Create the Ultimate Sound in Any Space with a High-Tech Sound System

Homeowners are taking steps to go beyond the basic TV setup. With home theater systems advancing, the options for audio video design and installation are endless. However, setting up a full-fledged home theater system isn't an easy task, especially if you've TV or stereo setups all your life. 

Speakers are the most important component of a home theater system. The type and placement of the speakers play a vital role in determining the output and experience of your home theater system. 

In this article, we'll share some essential steps you should take for creating an amazing sound experience in any space. 

Setting Up the Speaker

Why do movie theaters have such amazing sound? Of course, they have better quality speakers, but that's not the real deal. While the quality of the speaker surely matters, what's important is how you set it up. Movie theaters follow the concept of "surround sound," which includes placing speakers around the room for a 3D sound experience. 

Movie theaters are huge, so they need more speakers to create the desired effect. For basements and other smaller spaces, only a handful of speakers will lead to a 3D environment. 

When you shop for speakers, you'll come across classifications like 5.1, 7.1, etc. The first number denotes the number of speakers in the system, whereas the second number refers to the number of separate base channels. This separate channel or subwoofer enhances the effect of emphasized sounds, like bullet shots, explosions, etc. 

A typical 5.1 system consists of the following components:

• A central speaker, mostly placed below, above, or in front of the TV

• Right and left speakers (one each) placed on the sides

• Rear speakers (two) for rumbling bass, placed behind the viewers' seats

• A subwoofer for enhancing sound effects

Many homeowners commit this mistake of including speakers of different companies in their home theater system. This could mix up the sound and can lead to an unpleasant sound environment. So, make sure all the speakers in your system are from the same company. 

Placing the Speaker

Once you've got the right speakers for your system, it's time to place them. As discussed, what's more important than the brand or quality of your speakers is how you place them. Here's a quick guide to placing different speakers.

Central Speaker: Central speakers deliver the dialogues and vocals, which comprise 60-70% of an entire movie or TV show. The ideal placement for these speakers is either above or under the TV. You can also place it slightly ahead of the TV, but don't bring it too close to the seat. Ideally, the central speaker should be placed as close to the screen as possible. 

Right-Left Speakers: Both the right and left speakers should be placed on either side of the TV. You need to consider two things when placing the side speakers. First, the top part of the speaker should be at ear level. Second, they should be at the same distance from each other and the central speaker. 

Rear Speakers: Rear speakers should be placed behind you at the same distance as the front speakers. If you don't have enough space to place them on the ground, you can mount them on the rear wall, above the doors, or even towards the ceiling. 

Subwoofer: You can place a subwoofer anywhere, as they're omnidirectional. But make sure none of its openings is blocked. The ideal subwoofer placement would depend on the dimensions and type of your room, so feel free to experiment. 

Speaker Size

A large speaker doesn't necessarily mean a better speaker. Nowadays, many brands offer compact speakers that provide excellent quality. This gives you an opportunity to place high-quality speakers in smaller spaces, like your bedroom. In a small room, consider placing the rear speaker in the corners above your bed. 

For a larger space, you can invest in a broader 9.1 or even an 11.1 system. These systems add sounds at various degrees to create a complete surround experience. 

Connectivity of the Speakers

Here's where it gets a bit tricky. The challenge of wiring your speakers is real, and you may need the help of expert home theater installers. Many smart home theater systems come with wireless speakers, but still, connecting them all and setting them up can be difficult. Therefore, it's advisable to work with home theater installation companies. 

Conclusion

A lot of people make this mistake of thinking that a home theater system is all about the screen. No, it's not. It's the sound that makes a movie theater different from a TV in your bedroom. So, if you're looking forward to setting up a home theater system, pay extra attention to the setup and placement of the speakers. 

For expert Audio Video Design and Installation assistance, check out TekMax Technologies.