A Beginner's Guide To Choosing The Best Sound System

Owning a sound system that is a perfect fit for your visual setup is an absolute must to experience the perfect audio-video simulation every single day. However, choosing a sound system that compliments your space requires a lot of research and a good understanding of the kind of system that would resonate and amplify the quality of sound. This also includes considering the number of pieces your sound system should include, the kind of space you’re looking to fit it in, the combined functionality of all its features, and the quality of your desired output. This is a comprehensive list that can guide you to choose the best sound system for your space at home or work.

Consider The Space

An important and apparent consideration to make when choosing a sound system is the space you’re looking to fit it in because this will determine the type of sound system you choose. Whether it’s a restaurant, office, home, spa or gym, the type of sound system will vary depending on the area needed to be covered.

If your space is small, the number of components in your sound system would be relatively less as well; whereas for a good size living room or dedicated home theatre, a home theatre system would ensure that the sound travels across the room and provide the perfect synergy in every nook and corner. It is also important to consider sound coverage in any room because many a times there is a possibility of a dead zone in a certain part of the space, which is the spot where no sound can be heard. This happens when sound waves don’t travel to certain spot. This is why careful selection (and placement) of your speakers is crucial.

Technicalities

Taking a deeper dive into the technicalities of a sound system, making a selection between a 100-Volt (100V) Line and low impedance sound systems is significant in the grander scheme of things for you and your space. Low impedance sound systems can be used for home cinemas, churches, movie theatres, night clubs and for facilities that require more control over individual speakers as their full sound frequency range is necessary in such spaces. A 100V line is perfect for restaurants, gyms, salons and other commercial facilities because 100V lines provide great, sound quality, and coverage at a cost-effective price. This coverage works perfectly well when multiple speakers are being used over a long distance, especially for sounds that act as background music. This sound system differentiation can help you pick out a good combination of speakers that complement one another and holistically produce sound that feels right.

Figuring out the number of zones and the medium of control for your sound system within a space where the sound system is to be placed is also important. Areas where there are multiple zones present like a bedroom or a spa, which consists of various internalized compartments, will need a sound system with a wider range to have the sound equally distributed to all spaces.

Specific sound system types can also be chosen depending on the technology used to control its functionality. If the audio is being played from an iPad or a computer, systems like Sonos can be used to wirelessly connect to the sound system. For multiple rooms (zones) music servers like CasaTunes and Lode can also be used for the same purpose. Any automation already present in the room to control other appliances could also be a factor that affects how sound travels throughout the space. Keeping this in mind, it is important to research your options thoroughly to ensure your sound needs and specifications are well catered for by the chosen sound system.

It is also crucial to consider the compatibility of your sound system with a visual aid since differing visual resolutions offer a variety of audio outputs that can affect the overall output of the sound system accordingly. A high definition television might not necessarily be compatible with the sound system you are looking to connect it to. In most cases, televisions that are labelled 4K or 8K usually have a built-in sound system within them that delivers sound significantly different from others and would require specific speakers and boosters accordingly.

Home sound systems such as Dolby or Atmos are perfect for in-house cinemas. For a more extensive home cinema experience, at least 7 to 9 speakers along with a subwoofer would be a good choice. You can also invest in a soundbar that can improve the sound quality of your television audio and act as a replacement for your subwoofer and front speakers while occupying less space. This makes soundbars very efficient for media rooms that are smaller in size.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind when selecting speakers and assembling various components that constitute your sound system. When picking the different components individually, opt for the same brand since this would help audio quality and you won’t encounter any technical difficulties while connecting the system. This however does not apply to subwoofers as they can be of any brand; therefore, it would be recommended to research them thoroughly and find the best fit for your space when deciding on a subwoofer. Decide on the number of speakers you wish to install within the confines of your space. Every brand is different and so are their products, so ensure you study their specifications and technology before making a decision. If you are unsure about which sound system would work for your commercial space or home, consult with qualified audio-visual companies to help you make the right decision. These companies know what’s best for you and will guide you through the entire process of setting up a sound system.