Home Theatre Speakers
5.1 Surround Sound Speakers
The 5.1 surround sound speaker's system was first commercially introduced in 1987. It contains 5 high to medium frequency channels and 1 low frequency subwoofer. Hence, the designation - 5.1, where '1' indicates a low frequency channel (not necessarily just a subwoofer). The 5.1 surround sound speaker's system is known to have an absolutely minimal configuration to produce an effect of the sound spaciousness. The 5.1 surround sound speakers are sufficient for most of the applications. The setup is also well tested as it has been on the market for over 20 years.
A Guide to Buy 5.1 Surround Sound Speakers
Every speaker is qualified by two criteria:
- Sensitivity (the frequency response)
- Power rating
Thus, the 5.1 surround sound speakers are also discriminated by those two qualities.
But, do you really need all that power and all that sound resolution?
A good quality surround sound speakers together with the Blue-Ray decoder cost about $700-$800.
The system is capable to let you adequately enjoy the music and the movies.
Most people cannot distinguish between 5.1 and 6.1 surround system.
This also applies to the sensitivity of the sound.
Unless, you are an expert in the specific song or music, there is very little chance to pick the inaccuracies of the reproduced sound.
There is also no difference in the quality of the sound reproduction between $500 and $700 surround sound speakers.
In most cases you pay extra for the wireless technology rather than the quality of the audio.
5.1 Surround Sound Speakers - The Setup
Ideally, you need to place the left and the right audio speakers on the sides and slightly forward (about 0.5 meters from the source).
The central speaker should be in the front and the subwoofer behind the center-left.
The rear speakers are placed behind the listener.
Ideally, these units should face the back of the left and the right ear.
The front, front left, front right, surround left and the surround right speakers require to face the viewer.
Thus all (except for the frontal unit) should be installed at the angle (+/-30 degrees)
Most rear surround sound speakers use wireless technology.
Try to spend some time deciding where these products should be placed.
Sometimes buying pivotal brackets for rear speakers will make a good setup "sound" like a great one.
5.1 Surround Sound Speakers for Computers
I would not spend a fortune on the surround sound speakers for computers. In most cases you require to process 16-32 bit resolution sounds which are too inferior for the expensive equipment. Some companies like JVC offer great deals on 5.1 surround sound speakers for computer applications. You buy these products for as little as $79. If you want something with a little bit of "juice" then Logitech offers 5.1 surround sound speakers specifically for PC games. And it costs only $130.