The way we set up our home entertainment system can significantly influence the sound. An average system can turn into a state-of-the-art theater with some well-chosen speaker locations.
This article will help us get the best sound for our speakers. Additionally, we’ll deal with everyday problems that may get in the way of realistic sound effects. Whether we’re in the market for new speakers or improving our existing ones, this article will help us.
What is a Surround Sound System?
A surround sound system consists of many speakers. It is not like the typical stereo speakers who have only two or three speakers. The most common channel of a surround sound system is the 5.1, 7.1, and 9.1 channel.
What is the best location of the speakers in the surround sound system?
The standard speakers of a surround sound system have six speakers and more. The main components to create a surround sound are listed below.
The left and right speakers
It is the standard speakers usually found in a stereo. The best location of these speakers is beside the television at an ear level when we are sitting down.
The center speaker
The center speaker is the essential component of a surround sound system. As the name suggests, we should put the center speaker in the middle. Models like a dolby atmos soundbar, or similar ones, can provide 3D audio which could be perfect for a center speaker. The best location to place it is below or above the television. It is much better to have center shelves to hold our speakers along with the television. We can adjust the position of the speaker to point the sound toward our ear directly.
The surround speakers
The quantity of the surrounding speakers depends on our preference. If we are on a tight budget, we can go for two surround speakers to create a 5.1 channel. We can add another two surround speakers to make a 7.1 channel if we have enough money. An additional two surround speakers will make a 9.1 channel system.
The surround speakers are usually set at the back of the left and right speakers. For a more surround sound, we can put these speakers on a stand beside our sitting position.
Always direct the speakers towards us to maximize the sound effects. Make sure that the speakers are put one to two feet above our ear level.
The subwoofer
The subwoofer is in charge of the low-frequency sound or the bass sound. For a more bass sound, we must place the subwoofer on the corner or near a wall. Two subwoofers equal a better distribution of the bass. A second sub provides more impact, as well as extra dynamic and more prosperous musical dynamics. If we want to spend more, we can buy an additional subwoofer for a unique sound.
The height speakers
The best location of the height speakers is just below the ceiling. This will create a bouncing sound for a more cinematic experience. Two height speakers are needed to develop 7.1.2 or 9.1.2 channels.
Connecting the speakers on the A/V receiver
In the first place, an AV receiver is an audio amplifier that creates many channels. The stereo has only two channels linking two audio signals together. To create a surround sound system, at least six speakers are required.
A five-channel surround sound system has a six-speakers configuration. It means two at the front, two at the rear, one subwoofer, and one center channel. If we look at the back of the A/V receiver, we can see many different audio and video inputs. This is where we connect all the speakers and the television system.
Speakers set-up perfectly?
We should not worry about setting up the speakers of our home theater system. We can explore different ideas from the internet to achieve a more surround sound. There is no such thing as perfect or even excellent in the creative process. If we allow room for improvement, we can consistently achieve more significant results.
The good news is, we do not need to find “the perfect location” for each speaker. More and more speakers available now feature automatic room calibration. This helps out greatly in achieving a good sound quality. Likewise, the receiver can adjust the timing, level, and equalization for each speaker. This is to ensure the speakers are producing a pleasant sound here.