The Best Stereo Surround Sound System For 2024

Piers Anthony By, Piers Anthony
Updated
Sony 5.1-Channel Surround Sound Multimedia
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Sony 5.1-Channel Surround Sound Multimedia

With the Sony 5.1-channel surround sound multimedia package, you will get a complete set of speakers and subwoofer optimised for precise and energetic vocal response with even the most delicate nuances. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: PHILIPS Bluetooth Stereo System

The PHILIPS Bluetooth Stereo System is perfect for the entire family. It connects wirelessly with the Smart TV, mobile devices and laptops to play music in high quality. A dual amplifier ensures enhanced sound performance by reducing inter-modulation between the woofer and tweeter. Read Review

3. Best Sound Quality: Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1

Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1 delivers a superior acoustic performance while keeping an incredibly minimal footprint. The reference theater pack brings the Klipsch cinematic sound into your home with an incredibly minimal footprint. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: Acoustic AA5210 Audio by Goldwood 5.1

Bring your music to life with the Acoustic Audio Goldwood 5.1 Home Theater Speaker System. This system's LED-illuminated subwoofer flashes in 16 different colors and patterns when you choose it as your favorite dance partner! Read Review

5. Best Versatile: Toshiba TY-ASW8000 800 Watt

Toshiba TY-ASW8000 800 Watt is a two-piece speaker system. These speakers provide luxurious audio quality and a light show that will make your party the place to be. The external amplifier provides professional bass and loud surround sound quality while each speaker's LED lights flash to the music's beat. Read Review

Surround sound is an audio system that allows listeners to hear sounds from different directions. This can add a new dimension to the listening experience, especially for those watching movies or playing games. Having the best surround sound system in your home can make a difference when you’re trying to get lost in the moment and feel like you’re with the characters.

A good surround sound system can also help make your home more entertaining by adding another layer of realistic stimulation to any activities you enjoy. Today, most homes are equipped with primary speakers, so we won’t be focusing on standalone speaker systems unless they offer something unique. Instead, we’ll look at some great options regarding whole-home audio systems and see what fits your needs best!

Our team had to focus on researching for 14 hours to get such results for readers. This study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, Sony 5.1-Channel Surround Sound Multimedia is one of the best stereo surround sound systems, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Sony 5.1-Channel Surround Sound Multimedia
Our Score:
9.8
Sony
  • 145W Peak Power: Equipped with two 4-inch woofers and a 1-inch tweeter, the Sony SS-CS8 2-Way 3-Driver Center Channel Speaker handles 145W of peak power
  • Mica-Reinforced Drivers: The SS-CS8 utilizes foamed, dual-layer mica woofer diaphragms - the upper surface is fashioned to deliver supple and faithful sound quality, while the bottom layer is designed to leverage low weight with strength for a powerful bass response
  • Optimized Crossover Component: The crossover network in the SS-CS8 is intended to assure minimal signal loss for an energetic vocal response with even the most delicate nuances. It is mounted directly to the cabinet for vibration isolation
  • Reduced Vibration: Four rubber foot pads are included to isolate the speakers from your shelf, so as to reduce shelf vibration
  • Bundle Includes: Sony SSCS8 2-Way 3-Driver Center Channel Speaker (Black), Sony SSCS5 3-Way 3-Driver Bookshelf Speaker System (Black) and Sony 10-Inch Active Subwoofer (Black)
TOP Choice #2 PHILIPS Bluetooth Stereo System
Our Score:
9.6
PHILIPS
  • Audio-in for portable music playback - The Audio in connectivity allows direct playback of Audio in content from portable media players. Besides the benefit of enjoying your favorite music in the superior sound quality delivered by the audio system, the Audio in is also extremely convenient as all you have to do is to plug your portable MP3 player to the audio system.
  • Digital tuning with preset stations for extra convenience - Simply tune into the station that you want to preset, press and hold the preset button to memorize the frequency. With preset radio stations that can be stored, you can quickly access your favorite radio station without having to manually tune the frequencies each time.
  • Stream music wirelessly via Bluetoot from your smartphone - Bluetooth is a short range wireless communication technology that is both robust and energy-efficient. The technology allows easy wireless connection to iPod/iPhone/iPad or other Bluetooth devices, such as smartphones, tablets or even loptops. So you can enjoy your favorite music, sound from video or game wireless on this speaker easily.
  • MAX Sound for instant power boost - MAX Sound technology produces an instant boost in bass, maximizing volume performance and instantly creating the most impressive listening experience with just the touch of a button. Its sophisticated electronic circuitry calibrates existing sound and volume settings, instantly boosting bass and volume to maximum levels without distortion. The end result is a noticeable amplifying of both sound spectrum and volume and a potent audio boost that will add mileage
  • Dual amplifier for better sound performance - Dual amplifier ensures enhanced sound performance by reducing inter-modulation between the woofer and tweeter, since each transducer is driven by its own dedicated amplifier. The result is deep and powerful bass sounds that have high impact without interfering too much with the higher frequencies so they remain pure and detailed. Utilized in combination with precise, active crossover design, better control on the phase and frequency response of each
TOP Choice #3 Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1
Our Score:
9.4
Klipsch
  • The reference theater pack brings the Klipsch cinematic sound into your home with an incredibly minimal footprint
  • The Klipsch reference theater pack delivers a superior acoustic performance while keeping an incredibly minimal footprint
  • Klipsch's exclusive Tractrix Horn technology and aluminum Tweeters deliver the cleanest, most natural sound possible. The down-firing wireless subwoofer is designed to deliver room-filling low frequencies without requiring too much floor space
  • To complement the easy placement of the wireless subwoofer, each satellite speaker has a keyhole mount and a threaded insert for maximum mounting flexibility
4 Acoustic AA5210 Audio by Goldwood 5.1
Our Score:
9.3
Acoustic Audio by Goldwood
  • HIGHEST QUALITY - Powered subwoofer speaker is 11" x 6.25" x 12.5", 20Hz-20 kHz, 5 wired satellite speakers are 6.875" x 4.125" x 4" each, 2 fronts and center satellite speakers have a 6 foot single RCA cable, 2 rear speakers have 12 foot single RCA cables
  • WHAT'S IN THE BOX - Acoustic Audio by Goldwood AA5210 powered subwoofer speaker, 5 passive wired satellite speakers, full function remote, 3.5mm to RCA cable, 2 RCA to RCA jack cables, instruction manual
  • SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS - Standard US 110V grounded wall plug, any audio device with a standard 3.5mm headphone or RCA stereo or RCA 6 channel surround audio outputs. Use for TV or home entertainment, laptop or PC, DVD or MP3 player, gaming
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric
  • EASY PLUG AND PLAY CONNECTIONS - Standard RCA inputs connect to most audio sources, 6 independent RCA inputs for true surround, stereo RCA AUX inputs, illuminated display with front panel controls, USB drive input and SD card input, full function remote
  • BLUETOOTH 5.1 HOME THEATER SPEAKER SYSTEM - Stream music from your phone to the built in Bluetooth receiver, integrated power amp with 600 watts system power, Pro Surround function converts stereo to 5.1 sound, LED illuminated sub with multi color and pattern flashing light display
5 Toshiba TY-ASW8000 800 Watt
Our Score:
9.2
Toshiba
  • COMPACT AND PORTABLE: Personal system is small enough for a bookshelf or for transporting to a party
  • PREMIUM AUDIO SPEAKERS: External amplifier with 800 Watts offers professional bass and loud surround sound quality
  • LED LIGHTS: Pump up the party with a light in each speaker that flashes to the beat of the music
  • REMOTE CONTROL INCLUDED: Set comes with a handy remote to easily change streaming function from afar
  • MULTIMEDIA PLAYER: Connect with Bluetooth, USB or AUX, listen to FM radio or play music on CD or MP3
6 Sony 7.2-Channel Wireless
Our Score:
9.1
Sony
  • Sony 2-Way Center Channel Speaker
  • Sony 2-Way Bookshelf Speaker (Pair)
  • Sony 10-Inch Active Sub-woofer
  • Sony 3-Way Floor-Standing Speakers (Pair)
  • Sony 7.2-Channel Wireless Bluetooth 4K Network A/V Wi-Fi Home Theater Receiver
7 Rockville HTS56 1000w 5.1
Our Score:
9.0
Rockville
  • You can independently control the volume of each speaker and the subwoofer. Bluetooth v2.1. USB Input (max file size 16Gb). SD Input (max file size 16Gb). 2 ¼” MIC Inputs with Echo function for karaoke. 5 RCA Audio Outputs. 6 RCA DVD Audio Inputs. 2 RCA AUX Inputs.
  • Zero distortion can be heard even with volume and bass settings all the way up! The sound on this system is better than anything even that cost twice the price!. Cable Length: Front L/F: 12Ft, Rear L/R: 30Ft, Center: 10Ft. Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20KHz. Certification: CE and RoHS Compliant. Signal to noise ratio: ≥70dB (Maximum output with THD+N < 1%)
  • Optical input to connect to your TV. FM Antenna Input. Full Function Remote. The Subwoofer unit has 4 LED lighting modes: (blink to the beat, solid on, spectrum EQ analyzer, off) and selectable with 7 colors or multi-color mode.
  • 2x 3” Full Range Front Channel Speakers. 2x 3” Full Range Rear Channel Speakers. Top Quality MDF Wood Cabinets with Plastic Front Panels. Built-In FM Receiver with Amazing Reception. Built-In Optical input to connect to your Television. Digital Display. Selectable preset equalizer curves.
  • HTS56 5.1 Channel Home Theater System with LED Light Effects. Plug and play system with everything you need right out of the box. 1000-Watts Peak Power. 500-Watts Program Power. 250-Watts Continuous RMS Power. 8” Subwoofer with Built-In Receiver. 1x 3” Center Channel Speaker.
8 Acoustic Audio by Goldwood Bluetooth 5.1
Our Score:
8.8
Acoustic Audio by Goldwood
  • GREAT FOR AT HOME ENTERTAINMENT: Use our sound equipment for binge-watching your favorite TV shows, for movie nights at home with the family, or for gaming on your computer, or for listening to music on your MP3 player
  • SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Our system is compatible with any standard 3.5 millimeter headphones, RCA stereo, or RCA 6 Channel surround audio outputs, and features a standard US 110V grounded wall plug
  • THE ULTIMATE HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE: Our 5.1 speaker system includes 5 speakers and 1 subwoofer; Delivers powerful surround sound while watching TV, gaming, or streaming music from your phone to the built in Bluetooth receiver
  • LED ILLUMINATED SURROUND SOUND: Each system features an integrated power amp with 300 watts of power while the LED illuminated subs display multi colored flashing lights in a variety of different patterns
  • WHAT'S IN THE BOX: Acoustic Audio by Goldwood AA5400 powered subwoofer speaker, 5 passive wired satellite speakers, full function remote, 3.5 millimeter to RCA cable, 3 RCA to RCA jack cables, and an instruction manual
9 Enclave CineHome II 5.1 Wireless
Our Score:
8.7
Enclave Audio
  • POWERFUL 24-BIT CLASS-D AMPS – CineHome II is powered by 11 perfectly tuned Class-D 24-bit amplifiers that deliver an unbelievable, movie-theater quality sound right in your living room -- Dolby Audio, DTS, WiSA Certified
  • EASY TO CONNECT – 5.1 surround sound system is compatible with all modern TV’s with just a simple cable connection. The CineHub sound system for tv is equipped with ARC, and Optical connections for quick and easy setup to start listening immediately after simply add wall power to the speakers!
  • 5.1 WIRELESS HOME THEATER BUNDLE – An affordable luxury with premium quality sound; The Enclave CineHome II is an instant plug and play surround sound system with no AVR or WiFi required
  • PLUG & PLAY 6 SPEAKER SYSTEM – Using your TV's ARC or Optical connection, the home theater system includes a powerful CineHub wireless transmitter along with 6 separate custom tuned speakers that delivers powerful cinematic sound for all your favorite movies, TV shows, sports and games. Just add wall power and a single HDMI cable and you're up and running!
  • 3.5mm ANALOG, BLUETOOTH INPUT – Don't let that vinyl go unheard! With a 3.5mm analog your turntable can be connected with ease. Stream all your music? We've got you covered with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for simple use with any mobile device or tablet
  • Multiple Application: Plug and play, bluetooth stereo system are widely used for numerous scenarios such as Ultra HD 4K TV, game console, home DVD, computer, laptop. It's very suitable for watching movies, watching football games, partying, and e-sports games with friends at home. Additional cables include Optical cable/Coaxial cable/Signal cable/Antenna cable are support any application in needed
  • Multimedia Support: 5.0 surround sound speakers can connect various smart devices, which are compatible with USB/SD/DVD/OPT/COA/AUX, also have a Built-In FM Receiver with Amazing Reception. 2 ¼” MIC Inputs with Echo function for karaoke. With longer built-in cable, the speakers can stand anywhere: Front Speakers L/F: 13Ft, Rear Speakers L/R: 31Ft, Center Speaker: 10Ft
  • 1200 Watts Peak Power: Surround sound system for tv can reach up to 1200 watts of power, 10-inch Subwoofer with built-in receiver, high volume but with professional sound quality and excellent bass sound, deliver the cleanest, most natural sound possible. Bring you and your family with full cinema experience at home
  • LED Light Effects: The bluetooth surround sound system use high-quality materials, with LED lighting effect which makes full of atmosphere, and also has digital display function. Full Function Remote allows you to turn on/off the LED light via Remote Control
  • 5.1 Channel Surround Stereo Sound: Bobtot stereo system for home has two modes of 5.1/2.1 channel, switch via remote control. Pro surround function provides you with more advanced enjoyment. You can independently control the volume of each speaker and the subwoofer
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Several things a reader must do before selecting best stereo surround sound system

Actually, best stereo surround sound system can be discovered by following these simple steps. Individuals should first understand their needs and the requirements which will guide their decision-making procedure.

Then they must investigate all options available to decide which product satisfies those needs and meet those criteria. After that, the buyer can narrow down their options based on factors such as cost and dependability. Let’s check the tips for better purchase:

Surround Sound Technology

You can select a receiver that has Dolby Atmos and DTS:X built-in. A dedicated Phono input is another important feature that you may want to include on your receiver. The input provides better sound quality than integrated circuits or computer chips and can be used to improve dynamics, sound depth, and detail. It's an excellent feature for electronics, even if your receiver doesn't come with a phonograph.

Wireless Vs. Wired

It is often easy to decide whether you want cords or cables. The main concern will be whether it is easy to hide or place the cables connecting to your home theater.
Wireless speaker systems are popular because they're easy to install. Wireless systems can be moved around easily and used in different locations. You can also use the wireless speakers outdoors, such as on your patio.

Channels

The number and type of speakers that you want to connect will determine the channel count. The size of your space may also play a role in this decision.
Home theatre systems that are receiver-based can be purchased in many channels. These channels include 5.1, 7.1.1, and 9.1. This number indicates the total number of speakers and subwoofers in the system.

Apps And Connectivity

You want your receiver to have the ability to use apps such as Spotify, Google Cast or Apple Airplay. Many options are available with this feature, as well as many that will connect to Internet radio stations to stream your radio.
You can also control the receivers via compatible apps. This allows you to adjust settings and switch between different content from your smartphone.

Number And Type Of Connections

What number of HDMI-connected devices can you connect? Multiple HDMI and optical connections are available on many receivers so that you can connect your television to streaming boxes, gaming consoles, cable boxes or other HDMI-connected devices. Your receiver can be used to switch between different applications. Make sure it can support all your devices. A receiver can have 4 to 10 HDMI connections.

Power

The watts denotes the total power output of an amplifier. It is essential that the receiver you choose is strong enough to provide enough power for your speakers. For optimal performance, an A/V receiver should deliver at least 100 W to each channel. Impedance is another term that describes the speaker's performance and amplifier. Speakers are usually rated between 6 and 8 Ohms. Home theatre systems require that the speakers and amplifier be properly paired by their manufacturer.

Smart Features

You should consider receivers that have voice control. Receivers that support Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant are available.

FAQs

How Big A Screen Should I Get?

For many, this may be the most important question. For a true cinema experience, a large screen is essential. It all depends on how you want to seat and what size the space is. In medium-sized theatres, 120 inches is the most common screen size. A minimum distance for a screen that large is around 10 feet. For every foot of screen size, the average seating distance is between 10 and 12 inches. Some people prefer to be closer in order to get the best experience. Others don't like being as close. This can be achieved in multi-row seating arrangements - maybe the children will prefer the front row.

What Wattage Should I Get For My Home Theater System?

Performance is just like performance in cars. The more horsepower you have, the bigger and better your theater will sound. It will sound even louder if you crank it up. It is strange but true that a louder theater can actually produce more goosebumps at lower volume levels.
You should ensure that you use the recommended minimum power for the speakers. A doubling in power is required to hear volume changes up to three decibels. This means that you have 70 watts of power per channel and you desire a significantly higher sound level. You'd need 140 Watts to do this.

How Do You Make Your Rear Speakers Wireless?

Although you can add wired speakers to your rear using a wireless adapter, it is still not ideal. Some manufacturers offer wireless surround speaker systems that can be used wirelessly if necessary.

Can I Use A Flat-screen TV For The Display?

It is possible, it may be suitable for small spaces. If you decide to go this route, an OLED set of high quality from LG is a great choice. OLED panels are perfect for film because they have excellent color reproduction and great black levels. OLED panels are larger than other projectors and measure 88 inches in height. You should also consider that black bars can reduce screen real estate when you view 21:9 wide format film, which is a popular format used for theatrical releases.

What Is The Best Speaker Setup?

A surround sound system consists of two speakers at the front and two speakers in the center. Two surround speakers are located behind your viewer. One subwoofer is included. Two speakers can be added to either side of the viewer in a seven-speaker setup. For larger rooms there are nine-speaker systems. These have two speakers next to the viewer on either side. There are also additional speakers at 70 degrees from your viewers. These traditional layouts can be enhanced by Dolby Atmos overhead speakers, which create an immersive, more real-life experience.

How Many Speakers Do I Need?

You will need five or more speakers to create a surround sound system. Dolby Atmos enabled setups should include at least five speakers. A good system should have at least five, seven or nine principal speakers. Your space limitations and your budget will determine the amount of speakers you select. You should ensure that your home theater receiver has sufficient input and output options for the speakers you have chosen.

How Many Watts Home Theater Do I Need?

Your theater will sound better if you have more power under your hood. Strangely, but true, high-power theaters sound louder when they are at lower volume levels. 125 watts per channel would be the best power level to maintain without worrying about running out.

Conclusion

Before making a purchase decision, the reader should do the following. It's critical to keep these factors in mind when looking for the best stereo surround sound system since they can help to ensure that you discover what's worth the investment. If you need another option for best stereo surround sound system, you should look into Acoustic Audio by Goldwood Acoustic Audio. Hope you have a nice shopping day!


2 ratings

About Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony is a freelance writer and computer expert who enjoys helping others get the most out of their technology. He has written extensively about laptops, soundbars, and other computer-related topics, and he currently serves as the editor of The Audio Insights website. When he's not writing or tinkering with his gadgets, Piers can be found spending time with his wife and family.