The best 5.1 surround systems have, in recent times, been considered as the starting point for those looking to get quality audio in their homes. Gamers and music lovers have consistently chosen these speaker systems as they provide an immersive audio experience that cannot be found on traditional two-channel stereo systems. And since setting them up is now pretty easy, you can whip up a beautiful home entertainment system in minutes.
Feel like jumping on the 5.1 system bus? Then you’ve come to the right spot. We have gone through the market and created a list of ten of the best 5.1 sound systems currently available on the market. Whether you want to get a better music experience, immersive game audio, or turn your home into a mini-theater, these sound speakers are what you need. To make things even better, we also have a guide below that informs you about certain factors to consider before choosing a surround system. Without further ado, let’s get right to it:
- The 10 Best 5.1 Surround Sound Systems
- Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System
- Energy 5.1 Take Classic Home Theater System
- VIZIO SB4051-C0 5.1 Sound Bar System
- Bose Acoustimass 10 Series V Home Theater Speaker System
- Monoprice 10565 5.1 Channel Home Theater System
- Onkyo SKS-HT690 5.1 Home Theater Speaker System
- Polk Audio RM705 5.1 Home Theater System
- Klipsch 5.1 Surround Sound System
- Enclave Audio CineHome HD 5.1 Home Theater System
- JBL Cinema 610 Advanced 5.1 Speaker System
- Summary of Top 5.1 Surround Sound Systems
- 5.1 Sound System Buyer’s Guide
- Which Brand Is Best For Home Theater System?
- Is 5.1 Or 2.1 Surround Sound Better?
- What Are The Best Surround Sound Systems?
- Amplifiers
- Connection Types
- Room Size
- Wired or Wireless
The 10 Best 5.1 Surround Sound Systems
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Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System
We all know that Logitech is a giant in the audio department. So it’s no wonder that the Z906 is one of the best surround sound speakers around. Endowed with five satellite speakers and a subwoofer, this audio system provides users with powerful bass and clear tones. Although the bass can be a little too heavy or fuzzy, you can simply adjust the settings until you get the perfect experience.
The Logitech Z906 surround system is well-built, not too sophisticated, highly durable, and designed with mesh grilles. A wireless remote control provides you with the ability to seamlessly operate and customize your speakers, and although it isn’t a wireless speaker, you can connect the entire system to about six devices, including game consoles, TVs, and more. This speaker system also supports multiple input formats, including digital coaxial inputs, RCA, six-channel direct, and more. If you’re looking for a 5.1 speaker unit in the $300 price range with a slew of features, this is one of the best to choose from.
| Power | 500 to 1000 Watts |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wired |
Pros
- Durable and beautiful design
- Great audio quality
- Offers high compatibility
- Easy to use and set up
Cons
Energy 5.1 Take Classic Home Theater System
When we are talking about the best 5.1 home theater setup, there’s no way the list will be complete without the inclusion of the Energy 5.1 Take Classic Home Theater System. This 5.1 system features four satellite speakers, 1 center channel speaker, and a 200-watt subwoofer, all of which are painted in gloss black. They are all wall-mountable and they serve as an excellent addition to your flat TV setup. The speakers aren’t too large, which makes them perfect for small spaces and apartments. However, their surround sound solution is so great they can also be optimized for larger spaces as well.
The Energy 5.1 Take Classic Home Theater System provides warm and clear sounds you’re bound to appreciate. The subwoofer combines an 8-inch driver with the brand’s patented Ribbed Elliptical Surround to provide some of the best bass sounds you can get from a cheap home theater system like this. And on top of that, each satellite speaker comes with a woofer for an enhanced and immersive audio experience. If you want speakers that can disappear into your bookshelf while providing you with immense clarity and top-notch quality without demeaning the bass, this is one of the best to work with. We’ll, however, recommend that you don’t mount them on walls as doing so reduces the bass output.
| Power | 60 to 100 Watts |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wired |
Pros
- Amazing sound quality
- Incredible design and finish
- Easy to use and set up
- Perfect for movies and music
Cons
VIZIO SB4051-C0 5.1 Sound Bar System
Futuristic, powerful, and flexible are some of the features of the Vizio SB4051-CO 5.1 Sound Bar System. This 5.1 system comes with two satellite speakers, one subwoofer, and one soundbar. All of these components are designed with plastic housings, black meshed grilles, and aluminum sides to complement the blackness. Unlike the Energy and Logitech subwoofers above, the subwoofer included in this system features Bluetooth connectivity. This means that you get to enjoy wireless surround sound anywhere, anytime.
The main soundbar comprises of three 2.75-inch drivers, the subwoofer features a 6-inch driver, while the two satellite speakers feature 2.5-inch full-range drivers. On the top of the soundbar are five different buttons including the volume control, Bluetooth, input, and power buttons. A row of blue LEDs can be found on the side of the soundbar; they are used to monitor and adjust the surround, bass, and treble levels. The back of the soundbar houses multiple inputs, including digital optical audio, HDMI, coax input, and USB. While some users have reported the remote control to be unreliable, the sound output and overall quality are factors we are sure you’ll love.
| Power | 102dB |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Bluetooth) |
Pros
- Bluetooth technology
- High-quality sound
- Features HDMI port and cable
- Beautiful and well-built design
Cons
Bose Acoustimass 10 Series V Home Theater Speaker System
Bose is another powerhouse in the speakers and sound accessories industry. The brand is known to provide users with some of the best and most durable sound systems around. Unfortunately, with great brands and products come expensive prices; this is also true for the Bose Acoustimass 10 Series V Home Theater Speaker System. With a price tag in the $1000 range, this 5.1 system is one of the best and most capable surround sound setups for large rooms.
Bass lovers are going to enjoy every sound that comes out of these Bose speakers. This home theater system provides you with the best and most immersive sound while fading into the background. The sound is everything you want. However, you may not like the fact that all wirings needed for set up are proprietary and the design and arrangement are unique. This may not be comfortable for those who have pre-existing wiring.
| Power | 10 to 200 Watts |
| Speaker Type | Center Channel |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wired |
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Incredible surround sound and bass
- Easy to assemble
- Adjustable low-frequency effects
Cons
Monoprice 10565 5.1 Channel Home Theater System
Although the Monoprice 10565 5.1 Home Theater System is a budget speaker system, it isn’t low on audio quality. Comprising of four satellite speakers and a center speaker, this 5.1 system provides immaculate sound quality while beautifying your space. All speakers in this 5.1 system are designed with 3-inch polypropylene midrange drivers and 3/4 aluminum dome tweeter. With an impedance of up to 8 ohms, they can handle up to 100 watts of power.
The Monoprice 10565 5.1 Channel Home Theater System also features a subwoofer designed with an 8-inch downward-firing speaker powered by a 200-watt amplifier. This subwoofer comes with rubber feet so you don’t have to worry about your audio firing off the floor. The satellite and center channel can be wall-mounted and thanks to their rear-firing ports, you are guaranteed to get the best sounds out of them
| Power | Up to 1000 watts |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wired |
Pros
- Cheap and well-built
- Decent sound quality
- Powerful subwoofer
- Very easy to set up
Cons
Onkyo SKS-HT690 5.1 Home Theater Speaker System
Onkyo may not be a household name like Bose, but there’s no denying the quality of their products. The SKS-HT690 5.1 Home Theater Speaker System made by the brand is one of the best on the market. Not only do you get impeccable mids and highs, but the lows exhibited by its 120 Watts Bass Reflex 10-inch subwoofer is a quality you’ll want to hear every time.
Looking to pair your HDTV with a durable and reliable sound setup? This product is one of the best you can choose. The Onkyo SKS HT690 5.1 Home Theater Speaker System comprises 4 satellite speakers, 1 center channel speaker, and its powerful subwoofer. With its integrated amplifier and up to 5,000-hertz frequency range, you’re surely going to love the way your video games, movies, and music sound in this 5.1 system.
| Power | 130 Watts |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wired |
Pros
- Affordable
- Highly-durable
- Great sound quality
- Produces impeccable bass
Cons
Polk Audio RM705 5.1 Home Theater System
Polk Audio is another household name in the audio accessory industry. The brand has been in the business for over 40 years, so it’s only natural that they provide users with nothing but high-quality products. Just as with many other options on our list, the RM705 Home Theater System from Polk Audio features a center channel speaker, four satellite speakers, and 1 subwoofer. The satellite speakers and the center channel speaker come in a D-shaped design while the powered subwoofer features a cube-like design.
What sets the RM705 apart and puts it on the list of the best surround sound home theater systems is its delivery and flexibility. This sound setup provides you with incredible sound quality and well as impecabble midrange. They only part some users have had issues with is wiring and installation. Some users have found it difficult to install while others consider the internal parts to be too flimsy as they can be easily damaged if not handled carefully. However, that doesn’t take away the fact that the RM705 is a great piece of sound tech.
| Power | 50 Watt |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wired |
Pros
- Great audio quality
- Can be placed next to monitors and HDTVs thanks to its magnetic shields
- Features an elegant finish and great build quality
- Great for home theater use
Cons
Klipsch 5.1 Surround Sound System
If you’re a Klipsch customer who’s keen on getting a good surround sound speaker made by the brand, this is the perfect product to buy. It doesn’t matter whether you want to use it in a large or small room, the Klipsch Black Reference Surround System is all you need. Just as with the Polk Audio speakers above, the Klipsch also features four satellite speakers, one center channel speaker, and a booming subwoofer. Each satellite speaker is endowed with IMG drivers as well as horn-loaded tweeters. The center channel, which is paired with the satellites, features two full-range tweeters as well as another 3.5-inch driver on it.
All of these combine to provide you with a premium audio experience that cannot be replicated by many speakers. The Klipsch provides you with powerful bass that’s suitable for any room and small venues, minimal cone breakup and distortion, as well as an incredible acoustic performance. You’re bound to fall in love with these surround speakers once you hear their output. Although it sits on the expensive side of things -at about $1000- you’re surely going to appreciate adding it to your home theater setup.
| Power | Up to 50 Watts |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wired and Wireless (Subwoofer) |
Pros
- Small and compact
- High-quality and very durable
- Premium sound effects
- Easy to install and use
Cons
Enclave Audio CineHome HD 5.1 Home Theater System
Looking to buy a surround sound speaker without worrying about wires, cables, and receivers? Then the Enclave Audio CineHome HD Home Theater System is where you would want to stop your search. Although the brand is relatively new to the scene, this product is definitely worth its over $450 price tag. It is designed in a way that eliminates the need for audio and video receivers as well as cables. This 5.1 system features a smart center that allows you to enjoy 24-bit sounds wirelessly with no configurations needed.
To make things even better, the Enclave Audio CineHome also features 3 HDMI ports so you can connect your gaming consoles, DVD players, ARC, CEC, and streaming devices. You can also connect this speaker to Bluetooth devices and stream music through the mobile app. The rear speakers contain two full-range drivers on opposing sides, giving you a complete surround sound experience. If you’re keen on going wireless and would like a cinematic, Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound, the Enclave Audio CineHome is a great surround sound wireless setup to consider.
| Power | 110 Watts |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
Pros
- Saves money by removing the need for cables and receivers
- Premium surround sound
- HDMI hookup
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
JBL Cinema 610 Advanced 5.1 Speaker System
JBL is a brand that’s known for its originality, quality, and amazing designs. Products made by the brand are known to offer impeccable sounds and that’s the exact case with the Cinema 610 surround sound speaker. Featuring five voice-matching satellite speakers, this system provides users with crystal clear dialogue. Each speaker includes a one-inch tweeter and a three-inch driver, all of which come together to produce near cinematic sound effects and exceptional dialogue clarity.
The JBL Cinema 610 also features an 8-inch subwoofer that produces an overall excellent performance even though it can only output up to 60 watts of power. The bass is punchy and deep with no vibrations. You can crank up your audio to the max volume without experiencing any kind of interference or hiccup. This speaker system is bound to excel more in small to medium-sized rooms. They can be wall-mounted or placed on shelves.
| Power | 100 Watts |
| Speaker Type | Satellite |
| Subwoofer | Available |
| Connectivity | Wired |
Pros
- Straightforward setup
- User-friendly
- Great sound
- One of the best home theater systems
Cons
Summary of Top 5.1 Surround Sound Systems
5.1 Sound System Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the best 5.1 sound setup for your home theater may seem like a difficult task. This is because there are many factors to consider, including power, authenticity, versatility, sound quality, range, and more. We want you to be able to choose the best without having to go through tons of reviews or stressing yourself. That is why we’ve provided a review of ten of the best 5.1 systems above as well as a guide below.
In our guide, you’ll learn some of the most important considerations to make when choosing a home theater system. We’ll also be answering some of the questions you may have concerning the best 5.1surround sound systems. Read on to learn more.
Which Brand Is Best For Home Theater System?
There are many different brands on the market that can be considered as some of the best. These brands include JBL, Sony, Bose, Polk Audio, Logitech, Klipsch, and more. We all have our preferences and may have brands that we are loyal to. However, the aforementioned brands are some of the best you can rely on when it comes to sound technology.
Is 5.1 Or 2.1 Surround Sound Better?
Yes, a 5.1-channel system is better than a 2.1 system. 2.1 systems typically come with two bookshelf speakers and one subwoofer. These speakers are designed with midbass and tweeters that provide midrange and high range frequencies respectively.
Usually, the two speakers are placed on opposite sides of your home entertainment system or TV. They’ll provide you with great sounds and as well as some perspective with right and left sounds, for instance, a moving car in a movie driving from left to right. The subwoofer represents the “.1” in the system name. Most times, the subwoofer of 2.1 and 5.1-channel speakers are passive.
A 5.1 system, on the other hand, features 4 speakers, one center-channel speaker, and one subwoofer. This setup provides you with a true and better surround sound. Essentially, you have two front speakers on opposite sides of your TV, the center-channel speaker in front, and two rear speakers. This arrangement allows 5.1 channel systems to make use of the right and left front channels for your main audio, the center channels for dialogue or center tracks, and the rear channels for the surround sounds. The woofer simply adds additional low end or background effects.
So simply put, a 2.1 setup will provide you with the normal right and left stereo output while the 5.1 setup allows you to enjoy surround effects as well as stereo output.
What Are The Best Surround Sound Systems?
Many products on the market, including the ten in our review, are considered to be some of the best surround speaker set-ups around. However, you can only enjoy them to the fullest when you make careful considerations before buying them. Below are some important considerations you need to make when choosing the best surround sound setup for your home.
Amplifiers
Every complete system comes with both speakers and amplifiers. However, with an all-in-one system, you don’t have to worry about matching your speakers with an amplifier. Setting up your system will be a breeze and there’ll be no need to concern yourself about confusing technical details. Your purchase will include every necessary accessory, including cables, except if you’re buying a wireless system.
You need to be extra careful when making your purchase as there are speaker setups with no amplifier. Many people purchase these speakers only to realize that they’ll need an amplifier after purchasing the system. The speaker setups in our review come pre-packaged with amplifiers.
Connection Types
What are you connecting your speaker setup to? The main purpose of buying the best speaker system is so you can enjoy the best sound from your audio devices. Therefore, it is imperative that you consider your device’s connection before purchasing a speaker setup. This is because there are speakers that may not come with all the necessary connection ports. For instance, a speaker setup can feature coaxial and component outputs without having an HDMI output.
HDMI ports allow you to connect your game consoles, Blu-ray player, and streaming devices. There are also audio ports such as component, coaxial, and optical ports. Some speaker systems feature all of these ports while others feature some. Therefore, knowing what works for your music devices, TV, streaming devices, game consoles, monitors, and more is very important.
Soundbars have limited input options. They are mainly designed to transmit sound from your television. Most of them do this via the HDMI ARC feature, which allows you to transmit the sound from your TV into your soundbar via the HDMI cable. Many older TVs do not have the HDMI ARC connectors. Instead, they come with ordinary HDMI ports, but not the ARC version. If you have a TV like this, you may want to purchase a speaker setup that has an optical port as most older TVs have optical ports.
Room Size
The size of your bedroom, living room or even game room is another important factor you need to consider before checking out a set of speakers. Basically, if you are setting up your speakers in a small room, you want to ensure that your speakers aren’t overpowered. Getting a compact and decently powered speaker setup will not only provide you with the best sounds but also save you unnecessary costs.
If, on the other hand, you’re setting up your home theater in an expansive room, there’s no need to hold back. You can purchase a speaker setup with immense power and tag an amplifier along with it instead of using a receiver.
Wired or Wireless
When it comes to sound quality, no wireless speaker setup can come close to a wired setup in the same range. However, wireless speaker setups tend to lean toward better aesthetics and design. So if you’re not an audiophile or a music enthusiast and you want your space to look stylish, wireless is the way to go. However, if you’re all about the quality of your speaker’s output, then we suggest you go with a wired setup.
Conclusion
Our aim is to ensure that you choose only the best products on the market. That is why we’ve provided you with a review of ten of the best home theater systems on the market. You can simply choose one of the products on our list and start enjoying an immersive audio experience.
Our top recommendations include the Logitech Z906, Bose Acoustimass, Energy 5.1 Take Classic, Enclave Audio CineHome, and the Polk Audio RM705. And just in case the products in our review don’t match your preferences or you don’t know how to get the best audio experience out of your speakers, we believe that our guide can help you out.
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