Imagine settling in for movie night. The lights are low, the popcorn's ready, and the sound hits—rich, crisp audio that moves around you, pulling you deeper into the action. This is the magic of a home surround sound system: it turns ordinary movie nights and gaming sessions into cinematic events.
However, is the price tag for the surround sound system worth all that? In this blog, we’ll explore what a surround sound system is, its pros and cons, and whether it's a smart investment compared to alternatives like soundbars.
What is a Surround Sound System?
A surround sound system immerses listeners by spreading audio across multiple strategically placed speakers. This type of arrangement creates a 360-degree sound experience wherein sound seems to be coming from all directions, pulling you deeper into what you are watching, playing, or listening to.
The two most widespread setups are 5.1- and 7.1-channel surround sound systems.
- A 5.1 system has six audio channels: left, right, center, surround-left, surround-right, and a subwoofer for deep bass.
- The 7.1 system adds two more rear-left and rear-right channels with even more accurate audio separation.
- Dolby Atmos systems use height channels that map sound to create a three-dimensional space, so audio appears to pass above and around you.
A surround sound system, by standard definition, includes a mixture of satellite speakers, a subwoofer, and, commonly, a center channel speaker. Clear dialogue comes through most in the center channel, apparently. The satellites, on the other hand, deal with effects and background noises. Due to this, they help create a complete audio experience.
Surround sound systems come into action when they are set up in the home theater. That's where they get a chance to convert a film into an actual cinematic experience or even make the most out of any gaming setup and music fans who want to hear every note and beat from every angle. Whether it's an action movie, a game, or some music, surround sound is guaranteed to take the show to another level.
Is a Surround Sound System Worth It?
Now, is surround sound worth it? Let's break it down for you.
Factors to consider:
- Price vs. audio quality: In general, surround sound systems provide better audio quality than alternatives, providing depth, clarity, and separation to make action scenes, music, and dialogue come to life. The systems can be pricey, though, especially if one employs advanced structures such as Dolby Atmos. Still, that is how much it matters to the consumer.
- Space and room size: The surround sound system complements a large room or a stand-alone home theater, improving the listening and gaming experience. However, space is a concern, so you might want to think twice if extra speakers need room to breathe.
- Use cases
- Movie Lovers: All the explosions, whispers, and background noises are real.
- Gamers: Track enemies' movement or become submerged in expansive game universes.
- A surround sound system for music lovers will give each song an enhanced richness and clarity.
The Benefits of a Surround Sound System
- Enhanced audio quality: Surround sound systems allow for greater separation of audio output, enhancing the effects by being more defined between different sound elements. You hear footsteps creeping from behind you, rain falling above, and action detonating from all sides.
- Home cinematic experience: Why go to the cinema when you can take the cinema home with you? With a surround sound system, every night could feel like the night you watched the movies from the front seat.
- Increased resale value of home theaters: A home theater setup with pre-installed surround sound can also increase the resale value of your home, making it a good investment for the future.
- Customization and flexibility: You can choose the number of channels you want or upgrade components as time dictates. This is a huge advantage over all-in-one solutions.
Single Soundbar vs. Surround Sound System
Now, let’s compare the soundbar vs surround sound system to see which one you should invest in.
- Ease of use: Soundbars are highly recognized for their plug-and-play simplicity. Surround sound systems take a bit more time, especially if you're wiring multiple speakers; however, some modern systems, such as the AWOL ThunderBeat, offer an optional wireless connectivity system, so there are no cables.
- Sound quality: While soundbars have become much more excellent in terms of audio quality, they can never compare with the complete range of surround sound delivered from an appropriately positioned surround sound system. The Surround sound system wins here if you seek immersion.
- Space and aesthetic considerations: Soundbars are slender and compact, thus ideal for smaller spaces. Surround sound requires space to place speakers correctly, which can be challenging in tight spaces.
- Cost comparison: Soundbar is cheaper, but you'll get what you paid for. Surround sound systems are even more expensive, but the experience is more immersive. The center channel speaker will play an essential role in a surround sound system if enough budget and high-quality sound are desired.
What Role Does the Center Channel Speaker Play in a Surround Sound System?
The center channel speaker delivers most of the movie dialogue and on-screen action sounds. Positioned between the left and right speakers, it ensures that dialogue and essential sounds come directly from the screen, not from the sides.
Without a central channel, dialogue can get lost in the mix of other sounds, leading to muffled audio. The center speaker bridges the gap between the left and right speakers, creating a clear, balanced sound image across the front of the room.
Typically horizontal in design, center speakers are placed above or below your TV or projector, perfectly syncing sound with on-screen visuals for an enhanced viewing experience.
The Best Surround Sound Systems Available
If you're looking for the best surround sound system for home theater, consider the AWOL ThunderBeat, the ideal speaker system for the AWOL Vision LTV-3500 Pro, the world’s first UST projector with a built-in center channel speaker.
AWOL ThunderBeat features CenterSync (which enhances dialogue clarity), an all-wireless 4.2.2 surround sound system for dynamic sound, Dolby Atmos support, wireless connectivity, and smart integration. This system offers the perfect balance between immersive sound and convenience. With AWOL ThunderBeat, you can enjoy cinematic sound without the clutter of cables.
Is It Worth the Investment? A Sound Decision Awaits
Whether or not a surround sound system is worth investment depends on your needs and what you want in a system. You'll want to invest in a surround sound system if you're an audiophile who highly values immersive audio and has the space around your house to fit extra speakers. But if you're a minimalist who wants something more streamlined for a lower price, a soundbar may be what you want.
Take a minute to consider the size of your room, your budget, and how much you care about that cinematic experience. If immersion into the sound is what you actually need for that entertainment setup, then a home surround sound system would be worth investing in.
