But there are a lot of things to consider, from the number of speakers (such as 5.1, 7.1, and 9.1 setups). For example, a 5.1 system includes a woofer and five speakers— a front left, front right, front center, surround right, and surround left—while larger setups include even more speakers. If that’s just too many speakers, our experts say you should just buy the Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite, which has a main soundbar, two small speakers and two bass speakers to put behind you. Connectivity can also be a huge issue when trying to connect several speakers to a single source, so it’s essential that you make sure your chosen speakers will work with your receiver. If not, make sure to take a look at our top picks for the best stereo receivers to round out your setup. The soundbar has an HDMI ARC port, three additional HDMI ports, an optical port, as well as a coax input, so you can easily connect your gaming console, TV, projector, or Blu-ray player and get started. With Dolby Vision and HDR pass-through, you get a clean picture to go along with your surround sound. Bluetooth connectivity also lets you wirelessly stream music, while the system’s sleek and compact design will make your theater room look awesome. Channels: 7.2 | Wireless: Yes | Inputs: 3in/1 out (ARC)| Digital Assistant: None | Number of Speakers: 2 The surround sound system includes two F6.2 floor-standing speakers (which are similar to ELAC’s F5.2, but slightly more powerful), a C6.2 center unit, two B6.2 bookshelf units, and a SUB310 woofer. The floor-standing units have a frequency response of 39 to 35,000 Hz, with a nominal impedance of 6 ohms and a sensitivity of 87 dB. The woofer is a 10-inch high excursion doped paper cone woofer with a frequency response of 28 to 150 Hz, an auto EQ feature, and Bluetooth control. You can mix and match if you want, choosing a stereo (two speaker) configuration, a 5.1, or a different configuration. Channels: 2.0-5.1 | Wireless: No | Inputs: None | Digital Assistant: None | Number of Speakers: 5 With Chromecast built-in, you can stream music from apps like Spotify and Pandora. You can also connect your Google Assistant device for hands-free voice controls and smart home integration. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, you can listen to your favorite songs from your phone or tablet. Each speaker features a compact design for better placement options and to fit almost any modern decor. They also use DTS Virtual X technology to produce the cleanest audio possible. Channels: 5.1.2 | Wireless: Yes | Inputs: None | Digital Assistant: Google Assistant | Number of Speakers: 2 The design catches your eye right off the bat, even if at first glance it appears to be just another speaker set available in black. Both movie dialogue and the respective soundtracks produced a deep bass that was definitely better than other options around the high price point. Unfortunately, the Definitive subwoofer won’t rattle your bones like some higher-end Bose or Klipsch models, but the experience is still immersive and wildly enjoyable. On a similar note, Definitive’s speakers won’t take you to full volume without distortion kicking in, but there’s a handful of cinematic moments we just want to hear as loud as possible. Definitive’s best described as detail-rich, preserving the fidelity of a soundtrack while allowing for all the simultaneous effects to be heard and enjoyed. The 300-watt subwoofer paired with the center speaker and satellites are all well regarded on their own, but together they create an incredible value in high-performance audio. There’s little question you’ll end up feeling like the ProCinema 800 offers both value and a high-end experience that belies its price tag. Channels: 5.1 | Wireless: No | Inputs: 3 HDMI | Digital Assistant: No | Number of Speakers: 5 Delivering the low end is a down-firing eight-inch subwoofer with surprisingly powerful bass output for its size. Its frequency response ranges from 38 to 120 Hz, and its amplifier is rated for 50-watt RMS (continuous power) and 150-watt peak power. The best part is that it’s wireless, giving you the flexibility to place it wherever it fits and sounds best in your room. Channels: 5.1 | Wireless: Yes | Inputs: 3 HDMI | Digital Assistant: No | Number of Speakers: 5 Bill Loguidice has been writing for Lifewire since 2019. H has over 20 years’ experience covering consumer technology, home entertainment systems, gaming, and more. He’s previously been published in TechRadar, PC Gamer, and ArsTechnica. Emily Ramirez is a tech writer who studied game design at MIT and now reviews all sorts of consumer tech, from VR headsets to tower speakers.
What to Look For in a Surround Sound Speaker
Room Size
Before you look at the power output of a set of speakers, consider the size of your room. If it’s on the small side (7x10 feet), you might not need too much power and you can save a bit of money by buying a compact system. If, however, you have an expansive room (15x20 feet) to fill, don’t hold back. Go for a full-size, full-range system with more than one woofer.
5.1 vs. 7.1
A 5.1 channel setup consists of five small speakers and a subwoofer, while a 7.1 channel setup includes two additional speakers. The additional speakers provide richer sound, but can get pricier. In most cases, a 5.1 channel setup is more than enough, but if you’re looking to splurge, a 7.1 channel setup can sound very impressive. Take a look at our overview of 2.0, 2.1, 5.1, 6.1, and 7.1 channel systems if you’re not sure about what you have or what you want.
Wired vs. Wireless
A wired setup will have an edge when it comes to sound quality, but if you don’t mind sacrificing sound in the name of design, go for a wireless setup. (For tips on hiding those unsightly wires, read this.) Wireless connectivity is typically offered through Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth. Most home theater systems also come with wireless subwoofers that pair automatically with the rest of your devices for improved bass.
