24. Joel bought a new home theater system. He paid a \( \$ 1,150 \) down payment and \( \$ 190 \) per month for 12 months. What was the total amount he paid for the home theater system? \( \$ 3,230 \) \( \$ 3,330 \) \( \$ 3,430 \) \( \$ 3,500 \)

To find the total amount Joel paid for the home theater system, we start with the down payment of \( \$ 1,150 \). Then, we calculate the total monthly payments: \( \$ 190 \times 12 = \$ 2,280 \). Adding these two amounts together gives us \( \$ 1,150 + \$ 2,280 = \$ 3,430 \). So, the total amount he paid for the home theater system is \( \$ 3,430 \). Now, isn’t it fascinating to think about how home theater systems have evolved? Back in the day, having a surround sound system and a big screen was a luxury. Now, many people enjoy theater-quality experiences right in their living rooms with advancements in technology such as 4K projectors and smart speakers! If you ever find yourself in the position of budgeting for a big purchase like this, always remember to factor in not just the total cost but also the value you’ll get from your investment. Home theater systems can enhance entertainment experiences significantly, and considering the price of outings to movie theaters, they can really pay for themselves over time!