How to choose and calibrate home theater 5.1 and 7.1 sound systems?

Leonord D

Member
For novices, in addition to not knowing the difference between home theater 5.1 and 7.1 sound systems, they will also be confused about how to correct home theater 5.1 and 7.1. First of all, one of the biggest decisions you need to make is whether to use a basic five speaker system (plus a subwoofer, because who doesn't want that subwoofer?) Or a more powerful seven speaker system. Then let's talk about the differences between home theater 5.1 and 7.1 sound systems.

Advantages and disadvantages of home theater 5.1 and 7.1 sound systems

Home theater 5.1 or 7.1 sound systems refers to the number of speakers in the setup. The home theater 5.1 sound system consists of five smaller speakers and a subwoofer. The subwoofer can handle bass, and the other five speakers can handle everything else. In this particular setting, you will have a center speaker directly in front of your listening position, under the TV. On both sides of it will be two front speakers. The remaining two home theater speakers are usually placed on either side of your seat. The subwoofer is most often placed in a corner or on one side of the TV.

Advantages of home theater 5.1 sound system

1. Usually only one box is needed, and there is no need to invest in additional components.

2. It is relatively easy to install and place, which is a real blessing for the smaller room.

3. Low price. It can also be customized.

Advantages of home theater 7.1 sound system

Richer surround sound. Speaker construction quality and audio capabilities are generally ahead of any 5.1 sound system.

Disadvantages of home theater 7.1 sound system

7.1 systems can be expensive.

Remember the following key points when choosing home theater 5.1 and 7.1 sound sytems

1. How big is your room? If it is greater than 350 square feet, consider the home theater 7.1 speaker setup. If it's smaller, 5.1 might be more appropriate.

2. Where is your listening position? Do you have space? If so, consider the home theater 7.1 setting.

3. Are you likely to want to upgrade surround sound at any time? Can you see that you invest in high level speakers? If so, use a receiver compatible home theater 7.1 sound system.

4. Do you prefer wired or wireless systems? If you can make a sound compromise, choose a wireless connection.

Room calibration instructions

The sound insulation of walls and the proper location of loudspeakers will make the experience of home theater better. Furniture items can affect sound effects. The bookshelf absorbs most of the sound, allowing you to hear the sound from the speakers more accurately without being confused by reflections. Also suitable for sofas, curtains, bean bags... Anything soft or uneven. Walls, ceilings, paintings - any flat or reflective - complicate sound because they reflect sound back into the room. If possible, try using more bookshelves and soft decorations.

About home theater subwoofer placement

Traditionally, the subwoofer is placed on one side of the TV, or in a corner, or in some cases along the side of a wall, pointing to the inside. If possible, keep it as close to the front speakers as possible, which will help create the illusion that the bass comes from there.

About home theater ceiling speakers

For starters, the more speakers you add to the system, the narrower the entertainment range that actually provides dedicated channels for those speakers. If your entertainment includes cable news, Netflix, and even most video games, don't waste money investing in tweeters. For high loudspeakers, either they are fixed on the wall or they are placed on the high bookshelf, which may cause a lot of troubles.
 
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