Making the most of your Surround Sound Speakers

Just purchasing some great surround sound speakers and AV equipment, throwing them in a room and hoping for the best is not going to make the most of your set up. There is a science in setting up surround sound speakers and although it is important to follow the guidelines, as with many things audio visual, it is not necessary to follow implicitly. Just following some simple instructions will ensure your surround sound delivers everything that is should.

Firstly, it is important to understand exactly what your speakers should deliver, as each speaker has a specific role. The front left and right speakers handle the majority of the soundtrack and sound effects for TV and movies. The centre speaker is designed to handle almost all of the dialogue and the high frequency sounds, like the vocals or the creaking of a door.

While the rear left and right, sometimes referred to as the “surround sound” speakers, deliver the ambient noise. From the sound of rain or the crack of thunder in the distance, to the clash of a sword fight, the rear speakers really make you feel like you are right there, in amongst the action.

To get the most from your system, your front left and right speakers should be positioned with the tweeters at ear level on either side of your TV. The centre should also be placed at ear level, though this can be more difficult to achieve depending on the height of your screen. Just above or below your TV screen will be suitable. (Some speakers can benefit from mounting or using speaker spikes – Check out our blogs on these)

The rear left and right speakers need to be mounted a little higher than ear level, to get the real surround effect. Try not to aim the speakers directly at your ears, as this may cause you to miss some of the background sound. They can be mounted on either side of your viewing position, or behind, depending on your room.

Your subwoofer produces the low frequency, earth shaking rumbles. The placement of the subwoofer is a little more flexible, as the sound is not directional and will spread throughout the room. Placing your subwoofer in a corner will give bigger and louder bass, while placing the sub along a wall, will provide more precise bass.

Subwoofer placement really comes down to you and what you prefer. A great tip is to place the subwoofer in your favourite place to sit. While the sound is playing, wall around the room to find the place that the bass sounds the best, and put the sub there. (Check out our blog on Subwoofers)

Below, you will find a diagram of a typical surround sound system set up.