If you just want a simple way to boost your TVs sound, we think you should just buy the Nakamichi Shockwafe Pro. It’s soundbar, two rear speakers and subwoofer will give you that cinema feel without too much hassle. Factors like room size play a huge role in deciding the necessary power and wattage for your speaker arrangement, and other details should help you pick your perfect devices. Examples include thinking about whether or not you would like surround sound. Without further ado, take a look at our list of best home audio systems. The bar has five sealed speaker chambers and a quad-core DSP chipset, creating an acoustic wideness that brings your media to life with DSP EQ modes. The system is complete with 13 tuned speaker drivers, as well as an included eight-inch downward-firing subwoofer for deep rich bass. The satellite speakers are wireless, as well, while the HDMI connected bar has 4K passthrough and plays Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Digital plus content. Channels: 7.1 | Wireless: Yes | Inputs: 3in/1 out (ARC) | Digital Assistant: None | Number of Speakers: 2 The brushed metal and old school style gives the CMTSBT100 a retro look. And while it may lack a native iPod dock, the USB port provides a 2.1 amp charging capability in case you want to simultaneously power your smartphone and play music from it. But don’t expect too much raw power, as the device’s USB port can only read up to 250 songs and due to its power-saving functionality, powers down after a short period of inactivity. Channels: N/A | Wireless: Bluetooth and NFC | Inputs: 3.5mm | Digital Assistant: None | Number of Speakers: 2 You’re not limited to only hooking the system up to your computer, as the package induces a 3.5 mm or RCA audio out allowing for an easy connection to your video game consoles, iPods, or any external source. While the speakers may work with game consoles and TVs, when connected, the audio produces only 2.1 audio quality without the surround sound. Channels: 5.1 | Wireless: No | Inputs: 3,5mm, RCA | Digital Assistant: None | Number of Speakers: 4 At an excellent price, the system includes an amplified subwoofer; five discrete independent channel input/output speakers suited for surround sound; Bluetooth connectivity for mobile streaming, an SD card input, flash drive MP3 player for assorted music playlists, an FM tuner to play your favorite radio stations, and 3.5 aux to RCA wires so you can start listening immediately. The Acoustic AA5170 Home Theater uses only 700 Watts with a power frequency of 20Hz to 20KHz, packing a compact, yet powerful speaker package suitable for any home theater system (although static can occur if played too high). The AA5170 works fluidly with your personal computer/laptop, gaming system, digital media player, or any other audio/video device equipped with Bluetooth, RCA, or 3.5mm auxiliary interfaces. Channels: 5.1 | Wireless: Bluetooth | Inputs: 3.5mm, RCA | Digital Assistant: None | Number of Speakers: 5 Bill Loguidice has two decades of experience writing and reviewing technology. He’s previously been published in TechRadar, PC Gamer, and Ars Technica. He specializes in home entertainment, smart home technology, and computers, tablets, and other devices.
What to Look For in a Home Audio System
Sound Quality
Sound quality can be a very personal feature—some people enjoy deeper bass while others prefer a more balanced sound. Different speaker systems have different sound profiles (which can also be tweaked slightly by repositioning speakers in your room). Most home audio systems will come with a primary or center channel speakers, a left and right channel speaker, and a subwoofer. This combination represents a good starting point for most home theaters, but a soundbar and subwoofer combo can also cut it for apartment dwellers.
Room Size
Power isn’t everything and wattage is often overrated. If your speakers are intended for a smaller space, you likely don’t need a full 7.1 channel setup; a soundbar or single speaker might do the trick. If you want to fill a larger room with sound, though, spring for something more powerful. Take a look at our overview of 2.0, 2.1, 5.1, 6.1, and 7.1 channel systems to get a good idea of your options.
Wired vs. Wireless
As with headphones, wired systems often deliver better sound, but their setup tends to be more complicated. If you’re willing to trade a little sound quality in favor of convenience, a wireless system is a good bet. Standard wireless connectivity is offered over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Some sound systems also come with NFC for pairing. Most separate subwoofers are also wireless, meaning they pair automatically with the rest of your sound system when you plug it in.
About Our Trusted Experts
Emily Ramirez has been writing for Lifewire since 2019. She’s has a degree in Comparative Media Studies (Game Design) and wrote for MIT Game Lab as a blogger and narrative designer. She tested several of the home entertainment systems on this roundup. Bill Loguidice has two decades of experience writing and reviewing technology. He’s previously been published in TechRadar, PC Gamer, and Ars Technica. He specializes in home entertainment, smart home technology, and computers, tablets, and other devices.
