As we stream videos and immerse ourselves in high-definition pictures, it is important to note that audio has a very big role to play in the kind of experience we get. Although current flat-screen TVs provide excellent image resolution, their in-built speakers do not provide the level of sound depth and clarity that is required. This is where surround sound systems come into play. They enhance your sound to the level of the picture, which puts you right into the thick of things.
But then the question comes, with all the brands and models available, which is the best surround sound system for my TV? This guide takes you through the important features and considerations that will guide you in arriving at the right decision for home entertainment.
Why Do You Need a Surround Sound System?
Today’s TVs are thinner and thinner, but their thin profiles preclude them from having large speakers. A surround sound system fills this gap and offers a better and deeper audio experience. Here’s why you need one:
- Enhanced Dialogue Clarity: Don’t have to let a word of your favorite show or movie pass you by.
- Immersive Sound Effects: These are life-like sounds that will make you feel you are right in the middle of the real thing.
- Improved Music Playback: Surround systems are good in depth and balance, making them suitable for music lovers.
- Customizable Setup: This way, you can adapt your system to your room acoustics and the size and shape of the room.
Things to Consider When Selecting a Surround Sound System
- Your Room Size and Layout
The particular characteristics of your room define the kind of system that is most suitable.
- Small Rooms: Two-channel or soundbars are perfect for small places. 2.1 channel sound systems are also recommended for small homes or offices.
- Medium Rooms: Choose 5.1 channel systems together with satellite speakers to get the appropriate surround sound feeling.
- Large Rooms: For wider dispersion of sound, one should go for 7.1 or higher channel systems with separate rear and height speakers.
- Understanding Surround Sound Channels
The term “channel” refers to the number of audio outputs in a system. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 2.1 Channels: Two speakers and a subwoofer. Great for boosting the volume of regular television sound.
- 5.1 Channels: The most basic setup with five speakers (front, center, and rear) and a subwoofer. Perfect for movies and gaming.
- 7.1 Channels: Includes two more rear speakers for better sound.
- 5.1.4 Channels or Higher: They also include height speakers for Dolby Atmos to give the audio a three-dimensional impression.
- Wired vs. Wireless Systems
Surround sound systems are available in both wired and wireless configurations, and your choice depends on your preferences and setup flexibility:
- Wired Systems: Generally, they provide good performance and good sound quality but may require more effort while fixing them.
- Wireless Systems: More convenient and easy to install compared to the previous models, with fewer cables. Suitable for contemporary residential environments but they now and then experience network problems.
- Audio Technologies and Formats
To get the most out of your surround sound system, look for support for advanced audio technologies:
- Dolby Atmos: Gives a full sensory experience with audio that is placed above.
- DTS:X: Offers object-based audio for life-like soundscapes.
- THX Certification: Guarantees cinematic-quality sound performance.
- Hi-Res Audio: Specifically for those who would like to have spacious, clear, and detailed sound.
- Connectivity Options
Today’s surround sound systems are compatible with a number of connection types. Make sure the system you are going to select is compatible with your TV and other equipment. Look for the following:
- HDMI ARC/eARC: For high-quality audio transmission and simplified control.
- Bluetooth: Allows for wireless transmission of music from your phone, tablet, or laptop.
- Optical Cable: A workaround for those TVs that do not support HDMI ARC.
- Wi-Fi: For smart home integration and multi-room audio.
- Design and Aesthetics
The surround sound system choice should fit your room’s interior design and match it in some way. Most systems have elegant and simple designs that perfectly fit most contemporary homes. Subsequently, wall-mounted speakers, thin soundbars, or even hidden subwoofers should be chosen to ensure that the products do not take up much space.
- Smart Features
With the rise of smart homes, many surround sound systems now come with advanced features:
- Voice Control: Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri for voice control of the blender.
- Multi-Room Audio: Let your favorite tunes play in your living room, bedroom, kitchen, and other rooms in your house.
- App Control: Control settings with your smartphone, switch inputs, or stream content with your smartphone.
Types of Surround Sound Systems
- Soundbars
Soundbars are smaller home theater systems that provide good acoustic output without having to use several speakers. Some of them come with wireless subwoofers for the extra bass.- Best For: Small to medium rooms, simple setups, and minimalist aesthetics.
- Home Theater Systems
These include having multiple speakers and a subwoofer, which provide the best surround sound experience ever. These may be 5.1, 7.1, or even more configurations.- Best For: People with dedicated home theaters or those who seek to have an immersive audio experience.
- AV Receivers with Speakers
AV receivers are the control center of a home theater system and connect all your speakers and other equipment. To my mind, combining a receiver with speakers provides an opportunity to make adjustments from A to Z.- Best For: True music lovers and those who prefer to manage their home theater system manually.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Surround Sound System
- Plan Your Speaker Placement:
- Front speakers: Sit on the left or right side of the TV.
- Center speaker: Put in front of or behind the TV, towards the audience.
- Rear speakers: Place them behind the seating area for the purpose of surround.
- Subwoofer: Sit closer to the audience for bass to hit you hard.
- Connect Your System:
- HDMI ARC or eARC should be used to get better sound quality and an easier connection.
- Calibrate Your System:
- Most systems come with a calibration tool or an application that deals with sound according to the room acoustics.
- Test Your System:
- Use some music or a movie to check the proper operation of all devices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Neglecting Room Acoustics: Whereas hard floorings give echoes to the rooms, soft furnishings reduce the noises. Acoustics of your room should be balanced for the best outcome.
- Overcomplicating the Setup: If you are not much of a technical person, stick to wireless systems or soundbars.
- Skipping Calibration: Volume and tuning guarantee you the best sound for your room.
Why Cinebels Are the Best Choice for Surround Sound Systems?
From where to buy a surround sound system for your TV is as important as what surround sound system you are going to buy. Cinebels is a company that specializes in home audio and has a limited range of the best sound systems.
Why Choose Cinebels?
- Diverse Product Range: They offer a range of them, right from the small soundbar to the big home theater systems for every place and need.
- Expert Guidance: Their team of professionals will be able to advise you on the right system when you approach them.
- Trusted Brands: Cinebels has teamed up with industry giants such as Klipsch and Onkyo to offer the best experience.
- After-Sales Support: Get the peace of mind with their installation services and support.
At Cinebels, you can design and build the most comfortable home theater system. The company has a wide variety of surround sound systems that you can find in their store or on their website.
Conclusion
To get the best out of your TV, you should spend on a good surround sound system. With the right setup, you are able to have surround sound, which improves your entertainment experience. It also means that when choosing the system, you are to take into account room size, audio channels, and connectivity possibilities.
To journey with the most premium products and advice of the Cinebels’ team, contact us today. They are specifically committed to offering you the very best in home theater systems. Check their products today and be on your way to better sound quality!
