Mount-It! PRO

March 21, 2022 - You've got big plans. You've recently bought a new flatscreen television and you know exactly where you want it—impressively wall-mounted in your den, free from all electrical cables and wires, for a sleek and modern look. But, as you learn how to choose a tv wall mount and prepare for the task at hand, you realize one consideration you hadn't yet thought about: where to put a cable box console for your wall-mounted TV?

Wireless technology may be on the rise but, as of now, most setups will still require you to wire your cable box into your new television. While universal tv stands have an easier time concealing wires and offer a number of positions for a cable box, it's less clear where to put a console with a mounted TV screen. Thankfully, there are several tv mount and tv stand options available that can accommodate your desired aesthetic, viewing angle, cost, and technology needs!

Floating Wall Mount Underneath The Television

One idea for where to put your cable box is to use shelves that are also wall mounted. These are typically placed below the television and can accommodate multiple devices in a variety of arrangements. Floating wall-mounted cable boxes offer a few specific advantages and disadvantages:

• Ease of setup – This can often be one of the simplest solutions in terms of setup and overall work involved. 
• Optimal remote communication – Because the boxes are located without obstruction directly below or around the television, there's less likelihood of the receivers being fickle.
• Wiring considerations – Having taken the time to mount your television and cable box, the last thing you want is a mess of wires. Thankfully, many wall mounts for media console devices come with cable management clips to hide tv wires. 
• Potential clutter – Because a wall-mounted television offers a pristine look, some might find a wall mount to clutter the area if hiding cords is not feasible. After all, the entire point of mounting the TV is to isolate it and open up space. If that's the case, you have other options: 

Behind Your Television

Depending on the type of television and how it's mounted to your wall, as well as the size of the cable box and the number of other devices you have, you could potentially hang and hide the cable box behind your TV. 

When possible, this approach can offer both a simple setup and an elegant aesthetic. Among other options, you can use cable ties or adhesive hanging strips to attach the cable box and cords to the TV.

However, many televisions do not offer sufficient space to hide different cable boxes, especially if they are bulkier (such as those with DVR functionalities). Depending on how much tilt for your wall mount tv is desired, this could also factor into the potential capability of concealing the cable box behind the screen. You'll also want to check to make sure the remote works properly, or consider buying an infrared extender to ensure the signal is not interrupted.

Entertainment Center / Other Furniture

For those with numerous devices, sometimes storing their cable box and other media player electronics in an entertainment center, armoire, or other furniture is the best approach. Ideally, the furniture will have pre-cut holes for wires, or you'll need to add some yourself. 

It's vital to ensure your electronics have proper ventilation to avoid overheating. Because devices cool off by emitting heat, improperly ventilated furniture can pose a risk to your hardware. The last thing you want is for the cable to go out because your armoire was too stuffy!

On the downside, putting your cable box and other devices in an entertainment center can present logistical challenges. Because furniture can interfere with remotes' signals, investing in a universal controller or an infrared receiver kit can often be a wise decision. 

You'll also need to connect your cable box wires to your television, either by on-wall cable raceways or by running wires through your walls. Just make sure to use the right kit to create an in-wall wiring system, as regular cords should not be threaded behind a wall (it's actually against the National Electrical Code). You can also utilize a professional installer if your electronic setup grows in complexity and now requires taking a drill to the wall.

In Another Room

While you're thinking about wiring your wall for optimal aesthetics/functionality, you might also consider another alternative location for your cable box: an entirely different room. The ability to pursue this option will depend on how your home is built and organized but can be a great choice if you have multiple devices but don't want to clutter a space with an entertainment center.

Some pros and cons to consider:

• Clean, flexible visual appearance – With all wires running into another room and no shelves or furniture, this approach provides creative flexibility—design the room as you see fit.
• Expense profile – Because of its complicated nature, setting up your cable box in another room can be more expensive than other alternatives. Aside from the costs of wiring, you'll also need to invest in a universal or extended controller.
• High complexity – This isn't a straightforward and simple DIY project. In reality, you might have to hire a professional to help you set up the cable box in another room and ensure that the receivers aren't obstructed. 

Where To Put Cable Box For Wall-Mounted TV?

As this guide demonstrated, there are a variety of different ways to position your cable box. For some, it might require little more than another shelf installation. But for others, it might be time to get creative. 

If you have any questions regarding mounting your TV or positioning your cable box, feel free to reach out to us here at Mount-It! We standby ready to assist in any way we can.