How to Choose a Surround Sound System
As a music or movie junkie, the goal is to experience the sharpest, noise-free sound. Clarity and crisp sound quality is always the aim. However, if you are not a tech expert then you will probably find it difficult to navigate the intricate world of surround sound systems. There is so much to choose from, a whole myriad of options out there. However, today you will find out how to pick the perfect surround sound system for your needs.
Surround Sound System Quick Guide
The Television
The TV is the epicenter of the surround sound system set up. If you don’t own a television yet, you need to get your hands on one. Think about purchasing a 4K HDR television if you plan to buy a new TV. A smart TV is the way to go as you can connect them to the best headphones with Bluetooth capability and you can watch your favourite movies and shows on streaming services such as Netflix.
The Size of Your Room
Consider the size of your room when you are buying your surround sound system. Also the design and decor will also play a part in the type of speakers you choose. A simple minimal room might need a slim line, clean, minimal speakers and accessories. Some speakers are large and made to stand out, and some are designed to be hidden away and to go unnoticed. It all depends on what you are looking for.
Streaming Devices
One of the good things about purchasing a hi-tech surround sound system or home theater system is that you can actually use it as a streaming device. You can listen to your favorite music, watch your favorite movies and even connect it to your phone or laptop.
Setting it up
If you hate setting things up, then go for something that is easy to set up. If you want a straight out of the box set up, make sure that is exactly what you are getting. However, if you have the time and dedication to set up your surround sound system, then opt for something that has high-end separate parts.
What Should a Good System Include?
A good quality system should include the following:
- A good quality television or projection device with a screen
- Video source
- A connection source/ theater receiver
- Speakers- these are essential in the surround system set up. You will need:
- middle speakers
- right and left front speakers
- right and left back speakers
- Dolby atmospheric speakers
- one subwoofer or more if you want
Now let’s delve a little deeper:
TV or Projection Device and Screen
As stated earlier, you are going to need a television. You want a bold, bright and detailed picture when it comes to your television. If you have space, opt for a large screen, 50 inches or more if you can afford it. 4K HDR is the way to go. If you are going for a projector with a screen instead then again, go for a 4k projector, a high-quality one.
Video Sources
Look into purchasing a media device such as Blu-Ray or 4k media player. With these can stream from Netflix and other services. If you have a high quality smart TV, you might not use one of these for streaming; however, if you want to watch films from a physical media source like a DVD (which is pretty much archaic now) or a blu-ray, then you will need a media device.
Speakers – The Number of Speakers
The number of speakers you will need will depend largely on the quality of sound that you are seeking. The most common speaker set up consists of 5 speakers.
The middle speaker which is often referred to as the center speaker is usually placed underneath the television, some are just above the television. Left and right speakers at the front, and left and right speakers at the back. A subwoofer is optional, but if you want that extra depth of sound that opts for a subwoofer too.
Size of The Speakers
The question is, should you go for small or big speakers? It really does depend on what you are looking for in terms of design. However, large high-quality speakers are typically more effective in terms of sound quality and clarity than smaller speakers.
Best Brands?
Bose, Sonos, and Klipsch are high quality brands to consider. With excellent build quality, durability and crisp sound. These are certainly good choices, but it does largely depend on your budget and how much you are willing to spend on a surround sound system.
