Surround Sound System Basics

With the cost of high definition televisions dropping like rocks, more people are able to afford the pleasures of a well designed home theater system. However, unlike your television which requires very little (comparatively) research, there are hundreds of variables that must be accounted for when choosing a surround sound system. The proper matching of watts, amps, speaker size, and channels can be confusing and overwhelming at first. Luckily there are a number of companies who offer all-in-one surround sound packages which make it easy to make sure you get all of the right parts.

However, there are a few decisions that still need to be made. Every surround sound system consists of the following components: Receiver/Amplifier, Subwoofer, Satellite Speakers. How many of each speaker you use is dependant on the type of system you select. 5.1 wireless surround sound systems use 5 satellite speakers and one subwoofer to deliver sound from nearly every angle. However, there has recently been a growth in popularity and compatibly of 7.1 surround sound systems which add two extra speakers behind the heads of the viewer, as opposed to just the sides.

Wired Vs. Wireless Surround Sound System

When choosing a surround sound system you are faced ultimately with two choices- wired or wireless. Wired systems must have a physical wire run from the receiver to each and every speaker. Wireless speakers can just be mounted and the signal is carried wireless through the air. If you are trying to add a home theater to your existing home, you’ve undoubtedly discovered how labor intensive and costly it can be to hard wire speakers, running cable through the walls and ceiling.

Wireless speakers are by far the easiest and most cost effective solution, however there are downsides. True audiophiles will notice a difference in clarity between wired and wireless surround sound systems. There will often be subtle static, or hums due to RF interference in wireless speakers. Also because each speaker needs its own amplifier, the overall quality will be less.

However, unless you have a trained ear, the differences will likely be too subtle for most homeowners to notice. While it’s true you will never get the best possible quality out of a wireless speaker, products like the bose surround sound system wireless offer outstanding clarity and fidelity.

Things To Consider

Whether you choose too mix and match your receiver and speakers, or buy a home theater in a box kit there are a few truths that must be considered before buying any wireless surround sound system:
Watts – Some manufacturers inflate their maximum wattage rating to make them appear louder or better quality. In fact, watts have very little to do with quality of sound. Be sure to read plenty of reviews of your selected system before making the purchase.
Match Components – The most expensive speakers in the world will sound terrible if they are powered by a cheap receiver/amplifier. Similarly a professional quality amplifier will do little to enhance a consumer level speaker. Match quality components with each other to ensure you get the maximum quality out of each.