Speakers
As we mentioned, speakers are an obvious component of any surround sound system. You have lots of choices for speaker type, from bookshelf and tower to in-wall and in-ceiling (or a combination of these). Speaker configuration is also up to you, but factors like budget and room size will help determine how many speakers can fit properly in your home theater or media room.
A/V Receiver
To drive your speakers, you’ll need an A/V receiver at the very least. An A/V receiver is the nerve center of your system. Not only does it power your speakers, but it decodes various surround sound formats. Most high-quality receivers also feature room correction technology to overcome acoustic anomalies in any space. An A/V receiver is a cost-effective alternative to separates and delivers simpler connectivity.
Processor/Amplifier
Discerning cinephiles and audiophiles who demand the very best in audio performance might want to separate the audio processing and amplification duties to separate components rather than use an A/V receiver that does all the work in one system. Processors are specifically designed for top audio performance and feature connections you might not find on receivers. Plus, because the processor and amplifier aren’t crammed together in one box, the result you get is clearer sound and more horsepower.
SEE ALSO: McIntosh MX170: Create the Cinematic Soundstage of Your Dreams
Proper Cabling
Now it’s time for connections! You’ll need speaker wire to connect your speakers to your receiver or processor and amplifier. Wire gauge will depend on the distance of your wire runs and the impedance ratings of your speakers. Also, keep in mind that you’ll need properly-rated wire for in-wall runs.
A/V connections are also required to connect your sources to your receiver or processor. These could be HDMI cables for your cable box or Blu-ray player, RCA cables for your analog audio connections, optical or coaxial cables for your digital audio connections, and more.
Power Protection
If you’re putting together a surround sound system by yourself, be sure to protect your investment by using a power protection device rather than plugging everything in directly to AC power outlets or power strips. As implied in the name, a high-quality power protection device will protect your expensive equipment from electrical surges as well as help filter noise out of your AC power supply.
The best way to ensure the surround sound system in your Bountiful, UT home is properly designed and installed to offer immersive, high-performance audio is to work with a professional home sound system installer like Show & Tell AV! To learn more about our services, contact us here or message us below!
Be sure to stick around for our last blog of this series, where we’ll discuss the differences between freestanding and architectural surround sound speakers and which type might work best for you.