Are you looking for the best surround sound systems for your home theater? We know it is not an easy task to find a perfect surround sound system. So many factors like space, price, type of speakers, and more come into play when buying the best home theater systems.
You’ll have to first decide between assembling different speakers, choosing an all-in-one system, or the latest soundbar. And, don’t forget the soundbase either. Which one will be apt for you and your family?
Whether it is to play games, watch movies, enjoy sports, or simply relax with music in the background, surround sound is a vital part of your home theater. Surround sound can have an immense impact on your music listening and multimedia experience.
In this post, we’ll look at different types of surround sound systems and review the 9 best surround sound home theatre systems on the market right now. We’ll also list some pros and cons, and answer some frequently asked questions about surround sound systems. Read further for more information.
Roundup of the Best Surround Sound Home Theatre Systems
| Best Overall | Polk MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2 |
| Best Entry-Level System | Yamaha YHT-5960U |
| Best for Dolby Atmos | Polk MagniFi Max AX 5.1.2 |
| Best Compact System | Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U |
| Best for Gaming | Logitech Z906 THX |
| Best Home Theater Experience | Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad |
| Best Soundbar System | Polk Audio Signa S4 Sound Bar |
| Best Budget System | VIZIO M-Series 5.1 |
| Best for Audio Enthusiasts | Klipsch Black Reference Theater |
What Components Make Up a Surround Sound System?
A surround sound speaker system comprises:
- A subwoofer to produce low bass tones
- A center speaker to produce the most important sounds (vocals, etc.)
- A satellite speaker is placed on the left and right side of the room (in front and rear)
- An Equalizer (usually built-in) to mix the sounds and deliver high-quality audio
The center speaker is a crucial part of the surround sound system. The satellite speakers vary in number based on the type of system you choose.
The 3.1, 5.1, 7.1, 8.1, and 9.1 are some models available in the market. For example, the 5.1 channel has one subwoofer, one central speaker, two front, and two rear/back speakers.
Is 5.1 or 7.1 better?
The basic difference between a 5.1 and 7.1 channel is the addition of two speakers in the latter model. There is no such answer to this question, as the 7.1 surround speakers add more depth to the audio and have a better sound field in an appropriate room.
However, in the wrong room, the result is the opposite. You’ll end up losing sound clarity and feel like the audio is heavy and unclear. The wrong arrangement of the speakers can also produce distorted sound.
If the room is of regular size, a 5.1 surround sound is the best choice, while the 7.1 works well in larger rooms where you can arrange the surround sound speakers without crowding the place. It depends on the number of speakers you want in the room.
8 Things to Consider When Looking for the Best Surround Sound System
When searching for the ideal surround sound system for your home, keep the following factors in mind:
1. AV Receiver
The AV (Audio/Video) Receiver is the central hub of your home theater system. It receives, converts, and amplifies audio signals to stream through the speakers.
An AV receiver with higher wattage can deliver better sound quality, even at low volumes.
2. Speaker System
Home theater systems come with various types of speakers, each serving a different purpose:
- Bookshelf Speakers: Compact and designed to be placed on a shelf, producing mid-to-high range frequencies.
- Floor-Standing Speakers: Also known as tower speakers, these come in various sizes and are capable of delivering a wide range of frequencies.
- In-Wall/In-Ceiling Speakers: Sleek and discreet, these can be hidden from plain sight and are fitted into walls or ceilings to produce bounce sound.
For those interested in karaoke, consider adding the best karaoke speakers to your system for added functionality.
3. Sound Quality
Sound quality is crucial for an immersive surround sound experience. The goal is to produce sound from 360 degrees, offering a rich audio experience.
Systems like the 5.1 setup offer more clarity than a 2.1 system. Home theaters with separate speakers typically have higher sound quality compared to soundbars.
4. Subwoofers
Subwoofers are designed to produce bass and low-frequency sounds, enhancing your listening experience, especially for movies and games.
Placing the subwoofer on the floor can help amplify these bass notes.
5. Size of Your Room
The size of your room significantly impacts the performance of your home theater system. Large speakers in a small room can ruin sound quality.
Consider the placement of speakers to ensure optimal audio delivery and integration with the room’s decor. For smaller rooms, a soundbar might be a better choice.
6. Connectivity
Consider how you want to connect the surround speakers to your TV, PC, or gaming console. Look for models with multiple HDMI ports to connect various devices like DVD/Blu-ray players, TVs, and gaming consoles.
Additional connectivity options include 4K upscaling, HDMI pass-through, 3D signal compatibility, Ethernet, Apple Airplay, and USB ports. Also, check for a remote control for ease of use.
7. Ease of Set Up
Not all surround sound systems are easy to set up. Some models come with clear instructions, while others might be available as a home-theater-in-a-box (all-in-one system) for easier installation.
Consider the setup process to avoid frustration.
8. Budget
Surround sound systems come in a range of prices to fit different budgets. Decide on a budget that suits your needs.
If planning to upgrade your TV, consider investing in a better speaker system to support the latest TV features.
Top 9 Surround Sound Systems for Great Entertainment and Immersive Audio
Let’s now look at the 13 best surround sound home theatre systems on the market.
1. Polk MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2
Best Overall
What Impressed Us
- Comprehensive and immersive sound
- 7.1.2 channel configuration
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS support
- Easy to set up and use
- Wireless speakers for convenience
- Voice Adjust technology for enhanced dialog clarity
- Multiple connectivity options – HDMI, optical, AUX, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Built-in Google Chromecast
What Disappointed Us
- Expensive
- Requires large spaces for optimal performance
The Polk MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2 delivers a transformative home theater experience. Supporting Dolby Atmos and DTS, it creates an immersive audio environment, with the soundbar, wireless subwoofer, and wireless surround speakers producing clear highs, detailed mids, and powerful bass. This combination ensures a cinematic experience for any movie night.
The sleek, modern design fits seamlessly into various living room setups, and the wireless surround speakers help minimize cable clutter while offering flexible placement options.
Voice Adjust Technology enhances dialogue clarity by allowing independent voice level adjustments, making it easier to understand dialogue in movies and shows. Multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, optical, AUX, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi streaming, make the system versatile, and the built-in Google Chromecast facilitates seamless streaming from apps and smart home integration.
Performance-wise, the system excels across various audio types. The soundstage is impressively wide, and the wireless subwoofer provides robust bass without overwhelming the overall audio balance.
The Polk MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2 stands out as the best overall surround sound speaker system, combining advanced features, exceptional audio performance, and a sleek design. While it comes at a higher price and requires a bit of space, its quality and immersive experience make it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts seeking a premium sound experience.
View on Amazon: Polk MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2
2. Yamaha YHT-5960U
Best Entry-Level System
What Impressed Us
- Easy setup and installation
- Excellent sound quality with clear dialogue and immersive surround sound
- Affordable price point
- Compact and space-efficient design
- Supports 8K HDMI and Wi-Fi connectivity
What Disappointed Us
- The system may not be as customizable as building a separate component system
The Yamaha YHT-5960U is selected as the best entry-level surround sound system due to its excellent balance of quality, ease of use, and affordability. This system is perfect for those new to home theater setups, providing everything needed to significantly enhance audio experiences without overwhelming the user.
For overall use, the YHT-5960U delivers clear, dynamic sound across a 5.1 channel setup, making it ideal for movies, music, and gaming alike. The included AV receiver ensures seamless integration and control of all your audio components.
This system features Yamaha’s YPAO room calibration technology, which automatically adjusts audio settings to suit the acoustics of your space. It’s compact yet powerful, with a discreet subwoofer that enhances bass without dominating the room.
In conclusion, the Yamaha YHT-5960U offers an outstanding introduction to home theater systems. It strikes a perfect balance between performance and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for those looking to upgrade their audio setup without breaking the bank.
View on Amazon: Yamaha YHT-5960U
3. Polk MagniFi Max AX 5.1.2
Best for Dolby Atmos
What Impressed Us
- Rich and immersive sound quality
- Dolby Atmos and DTS support provides dynamic, three-dimensional soundscapes for a true home theater experience
- Easy to set up and use
- Wireless subwoofer delivers powerful bass
- Versatile connectivity options
What Disappointed Us
- High price
We chose the Polk MagniFi Max AX 5.1.2 for its superior Dolby Atmos implementation, delivering an immersive audio experience that brings movies and music to life. This system is designed for those who crave cinematic sound with rich detail and depth.
Best for overall use, the MagniFi Max AX 5.1.2 excels in providing a three-dimensional soundstage that envelops the listener. The included upward-firing speakers create a realistic, overhead audio effect that enhances the sense of space and ambiance.
The system is equipped with advanced sound adjustment features that tailor output to the content type, ensuring optimal audio reproduction whether you’re watching an action-packed film or enjoying a live concert recording. Its elegant design integrates seamlessly into any home decor.
In conclusion, the Polk MagniFi Max AX 5.1.2 is a top choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. Its implementation of Dolby Atmos and user-friendly features provide a transformative listening experience that’s hard to match.
View on Amazon: Polk MagniFi Max AX 5.1.2
4. Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U
Best Compact System
What Impressed Us
- Supports 4K Ultra HD video with HDCP 2.2 support
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming
- 5.1-channel surround sound for an immersive experience
- Powered subwoofer for enhanced bass
- Affordable price point
What Disappointed Us
- May not be suitable for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound
The Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U is recognized as the best compact surround sound system for its ability to deliver powerful audio performance in a small package. This system is ideal for smaller spaces or for those who prefer a more discreet setup.
For overall use, the YHT-4950U provides a well-balanced sound with clear highs, crisp mids, and sufficient bass, thanks to its 5.1 channel configuration and subwoofer. It’s particularly effective for enhancing the clarity and depth of dialogue in movies and TV shows.
This system also includes Yamaha’s Cinema DSP technology, which simulates the sound of movie theaters and concert halls, adding an extra layer of immersion to your audio experience. The YHT-4950U is straightforward to set up and use, with Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music directly from your devices.
In conclusion, the Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality audio experience without the bulk of larger systems. Its combination of compact size, ease of use, and immersive sound makes it a standout in the compact system category.
View on Amazon: Yamaha Audio YHT-4950U
5. Logitech Z906 THX
Best for Gaming
What Impressed Us
- THX certification ensures high-fidelity sound
- Precise, detailed sound production
- Robust and powerful sound
- Multiple input options; offers both analog and digital connections
- 5.1 immersive sound experience
- User-friendly controls
- Durable and sturdy
What Disappointed Us
- Somewhat bulky components
- No HDMI ports
The Logitech Z906 THX is selected as the best surround sound system for gaming due to its THX certification and powerful audio output, which create an immersive gaming environment. This system delivers a cinematic quality that enhances every game, movie, and music experience.
For overall use, the Z906 excels in delivering detailed sound with its 5.1 speaker configuration. The 500 watts of power ensure that sound is both loud and clear, with deep bass from the subwoofer that adds intensity to game explosions and movie soundtracks.
This system features multiple inputs, allowing simultaneous connections to various devices, and comes with a control console that makes switching between inputs easy. The compact satellite speakers can be mounted for an optimized gaming setup.
In conclusion, the Logitech Z906 THX offers an unbeatable sound experience for gamers. Its powerful, precise audio and versatile setup options make it the perfect addition to any gaming rig.
View on Amazon: Logitech Z906 THX
6. Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad
Best Home Theater Experience
What Impressed Us
- Exceptional soundstage with immersive surround sound
- Not sensitive to placement, making it easy to set up
- Supports advanced formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS
- 360 Spatial Mapping works great for a fully immersive experience
- Reliable performance with no dropouts
What Disappointed Us
- No included subwoofer
- More expensive than a premium soundbar
The Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad is the top choice for those seeking the ultimate home theater experience. This system integrates seamlessly with Sony BRAVIA TVs, providing a user-friendly setup and operation that enhances any film or TV show.
Best for overall use, the BRAVIA Theater Quad features advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS, which produce a spacious and lifelike sound environment. The system’s four floor-standing speakers ensure that sound is evenly distributed, creating a truly immersive audio field.
The design is sleek and modern, matching well with contemporary home decor. The system also supports high-resolution audio playback, ensuring that you hear every detail in the highest quality possible.
In conclusion, the Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to recreate a cinematic experience at home. Its integration with Sony TVs and cutting-edge audio technologies offer unmatched sound quality and convenience.
View on Amazon: Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad
7. Polk Audio Signa S4 Sound Bar
Best Soundbar System
What Impressed Us
- Supports Dolby Atmos content for immersive audio
- Dedicated center channel for clear dialogue
- Compact and sleek design
- Wireless subwoofer for easy setup
- Affordable price compared to similar soundbars
What Disappointed Us
- Lacks surround sound speakers for a more immersive experience
- Limited sound enhancement features
The Polk Audio Signa S4 Sound Bar is acclaimed for its compact design and impressive performance, making it the best soundbar system. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a minimalist setup without sacrificing sound quality.
Best for overall use, the Signa S4 provides a powerful and clear audio output with its integrated subwoofer and patented voice adjust technology. This feature enhances voice clarity, making it ideal for watching TV shows and movies where dialogue is essential.
The sleek profile of the Signa S4 allows it to blend seamlessly under most TVs, and its setup is straightforward with minimal cabling. It supports both HDMI ARC and optical inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of TVs.
In conclusion, the Polk Audio Signa S4 Sound Bar is perfect for users seeking a simple, space-saving audio solution without compromising on sound quality. Its ease of use, robust feature set, and sleek design make it a standout choice in the soundbar category.
View on Amazon: Polk Audio Signa S4 Sound Bar
8. VIZIO M-Series 5.1
Best Budget System
What Impressed Us
- Immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos and DTS
- Compact and sleek design
- Wireless subwoofer for added bass
- Rear surround speakers for a more immersive experience
- Affordable price point
What Disappointed Us
- Not ideal for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound
Selected for its excellent value, the VIZIO M-Series 5.1 surround sound system offers high-quality audio at an affordable price. This makes it the best budget system for consumers who want immersive sound without a hefty investment.
Best for overall use, the M-Series 5.1 features five speakers and a wireless subwoofer, creating a balanced and dynamic audio landscape. The system supports Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual, which add depth and realism to the audio output.
The compact and versatile design of the speakers allows for easy placement around any room, and the wireless subwoofer can be situated anywhere to optimize bass response. The system is user-friendly, with straightforward controls and setup.
In conclusion, the VIZIO M-Series 5.1 delivers an impressive surround sound experience at a budget-friendly price. Its performance, ease of use, and affordability make it an excellent choice for cost-conscious consumers looking for quality audio.
View on Amazon: VIZIO M-Series 5.1
9. Klipsch Black Reference Theater
Best for Audio Enthusiasts
What Impressed Us
- Immersive Dolby Atmos experience
- Clear and detailed sound
- Compact and sleek design
- Good value for the price
What Disappointed Us
- Not ideal for large rooms
Klipsch Black Reference Theater is chosen for its exceptional audio performance that caters to the discerning audio enthusiast. This system delivers detailed and powerful sound, characteristic of Klipsch’s commitment to audio excellence.
Best for overall use, the Black Reference Theater immerses you in sound with its precise acoustics and robust volume capabilities. The system’s exclusive Tractrix Horn technology ensures that high frequencies are aimed directly at the listener with reduced artificial reverb or filtering caused by indirect sound bouncing off of walls.
The speakers feature a sleek, minimalistic design that complements any room without being intrusive. Each component is built with high-quality materials for durability and aesthetic appeal.
In conclusion, the Klipsch Black Reference Theater is ideal for audiophiles who demand unrivaled sound quality in their home theaters. Its advanced engineering and high-fidelity sound provide a listening experience that truly stands out from the crowd.
View on Amazon: Klipsch Black Reference Theater
How to Set Up Surround Sound?
Setting up the surround sound speakers determines whether the system can deliver the promised sound quality or not. The best way to set up surround sound is to follow the instruction manual provided by the brand.
That said, it’s not always simple to understand the instructions and the complicated setup can be confusing. Many people find it challenging to get the right home theater effect without some help.
Follow these steps to set up surround sound at home:
- Fine-tune the surround sound speakers
- Evaluate the acoustics of your room
- Create a clear path for audio to flow
- Angle the speakers per your convenience
Frequently Asked Questions About Surround Sound Home Theater Systems
The following are the best brands to buy a home theater system:
– Klipsch
– Sony
– Acoustic Audio
– Bose
– Philips
The Acoustic Audio AA5170 Home Theater 5.1 with Bluetooth Speakers System is one of the most affordable surround sound systems in the market. Philips SPA8000B/94 5.1 Channel and Sony SA-D40 C E12 4.1 Channel are two other options you can evaluate if you are on a shoestring budget.
The bit rates and compression levels are the two major differences between Dolby and DTS. Dolby compresses 5.1 digital audio to 640 kilobits per second. DTS doesn’t compress as much and has a bit rate of 1.5 megabits per second.
In HD formats, Dolby supports up to 1.7 Mbps while DTS-HD supports up to 7 Mbps. A system that compresses less is said to produce audio that’s more close to the original.
Atmos is a surround sound technology that was developed by Dolby in 2012. It has quickly become famous and an integral part of home theater systems. In simple words, Atmos is the expansion of surround sound to include overhead effects. The speakers are placed in the ceiling to create complete surround sound. Not all TVs and DVDs are compatible with Atmos.
Virtual surround sound is a concept where perception is created that there are more sound sources than the actual number. A person is tricked into thinking that a sound is being produced by a source that doesn’t even exist. Virtual surround sound is used to enhance the gaming experience.
Using an HDMI cable is the best way to connect a soundbar to a TV. The HDMI cable retains sound quality and is compatible with most of the high-end soundbar models. Don’t forget to turn on the sync/control for HDMI on the TV and the soundbar. The HDMI cable requires to be plugged into the ARC and HDMI output in the respective devices.
The bookshelf speakers have a wider range of frequencies and contain low and high-frequency drivers. Satellite speakers work with high-frequency sounds while the rest of the surround speakers produce low and mid-frequency sounds.
The primary difference between an active vs passive speakers is that the active speaker has a built-in amplifier.
The passive speaker is connected to an external amplifier using a wire. Subwoofers and Bluetooth speakers (wireless) are considered active speakers. Also, the crossover circuit filters the signals before it is amplified in the active speakers. This results in more power going to each speaker and thus, producing high-quality sound.
Final Words
After thoroughly reviewing the top surround sound systems on the market, we highly recommend the Polk MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2 and the Klipsch Black Reference Theater as the best choices for enhancing your audio experience at home.
The Polk MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2, our overall best pick, offers an unmatched surround sound experience, perfect for movie lovers and audiophiles alike. Its advanced features, including Dolby Atmos and 7.1.2 channel configuration, create an immersive listening environment that brings every film and song to life with stunning clarity and depth.
On the other hand, the Klipsch Black Reference Theater is ideal for those who prioritize audio quality and desire a truly cinematic sound at home. Known for its precise acoustics and powerful output, this system delivers an exceptional audio performance that makes every listening session a remarkable experience.
Both systems stand out in their respective categories, offering top-notch sound quality that will transform your living room into a personal theater. Whether you’re watching your favorite movies, streaming concerts, or enjoying family time with games, these sound systems provide the perfect audio backdrop to enhance every moment.
Convert your home into a home theater and enjoy the surround sound!
