How to Install a Surround Sound System
The complete multimedia experience is in great part about the perfect execution of sound. While normal stereo speakers are great for watching TV or some movies, high-quality footage should be watched and experienced with the best peripherals possible. If you want to install a surround sound speaker system for your home entertainment system, read on.
What is Surround Sound?
Surround sound is an audio technique that enhances the quality of sound through a series of sound channels and speakers found all around a room or a space. Instead of just one all-purpose speaker, surround sound may have up to seven different speaker units in the room. Most surround sound systems use the digital sound standard, and are often used in cinemas and home theater systems.
Components of Surround Sound
Surround sound hardware can be bought from electronics supply shops or from reputable sites on the Internet. They are fairly easy to install in your own home as long as you follow the instructions on the user manual, or you can have an electrician wire up the system for you. There are three components of a surround sound system:
sound system
Audio control. The audio control is a case that contains the controls and switches necessary for the sound channels to be split, programmed, and distributed through the surround sound system. Some home versions may have remote control capabilities.
Speakers/Tweeters. The number of speakers or tweeter units used in a surround sound system depends on the variation you are using. Many surround sound units use a 5.1 speaker configuration, which consists of five speaker units and one subwoofer. More expensive surround sound speaker systems for home entertainment may have up to seven speaker units.
Subwoofer. The subwoofer broadcasts bass signals from the audio control. Usually only one subwoofer is required for a surround sound system.
Positioning Tips
Where you install the speakers and units of a surround sound system can affect the way you perceive and experience sound. Here are some tips:
The subwoofer should be positioned in a central space where you can hear and feel the bass.
The principle of surround is to hear the sound from all over the room. Instead of clustering your speakers in one place, make sure they’re placed in strategic places in the room.
A common arrangement in 5.1 speaker systems is to position the subwoofer in a central space, while two speakers are positioned out front. Two speakers are placed on the side, while the last speaker is positioned at the rear. The way the speaker system is designed allows sound to be broadcast more clearly and cleanly across the space.
Surround sound is the next best thing to being in a live concert or the actual set of the movie. With these steps, you can install your brand new surround sound system and enjoy every bit and beat for the best audio experience possible.