For many of us, the television is the entertainment centre of the household. Holding countless hours of live and streamed TV, the latest and best blockbusters, and hosting long nights of console gaming. So, naturally, you want to ensure that the experience is the best it can be.
It's quite likely that in the past few years you’ve upgraded your TV. So, visually, everything is as it should be. However, the visual experience is only half of the battle – you still need to maximise the audio performance. Built-in speakers are fine for casual viewing, but to truly appreciate the care and skill that goes into sound-tracking and sound engineering the best of TV, film and gaming, a surround sound system is a must.
To help you choose the best surround sound system for you, we’ve rounded up some of our top picks. These options come in varying shapes, sizes and costs. There are full, traditional multi-speaker systems requiring external amplifiers and plenty of space, through to modern solutions that use digital mastery to simulate the surround sound experience, often saving on both space and money.
The best surround systems:
Sonos is synonymous with the very best contemporary surround sound solutions, providing earth-rattling audio in compact packages. The Arc soundbar continues this grand tradition by packing in Dolby Atmos 11 speakers, including several upwards firing, that work to create a thoroughly enjoyable 3D audio experience. Using an HDMI eARC connection, true HD audio is achieved. The audio is rich, diverse and more than loud enough. TV, film and gaming all sound amazing, and Alexa is built-in too, so it's just as great for music and radio. The Arc can later be added to with the Sonos Sub and Sonos Five for increased audio joy.
Pros
- Excellent sound
- Excellent 3D audio
Cons
- Very expensive to extend with extra Sonos products
Output: | Not published |
Connections: | HDMI, eARC, Wireless, AirPlay 2 |
Remote: | <code>Yes</code> |
![LG LHB64N 5.1 Home Cinema System](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6164/21b3/22bf/162b/9568/6a32/LG%20LHB64N%205.1%20Home%20Cinema%20System.jpeg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
www.currys.co.uk
The LHB64N is a home cinema kit that delivers quality sound and vision. The sound comes from 5.1 speakers, which push out lively, loud and lovely noise from the front, sides and rear, providing a rich and immersive 3D cinematic experience. Overall, the sound is detailed, and the subwoofer provides a nice weight and drama to proceedings. The vision is brought by the included Blu-ray and DVD player. This player also carries a bunch of smart apps for streaming and catch-up TV - itu2019s your one-stop entertainment hub. Bonus for anyone with an LG smart TV - the speakers can wirelessly connect via LG Sound Sync.
Pros
- Excellent value
- True 5.1 surround sound
- Blu-ray, DVD and streamed entertainment
Cons
- Studio speakers aren’t for everyone
Output: | 1000W |
Connections: | HDMI, Optical, USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth |
Remote: | Yes |
The YAS-209 Soundbar and Subwoofer are high-quality audio solutions at a very affordable cost. The soundbar features DTS Virtual
Pros
- Affordable access to great audio
Cons
- Surround sound is virtual
Output: | 200W |
Connections: | HDMI, ARC, CEC, digital optical |
Remote: | Yes |
Bose has been impressing customers with its audio equipment since 1964, and the years of expertise are clear in many, if not all, of its products. The Bose Soundbar 700 is one such example, kicking out enjoyable audio with rich middles and highs. This well-balanced and equalised sound produce offers up particularly good vocal clarity. The ADAPTiQ function allows the system to automatically tune itself to best suit the surroundings and position. The Surround Sound satellite speakers provide a similar performance and increasing the sense of audio immersion. Alexa is built-in. The bass here is a little thin when compared to other options u2013 for those hunting the rumble and boom of surround sound systems will want to add the Bose Bass Module 500.
Pros
- Great Bose audio
- True immersion in audio via the satellite speakers
Cons
- No Dolby processing
- Bass is a little thin
Output: | Not published |
Connections: | HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2 |
Remote: | Yes |
If you're looking for a thrilling surround sound experience and don't mind annoying the neighbours, then consider this set-up from Q Acoustics. The stars of the show are the two floor-standing Q3050i speakers, which deliver a rich and formidable audio experience. Backing these behemoths up with no less excellence are the two bookshelf speakers and once centre speakers. On the floor, the Q3090i subwoofer sits pushing out pure and refined bass. All of the cabinets have been designed to limit resonance to deliver a clearer sound, and the results are astounding. If you have space, this package is sure to please.
Pros
- Astonishing sound
Cons
- Requires separate amp
- Large and heavy standing speakers
Output: | Not published |
Connections: | N/A |
Remote: | No |
The Amazon Echo Studio is a great, simple, all-in-one, streamlined device. The Studio takes the rich audio found in the standard Echo range and gives it a significant boost with Dolby Atmos, five speakers and a subwoofer. The high-fidelity audio is automatically tuned to suit the speakers' location. Connections can be made via a 3.5mm jack, mini-optical line in and WiFi. Not only is this a compact surround sound solution, but it also provides access to Alexa assistant and can act as a smart home hub via its Zigbee connectivity. Its compact design makes it ideal for anyone with limited space, or who doesn't want a large surround sound system.
Pros
- All-in-one solution
- Excellent, loud audio
Cons
- Unusual solution
Output: | Not published |
Connections: | 3.5mm jack, mini-optical, Wi-Fi |
Remote: | No |
For those looking to dip their toes into the surround sound market, the Wharfdale DX-2 may just be enough to tempt you. Not only do they look great, but the five satellite speakers will help immerse you in entertainment without taking up too much space. Though the sound doesn't match some higher-end models, what they do produce is nothing to deride. The subwoofer is powered by a 70W amplifier and adds a satisfyingly rich bottom end to the performance of the system. If you like what you hear, an additional two speakers can be purchased separately to provide the full 7.1 experience.
Pros
- Very affordable 5.1 surround
Cons
- Requires external amplifier
Output: | Not published |
Connections: | N/A |
Remote: | N/A |
![Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6091/38f3/2a34/9f6a/f374/962c/Logitech-Z906.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
If compromising on sound quality and volume just isn't an option but your budget is tight, these 1000W Logitech speakers might just do the trick. The speakers meet the standard for THX certification and can process Dolby Digital and DTS: X. The audio that's pushed out by the speakers impresses with both its volume and its quality u2013 gaming and action movies, in particular, are elevated when heard through these. Though the look of the speakers isn't as sharp as others here listed, the sound more than makes up for it. The small speaker footprint makes it easy to dot around living rooms and gaming desks, though the cabling does need some management to stay neat. There a multiple inputs for improved connectivity.
Pros
- Loud audio
- High-quality audio
Cons
- A little ugly
- Lots of cabling
Output: | 1000W |
Connections: | 3.5mm, RCA, six-channel direct, digital coaxial, optical |
Remote: | Yes |
![Sony HT-S20R 5.1 Soundbar](https://images.bauerhosting.com/legacy/media/6164/2248/7774/cf0c/16f8/8ac4/Sony%20HT-S20R%205.1%20Soundbar.jpeg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
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The Sony HT-S20 R is a compact surround sound system that kicks out 5.1 audio without taking over a roomu2019s available space. The wired soundbar sits under a TV, svelte but capable of delivering impressive audio. There are two small rear speakers adding atmosphere, and a bass woofer bring some boom. While louder options are available, the sound quality and volume are ideal for the average living room, adding immersion to gaming, music, sports and movies. Voices are nice a clear, too.
Pros
- Compact
- Reliable and affordable
Cons
- More complete feature sets are available elsewhere
- Not the most sophisticated audio experience
Output: | 400W |
Connections: | HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB |
Remote: | Yes |
Which surround sound system is best?
This depends on your needs and budget. For those looking for a simple, plug-and-play solution that’ll deliver great sound without the need for some sound engineering know-how, then the Sony HT-RT4, Yamaha YAS-209 and even the Echo Studio are going to do you well. The Sonos Arc is a great option here too, although it is expensive.
For sound enthusiasts who want to get into the nitty-gritty and external amplifiers, the Wharfdale DX-2 5.1 Speaker System and the Q Acoustics 3000i Home Cinema Speaker Package will deliver.
The best home surround sound system
To us, the best home surround sound system is the one that offers versatility. It’s not just for the TV and films, but all audio uses, including radio and music. For tighter budgets, this will be the Echo Studio which boasts great sound and full Alexa functionality in a combat package.
For those who don’t mind paying out a little more, the Sonos Arc will offer the same functions but with its impressive Dolby processing and 11 speaker array.
The best TV surround sound system
The best TV surround sound to us is the option that is going to increase the enjoyment you get from film and TV regularly. An option that isn’t over the top, but helps vocals to cut through whilst drawing you further into the entertainment.
That’s why we think the Yamaha YAS-209 Soundbar with Subwoofer is the best option for everyday TV use. It’s low-fuss, powerful enough to improve the experience but won’t go waking up the whole street – though it will if you’d like it to.
The best surround sound for console gaming
The Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System is going to provide an excellent and immersive gaming experience. It’s capable of nailing atmospheric tones of the best thrillers and horrors, right through the mayhem and explosions of the best FPS titles. Plus, its extensive connections make it ideal for multiple system inputs.
Why do some companies not list the output wattage?
Though it’s not a legal requirement, knowing the output wattage of a speaker system can be very useful as the detail can work as a rough guide of volume for potential customers.
Some companies, most notably Sonos and Bose, don’t publish this information. This is because some companies feel that output wattage is an unreliable gauge for judging a speaker’s performance. The number doesn’t convey the quality or refinement of the audio. Therefore, it’s not published.
Additionally, some of the speakers above are passive and therefore require an external amplifier to process and control the audio signal.
Key features to look out for
Ultimately, the type of surround sound system you buy is up to you and is dictated by your needs. However, there are a few key features to look out for.
Pay attention to how the sound system is connected to your entertainment setup, and how many connections are available. This is particularly key for anyone wanting to use streaming devices, Blu-ray players and gaming consoles.
Be sure to measure up before you purchase a system, too. Surround sound systems aren’t small - making sure that there’s enough room for speakers, subwoofers and satellites is a must. This is also a good chance to make sure that you like the look too - nothing worse than a flashy system that clashes with absolutely everything else you own.
When it comes to audio performance, things get very subjective. However, bass hunters will want to pay particular attention to systems with large subwoofers. Those who like a balanced audio will want to opt for speakers with a healthy balance of mids (for voice and detail), bass (for weight and presence) and treble (for twinkling details).
William Lobley is a Content Writer and reviewer for What's The Best, specialising in gaming, technology and the outdoors. He also writes for Empire Online.
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