Surround Sound Speakers

Surround Sound Speakers

Surround sound speaker systems, which one should I buy?

Surround Sound Overview

The digital revolution, as it is popularly called, has heralded the arrival of HD ("High Definition") TV, to name but one of the exceptional quality video sources that are now available in the average home. Higher expectations with regard to picture quality have led to similar expectations regarding sound quality, with the result that many people are turning to so-called, surround sound speaker systems, to provide a total home theatre experience.

The concept of surround involves the recording of multiple sound channels on, say, a movie soundtrack, which are then reproduced by multiple loudspeakers, one for each channel, with the intention of immersing, or "surrounding", the listener.

Surround Sound Configurations

Surround sound systems are typically composed of five main loudspeakers – a central speaker that is located above or below the TV screen, left and right front speakers and left and right rear speakers – and a sixth, known as a "subwoofer", which is dedicated to reproducing low-frequency, bass effects.

Such systems are given the designation, "5.1", referring to five main audio channels, plus a subwoofer channel. Although less common, "6.1" and "7.1" systems do exist, with, fairly obviously, six and seven main speakers respectively. In the case of 7.1 systems, two further speakers are added, to either side of the listener.

Surround Sound Formats

The most common surround sound formats – although other formats do exist – are Dolby Digital and DTS (Digital Theatre Systems). Dolby Digital and DTS both use six distinct tracks, centre, left, right, left surround, right surround and LFE ("Low Frequency Effects"). Dolby Digital, however, unlike DTS, is a standard format for DVD, and HD TV broadcasting. Extended versions of both these formats, known respectively as Dolby Digital EX, and DTS-ES are also available.

Speaker Types

In any surround sound system, the centre speaker, which is responsible for the reproduction of, say, the dialogue and incidental music from a film soundtrack, is the most important. Centre speakers are usually placed, well, centrally – either above or below the TV receiver – for maximum effect.

Centre speakers should be magnetically shielded – as, indeed, should any speakers which are to be placed in close proximity to a TV screen – to prevent interference with picture quality.
The KEF Cresta 20C Centre Speaker, for example, is a stylish model, magnetically shielded, and timbre matched to the rest of the KEF range.

Front and rear speakers come in variety of shapes and sizes, from large, tower models to much smaller bookshelf, or satellite, models. Speakers of the smaller varieties reproduce less bass, and, fairly obviously, less volume, than the larger models.

The SSX70EDM model, from Sony, for example, is a classical, floor standing model, stylishly finished, in real maple. Acoustic Solutions Bookshelf Speakers, on the other hand, are only some 9 inches in height, and can be easily mounted on wall, if so desired.

It is important, however, that there is balance, for example, in the treble and bass frequencies, between all speakers in a surround sound system, so it is wise to acquire a matched set, from a single manufacturer, if at all possible.
The Goodmans GHC50 Home Cinema Speaker System, for example, is designed to offer the complete surround sound experience, with five 10 watt speakers, and a 50 watt subwoofer.

Other, satellite, speakers operate in a number of different ways. Monopole speakers, for example, emit sound in one direction only – straight ahead, while dipole or bipole speakers emit sound to either side, and are best positioned to the side, or the rear, of the listening position.

About the Author

Nigel Smith writes about home appliances home entertainment systems for a variety of magazines and website - he is currently creating buyers guides based on real consumer experience for http://www.comparestoreprices.co.uk/surround-sound-speakers.asp

 

Soundaround Virtual Surround Sound From 2 Speakers $90.99 SOUNDAROUND VIRTUAL SURROUND SOUND FROM 2 SPEAKERS

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MK Sound 5-1/4 2-Way Surround Speakers (Pair) $1199.98 Learn more about Magnolia Premium Installation Enjoy powerful sound with these MK Sound SUR55T 5-1/4" 2-way speakers that feature a Tripole design and Phase-Focused crossover system for even audio distribution and accurate sound reproduction.

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Logitech Z506 5.1 Surround Sound Speakers $89.99 Be moved by big, 5.1 surround sound. With 75 watts (RMS) of room-filling sound and a powerful subwoofer, Logitech’s Z506 5.1 system will bring your music, movies, and games to life. Satellite RMS Power /ea: 48w (2 x 8 w front, 16 w center, 2 x 8 w rear) Subwoofer RMS Power: 27w Frequency Response: 45 Hz –20 kHz Features: Multiple inputs Surround sound with 3D Stereo 75 watts (RMS) of power Ported, down-firing subwoofer Dedicated bass control Weight: 11.24 lbs. Package Contents: Speakers 3.5 mm and six channel direct audio cables (RCA cable not included) Color-coded speaker cables User documentation Parts: 2 years limited Labor: 2 years limited

Logitech Z506 51 Surround Sound Speakers (6-Piece) - Black $99.99 Enjoy rich, lush audio with these surround sound speakers that feature 75W RMS power. A down-firing, ported subwoofer with a 5-1/2" driver controls powerful sound. The dedicated bass controller lets you customize the bass level to your liking.

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Fluance SX Series Center Channel & Surround Sound Speakers $144.99 The choice for audio enthusiasts, Fluance speakers are recognized as an outstanding performance product that delivers stunning sound performance, professional grade cabinet design and exceptional value. We have accomplished this by strictly adhering to a single goal. Design and engineer speakers that ensure accurate sound reproduction at prices with which none can compete!

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LOGITECH Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speakers $359 Dieses 5.1-System von Logitech liefert 500 Watt Gesamtleistung für einen Sound in Kinoqualität. Mit Digital- und Analogeingängen, einer Bedienkonsole mit gut lesbarem Display und stapelbarem Design sowie einer kabellosen Fernbedienung haben Sie die absolute Kontrolle über Ihre Home Entertainment Anlage.

Xitel / Xitel SOUNDaround Surround Sound Audio Processor Unit - Easily Add 5.1 Home Theater Sound from only 2 Speakers! / SA-R3 $20.74 Xitel - Xitel SOUNDaround Surround Sound Audio Processor Unit - Easily Add 5.1 Home Theater Sound from only 2 Speakers! - SA-R3

Xitel Soundaround Surround Sound Audio Processor Unit Easily Add 5.1 Home Theater Sound From Only 2 Speakers! $15.77 Xitel Soundaround Surround Sound Audio Processor Unit Easily Add 5.1 Home Theater Sound From Only 2 Speakers!

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Surround Sound Metal Speaker Bracket. $14.99 Enhance your audio experience with these sleek surround sound speaker brackets which feature tilt and swivel capabilities to ensure you can position the speakers in your desired position. For added convenience these speakers include an integrated management solution to keep your cables tidy. Tilts (maximum tilt angle 25) and swivels.Cable tidy facility.Maximum weight per shelf 10kg.Made of steel with a black finish.Wall fixings included.Size H9, W4.5, D6.3cm.

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