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What is the best home theater surround sound system


6 Best Home Theater Systems 2023

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 2023:

  1. The Smartest Home Theater System:
    Sonos Surround Set with Arc Sound Bar, Subwoofer, and One Gen 2 Speakers
  2. The Best Surround Sound System for Small Rooms:
    SVS Prime Satellite 5. 1 Package
  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)
  4. The Best Wireless Home Theater System:
    Bose Soundbar 900 with Bass Module 700
  5. The Best 5.1 Home Theater System Under $2,500:
    Bowers & Wilkins 5.1 Channel Satellite Speaker Package
  6. The Best Budget Home Theater System:
    Polk React Home Theater System with React Sound Bar, Wireless Sub, and Surrounds

2023 Home Theater System Deals

We’ve made it easy to find the best deals on home theater systems from brands like Sonos, SVS, KLH, Klipsch and more. Our deals update daily so you don’t miss a beat, and we’ve got your back through with our price match guarantee, 60-day returns, easy financing, and free shipping. Don’t see what you want on sale? Give us at 1.866.961.7781 or chat with an expert.

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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

$2,136.00

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

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)

$1,736.00

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

$1,598. 00

Regular Price: $1,748.00

Save: $150.00 (9%)

In our “Best Sound Bars of 2023” 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

$557.00

Regular Price: $667.00

Save: $110.00 (16%)

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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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 2023 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:

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

Sonos 5.1 Home Theater Set with Beam (Gen 2), Sub (Gen 3), and One (Gen 2)

Get theater-quality sound with this compact smart soundbar, subwoofer, and powerful pair of rear speakers.  

Elevate all your entertainment with a panoramic soundstage of Beam, the distortion-free bass of Sub, and the immersive surround sound of a One stereo pair. Feel front and center in TV, games, and movies. Plus, stream music and more from all your favorite services. Everything works together over WiFi, and control is easy with your TV remote, the Sonos app, Apple AirPlay 2, and your voice. 

Beam (Gen 2) Compact Smart Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos


Raise the bar for your entertainment.

Effortlessly enrich your entertainment experience with the latest generation of Sonos's compact smart soundbar, now with Dolby Atmos. Enjoy panoramic sound for shows, movies, and games when the TV is on, and stream music, radio, and more when it's off. Control is easy with the Sonos app, your remote, your voice, and Apple AirPlay 2.

Features:

Beam, evolved

A faster processor enables support for Dolby Atmos and creates two new audio paths for a virtual sound experience. Updated with a precisely perforated grille, Beam looks just as good as it sounds and blends seamlessly into your home.

Dramatically Realistic

Dolby Atmos maps sound in space for a 3D effect so you experience planes as if they're flying overhead, hear footsteps moving across the room, and feel the score all around you.*

*Requires a TV that supports Dolby Atmos and Atmos-encoded content.

Crystal Clear Dialogue

Oscar-winning sound engineers helped fine-tune the soundbar to make sure you hear every word and can always follow the story. For even greater clarity when characters whisper or the action intensifies, turn on Speech Enhancement in the Sonos app.

High Quality, even at low volumes

Advanced audio processing ensures balanced sound from wall to wall at any volume level. When you want to watch TV but need to keep it down, turn on Night Sound in the app to reduce the intensity of loud effects and enhance quieter ones.

Made For Music

Stream music, radio, audiobooks, and podcasts from your favorite services with detailed stereo sound filling the room.

Breeze Through Setup

Go from unboxing to unbelievable sound in minutes with only two cables and step-by-step guidance from the Sonos app.

Tuned to Perfection

Trueplay tuning technology adapts the sound for the unique acoustics of the room so your content always sounds just the way it should.*

*Requires iOS device.

Hands-free Help

Ask Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to set timers, check the news, control your smart home devices, and more. Easily mute with the press of a button to off the mic. The LED light will also turn off so you know your voice assistant isn't listening.

Surround Sound, Simplified

Get an even more immersive experience with a subwoofer and rear speakers. Everything connects quickly and easily over WiFi.

Better Together

Mix and match speakers to build the system you want over time. Simply add on when you're ready and enjoy listening all around your home and beyond.

Mute with the Press of a Button

Easily turn off the mic. The LED light will also turn off so you know your voice assistant isn't listening.


Sub Wireless Subwoofer (Gen 3)

Hear and feel the difference with Sub, the wireless subwoofer for deep bass. Experience lower lows and higher highs when you connect Sub to your Sonos system over WiFi. Place the award-winning design upright or lay it on its side and enjoy pure bass with no vibration or rattle.

Features:

No buzz, just bass

Two force-canceling drivers at the center of Sub eliminate vibration and rattle so you get powerful bass without any distortion.

Made to be seen and heard

The award-winning and versatile design feature a slim, sculptural shape and high-gloss finish. Stand Sub upright or lay it on its side.

Lower lows and higher highs

Sub takes over the lowest frequencies, enhancing the midrange playback from paired speakers so you experience fuller, more detailed sound.

More immersive entertainment

Connect Sub to Arc or Beam, and enjoy TV, movies, and video games like never before. Add a pair of One SL surrounds for an even more immersive home theater experience.

The latest technology

Increased memory and processing power ensure the best possible performance and prepare Sub for future updates.

Masterfully engineered

Sub's sound ports strategically force the internal energy out of the cabinet to prevent muffling while the specially developed resin resists vibration.

Customized sound

Trueplay puts the speaker-tuning capability of recording pros in the palm of your hands and optimizes the sound for the room.

Simple setup

Go from unboxing to listening in minutes. Just plug in the power cord and open the Sonos app.

Automatic software updates

Experience better sound, new integrations, enhanced security, and more reliability with regular platform updates.

WiFi

Stream via your WiFi network, and wirelessly connect more Sonos speakers to expand your sound system.

Expand your sound system

When you're ready, wirelessly connect more Sonos speakers and enjoy listening in more rooms.


One Voice-Controlled Wireless Smart Speaker Gen 2

The Powerful Smart Speaker with Built-In Voice Control

Second-generation Sonos One with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), increased memory, and an updated processor.

Features:

Home Theater Sound Systems

A guide to creating an amazing surround sound system

In a nutshell, a surround sound system consists of several main parts. In this article, you'll learn how to put them together to create a coherent home theater sound system. Here's what you need:

Want to keep things simple? Let's take a look at the process of building a home theater sound system using a pre-selected surround sound system as an example. See our top reviews of 2018.

Generally speaking, I'm a seasoned nerd flying through a variety of science fiction. Offer me a space movie or anything with dinosaurs and I'll be fascinated; and it especially pleases me if I can watch a movie on my home theater, because watching a movie in surround sound puts me right in the middle of a space battle or a tyrannosaurus rex chase.

My goal is to help you enjoy the same sense of fun and adventure with your surround sound system. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when planning your home theater.

How to choose speakers for your room?

The first thing to consider when designing a surround sound system is the room itself.

How much free space do you have? A large open living room with vaulted ceilings obviously needs different equipment than a small or medium room with 8" ceilings.

If you are planning to install the home theater system in a room where children play, then you may want the speakers to be attached to the wall so that they don't get in your way. On the other hand, if you have a separate home theater room, floorstanding speakers (or speakers on stands) are unlikely to pose a danger to pets or children.

Choose speakers that fit your room. Floor standing speakers ideal for large open spaces

Stand, wall or in-wall speakers are good for small spaces

Where will your speakers sound best?

Consider the layout and shape of your room. Where will the speakers look and sound best?

My speaker placement article provides detailed guidance on planning your sound system layout and may be helpful to you.

Compact speakers offer discreet placement options

Is your sound system going to your living room? First of all, you need to consider that here the TV and sound system should not always be in the spotlight. Compact speakers will easily fit into your interior and leave a lot of free space.

Wall mounted speakers are the safest for your movement

Wall and ceiling mounted bookshelf speakers are great options for immersive sound without taking up much space.

Get theatrical sound with floorstanders

If space isn't a big deal, you can use larger speakers. Using floorstanding speakers in your surround sound system helps replicate the cinema experience. Large acoustic chambers provide powerful surround sound effects, which is especially true for movies and video games. "Towers" (columns Tower), among other things, are ideal for listening to music in stereo.

Floorstanding speakers provide a more realistic soundstage at the front of your room

What role does each speaker play in a home theater system?

The home theater sound system consists of several different types of speakers. Understanding the role of each will help you choose the best options for your room.

Here are the main components of your surround sound system:

Center channel speaker plays dialogue and more

The center channel speaker is often considered the most important speaker in a sound system. It provides playback of more than 50% of movie soundtracks, including almost all dialogue. It also provides important sound effects in the center of the stage.

The center channel speaker must be well combined with other speakers. Compact speakers require a smaller center channel driver, while floor standing speakers need a large center speaker to match their increased power.

Consider where you will place your center channel speaker. If you have a special cabinet, make sure it fits in the space provided for it on the shelf.

The home theater center speaker is responsible for most movie soundtracks. Choose the one that suits both your room and the other speakers in your sound system

Left and right front speakers create a wide soundstage

The front left and right speakers play the movie soundtrack. They also handle most of the special effects. To pull you into the story more effectively, the sound moves between the front speakers in sync with the action unfolding on the screen. Floor-standing, bookshelf and wall-mounted speakers work well as such.

Surround speakers provide realistic special effects

Surround speakers are located next to and/or behind your seats. They immerse you in the movie by creating ambient sounds such as raindrops or rustling leaves.

The surround speakers also work with your other speakers to create impressive sound directional effects. Think of a locomotive passing by or a bullet flying past you.

5.1 channel sound systems use one pair of surround speakers placed next to or behind you. Sound systems that support 7.1-channel audio use speakers located at the back and both sides of the circle with the listeners in the center.

If you have a large room or multiple seating areas, consider a 7.1 channel system. In a 5.1 system, the surround speakers are best placed to the left and right of the listening positions install on stands or attach to the wall.

Which speakers should you use for your surround channels?

Many traditional bookshelf speakers or wall-mounted speakers can be used as surround channel speakers.

You might also consider specialized bipole/dipole speakers that have multiple drivers that produce sound waves in different directions. This creates a special, so-called. diffuse, sound field, which enhances the effect of sound wrapping.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X vertical effect speakers

Have you decided to build a Dolby Atmos® or DTS:X™ system? Then you will need a pair or two pairs of speakers to produce sound in the area above the listening position. You can use either in-ceiling speakers or vertical-firing speakers for this.

The Dolby Atmos system is used with a conventional 5.1 or 7.1 surround system, to which two or four vertical speakers (or speakers built into the ceiling) are added to create sound effects falling down on the listener

Which subwoofer size would you prefer?

Movie soundtracks are provided with a dedicated deep bass (low frequency) channel that is played through a powered subwoofer. The subwoofer is what recreates in your room the effect of exploding bombs and the roar of an airplane flying overhead.

Choose a subwoofer that fits well with your room and your speakers. As a general rule, the larger the subwoofer speaker, the deeper the bass.

Do you have a large room at your disposal? Then you should definitely upgrade to a subwoofer with a 12-inch or larger speaker.

Do you have a small room at your disposal? A compact subwoofer will sound great here. For more detailed recommendations, check out my article on choosing subwoofers for your home theater.

Most people place their subwoofers at the front of the room so they can be easily connected to a home theater receiver. If running the cable where your subwoofer sounds best is not practical, use a wireless subwoofer

Voice matching, which is optional

Each brand or series of speakers has its own tonal quality or "voice". To get an evenly balanced sound level throughout the room, I recommend using the same brand of speakers for all locations.

If you cannot match all the speakers together, try using the same brand of speakers for the front left, right and center locations. This will give you a complete front soundstage, i.e. ensure stable sound system performance.

Want hidden surround sound?

If you need a sound system with the smallest footprint, consider built-in, in-ceiling or wall-mounted speakers. Read my article on installing in-wall and ceiling speakers for more on what's involved.

Everything you need to get started

To get the best sound, you need to pair your new speaker system with a good home theater receiver. This guide will help you choose the right parts for your sound system.

Use dedicated speaker wires and subwoofer cables for connections. We also recommend that you secure the power supply to your receiver, TV, audio/video components and subwoofer.

Best Universal Home Theater Systems

Over the years I have developed dozens of surround sound systems. And the systems I custom made are great. And I'll let you in on a secret: you can get theater-quality sound by purchasing a pre-matched surround sound system. Here are a couple of my favorites.

  1. Klipsch Reference Theater Pack - the best surround sound system for small rooms

Klipsch Reference Theater Pack quickly gained popularity among buyers. The system does not take up much space, but it provides the sonic depth and sonic attack that you would only expect from large speakers. This is the perfect choice for small rooms with premium space.

Fantastically clear sound, compact yet powerful.

Adjustable subwoofer allows you to move from

Dynamic explosions to subtle vibrations

- Larry, Pottsboro, Texas

  1. Definitive Technology ProCinema 800 - the best system of volumetric sound for medium -sized

Definitive Technology's ProCinema 800 is a powerful, dynamic system that offers surround sound without the need for floor standing speakers.

Why does she work so well? The answer is partly due to the use of passive radiators in each speaker. These drivers do not require power, they move by coupling with powerful woofers used to boost the mids and lows. The result is clear, powerful sound for music, movies and video game soundtracks.

This loudspeaker is the biggest blow to the price of a sound system I have ever seen.

Each speaker is very solid and eye-catching

- Bree, Montgomery, TX

KP Top 10 rating

For many people, "best home theater" means it balances good quality sound and ease of installation. In 2023, such a system will be able to give you great sound without additional purchase of individual components.

KP 9 Top 10 Best Home Theater Ranking0303

1. Klipsch R-41M

Klipsch R-41M. Photo: klipsch.com

If 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.

Pros and cons

Dynamic and live sound, good stereo and surround sound

Needs careful tuning for best performance, basic black finish only

2. PSB Alpha T20

PSB Alpha T20. Photo: psbspeakers.com

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.

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.

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.com

Paradigm, 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.

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.

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.ru

Onkyo 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.

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.

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.com

Sonos, 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.

Pros and cons

Support for voice assistants, clearer highs and lows

High price


10. KLH Kendall 5.1 Speaker System KLH Kendall 5.1 Speaker System. Photo credit: klhaudio.com

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.

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.

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.

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