How To Install A Sound System

Whether you love watching the latest films and TV shows, playing online video games or enjoying your favourite music artists, a sound system will take your entertainment to the next level. You don’t need to be an audio expert to enjoy quality sound and it’s easier than you might think to install a sound system in your home. In this guide, you’ll learn more about sound systems including how to install and set them up.

What is a Sound System?

A sound system is a collection of equipment, usually including speakers, amplifiers and mixers, which are designed to reproduce a wide array of different frequencies. They’re an important part of any home entertainment setup, allowing you to listen to your favourite music as it was recorded. Depending on your budget and expectations, your sound system could be anything from a few speakers in one room to a massive collection of devices all the way through your home.

Most sound systems use stereo sound, where multiple speakers are placed across two channels in order to create a stage. Most music and films use mixing to play different sounds to different positions, using left, right and centre to give the illusion that sound is coming from all directions. This is highly immersive and helps make your favourite media even more enjoyable. However, it does need to be set up correctly, and you’ll need to use the right optical cables for best results.

Things Your Sound System Needs

You can choose to purchase a prepacked sound system that has everything you need or assemble your own if you prefer. Maybe you already have the speakers but still need additional devices. Whichever you decide on, you’ll need three crucial elements.

First of all, you’ll need the speakers themselves. These are the devices which emit the sounds based on signals they receive. Stereo systems need at least two speakers, but must systems will have at least five, with a subwoofer too.

Of course, you’ll also need a source of audio signals. Sources usually come from a device such as a TV, radio or laptop. You can connect most types of devices to your sound system, although you will need to use the right type of connectors and cables. Some sources may have Bluetooth, which can send and receive signals without needing a physical connection.

Last but not least, your sound system will need a receiver or stereo amplifier. This receives the signal from the source and amplifies it before it’s passed to the speakers. Essentially, the receiver is the central hub of your sound system and it’s here that you can change the settings to get the sound you want.

Location And Installation

Choosing the location of your sound system is more important than you might think. Not only do you need to be able to connect all your equipment together, but the quality of sound will be affected by the position of your setup and the size and shape of the room. When designing your sound system, think carefully about the soundwaves they’re affected by different aspects of the room.

Installing your system is simple, especially if it’s a prepacked setup. However, you may need to do some drilling and cutting if you want to keep your wires tidy and out of sight. In some cases, speakers may also be best fixed to the walls. However, most of the time they can be rested on TV stands or placed at the back of seating arrangements.

Make sure you spread the speakers out to ensure they offer a complete surround sound. You’ll also need to have all of them connected properly to ensure the signal can travel between them. If you’re unsure on how it works, there are lots of guides available online.