July 22, 2024
Whether installing or upgrading to a new entertainment system, you’ll want to purchase the best one for your home and lifestyle. Because entertainment technology constantly evolves, staying on top of the latest equipment can be challenging. Many options are available on the market, making it a little overwhelming to know where to begin. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of home theater systems and show you some of the best home entertainment systems you can purchase.
When shopping for a home entertainment system, you’ll likely see numbers such as 3.1 and 5.1.2. But what do those numbers mean?
In every multi-channel theater system setup, there are a series of numbers. Those numbers, usually separated with dots like the above examples, represent the number of speakers, channels, subwoofers, and height-channel speakers. For example, when we refer to a 5.1.2 system, the first number indicates how many speakers exist at an ear level. The middle number refers to the number of subwoofers in the system. The last number indicates how many height-channel speakers are included. If there is a system with only two numbers, such as 3.1, that means there are no height-firing speakers in the system.
Not everyone needs an overly complex theater system. Those with small families or individual households prefer 3.1, one of the most common setups. When you install a 3.1 system in your home, you’ll have dedicated center channel speakers, giving you more precise control over sound and projection of dialogue. The three speakers are placed to the left, right, and center with one subwoofer. The center channel speakers allow for better main audio and dialogue projection, while the subwoofer adds support with low frequencies.
Some households can benefit from a more sophisticated theater system, such as the 5.1 system. A 5.1 speaker system is similar to a 3.1 system but with two rear-channel speakers. These two additional speakers are typically placed directly across from the opposing left and right front-firing channel speakers. Alternatively, you can add two speakers to a 3.1 sound bar without spending much more.
Are you looking for an incredible theater experience in the comfort of your own home? You may want to invest in a 5.1.2 system. A 5.1.2 system is similar to a 5.1 system, but the main difference is the addition of two overhead speakers. These are typically placed in a ceiling and add additional height channels. Adding the two extra speakers adds an “audio bubble” to make the experience more vivid. You can also achieve a 5.1.2 sound bar or system with up-firing speakers, which project the sound off the ceiling.
The emergence and integration of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X have changed how many people experience sound in their homes. This type of sound is based on immersive sound technologies and is also known as object-based audio mixes. Previously, sound engineers worked with channel-based systems to assign sounds to specific speakers. Object-based systems allow sounds to appear in specific locations, allowing for a more precise and immersive sound. The more speakers you add to a home system, the more you’ll be able to have sounds appear precisely where you’d like them.
Are you still wondering how to build a home theater system? Let the experts at Reed’s Built-Ins help. We’ve served Utah for over 45 years and know what you need to create an astounding home entertainment system. We’ll analyze your living area and comprise a theater system you’ll enjoy using daily. Choose from our wide variety of high-quality sound system speakers and subwoofers. No matter your choice, we’ll help you find a sound system that’s perfect for your living area and within your budget.
The best part? You won’t have to worry about the installation. We’ll arrive on time and quickly complete the installation so you can enjoy your new system. We offer a free consultation and quote. Contact us today to begin designing the best home theater system for you!