Home Audio System

Purchasing a home audio system doesn't have to be a complicated process. Today, many home audio or home theater systems are integrated; this means they include all the equipment you need for a complete system in one box. These are often referred to as HTiBs (home theater in a box) and range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand for the most luxurious systems. A median-priced system will generally provide good sound quality and performance, though.

When you shop for an HTiB, you have to consider several elements: speakers for at least five audio channels (left and right front speakers, two surround speakers and one center speaker), an amplifier, a subwoofer (optional sixth speaker), and a control center or audio receiver that connects all your devices. These devices can include your TV, DVD player, VCR, etc. For many systems, a receiver and amplifier can be combined in one unit.

Speaker Placement
There are three main categories for speaker placement: center, front and surround. The center speaker goes directly above or below the TV screen to accentuate the TV's speakers. Front left and front right speakers should be placed at the side of the screen, equidistant from each side from the TV.

Surround sound speakers should then be placed along the sides of seating across from the TV for optimal and true "surround" sound. If your system has a subwoofer, it should be placed anywhere it's convenient, usually behind the seating or behind the TV. If the subwoofer is vented (has a hole in the storage case), keep in mind that puffs of air will be released when low frequencies (bass) are emitted at high levels.