Your TV or console or projector will most likely come with built-in speakers and it may be tempting to use these because they will be one less thing for you to buy. But, as soon as you hear another similar setup with dedicated speakers, you will realize what you have been missing.
Now, you might be thinking of getting yourself a separate sound system but the question is what sort of speaker you should get?
There are mainly two options that you can go through. The first one being a soundbar and the other one being a surround sound system.
Soundbars provide a good quality audio experience. It is compact, lightweight, does not take a lot of space, is very easy to set up and use, and most importantly, even if you are on a budget, there will be a soundbar in your range. Moreover, their small size makes them ideal for smaller living spaces.
On the other hand, surround sound systems are a tad bit more expensive, a bit harder and complicated to install, and take up a bit more space. But, they provide a much better sound experience than soundbars and are very flexible in their arrangement.
Moreover, if you think of upgrading in the future, you won’t have to change your entire set up; just take out a few speakers or add newer ones.
So, let’s compare and contrast the plus and the negative points of both these audio devices so that we can decide which one is better.
Soundbar:
A soundbar is lightweight, compact, and very easy to install. It is ideal for small living spaces and is capable of converting your small and simple TV lounge into a home theatre. Moreover, depending on the make and model, you are given both the options of wired as well as wireless connectivity.
Its small size and a small number of wires allow it to be set up anywhere, either on the wall, below your TV, on a table, or the floor. Most importantly, soundbars cheap and will be available for you even if you are on a budget.
On the other hand, a soundbar is not as efficient in larger living spaces. It might distort the sound depending on where you are sitting and will create specific sweet spots in your room. Furthermore, although some soundbars do come with pre-equipped subwoofers, you might need to get one separately for yourself if yours doesn’t have it.
Surround Sound:
These are full-range sound systems that can be used for both, small and large living spaces depending on the quality and number of speakers. If you are not satisfied with the sound or want to improve for optimal acoustics, you can add multiple speakers.
Moreover, you will get full bass and an audiophile theater system presentation that will convert your TV lounge into a home theater.
On the contrary, surround sound systems are more expensive as compared to soundbars. They require a lot of wired connections for setup and are limited in placement by the length of the wiring. They take up more space and have a more complicated installation process as compared to a soundbar.
Other factors can also help you decide which one is better or more suited for you. You can compare the frequency response, the power, the impedance, and the sensitivity you both devices. Give a look and learn which one is better and more suitable, a get it for yourself.
Conclusion:
From my personal experience, a soundbar will be better for you if you want to enhance your sound experience, either in your living space, in your car, or want to take a sound system with you on one of your trips.
But if you’re an audiophile and crave optimum level acoustics, then a surround sound system will be better for you. It will provide you with all the necessary sound properties that you can alter according to your requirements.
In the end, it all comes down to how much cash you can allocate for such expenses. If you have the budget, then I suggest that you get yourself a surround sound system.
Thank you for giving this article a read and Good Luck with the choice that you make.