Home Theatre Speakers
Surround Speakers
The surround sound speaker systems can contain 6 to 24 speakers in total.
The idea is to reproduce the spaciousness of the signal as accurately as possible.
Obviously more sound channels you have the more realistic is the reproduction of the system.
And each channel requires an audio speaker to process the sound.
The basic 5.1 surround sound speaker systems have been known since 1987.
It consists of 2 side speakers, 1 subwoofer, 1 central speaker and 2 rear speakers.
Thus the name 5.1 (where '1' indicates number of subwoofers).
In the audio jargon the rear speakers are often regarded as surround speakers.
Today there are more elaborate systems: 6.1, 7.1, 9.1, 9.2, 10.2 and even 22.2.
Surround Speakers - The Quality
You do not require a high quality rear or surround speakers. Most of the units placed next or behind you are there to supplement main sounds. This is particularly true when watching action movies with Dolby sound recording. The surround speakers reproduce rear or background sounds and thus do not form the center stage. All surround speakers provide mid to high frequency sounds. The job of the frontally positioned subwoofer is to deliver low frequency bass.
A Guide To Buy Surround Speakers
We would not recommend to buy surround speakers separately.
It is better to buy them as part of the entire surround sound system.
Firstly, it is cheaper to buy the set rather than each unit separately.
Secondly you may have compatibility issues.
The power ratings of the surround sound system amplifiers has to be matched with the units.
Too high or too low power will make the surround speakers redundant.
However, if you need to buy surround speakers separately then $50-$70 will buy you a decent pair.
The wireless technology for a good speaker will further add another $70-$100.
The top of the range wireless surround speakers cost about $300.
However, for computer applications you should not bother with separate units.
A decent 5.1 speaker system for PC and laptop applications costs as little as $100.