Surround sound newbie

[grandmaster]

Hello,

Apologies if there is a thread about this already, but if there is, I don't know where it is.

I have a Sony Bravia 32" LCD TV which I use for watching normal TV and also films that I play through my PS3 - both standard def and Blu-ray.

However I do not have any sort of surround sound or speaker system set up. I only have the in-built speakers that are in the TV, that's it. I would like some sort of surround sound system but I know very little about them. I know there is 7.1 now which I guess is to replace 5.1 but are there only certain films or audio tracks that work with 7.1?

Also, do I need an amp AND a subwoofer? I'm based in Ireland so I had a look at what's available in the Argos store but most of their surround sound systems seem to come with a dvd player which is something I don't need.

I just wanted to get some advice as to what I should look for/avoid in a surround sound system. I know I could go into a shop to check them out as well however as I know so little about them I don't want some salesman brainwashing me into buying something that I don't really want/need.

Thanks

[arush5268d]

There aren't a whole lot of movies out now that have a 7.1 track on them. If you are just getting started with surround sound, I wouldn't worry about 7.1.

If you want 'suround sound,' then you are looking for a 5.1 system. Which means you will need an AVR (audio/video receiver) and a subwoofer. There's tons of options and routes that you could go. You could start with a AVR and 2 front speakers and then over time build up to the 5.1.

We'd be able to help you a lot more if you told us what kind of budget you have.

[Beta Man]

First.... you don't "HAVE" to get a subwoofer....

second, avoid any of the systems that come with a DVD player, you want a receiver (AVR) that accepts HDMI which the new standard for cables, and it carries both Audio and Video signals, although you can use it for just one or the other if you choose.....

7.1 isn't really a "replacement" for 5.1 it's a newer format out there, and "yes" not all movies are available in 7.1, there is a trend for more though.... bottom line, if you don't have that much room, a good 5.1 (the .1 is the subwoofer by the way) is more than adequate.

Since you're in Ireland, I don't know what you have available as far as brands.... nor do I know your budget.....

Get a receiver that accepts HDMI, as well as PCM (it's an audio codec) and you'll set your PS3 to bitstream PCM out to the receiver, and connect another HDMI cable from the receiver to the T.V.....

then you shop for speakers..... just get what's in your budget, listen to them, decide which ones sound the best, and start with the Front Left/Right, and Center..... and add later, but if you have the cash, and want to, then buy more right away..... eventually you'll want a subwoofer though, because it really makes the movie watching experience very engaging..... (you guys have U-571 released over there right??? I'm jealous!!)


By the way, you shouldn't spend more than $5 USD for each HDMI cable..... don't buy them from a retail store.


again... not sure what's available in your area, or your budget, but those are the types of things you should consider.

[allstar780]

Originally Posted by Beta Man

First.... you don't "HAVE" to get a subwoofer....

BLASPHEMER!

[Beta Man]

Originally Posted by allstar780

BLASPHEMER!

Again... without knowing his budget, I'd recommend upgrading the Sub last (rears are usually cheap) The Sub is usually the most expensive single speaker in many people's set-ups....

[arush5268d]

Originally Posted by Beta Man

First.... you don't "HAVE" to get a subwoofer....

Originally Posted by allstar780

BLASPHEMER!

[grandmaster]

I have to admit I'm not sure what these types of systems usually cost. If I had to take a guess I suppose I maybe wouldn't want to spend much more than about $500-600 US.

But as I say, I really have no idea how much these types of systems usually cost. Maybe $500 US is only enough to buy a HDMI cable and a few empty tins of baked beans to use as speakers

[Beta Man]

wow... I'm so-not loved

in that case, OP, START with a Subwoofer.... I'd suggest this one, which I am very happy with.... then build your set-up around it

The finish on it is beautiful, but I wish it was available in a natural wood color of some sort, because it doesn't fit my decor, nor other speakers.

http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?id=91050

[allstar780]

lol... we do love you beta... but an HT without a sub is no HT i would want to have... regardless of the quality of the speakers.... the sub just adds that realism and depth

[Beta Man]

Originally Posted by grandmaster

I have to admit I'm not sure what these types of systems usually cost. If I had to take a guess I suppose I maybe wouldn't want to spend much more than about $500-600 US.

But as I say, I really have no idea how much these types of systems usually cost. Maybe $500 US is only enough to buy a HDMI cable and a few empty tins of baked beans to use as speakers

CREDIT GOES TO DRIVER_KING'S SIGNATURE


My recommended setup for Home Theater Virgins:
Polk Monitor 50's and Polk 5.1 System
Onkyo TX-SR605 or Onkyo TX-SR805 (for better performance)
Monoprice- For all your cable needs

Although I'm not a huge Onkyo fan, the Polk Monitor 50's, with a matching center, and an AVR can be had for $4-$500 or so.

[Beta Man]

Originally Posted by allstar780

lol... we do love you beta... but an HT without a sub is no HT i would want to have... regardless of the quality of the speakers.... the sub just adds that realism and depth

I gotta admit that I've had a LOT of negative issues with my sub, but hoping that the new dedicated theater room will change that (with carpet) (I haven't been able to place it anywhere where it doesn't cause vibrations etc. of things that are distracting)

[arush5268d]

Originally Posted by Beta Man

CREDIT GOES TO DRIVER_KING'S SIGNATURE


My recommended setup for Home Theater Virgins:
Polk Monitor 50's or Polk 5.1 System
Onkyo TX-SR605
Monoprice- For all your cable needs

Although I'm not a huge Onkyo fan, the Polk Monitor 50's, with a matching center, and an AVR can be had for $4-$500 or so.

Enhanced

[allstar780]

well mine shook a coffee cup off the shelf in the kitchen... but i only hear the vibrations of my brain turning to mush inside my skull lol