Brands of home theater systems
18 Best Home Theater Systems For Everyone [2022 Reviews]
Let’s take a closer look at the best home theater systems.
Here’s a quick roundup of each unit:
| Device | Surround Speakers | Wireless | Connectivity | Dolby Atmos | DTS | Price |
| Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 | 7.1 | Yes | HDMI, HDMI ARC, USB, Bluetooth aptX, | Yes | Yes | $1,399 |
| Polk Audio 5.1 Channel Home Theater System | 5.1 | No | HDMI, HDMI ARC, USB, Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | $526 |
| VIZIO - SmartCast 5.1 Channel Sound Bar System | 5.1 | Mixed | WiFi, Chromecast HDMI, HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, USB | Yes | Yes | $249. |
| Focal Sib Evo Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 Home Cinema System | 5.1.2 | No | HDMI, HDMI ARC, USB, Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | $1,299 |
| Onkyo HT-S7800 5.1.2 | 5.1.2 | Mixed | Google Cast, WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI | Yes | Yes | $999 |
| SVS Prime Satellite 5.1 | 5.1 | No | HDMI, HDMI ARC, USB, | Yes | Yes | $999 |
| Yamaha YHT-5950UBL | 5.1.2 | No | HDMI, WiFi, Bluetooth, MusicCast, AirPlay | Yes | Yes | $599 |
| VIZIO SB46514-F6 | 5.1.4 | Yes | HDMI, Bluetooth, Chromecast, WiFi | Yes | Yes | $999 |
| Enclave Audio CineHome HD 5.1 Wireless Home Theater System | 5.1 | Yes | HDMI, HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, Chromecast | Yes | Yes | $799 |
Aperion Audio Novus 5. 0.2 | 5.0.2 | No | HDMI, HDMI ARC, USB, | Yes | Yes | $2995 |
| Elac Debut 2.0-5.1 System | 5.1 | No | HDMI, HDMI ARC, USB, | No | No | $1,829 |
| Sony CS-Series Speakers Bundle | 5.1 | No | HDMI, HDMI ARC, USB, | Yes | No | $868 |
| Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System | 5.1 | No | RCA cables, Headphone jack, channel direct | Yes | Yes | $396.99 |
| Onkyo HT-S3910 Home Audio Theater | 5.1 | No | HDMI, HDMI ARC, USB, Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | $540 |
| Rockville HTS56 1000w 5.1 Channel Home Theater System | 5.1 | No | Bluetooth, USB, RCA, SD Input | No | No | $164.95 |
Klipsch 11. 2 Atmos Home Theater System | 7.1 | No | HDMI, WiFi, Bluetooth, MusicCast, AirPlay | Yes | Yes | $6,999 |
| Bose Lifestyle 650 Home Entertainment System | 5.1 | Yes | HDMI, USB, | No | Yes | $3,999 |
Have you noticed how more people are turning their houses into smart homes lately? Well, a home theater system is somewhere along that trend.
It’s all about getting the essential equipment to recreate a typical cinema in your house. That includes a high-resolution TV to mimic the big screen’s visuals. But more importantly, it’s accompanied by surround sound systems. These are composed of multiple speakers that produce sound in various directions.
According to this report, it’s expected that the home theater market will grow by $2.
87 billion by 2024. All the more reason to get your hands on the best home theater system!
Speakers don’t just magically give you that surround experience without the proper soundtrack formats, or what we call ‘codecs’.
So here are the most common and industry-standard soundtracks:
Dolby AtmosDolby Atmos is like a gift from the audio gods. It’s an object-based surround sound format that bounces off the sound in multiple directions. As a result, you experience the same auditory environment as what you’re seeing on your screen.
Some home theater speakers are already Atmos-enabled, but those that are not will need an A/V receiver that supports it.
Dolby TrueHDIt’s the next best thing to Atmos. It’s a lossless format, which means the audio quality from the main source is retained upon playback.
No element is stripped away from the original recording. So if you’re watching a movie or listening to a song, you get to hear what the creators expect you to hear. An A/V receiver can easily decode Dolby TrueHD signals, but alternatively, you can use a Blu-Ray disc player for decoding.
Dolby Digital Plus is present in most home audio systems and receivers. They can quickly decode this format with the help of HDMI cables. It has lesser compression, full dynamic range, and realistic audio quality. This soundtrack is typically supported by mobile connectivity such as phones, tablets, computers, etc.
DTSDTS is the direct competitor of Dolby Digital. In contrast to the latter’s object-based surround sound, DTS goes for a multi-dimensional surround. It offers much less compressed audio quality as well as a higher bit rate. It’s the more attainable format, too, since it can run on a standard 5.
1 system. Its advanced variation, the DTS:X, can run on regular 7.1 surround sound speaker systems without the need for extra speakers.
Among other DTS soundtracks, the DTS-HD Master Audio has a higher response for low and high frequencies and a much wider dynamic range. Again, a home theater receiver can decode this format with an HDMI or an HD Blu-ray player.
Keep in mind that the best home theater systems can be easily defined by the sound formats they support!
How To Choose the Best Home Theater SystemNeed help picking the best option from the long list of home theater systems?
These are great deciding factors:
Number of Surround SpeakersHow many speaker channels do you need for a complete surround sound setup?
For the best 5.1 surround sound system, you can choose from Polk Audio, VIZIO SmartCast, Onkyo HT-S7800, or Focal Sib Evo Dolby Atmos.
On the other hand, 7.1 surround sound speaker systems like the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 or the Klipsch 11.2 Atmos Home Theater System are great choices.
Wired vs. WirelessTraditional speaker systems are usually interconnected with one another, or connect to a single source to get things going. If you prefer it that way, then you can consider options like SVS Prime Satellite, Yamaha YHT-5950UBL, Elac Debut 2.0-5.1, or the Sony CS-Series.
Wireless surround speakers lose the need for cables, which use either their own synchronization channels or WiFi connectivity to work. Those units include the Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4, Enclave Audio CineHome HD, VIZIO SB46514-F6, and Bose Lifestyle 650.
Home theater systems with a mix of both would be VIZIO SmartCast and Onkyo HT-S7800.
ConnectivityMost speaker systems now allow you to play content from different sources with different connectivity options.
If you’d like Bluetooth surround sound, both of the Onkyo 5.1 systems are excellent choices. Most of the units included in the list also offer Bluetooth connectivity, so anything goes!
Only a few of them have a Google Cast connectivity option though. This is a great tool if you plan to use a Chromecast to stream content from entertainment apps. That includes both VIZIO SmartCast and SB46514-F6, Onkyo HT-S7800, and Enclave Audio CineHome HD.
SoundtracksIt’s an extra advantage to get the best home theater systems that can support various audio formats. For that immersive and realistic audio output, the speakers should be able to decode the encoded soundtracks in formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS, and the ones mentioned above.
Most systems on this list have that ability, except for Elac Debut 2.0-5.1 System. But if you still prefer that brand, you can purchase separate Dolby or DTS modules for that.
How much do you plan to spend on home audio systems?
If you’re on a tight budget, your best picks include Polk Audio, VIZIO SmartCast, Logitech Z906, and Rockville HTS56. These are all under $1000, with the latter units not even close to $500!
On the flip side, the luxury units include the Aperion Audio Novus, Klipsch 11.2 Atmos, and Bose Lifestyle 650. You’re paying the top dollar here as they go beyond the 2000-buck mark.
But if you’re somewhere in the middle, the Shockwafe Ultra and Focal Sib Evo Dolby Atmos are probably the best surround sound speakers you can invest in.
Wrap UpMovie nights, marathons, watch parties, streaming sessions…
All sorts of entertainment, you can get in the best home theater system.
Now it’s even more practical and enjoyable than endless trips to the cinema!
Just be sure you’ve considered all the essentials to make a wise purchase.
Or to cut the process, you can just pick a set from the list above, and off you go.
Let the binge-watching begin!
8 Best Home Theater Systems 2022
By Bob Cole
Last updated on
What's the best home theater system? Well, it depends on you, the one in the driver's seat. There are so many different ways to deliver on a killer home theater system across a variety of room types, budget types, and personal preference. And we cover them all right here. A good sound system will make any TV look BIGGER. A killer surround sound speaker system will give you goosebumps. And the ultimate Dolby speaker system will truly suspend your disbelief and transport you to other galaxies. We're here for all of it.
There are three types of home theater shoppers. Some folks love the process and dive in head first, reading about all the options, researching how different component combinations deliver different results, and so on.
Other folks could care less about options, details, and specs – they just want an awesome home theater, thank you very much. And then there’s the biggest group: everyone in the middle. Our “Best Home Theaters” guide was written for all, but especially those looking for veteran experts to share their picks of the best home theater systems.
Below you'll find our picks for best home theater systems in a variety of categories: best for the money, best looking, best in show, and so on. Along the way: no hype, no bull – just some occasional we-can’t-help-ourselves honest enthusiasm for a great home theater experience. You can also check out our recommendations for surround sound systems and speakers here. You can check out the FAQ at the bottom of the page, or talk with more than a dozen World Wide Stereo home theater pros that are leading the way – and also standing by to answer any and all questions – you got this.
Our Picks for the Best Home Theater Systems of 2022:
- The Smartest Home Theater System:
Sonos Surround Set with Arc Sound Bar, Subwoofer, and One Gen 2 Speakers - The Best Surround Sound System for Small Rooms:
SVS Prime Satellite 5.
1 Package - The Best Compact 5.1 Home Theater System:
Sonos 5.1 Home Theater Set with Beam (Gen 2), Sub (Gen 3), and One (Gen 2) - The Best Wireless Home Theater System:
Bose Soundbar 900 with Bass Module 700 - The Best 5.1 Home Theater System Under $2,500:
Bowers & Wilkins 5.1 Channel Satellite Speaker Package - The Best Budget Home Theater System:
Polk React Home Theater System with React Sound Bar, Wireless Sub, and Surrounds - The Best Surround Sound System:
Focal Chora 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos Home Theater System - The Best 5.1 Home Theater System Under $4,000:
Klipsch Reference Premiere II 5.1 Home Theater Speaker System with 12" Sub
2022 Home Theater System Deals
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1. The Smartest Home Theater System:
Sonos Surround Set with Arc Wireless Dolby Atmos Sound Bar, Subwoofer, and One Gen 2 Speakers
$2,086.00
Sonos made quite a name for themselves with their wireless connection and streaming ecosystem that simplified setup and pioneered voice control. The Arc Sound Bar builds on that brilliant system and fantastic sound quality and adds complete Dolby Atmos capability. The elegant, curved-mesh design of the Arc and the One Surround Speakers underscores this unified concept. The Sub subwoofer has a groundbreaking design: its twin drivers fire into an opening in the center of the cabinet, providing furniture-shaking low end, no matter where you put the speaker. This Sonos system creates an extremely high-quality 3D sound experience with a surprisingly wide soundstage and extraordinary midrange clarity that facilitates clear dialogue, and when streaming Atmos content, fantastic overhead and surround placement.
Whereas most multi-speaker wireless systems use their own proprietary wireless connections, Sonos uses your existing Wi-Fi system to communicate with its components. You can also plug an Ethernet cable into the sound bar or one of the speakers, and then the system will create its own dedicated wireless network to share audio and control information. Also note: Sonos is like LEGOs (which we wrote all about in our Sonos Buying Guide here). With superb Alexa and Google Assistant integration, the Sonos Surround Set is ready to the digital hub of your household, doing much more than stream the shows and music you love.
Also check out our in depth Sonos Arc Soundbar review.
Surround Set with Arc Wireless Dolby Atmos Sound Bar, Subwoofer, and Pair of One Gen 2 Speakers
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2. The Best Surround Sound System for Small Rooms:
SVS Prime Satellite 5.1 Package
$1,199.00 – $1,399.00
Over the last two decades, SVS has grown into one of the most respected brands in the industry.
Initially known for their sternum-vibrating / room-shaking / award-winning subwoofers, today’s new SVS systems can compete with anyone – and the SVS Prime Satellite 5.1 home theater package is a great example. Its compact and easier to fit in a smaller room but turn it up and boom: your small room becomes the Hollywood Bowl.
Each SVS Prime Satellite speaker is about the size of a loaf of bread and contains a 4.5-inch midrange driver and a one-inch tweeter. Small, yes, but they punch like Roberto Duran. The 12-inch driver in the already legendary, 300-watt powered SVS-1000 subwoofer will, on the other hand, have you holding on to your seat. It’s small, too, and neatly tucks into any corner. The system is wired as opposed to wireless, but for the price, the SVS Prime Satellite 5.1 Package may just be the biggest “little” 5.1 system on the market. (Want something a little bigger? Check out SVS’s “Ultra” series line of speakers. We carry those, too.)
Another big SVS advantage: gaming.
A lot of our customers keep their gaming systems in small dens and spare bedrooms. And if you really want to put yourself in the middle of a Gears of War or Call of Duty battle, sans headphones – and you don’t want to spend a fortune to do it – the SVS Prime Satellite 5.1 Package is for you. SVS rocks.
Check out our full SVS Prime Wireless Speaker review.
Prime Satellite 5.1 Package
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3. The Best Compact 5.1 Home Theater System:
Sonos 5.1 Home Theater Set with Beam (Gen 2), Sub (Gen 3), and One (Gen 2)
$1,636.00
There are a few things more harmful to household harmony than a small living room with half the floor space cluttered with audio gear. The Sonos 5.1 Home Theater Set is a brilliant choice for any apartment dwellers who crave true surround sound and Dolby Atmos compatibility. The second-generation Beam sound bar is only half as wide as many of the larger sound bars on the market yet is fully compatible with 3D audio in a variety of formats.
It connects with all modern televisions with HDMI eARC, so not only can it pass through true Atmos content, but it’ll be compatible with formats coming down the pike in the future.
The Sub subwoofer with its center-facing drivers can be placed nearly anywhere you have a spot of it, yet it can still provide floor-rattling sound effects. Place the two surround speakers behind your sofa, and within a few minutes of easy setup time you’ve got a full-on 5.1 system, complete with Dolby Atmos height channels.
Sonos has been a market leader with integrating Google Alexa, so you can stream from a variety of services and apps, configure the settings, and control additional speakers throughout your home just by using your voice. Apply AirPlay 2 makes it a snap to stream content from your Apple devices. Need to be considerate of neighbors or progeny sleeping in the next room? Just activate Night Mode to reduce the volume of the booms and thuds while raising the level of the romantic whispers, so can keep the experience while keeping the peace.
Also check out our full Sonos Beam Gen 2 Soundbar Review.
5.1 Home Theater Set with Beam (Gen 2), Sub (Gen 3), and One (Gen 2)
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4. The Best Wireless Home Theater System:
Bose Soundbar 900 Home Theater System with Bass Module 700 Subwoofer
$1,748.00
In our “Best Sound Bars of 2022” article, the Bose Soundbar 900 won smartest sound bar for surround sound. Now here as the core component in the Bose Smart Wireless Home Theater System, Bose does it again. The Bose SB900 won because we turned it on and were promptly blown away by a sound field that A) seemed much wider than any other pre-packaged system we tested, B) made dialogue – even soft or whispered dialogue – crystal clear, and C) was equally effective no matter where we sat.
Every component in this system is part of Bose’s family of smart wireless speakers. Start with this system, and place a Bose Home Speaker 500 in the kitchen and the smaller TV Speaker in your bedroom for a multi-room audio experience throughout the house.
And with Amazon Alexa built-in, you can control it all with simple voice commands.
5. The Best 5.1 Home Theater System Under $2,500:
Bowers & Wilkins 5.1 Channel Satellite Speaker Package
$2,094.00
For decades, Bowers and Wilkins has provided monitor speakers to the artists, engineers, and producers who create your favorite music and soundtracks. Audio professionals have come to rely on the accuracy and beauty of the sound of Bowers & Wilkins monitors. And now, Bowers & Wilkins has come up with a brilliant way to provide that same sound in a remarkably compact monitor speaker that’s designed to be the core of a stereo system or part of an integrated 5.1 system. When you swivel an M1 Satellite Speaker into a horizontal position, it can excel as the center channel speaker of a 5.1 system. The M1s provide extraordinarily clear and focused sound, yet they can fit easily on a bookshelf, a table, or a floor stand, or you can use the included brackets to mount them on your wall.
The ASW608 Compact Subwoofer barely takes up one square foot of floor space, yet delivers bass frequencies without distortion, even at a volume that rattles your windows. If you’ve been dreaming of adding a high-end surround system to your home theater, you couldn’t ask for a better option then the Bowers & Wilkins 5.1 Channel Satellite Speaker Package. Give our experts a call anytime to talk about options for configuring these speakers in your space, as well as choosing a receiver that’s optimized for your needs.
6. The Best Budget Home Theater System:
Polk Audio React Home Theater System with React Sound Bar, Wireless Subwoofer, and Wireless Surround Speakers
$667.00
This affordable system gives you sound and functionality that defies comprehension when you know how inexpensive it is. The Polk Audio React system provides astonishing 5.1 surround sound, has the simplest wireless setup imaginable, gives you complete voice control, and integrates with all your home devices.
At the heart of the system is the React Sound Bar, which amazed bloggers, reviewers, and even audiophiles with its excellent sound, slim profile, and comprehensive Alexa implementation. This model provides a significant upgrade to its sound and Alexa functionality (and say goodbye to that distracting light ring), while still maintaining its compact size.
Besides the React Sound Bar, the set includes the React Subwoofer and a pair of SR2 Wireless Surround Speakers. Even with its booty-shaking 7" downward-firing speaker, the subwoofer doesn’t hog floor space. The surround speakers aren’t much bigger than a video game console — they take up hardly any space when you put them on a table or shelves — but they’ll fill your room with real 5.1 sound. Once you’ve powered them up, setup requires less time than it takes to make breakfast. Just scan the QR code on the back of the sound bar, and your Alexa app handles the rest, giving you very clear instructions and confirming when everything is ready to go.
Even by itself, the React Sound Bar is a tremendous upgrade to the sound quality of your TV’s built-in system — with DTS, it can deliver 3D sound for games and movies that is quite impressive. Once you connect the other components, the system reconfigures its EQ settings to give you an immersive sound surround experience that we find immensely satisfying.
React Home Theater System with React Sound Bar, Wireless Subwoofer, and Wireless Surround Speakers
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Okay people – tray tables up and tighten those seat belts. We’re going big.
Now we transition from the smaller, easy-to-set-up home theater systems to the bigger, knock-your-socks-off setups. The following systems were hand-picked by our experts, often mixed and matched from different audio brands. In all, it’s like going from motor scooters to motorcycles: both are fun, both get the job done, but the latter is more about perfectly replicating big, serious, cinematic sound at home.
Further, these bigger home theater systems are more customizable with respect to sound and design aesthetics.
7. The Best Surround Sound System:
Focal Chora 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos Home Theater System
$6,841.00
Regular Price: $9,982.00
Save: $3,141.00 (31%)
As far as best speaker systems go, this system defines best. One premier French speaker manufacturer plus one energetic subwoofer company equals one fantastic listening experience. And not only is this a high performing home theater setup, this system will sound just as good for your two-channel stereo listening when you just want to kick back and listen to some music. Focal’s Chora series is incredibly well-built and designed to offer realism unparalleled at the price point. With this particular package, the 4-way floorstanding speakers each feature a Dolby Atmos speaker planted into the top panel of the speaker. With a dedicated center channel as well as a pair of surround speakers which can be hung on the wall for a neat theater look—you will think fighter planes are soaring over your head as you watch the latest action film.
Completing the system are two 12” SVS PB-2000 ported subwoofers. We hope you have everything on the walls of your house securely fastened or else those items are destined to meet the floor. These 12” monsters can easily create some seriously impressive bass response, but can also be quite refined with the built-in 550-watt amplifier keeping the subwoofer in check.
Check out our full review of the Focal Chora 826-D speakers.
Chora 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos Home Theater System
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8. The Best 5.1 Home Theater System Under $4,000:
Klipsch Reference Premiere II 5.1 Home Theater Speaker System with 12" Sub
$3,295.00
Regular Price: $3,645.00
Save: $350.00 (10%)
It’s hard to think about high-end home audio without thinking about Klipsch. Over half a century of fine-tuning and dialing in the home theater listening experience has gone into the Reference Premiere II line, and believe us, you can hear it.
Two RP-6000 II floorstanding speakers deliver crisp and clean high-end sound while the RP-404C II center channel speaker ensures that you hear clear and defined dialogue. The SPL-120SW 12” subwoofer delivers explosive, deep, and rich bass to really fill out the rest of your space, and to top it all off, the RP-500SA II speakers that come in this bundle can be used as Dolby Atmos speakers but double as overhead rear surrounds to create a captivating soundscape that envelops the whole room.
This system isn’t just for movies. For music lovers, a system like this can change how you enjoy your favorite records. Since each speaker plays its own role in the setup, you can enjoy a perfectly balanced listening experience that accentuates all the little intricacies and hidden layers of your favorite music. Sure, your neighbors might get a little annoyed... Just make sure you invite them over for movie night. Two minutes into the movie they’ll forget that they were ever mad in the first place.
Also check out our full Klipsch Reference Premiere II Speaker review.
Reference Premiere RP-6000F II 5.1 Home Theater System
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Three quick things about this guide...
1. This is not about TVs.
It’s the question we get most: “So, what exactly is a home theater system?” And though (obviously) a good TV and/or projector and screen are principal to the experience, home theater is all about sound. Or more to the point: sound so real, so lifelike and so 3-dimensional, it suspends disbelief and puts you in the action. And the bigger and better the sound, the bigger and better the experience. (If you do want to upgrade your TV, our Top TVs of 2022 buying guide is a must-read.)
2. What you need:
A typical home theater system includes a home theater receiver (where the power comes from / what everything connects to) and speakers – including (but certainly not limited to): a center speaker, right and left front speakers, right and left rear speakers, special effect speakers (or height speakers) for Dolby Atmos, and a subwoofer or two.
3. The three distinct types:
The type of home theater system you choose will depend on several factors, but here's the good news: there’s a home theater solution for every situation. The three types include:
- Pre-packaged home theater systems (aka home-theater-in-a-box). Very easy to set up and everything matches.
- A home theater system made up of separate components. More customizable with respect to sound and design aesthetics.
- A dedicated, custom designed and installed home theater. Where we gut the whole room and start over – new walls, new ceiling, built-in components, luxury theater seating and lighting, cinematic touches throughout, and so on. (What we call “the whole shootin’ match.”) Pricey, yes, but more common than you might think.
This article covers the first two. For those interested in the third – a dedicated, custom designed and installed home theater – please contact us here. Our designers and home theater technicians will provide options, references and photos of award-winning, custom home theaters designed and built by World Wide Stereo to exacting specifications.
What do I need for a Dolby Atmos setup?
The first thing you'll need for a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos home theater setup is a Dolby Atmos capable receiver. Additionally, you'll need eight speakers: a center speaker, two left and right main speakers, left and right surrounds, a pair of Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers, and a subwoofer.
You'll also need to handle the visuals, whether that be from an external device like a blue ray player, a projector, or the internal apps on your TV.
Lastly, you'll need the proper cables. High-speed HDMI cables, enough speaker wire to connect all of the speakers, and an RCA cable long enough to connect your subwoofer to your receiver.
We know this seems like a lot, but don't worry. For receivers, you can consult our AV Receiver Buying Guide and gear guide to help you decide on the best option. If you're looking for a new TV to compliment your new Dolby Atmos system, we've got your back there, too! Check out our guide on how to choose which TV to buy to see all our suggestions on how you can pick the TV that meets your needs no matter what your budget is.
How much does a home theater cost?
It really depends on what you want, the size of the room, and your budget. A home theater setup can vary from $667 to $8,000 or more. Fortunately, we have home theater bundles for every price range!
What home theater receiver do I need?
That depends on what the rest of your setup is like. We'd recommend taking a look at our AV receivers Buying Guide to find out what to look for to fit your needs! If you're still having trouble, you can always reach out to us, with over a dozen seasoned pros standing by to help you figure out precisely what you need!
What home theater system should I buy?
You should buy what fits your wants and needs, and never settle for less! For a good starting point, you can take a look at some of our recommendations here.
What home theater projector should I buy?
We'd suggest you take a look at our guide for Best Projectors. There are plenty of options there for different needs and budgets; we're confident you'll find one that fits you.
If you're still feeling a little lost, you can always contact us and one of our pros will be able to give you a recommendation based on your needs.
Can I connect my home theater to my laptop or PC?
It depends on the system, but if it can be set up through a single HDMI cable or wirelessly, it can be!
Are home theater systems good for music?
Heck yeah they are! While music might not be as immersive as movies or TV shows with a good surround system, it can still certainly provide a fully immersive surround listening experience.
Are Home Theater Systems Wireless?
Not all of them, but there are wireless options available!
Still not sure? We got this.
Even with our Home Theater Systems Buying Guide and our “best” picks above, maybe you’re not sure what to get, or what to do next. No surprise there, home theaters come in many, many variations… and shopping for the right one for you, your house, and your budget can be a bit intimidating.
Which is why we invite you to call or email us anytime.
We can help you hone your choices, open your eyes to possibilities you may not have considered, and save you money in the process – just like we’ve done for thousands of customers over our 40 years in the business. We’ll need your room dimensions, a general idea of your room layout, how much you can spend… even what kinds of movies, shows, and music you like best. Our one and only goal: helping you get it right. Our one and only motive: doing such a great job, you tell your friends, neighbors (even your cousin Ricky) about us.
One more thing:
A last word of advice: if not us, buy your new home theater from a trusted, authorized dealer. And the more experience and longer the track record, the better. A good dealer will take care of you in the event anything happens.
Speaking of trusted dealers...
World Wide Stereo is home to some 90+ industry-leading audio/video professionals who love what they do and love talking about it, too.
We opened our doors in 1979, gained a small yet diehard following, won a slew of national awards for everything from killer car audio installations to customer service, grew the business online… and today we enjoy a faithful following of like-minded TV-watching, music-listening, gear-loving defenders of fun for the whole family. Our only rule: no one leaves unhappy. Read more about us here.
Top
Best Home Cinema - Ranking (2023)
Here is the TOP of home theaters . Do you want to improve the experience of watching your favorite series or the new blockbuster? Feel the effect of immersion in games? Then it's time to choose the best home theater for yourself.
Home theater is a set of speakers with a player or receiver. Columns can be 5, 6, 7 or more depending on the system.
If you want to buy a home theater inexpensively, you can look at options without a player / receiver. And if you need maximum freedom and comfort - you need a wireless home theater. In any case, our rating of home theaters will help you with your choice.
🏆 Related Ratings:📺 Choosing a home theater - which one is better to buy? nine0017
To choose a home theater, you need to figure out why you need it. Well, a little dive into the characteristics. Little bit. 😉
- Do you need a player/receiver? Most modern TVs have smart functions, can play various files from external media, and support many modern decoders. That is, a separate player is not particularly needed. In this case, you can look at not the latest models. Their players do not support modern formats and so on. But, if you take only speakers from the system, it will be cheaper than more modern home theaters with a similar sound.
And let the player stand in the corner. 😉 - Determine the required functionality . If you need a playback function from discs, then you can’t do without a player. Then you need to support most formats. Is it for movies or for music too? More on this below.
- Interfaces . Switching between elements of the system is usually not a problem. It is important to understand how the home theater will connect to the TV. The greatest functionality and format support is provided by HDMI in its latest variation HDMI eARC. A wireless home theater (where the satellites are connected via Wi-Fi) is a great idea, but they cost more. nine0028
- Additional functionality . Work in the music center mode - streaming online music and so on. Is it necessary? Such models are more expensive.
- Home theater features . You should not rely on the total power of home theaters from manufacturers of household appliances declared in the characteristics.
These "Chinese watts" have little to do with reality. There are either peak measurements, or just some kind of own calculation system. But 1000 watts in a home theater cannot be. 😈 - Format . 5.1, 7.1, 7.2 and so on. Home cinema 5.1 is already a good surround sound. But if you want the full Dolby Atmos effect, then this is a 7.1.2 system with in-ceiling speakers. About home theaters with a soundbar - separately below.
- Price . From $100 to $3000+. In every price segment you can find worthy models.
- Listening . It is best to listen to the model of interest before buying. Even if you order online, it’s worth going to a physical store and listening, and not buying “out of the box”. Of course, everything will sound different in your room, but you can get an impression of the overall quality. nine0028
TOP 5: Best Home Cinema - Ranking (2023):
| Model | Description | |
|---|---|---|
1. Onkyo HT-S7805 1260$ | Best Home Cinema in 2023; | |
| 2. Samsung HT-J5530K $250 | Best Home Theater 5.1 under $250; | |
| 3. Mystery MSB-111 105$ | Inexpensive home theater with HDMI connection; | |
| 4. Sony BDV-E6100 $300 | Modern home cinema: acoustics 5.1; | |
| 5. LG LHB655 $200 | Relatively budget wireless home theater; | |
| Bonus. Sonos equipment $2500 | nine0071 Wireless home theater and multi-room system.||
5 LG LHB655
Wireless Home Theater - relatively affordable
LG LHB655 is a wireless home cinema, relatively budget and high quality. Powerful, voluminous high-quality sound for films is available here.
All speakers are quite compact, stand securely. The design is universal, without frills, but not unpleasant. nine0003
This budget 5.1 home theater pairs best with LG TVs. But with models from other manufacturers, most often there are no compatibility problems.
4 Sony BDV-E6100
Modern home cinema - 5.1 acoustics
Sony BDV-E6100 is a modern home cinema with 5.1 acoustics. The player is also present, the functionality is quite large. Design for its segment is good. The player looks especially interesting. But it will not fit into every interior. nine0003
This is a powerful home cinema. The sound is bass oriented, only suitable for watching movies and games. Bass is powerful, sometimes redundant.
3 Mystery MSB-111 🥉
Inexpensive home theater - with HDMI connection
The
Mystery MSB-111 is an inexpensive home theater system with an HDMI connection. This cheap home theater is just a soundbar with a subwoofer.
The model offers a good sound for a budget solution and outdated functionality, it makes no sense to use it as a player. nine0003
The Mystery brand is well known to lovers of budget technology. You don't expect much functionality from their devices. The main thing is that they work. 😛 When you buy a home theater inexpensively, you always make compromises.
2 Samsung HT-J5530K 🥈
Best home theater 5.1
The
Samsung HT-J5530K is the best 5.1 home theater for the money. A good model from one of the leaders in the production of multimedia devices. It differs in that it sounds better than many even more expensive counterparts. A good home theater, although far from new. nine0003
The sound, of course, is designed specifically for watching movies and playing games. Powerful bass dominates, but overall the sound is quite balanced. You can listen to music, but this is not a priority for this system.
1 Onkyo HT-S7805 🏆
Best home cinema in 2023
Onkyo HT-S7805 is the best home theater in 2023 with Dolby Atmos support. Ultimate sound for big money. The system gives a chic sense of space (especially if the content natively supports Dolby Atmos) for watching movies. But it is also suitable for music: the sound is natural (without a powerful bass boost) and very detailed. nine0003
Onkyo specializes in audio technology, so this home theater (2023) is built on a receiver, not a player. But you can connect to it almost anything.
0 Sonos Home Cinema
Wireless home theater with soundbar
Sonos makes a great wireless home theater system. All items can be purchased separately or as a set. Home theater from Sonos is built on a soundbar. It connects to a TV or receiver via HDMI. Then a pair of rear speakers and a subwoofer are connected to it via Wi-Fi. nine0003
In addition to making great soundtracks for watching movies, the Sonos home theater system is great for listening to music. The sound is high quality and reliable. All settings are made in the proprietary application. And it takes a few minutes. Streaming services, online radio and more are supported.
Soundbar takes up little space - less than the front and center speakers. The rears are also compact, and the subwoofer can even be leaned against the wall, even removed under the bed - it will work in any case. The wireless connection gives you the freedom to arrange items around the room. The main thing is that there are enough power outlets. 😉
❓ Which is better - soundbar or home theater?
Two main parameters to consider: dimensions and price. How many speaker spaces are there? Should I try to save money and space?
- Soundbar . Compromise solution. Several speakers are mounted in one oblong column. Physical sound sources are obtained close to each other. Takes up little space, can be mounted on the wall under the TV. Or put on the same bedside table as the TV. The goal of budget soundbars is to simply sound better than TV speakers.
More advanced and expensive models offer high-quality and powerful sound. Even with surround effects like Dolby Atmos. Surround sound is achieved by engineering solutions and virtual effects. It usually costs less than a home theater. But the sound is less voluminous and not as high quality in principle. The lower bass cannot be due to physical limitations. nine0028
- Home theater . Several columns take up quite a lot of space. You need to switch between them. For optimal sound quality, you need to carefully place the satellites around the room. Provide maximum immersion effect, as the sound sources are separated in space. The system usually costs more than a soundbar. But it also sounds better. May be the lowest bass if the system has a subwoofer. You can turn off the surround speakers to listen to music. nine0028
🔊 Home theater speakers - what do you need?
When choosing speakers for a home theater, you should first of all start from the usage scenario. Will they be needed only for movies (and games, for example) or for music too?
- Movies only . Do not bother with Hi-Fi and Hi-End acoustics. Ready-made systems are the best option. No need to chase wooden cases, for example. From them, a tangible rise in price, but an imperceptible increase in sound quality for films. If you buy speakers separately, you can watch music in the mid-price segment. Floor - to the front and shelf speakers as rear ones. It is important to consider switching: so that all speakers can be connected to one receiver without problems. nine0028
- For movies and music . It makes sense to watch ready-made systems from audio equipment manufacturers, not TVs. They are more expensive, but give a more musical sound. Or collect separately from Hi-Fi speakers. The receiver is also worth choosing a high-quality music. It is also possible to assemble a home theater from proven Soviet speakers, if everything is correctly positioned and configured.
😉
🏆 Related Ratings: nine0000 KP top 10 rating
For many people, the definition of "best home theater" means that it balances good quality sound with ease of installation. In 2023, such a system will be able to give you great sound without additional purchase of individual components.
Klipsch R-41M Top 10 Home Theater Ranking
1. Klipsch R-41M
Klipsch R-41M. Photo: klipsch.comIf you think it's impossible to create a home theater with a luxurious sound, spending less than a fortune on speakers, then it's not. The six-piece Klipsch R-41M speaker system is a prime example of how you can assemble a very decent home theater system for the right price in 2023. In movies, a 5.1-channel setup is able to fully create an atmospheric soundscape without sacrificing dialogue clarity. And in music, it delivers the lively, dynamic sound you'd expect from systems that cost a lot more. nine0003
Pros and cons
Dynamic and lively sound, good stereo and surround sound
Needs careful tuning for best performance, basic black finish only
2.
Unlike most AV models, good-sounding speakers often stay in a company's lineup for years. An example is PSB's entry-level Alpha series, which has been in existence since 1991 and continues to evolve. Now in its third generation, the Alpha speaker set, in 5.1 configuration, doesn't stand out much in looks, but will provide a four-star subwoofer and impressive sound whether you're listening to music or watching a movie. nine0003
Pros and cons
Neutral balance, exact tone match between speakers, excellent quality
Boring finishes
3. Paradigm Monitor SE 3000F Paradigm Monitor SE 3000F. Photo: paradigm.com
The Paradigm Monitor SE 3000F speaker system was created specifically for lovers of high-quality sound on a limited budget. The styling and finish of the SE 3000F may be simple, but its performance is backed by a number of well-thought-out features, including bi-directional surround speakers, a robust subwoofer, as well as applications for tuning subwoofer performance and creating your own EQ filter to overcome anomalies caused by room acoustics. nine0003
Pros and cons
Impressive performance at a reasonable price, surround speakers offer flexible setup options, subwoofer with application control and room correction
Essential build quality and looks
4. Paradigm Premier 700F
Paradigm Premier 700F. Photo: paradigm.comParadigm, one of Canada's best-known speaker companies, continues its long tradition of creating audiophile-approved superb speakers with the Premiere 700F, which was released in 5.1 configuration with crisp detail and dynamic sound that unfolds when watching movies. and listening to music. Bottom line: these speakers can withstand systems that cost twice as much. nine0003
Pros and cons
Clear details, big powerful sound
Speaker tower unstable on thick carpet, poorly designed speaker grilles
5. KEF R5 Surround
KEF R5 Surround. Credit: eu.kef.com The KEF continues its long tradition of sonic excellence with the newly updated R Series, featuring the 12th generation of the Uni-Q driver, a design the company has been refining for over two decades. In a full 5.4.2 configuration with four Dolby Atmos-enabled height modules and two subwoofers, the system delivers amazing performance: pleasant music and powerful but not overly aggressive movie sound. Looking for a less expensive setup? The system can be scaled up to more affordable kits using Q Series models.
Pros and cons
Clean volume highs, excellent dialogue clarity, detailed but not aggressive sound
Slightly limited triple diffusion, expensive complete setup
6. SVS Prime Satellite 5.1 SVS Prime Satellite 5.1. Photo: svsound.com
Over the past two decades, SVS has grown into one of the most respected brands in the industry. Originally known for their award-winning chest-vibrating subwoofers, today's new SVS systems can compete with anyone. A great example is the SVS Prime Satellite 5.1 home theater package. It is compact and easier to place in a small room, but it can be enlarged and expanded: even a small room turns into a full-fledged cinema. nine0003
Pros and cons
Value for money, compact size, clear sound
Not suitable for large rooms
7. Onkyo HT-S9800THX
Onkyo HT-S9800THX. Photo: onkyo-rus.ruOnkyo HT-S9800THX belongs to the top line of Onkyo home theater systems. The company is highly regarded for their AV receivers, so their experience in building quality products inspires confidence in this system. This top model is also THX® certified, which means it has been designed to very high standards for the best sound quality. nine0003
Pros and cons
THX certified, multiple input connections
Dedicated Dolby Atmos speakers not included, must be purchased separately
8. Onkyo HT-S5805
Onkyo HT-S5805. Photo: .onkyo-rus.ru This Onkyo home theater system delivers Dolby Atmos sound, a big step up from traditional speakers. This is an all-inclusive system that gives you the opportunity to enjoy all the entertainment possible. Discrete amplifiers provide accurate and dynamic sound reproduction. This home theater system is easy to operate, using only one HDMI cable to connect the TV to the device. Built-in Bluetooth technology allows you to connect up to ten compatible devices. nine0003
Pros and cons
High expandability, support for all modern formats
Basic build quality and appearance
9. Sonos 5.1 Beam Surround Set
Sonos 5.1 Beam Surround Set. Photo: sonos.comSonos, considered an upstart among the industry giants, is now doing for home theater what they did for concert music and the results are really impressive. The Sonos Beam 5.1 Surround Set is what you'd expect from the world's first wireless audio company. High frequencies are crystal clear, lows are delivered by the powerful punch of the Sonos subwoofer, and dialogue through the system's centerpiece, the Beam soundbar, is supremely clear and unfailingly clear. nine0003
Pros and cons
Support for voice assistants, clearer highs and lows
High price
10.
Audiophile speakers at affordable prices - this is the mission of KLH, which has always been and always will be. Two Kendall three-way floor standing speakers represent the company's new flagship models. Beautifully finished in black oak and American walnut veneer, each contains custom-made drivers in Kevlar, anodized aluminum and oversized magnets. They're big, beautiful, and sound great, and the two Beacon surround speakers are better than most at this price point and do a great job of driving the left and right rear channels of the system. nine0003
Pros and cons
Great value for the features, premium design
No wireless
How to choose a home theater
Whether you are buying a new home theater or looking to add to an existing home theater you should keep the following things in mind:
TV and its screen size
Need the best TV for good sound output. Also, before buying a home entertainment system, make sure your TV supports the system. Latest generation 4K HDR TVs and Smart TVs are the best solution at the moment. The big screen always adds to the fun and makes it easy to immerse yourself in the movie. nine0003
Room size
Room size is another factor you should definitely consider when buying home theater speakers. If you have a large room and buy a surround sound system with fewer speakers, you are making a big mistake.
Speaker size
Nowadays, compact speakers also provide the best sound. But if you have a large room, consider a large surround sound system for complete enjoyment. nine0003
Streaming devices
Always choose a home entertainment system that is compatible with your smartphone, tablet, laptop and your TV.
Surround sound technology
Before purchasing a home theater system, please research audio technology. Technologies such as Dolby Atmos, DTS, Sony Dynamic Digital Sound (SDDS) are the best sound technologies at the moment.
