Calling all movie and TV enthusiasts! If you would like to create an epic cinema sound in your living room, then this home theatre speaker guide is for you. Whether you're a first-timer setting up your home cinema or looking to upgrade your current setup, you've come to the right place.
In this guide, we will help you navigate through various options, ensuring you pick the perfect match for your movie and TV nights. With the right set of speakers, every scene will come to life, from the subtlest whisper to the most thrilling explosion.
We will help you to understand the difference between various types of home theatre speakers. From soundbars to tower speakers to the immersive sound of surround systems, and the discreet charm of ceiling speakers, we will help you find the perfect match for your home. We will also showcase some of the best options currently on the market, such as the Audizio AD220B 2.1 Tower Speaker TV System, ensuring you make an informed decision.
So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the exciting world of home theatre speakers, so you can transform your home entertainment experience (popcorn not included!).
Understanding Home Theatre Systems
When it comes to creating an immersive audio experience in your home, understanding the components and types of home theatre systems is essential. At its core, a home theatre system is designed to replicate the experience of a cinema in your living room or designated entertainment area. This is achieved through a combination of visual and audio components, with the audio part being our focus today.
Often the terms home theatre system, home cinema system and home entertainment system are used interchangeably. Traditionally the first two were focused on creating an authentic cinema sound within your living room, while a home entertainment included other aspects of home entertainment, such as gaming and music. However, nowadays most modern theatre and cinema systems also include a number of connectivity options to suit different uses within the home.
A typical system includes a set of speakers and an amplifier with versatile connection options to connect to TVs, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. Often, a subwoofer is also included to reproduce deep bass frequencies. A wide range of speakers are available, from standalone soundbars to elaborate multi-speaker setups, each designed to cater to different acoustic needs, room sizes and budgets.
The choice of speakers is pivotal. The right speakers can elevate your viewing experience, enveloping you in sound that's crisp, clear, and vibrant. Whether it's the subtle rustle of leaves in a quiet scene or the booming bass in an action sequence, your speakers play a crucial role in bringing these sounds to life.
In the following sections, we will explore in more detail the different types of home theatre speakers available, including tower speakers, surround sound systems, ceiling speakers, and soundbars. Each type has its unique characteristics and suitability for different spaces and needs. By understanding these differences, you can make a more informed decision on what will best suit your home cinema system.
Types of Home Theatre Speakers
When delving into the world of home theatre speakers, the amount of choice can be both exciting and overwhelming. Each type of speaker offers a unique listening experience and is suited for different room sizes and acoustics. Let's explore the most common types of home theatre speakers to help you understand which might be the best fit for your home cinema system.
Tower Speakers
Tower speakers, also known as floor-standing speakers, are popular for their powerful performance and aesthetic appeal. They are capable of producing a high-powered sound with a wide range of frequencies, from high trebles to deep bass. As a result, they are versatile for various audio needs, including movies, TV, gaming and listening to music. Their larger size often results in better overall sound quality, but they do require more floor space, so are better suited to large living rooms.
Many 2.1 surround sound packages are available that include a pair of tower speakers and a subwoofer. These are popular choices in medium to large living rooms. For example, the Audizio AD220B 2.1 Tower Speaker TV System includes 400W tower speakers with three-way technology and a wide frequency response, along with an 8-inch 200W active subwoofer. This package also comes with a two-channel HiFi amplifier with a variety of inputs to connect your TV and audio sources, along with Bluetooth technology.
Pros
- Powerful and full-range sound
- Visually appealing design
- Easy to set up, and no stands or mounts needed
Cons
- Requires significant floor space
Ceiling Speakers Systems
Ceiling speakers are an excellent choice for those who prefer a minimalist look without compromising on sound quality. They are mounted into the ceiling, saving space and reducing clutter, ideal for smaller rooms where you would not have space to place tower speakers. While they offer excellent sound dispersion and can be quite discreet, their installation can be more complex and may require professional help.
Complete ceiling speaker packages are available that include all the equipment needed for setup. For example, the Audizio AD220B 2.1 Ceiling Speaker System. This system includes four 6.5-inch ceiling speakers, an 8-inch subwoofer, a versatile amplifier to connect to your TV and other devices, along with all the cables needed for setup.
Pros
- Space saving
- Discreet appearance that blends into the ceiling
- Even sound distribution throughout the room
Cons
- Installation is more complex
Surround Sound Systems
A surround sound system typically includes multiple speakers placed around the room, providing an immersive audio experience. The standard setup is 5.1, consisting of five speakers and one subwoofer. This setup envelops the viewer in sound, creating the most authentic and engaging movie-watching experience. It's ideal for large rooms where speakers can be spread out.
For example, the Fenton 5.1 Home Cinema Surround Sound System includes five hi-fi speakers, made up of two front tower speakers, two rear speakers and a centre speaker. The package also includes an 8-inch subwoofer and a 5-channel amplifier to effortlessly connect your TV and other devices.
Pros
- Immersive audio experience, ideal for movies and gaming
- Audio depth and clarity
- Customisable setup, place speakers to optimise sound
Cons
- Requires space and careful placement of speakers
Soundbars
For those with limited space or seeking a simple, unobtrusive audio solution, soundbars are an excellent choice. Soundbars offer a compact design while still providing a significant audio upgrade from standard TV speakers. The addition of a separate subwoofer will help enrich the bass, adding depth to the audio experience.
The Audizio SB90 Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer is an excellent option for TV, films, gaming and music. The soundbar features four two-inch full-range speakers with a wide frequency range, along with Bluetooth technology and a choice of connections. It comes with a separate 5.25-inch wireless subwoofer to provide extra bass to enhance your audio experience.
Pros
- Compact design takes up minimal space
- Easy installation and set-up
- Affordable option
Cons
- Limited depth and immersion compared to multi-speaker systems
Each of these speaker types has its advantages and considerations. Tower speakers and surround sound systems are great for larger rooms and those seeking a more traditional home theatre setup. Ceiling speakers offer an excellent solution for space-saving and aesthetic concerns, while soundbars are perfect for smaller spaces or for those who prefer a more straightforward setup.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Home Theatre Speakers
Selecting the right home theatre speakers involves more than just picking the biggest or most expensive model. Several key factors should influence your decision, ensuring that your chosen speakers not only fit your space but also enhance your listening experience. Here, we'll explore what to consider when choosing the best speakers for your home cinema system.
Room Sizes: The size of your room plays a significant role in speaker performance. Larger rooms may require more powerful speakers, like tower speakers or a comprehensive surround sound system, to fill the space with sound effectively. In contrast, smaller rooms might benefit from compact soundbars or ceiling speakers.
Speaker Size and Type: The size of the speakers should be in proportion to your room. Large tower speakers might overpower a small room, while small speakers may not be sufficient for a large space. The type of speaker also matters – for instance, if you enjoy movies with lots of action and bass, a system with a quality subwoofer is essential.
Compatibility and Connectivity: Ensure that the speaker system is compatible with your existing home theatre components, and consider connectivity options. Check the inputs on the HiFi amplifier to ensure it can connect easily to your TV and audio devices.
Aesthetics: While performance is paramount, don't overlook the aesthetics of your speakers. They should complement your room's decor and not be obtrusive. Sleek and minimalist designs are available that blend seamlessly with modern interiors.
Budget: Home theatre speakers come in a wide range of prices. Determine your budget beforehand, and consider that spending a little may significantly enhance your listening pleasure.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can narrow down your choices and select home theatre speakers that perfectly suit your needs and preferences.
Installation and Setup Tips
Once you have selected the ideal home theatre speakers for your space, the next step is ensuring they are properly installed and set up. This stage is crucial, as even the best speakers can underperform if not optimally placed and configured. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your home cinema system:
Speaker Placement: The placement of your speakers can significantly impact the sound quality. For surround sound systems, place the front speakers at ear level, slightly angled towards your seating area. The centre speaker should be aligned with your TV, while the rear speakers should be placed behind the seating area. For tower speakers, avoid placing them too close to walls to prevent bass reflection.
Dealing with Wires and Cables: Proper management of speaker wires and cables is not only important for aesthetics but also for safety. Use cable organisers to keep cables tidy and out of sight. For wireless speakers, ensure they are within a reliable range of their source for uninterrupted audio.
Testing the Setup: After installation, spend some time testing the setup with different types of audio content. This can include movies with a variety of sound effects, music of different genres, and even regular TV shows. Adjust the settings as needed to achieve the best sound for different types of media.
Consult Professional Help if Needed: If you're not comfortable with the installation process or have a complex system, do not hesitate to seek professional help. A professional can ensure that your speakers are properly installed, set up, and optimised for your specific room.
Regular Maintenance: Finally, ensure your speakers are well-maintained. Dust them regularly, check the connections periodically, and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or humidity.
By following these installation and setup tips, you can ensure that your home theatre speakers provide the best possible sound experience, enhancing your overall enjoyment of your home cinema system.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect home theatre speakers can transform your home entertainment experience, and make you feel like you are at the cinema when you are actually in your pyjamas in the comfort of your home. From understanding the different types of speakers available to considering factors like room size, sound quality, and budget, this guide has provided you with the essential information needed to make an informed decision.
Remember, the perfect home theatre speakers are not just about loudness or size; they're about enhancing your audio experience, bringing movies to life, and immersing you in the heart of the action. The ideal system for you will depend on a number of factors, including your personal preferences, the size of your room and the budget available. If you need any help or advice on finding the right system for you, please get in touch with our friendly customer support team.
Whether you're a TV enthusiast, a sports fan, a gamer or someone who loves hosting movie nights, the right home theatre speakers are out there waiting for you. So, take your time, choose wisely, and prepare to enjoy an immersive sound experience.
