Introduction
Do you love watching movies with exceptional sound quality just like we do? If yes, then we’ve created a list of 10 best home theater speakers that will ensure you get a high-quality cinematic experience right at home.
Home theater systems, with their surround sound features, and easy connectivity, provide a little extra excitement than you normally get just watching a plain-old TV by itself. To help you choose an ideal model with ease, we’ve analyzed all the factors that go into crafting speakers that are perfect for both upbeat songs as well as the silent creaks in horror movies. For a speaker to deliver every minute detail, it has to have highly advanced features.
So sit back and get acquainted with different home theater systems that are incredible in their own unique ways.
Important comparative features of best home theater systems
| Model | Best Feature | Weight | Price |
| Onkyo HT-S3910 | Dolby Atmos height virtualizer | 41.4 pounds | Click Here for Price |
| YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer) technology | 16.3 pounds | Click Here for Price | |
| Mod2X Center Channel speakers | 26.9 pounds | Click Here for Price | |
| Eco Mode 1 option | 2.2 pounds | Click Here for Price | |
| THX certified home theater speakers | 36.6 pounds | Click Here for Price | |
| Well-engineered sound bar | 81.8 pounds | No products found. | |
| Aramid Fiber woofer | 16.31 pounds | Click Here for Price | |
| WiSA (wireless speaker and audio) wireless technology | 30 pounds | Click Here for Price | |
| Three-Zone Listening | 158 pounds | Click Here for Price | |
| Omni Jewel speakers | 66 pounds | Click Here for Price |
10 Best Home Theater Speakers Reviewed
1. Onkyo HT-S3910
When you think of investing in a home theater system, you expect to receive speakers that would deliver a highly immersive, crisp sound. Onkyo HT-S3910, with its Dolby Atmos height virtualizer, and DTS virtual: x, provides 3D audio playback along with creating an immersive listening experience when playing any Dolby format file. The Dolby Atmos height virtualizer creates a virtual sound and height effect from traditional speaker layouts without the addition of extra surround or height speakers.
Powered by 155 W per channel, this system supports 4K HDR (High Dynamic Range) audio, which means that the sound quality is crystal clear. It also has a discrete high current analog amp system with a drive capability of 4 Ohms.
The Onkyo HT-S3910 includes an object-based audio ability that helps clearly distinguish individual sounds from audio tracks. Imagine how wonderful an experience watching flicks like Jurassic Park and Godzilla is gonna be when these devices stream the audio.
Apart from sound flexibility, you also get an Advanced Music Optimizer™ which is a DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology that ensures high frequency-bit data for a rich sound. This means that all compressed audio in MP3 format will be optimized to their original format. Being priced under $1000, this simple 5.1 system is highly competent.
In terms of connectivity, you can use Bluetooth to connect the receiver to your smartphone, tablet, or PC, and stream your favorite music. Your device will be remembered once you pair it with the receiver, and audio files are automatically played when an incoming Bluetooth audio stream is detected.
Also, the system supports 4:4:4 color space and all its terminals are HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) 2.2 compliant. The system comes enabled with a future firmware update which means you don’t have to download one separately.
We think that this model is the best buy if you’re looking for home theater speakers in a budget. However, if you’re looking for something extraordinary, Onkyo HT-S3910 might disappoint you.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos height virtualizer and DTS virtual: x gives an immersive sound experience Advanced Music Optimizer™ for rich and crisp sound | Nothing extraordinary compared to other models in a similar price range |
2. Yamaha YHT-4930UBL
Yamaha YHT-4930UBL outshines many other models on our list with its unique YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer) technology. This special feature ensures your speakers are calibrated according to your needs. Yamaha has crafted its room calibration software that comes with a mic. All you need to do is plug this small mic into its input, and the YPAO will calibrate your speakers automatically. YPAO carefully analyzes the acoustics of your listening and viewing space so that the sound delivered is tailored to your expectations.
The system’s Bluetooth enables you to get wireless music streaming with a compressed music enhancer. What’s special about this enhancer is that it enables playback which improves the performance of compressed music formats like MP3 and WMA. It also makes the highs and lows smoother and richer so that the compressed audio is close to the original version.
This 5.1 channel, black gloss speaker package features a 6½” 100 W powered subwoofer with a port on the side for added bass detail to give that extra thump to your audio. The trim function in the component stops overlaps from subwoofer frequency and other speakers to deliver a cleaner sounding bass that can go up to 30 Hz. Along with this, the system also has a metal receiver with ventilation holes on top and an LED display. Overall, the glossy touch on the entire system is so designed that it blends easily with the décor of modern houses.
Another feature called Cinema DSP digital lets you simulate multiple venues from around the world like the feeling of being an opera theater or in a concert. You experience a sound that is so euphoric that you feel there are speakers all around you. This satisfying sound experience is highly recommended for gamers.
Despite all the great attributes of YHT-4930UBL, the system’s sound quality is not remarkable. Besides, the sound tends to distort if pushed to the limits. You also get only 1 subwoofer output in the receiver which is a limiting factor.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| YPAO feature for automatic calibration of speakers Compressed music enhancer for crisp music Cinema DSP digital lets you simulate multiple venues | Sound quality not remarkable and tends to distort Only 1 subwoofer output in the receiver |
3. Orb Audio Mini 5.1 Plus
Orb Audio Mini 5.1 Plus is unique in design and handmade from steel. It consists of a set of small, spherical, satellite speakers which are available in 6 finishes with metallic black gloss being our favorite. We found this system to be great in terms of aesthetics with the best satellite speakers for home theatre.
Featuring Mod2X Center Channel speakers, the system enhances dialog and voice output with a significant boost to overall performance. The system also includes 12 ft. of premium subwoofer cable and wireless transmitter/receiver kit for subwoofer. What’s also worth mentioning is the dual underside port in the subwoofer which imparts it the same deliverance as larger cabinets.
Furthermore, Orb Audio Mini also has 5”orbs and a 9”subwoofer which is capable of handling a wide range of frequencies for audio-soundscapes, rich textures, and crisp detail. Since the orbs have a convex shape, they have a wide dispersion range, which means the sound travels in a wider angle. Along with this, they also have gold terminals which add to the overall attractive appearance of the speakers.
In addition to being versatile in terms of mounting methods, Orb Audio Mini has a calibrated enclosure with good dampening and durable rubber supports to raise it from the floor. Since this system’s subwoofer has zero distortion, we’ll give it extra points when compared to Yamaha YHT-4930UBL. It’s really easy to set up this system and if you have any queries or complains, Orb Audio offers excellent customer service to help you out.
Don’t judge Orb speakers by their size as they deliver exceptional sound quality. However, when compared to Onkyo’s speakers, which have bagged the number 1 spot on our list, it does get left behind. Also, we felt that the sound from Orb’s speakers lacked a low deep end and having no Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity limits its functionality.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Aesthetically appealing with wide variety of colors to choose from Mod2X Center Channel speakers enhance dialog and voice output Wide dispersion range due to convex shape of orbs | Orb’s speakers lacked a low deep end No Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity |
4. Pioneer 5.1 Home Theater System HTP-074
If you’re looking for a home theater system that saves energy and cuts down your electricity bill, then Pioneer 5.1 Home Theater System HTP-074 is an option you should consider. With a special Eco Mode 1 option, this system helps you save energy and money while delivering high-quality sound. This mode can be used for playing CD music and 2ch audio files.
What’s more is a 5.1 channel AV receiver, 5 compact speakers and a subwoofer. Along with this, you also get 4 HDMI inputs, Ultra HD 4K pass-through with HDCP 2.2. The system’s front panel USB terminal input allows a USB memory stick to be directly connected. Further in terms of connectivity, you get a built-in Bluetooth that ensures endless audio streaming with compatible devices. Also, the plug and play connectivity lets you play mp3 files with ease.
HTP-074 supports 3D HDR video standards which expands brightness peak and enhances the contrast between light and dark images. You can connect this system to a Blu-ray disk player as well as a DVD player. And if you love playing video games, you can even connect this home theater system to your gaming laptop or PC for a powerful audio experience.
Moreover, this model supports Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio surround soundtracks which lets you experience music in high definition. A special feature called Advanced Sound Retriever converts compressed audio like WMA, AAC, and MPC to the level of CD sound. With this technology, you can be assured that even minor details left out during the compression process will be restored.
While there are many positive attributes of this home theater system, it’s not suitable for big rooms. Besides, its frequency range is not that great.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Eco Mode 1 option helps you save energy and money Advanced Sound Retriever converts compressed audio to the level of CD sound | Not suitable for big rooms |
5. Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System
Are you looking for a speaker system that gives you a theater-like thrilling experience right in the comfort of your home? If yes, then Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System is a product where your search would end. With its THX-certified home theater speakers, you will surely experience cinema-quality sound that will turn any room into a movie theater.
A compact control console and wireless remote lets you easily monitor the system in terms of regulating the volume control, setting the inputs as well as switching the system on and off. Logitech guarantees you a powerful audio with deep bass and theater-quality acoustics every time.
Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks are played with clear, rich mid-range tones in this system. Z906 features 5.1 digital surround sound, dynamic satellite, center channel speakers and a 165 W subwoofer. The system delivers continuous 500 W of power and can deliver a peak of a whopping 1000 W.
Being highly portable and compact, Z906 has a stackable design that fits in with the structure of modern homes. Feel free to connect your TV, computer, band console to the same unit as it has inputs for multiple audio sources.
Despite the many features of this model that ensures a cinematic experience at home, Z906 has some flaws. The system comes supplied with flimsy wires which are not highly durable. Also, since its mid-range is not the best, it’s not a favorite among audiophiles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| THX certified home theater speakers guarantees cinema quality sound Portable and compact | Flimsy wires |
6. Sonos 5.1 Surround Set
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Sonos 5.1 Surround Set has a smart, compact soundbar called beam which can be voice-controlled and is compatible with Amazon Alexa and AirPlay 2. So all you need to do is give a voice command to play your favorite song and the system will do so right away.
Furthermore, a subwoofer that comes with this set adds intense bass with 2 force canceling speakers for a deep sound that has zero cabinet buzz or rattle. Featuring 2 Play: 1 surround sound speakers along with a Sonos Beam soundbar and a Sonos subwoofer, a theater-quality sound is delivered every time. If you want to further enhance the sound effect, you can add more Sonos speakers. It is also possible to pair your system with TV automatically, using the remote provided.
We liked the fact that it has a well-engineered soundbar instead of bulky subwoofers that would hinder its portability. Besides, the system has a trouble-free set-up and can easily switch between music and movies.
On the downside, this model has no Dolby Atmos functionality. Also, it has no Bluetooth connectivity, supports only DD codec and has a soundstage that is not too wide. Soundstage is the ability of speakers to generate a realistic 2 dimensional sound space and position each sound within that space. It can be measured as the apparent width, depth, and height or the recorded sound played by speakers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Alexa and AirPlay2 Well-engineered sound bar | No Bluetooth connectivity Soundstage not too wide |
7. Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers
Being one of the best home theater speakers on our list, Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers has a feature that you just cannot ignore. Featuring new tweeters with a wide-dispersion waveguide, the sound emitted from these speakers covers a vast area. This means you can easily use these speakers in a large room. Also, the newly developed 1”soft-dome tweeter has a wide-roll surround sound which increases the frequency response up to 35 kHz.
The new woven Aramid Fiber woofer adds extra durability and gives a higher frequency response with a clean tight bass. You also get new cabinets for easier placement of speakers which can be easily placed on your shelf, as the name suggests. The front-firing port makes positioning the speakers an easy job and reduces the problem that comes up when speakers are placed close to the back wall. An innovative internal bracing reduces cabinet vibration, keeping the cabinets’ influence on the overall sound quality to a minimum. The cabinet itself is made of wood which improves the audio quality altogether.
Elac Debut 2.0 is a powerful upgrade from the previous model in terms of creating an immersive experience for music, gaming, and movies. F6.2 floor standing speakers and 3010 subwoofer by Elac give outstanding sound quality at an affordable price.
If we had to make a mention of some of its drawbacks, we’d say that the control of the bass is not stellar. The speakers also need some breaking in period and we suggest playing loud music to break in the drivers quickly. This would take a few hours to few days. Nonetheless, Elac Debut 2.0 has one of the best compact home theater speakers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| New tweeters with a wide-dispersion waveguide Aramid Fiber for higher frequency response with a clean tight bass | Control of the bass is not stellar |
8. Enclave Audio CineHome HD 5.1 Wireless Audio System
Featuring the new WiSA (wireless speaker and audio) wireless technology which is a hardware and software specification for delivering high-resolution digital audio, Enclave Audio CineHome is a budget-friendly option that you should consider.
With 360 degrees of 24 bit HD wireless audio, Enclave rear sound speakers have 2 full-range drivers on the opposite sides of the enclosure that ensures a surround sound experience. You can hear this surround sound even from the stereo signals. Further, 5.1 channels of LPCM ensure 24-bit uncompressed audio with zero lip-sync issues.
In terms of connectivity, 3 HDMI inputs let you connect to dish TV, gaming consoles, DVD player, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, etc. What’s special is the Enclave Smart Center which becomes the central hub to save money and space without the need for extra audio/video receiver or speaker cables.
You can also use the Enclave Audio app for both Android and iOS to stream music from your smartphone, local network or music services via Bluetooth or Google Cast which requires Chrome Cast.
Despite the good features, this system lacks the quality of its remote and is quite pricey.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| WiSA (wireless speaker and audio) wireless technology for high quality audio Enclave Audio app to stream music | Mediocre quality of remote |
9. Sony 7.2 Channel 3D 4K A/V Surround Sound Multimedia System
What sets Sony 7.2 Channel 3D 4K A/V Surround Sound Multimedia System apart is its Three-Zone Listening feature, which enables connectivity between 3 sets of speakers and the receiver. This feature lets you listen to the same audio across 3 rooms, with 3.2 channels in the main room and 2 channels each in other 2 rooms.
Along with this, you get exclusive access to Sony Entertainment Network with more than 100 streaming services like Netflix, and YouTube. that acts as a bonus when you choose to buy this system. You gain access to a plethora of movies and shows that you can enjoy with great audio output which this system guarantees. DLNA compatibility enables you to play audio or movies from any compatible Android device.
Being compact and powerful, the system has a 7 channel amplifier and supports 4K HD quality image format. All you need to do is connect to 4K/60p input that is compatible with a TV and sit back and enjoy Ultra high definition content. With its built-in Wi-Fi and NFC Bluetooth, it becomes really easy to stream songs wirelessly from smartphones, tablets, laptop, and Wi-Fi AirPlay.
You can even stream music from your iOS device through the amp to your speakers. Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio give a studio-like audio quality and all users get to experience multi-channel audio to get a highly immersive sound.
Keep in mind that switching between different modes on this system can be tricky. Also, you need to connect to a monitor whenever you use a USB stick to listen to music.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Three-Zone Listening which connects 3 sets of speakers to the receiver Access to Sony Entertainment Network | Switching between modes can be tricky |
10. Bose Lifestyle 650 Home Entertainment System
The highlight of Bose Lifestyle 650 Home Entertainment System is its Omni Jewel speakers which despite their small size, produce true 360 degree surround sound. These speakers are designed with Sound Touch and use existing home Wi-Fi networks to stream music from Amazon Prime, Spotify, and even your stored music collection. Also, what’s special about these speakers is that you don’t need to have them directed at the viewers as these speakers create an infinite focal point that is highly immersive. Omni Jewel speakers are different because they have 2 drivers pointing at each other and the space between them is the grill from where the sound comes out.
Further, the entire unit adjusts the volume of specific sound coming from an individual speaker while keeping the volume of other speakers at a normal level. Bose uses the principles of Physics cleverly and disperses the sound from 2 drivers in a 360-degree pattern within the middle to deepen the effect of the immersive sound.
Being compatible with Amazon’s Alexa, this system can be controlled and directed with voice commands. Moreover, these home theater speakers guarantee zero distortion with its Quiet Port technology used by the wireless bass module as well as advanced DSP to deliver a deep, clean bass.
A unique ADAPTiQ audio room calibration ensures your system is fine-tuned according to the dynamics of your room. All you need to do is wear the headset that comes with the system, stay seated while the system calculates your position. After 10 minutes, the speaker will do a self-optimization process by emitting various tones to calibrate it. So you don’t need to call for a professional to set up and tune your speakers. Bose helps you save some extra bucks in this area.
Featuring a premium glass body with brushed anodized aluminum and tempered glass, Lifestyle 650 is highly durable and stylish. In terms of bass, the Acoustimass wireless bass module creates a resounding bass which is ideal for dramatic sound effects. You also get a universal remote control with the system and the easy display of onscreen menus makes the system user-friendly.
Despite a plethora of features that make Bose Lifestyle 650 great, it does have its flaws. Some customers claimed that the remote started lagging over time and the ADAPTiQ function did not work precisely.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Omni Jewel speakers for an immersive audio experience Compatible with Alexa ADAPTiQ audio room calibration | Remote lags over time ADAPTiQ feature is flawed |
FAQ’s
1. 5.1 Surround Sound vs 7.1 Surround Sound
| 5.1 Surround Sound | 7.1 Surround Sound |
|---|---|
|
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2. Is a surround sound system worth it?
Yes, we believe a surround sound system is worth the expenditure. It brings a theater-like feel right in the comfort of your home and makes watching movies a fun experience with friends and family. You need not invest in an entire home theater system at the same time. If you have a TV at home, then you can start by buying speakers first and then making additions gradually.
3. Which is better surround sound or stereo?
While surround sound is a multi-channel system with 5 speakers, stereo sound is a 2-channel system with 2 speakers. Surround sound mixes audio to create a sound field while stereo mixes audio in two tracks. We think surround sound is better for recorded movies and if you’re a movie buff. But if you mostly want to listen to songs, then stereo sound should be good enough for you.
4. Can you use any speakers for surround sound?
Yes, you can use any speakers to get surround sound. You just need to make sure that the Ohm or power rating on your receiver matches to the one on your speakers.
5. Do surround speakers need to match?
Since surround speakers are meant to be more diffuse (Dolby Atmos surround sound aside), choosing to have dipole or bipole speakers from another manufacturer isn’t going to disrupt the enveloping sense of surround you’re after.
Conclusion
Home theater systems breathe life into audio and make those cozy family evenings even more fun. We tested several models and handpicked the best home theater speaker systems for you. All you need to do is find one that best suits your needs and budget. We recommend Onkyo HT-S3910 and Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers if your budget is under $1000. These two models are not just economical but also high on performance and durability. If you’re willing to spend a little more, then we recommend Pioneer 5.1 Home Theater System HTP-074 because it saves those extra bucks on your electricity bill and functions extremely well.
We hope our list was helpful to you. Happy buying!
More to read:
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Last update on 2023-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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