invention as set forth in the following claims.