Best Home Theater Speakers 2020 with Buying Guide

What Is the Best Home Theater Speaker System?

The answer to the above question will be obtained throughout this article. Since there are not one ultimate best home theater speakers set for all users, you need to obtain the knowledge and understanding of the topic to make an informed decision and buy the best home theater speakers according to your needs, room size, budget, and so on.

However, generally speaking, the best home theater speakers should satisfy your sound need and turn home movie or series watching into an awesome, memorable experience.

As we move along, you will learn all the ins and outs of the best home theater speakers. We will also take a closer look at the 10 best home theater speakers, which will enable you to simply choose one of those. However, you will also be provided with an extensive best home theater speakers buyer’s guide that will enable you to make the right choice even if you decide to stray away from our selection.

Are you ready to dig deeper? Let’s do this.

Who Should Buy a Home Theater System?

The best home theater speakers are absolutely not something that every person should get. Even though we honestly believe that the best home theater speakers are something that every home could benefit from, it is not something that every individual appreciates enough to make it a worthy investment.

Best Home Theater Speakers

That said, best home theater speakers are absolutely not something you should boggle your mind with if your favorite way of watching shows and movies is on your mobile phone. That means that you are all about the content and not so much about the experience.

However, if you are one of those people who would like to immerse into the song, a show, or a movie by creating a cinema-like experience in the privacy of your home, then you should definitely go for it. The best home theater speakers are for those who appreciate the high-quality sound experience and will actually use the system rather frequently.

A proper home theater system is great for watching all TV content, including sports and listening to music, especially if you are a live concert fan and would like to recreate that experience.

The Different Types of Home Theater Speakers

It would be quite surprising if there was only one type of home theater speakers, right? Each home theater speaker system has included various types of speakers that each has a designated role towards creating a complete memorable sound experience but more on that in a moment.

First, let us explain what the different types of home theater speakers systems are. One could make this as unique as one pleases, however, generally there are a couple of standard options that include the following:

  • Most common options:
    • 1 Home Theater Speakers Systems: as the numbers suggest, this type of home theater speaker systems use six speakers (channels) – front right and left speakers a center channel, a pair of surround channels at the back, and one subwoofer.
    • 1 Home Theater Speakers Systems: each of the two surround speakers is broken into two channels, giving you surround and rear the rest is the same as above.
    • 1 Home Theater Speakers Systems – this is an alternative, for those with extra small spaces. As the name suggests, the system uses only 3 speakers and is as such not really capable of producing a true surround experience and definitely can’t be placed among the best home theater speakers options.
  • Less common options:
    • 2 Home Theater Speakers Systems: the same as the 5.1 plus additional subwoofer.
    • 2 Home Theater Speakers Systems: the same as the 7.1 plus additional subwoofer.
    • 1 Home Theater Speakers Systems: in addition to the components included in the 7.1 home theater surround system, the 9.1 surround sound also includes two front height speakers
    • Additional alternatives: 3.1 Surround Sound System, 4.1 Surround Sound System, 6.1 Surround Sound System, 10.2 Home Theater Surround Sound System, 13.1 Home Theater Surround Sound System, 12.2 Home Theater Surround Sound System, 22.2 Home Theater Surround Sound System, and other uncommon options.

The types of speakers used in the best home theater speakers system:

  • Center Channel Speakerit reproduces most of the dialogue in a movie. Some may argue it the most important speaker for movies and general TV viewing.
  • Front Left and Right Speakersthey reproduce most of the music and sound effects in a soundtrack. But will also be used for dialogue when the voices move to the left or right of the screen.
  • Surround Speakersthese mainly reproduce the surround music and effects. They need to reproduce a similar range of frequencies to the front left and right speakers. But, are less critical than the front speakers as they are used less.
  • Subwooferit is completely different from the other speakers. The subwoofer is there for one reason alone – to reproduce the low bass end.

NOTE: We could easily devote an entire article for each of the above home theater speakers system and speaker types. However, the purpose here is to provide you with a basic understanding.

Do I Need to Have Surround Sound in My Home Theater?

If you want to have a cinema-like experience, then the answer is yes. The surround sound will enable you to hear the voices and special effects form the back and create that special 3D effect.

However, this decision is totally up to you. As explained above, the 2.1 home theater speakers are still a common option, though keep in mind that it does not provide you with a surround sound experience.

NOTE: True best home theater systems include a speaker and central unit, however, you can also buy speakers separately. This is totally up to you and your living room equipment.

10 Best Home Theater Speakers

This is the section that many of you’ve been impatiently waiting for. Here we will present you with 10 best home theater speakers systems currently available on the market. To make our selection suitable for a wide range and types of users, we did our very best to include several different types of home theater speakers system. That way you can go with the one that best suits your home and needs.

NOTE: In the past, the only way to obtain a home theater system was by purchasing the entire system as a complete set. These days, you can buy separate speakers and use them together. Wireless technology makes this even simpler. As such, you will find some individual speakers presented below as well.

Definitive Technology ProCinema 6D – Compact 5.1 Channel Home Theater Speaker System

Definitive Technology ProCinema 6D – Compact 5.1 Channel Home Theater Speaker System

Design and Build Quality:

The build quality of each speaker is top-notch, and they look rather stylish with the glossy black finish on the grills.

Sound Performance:

You get four small satellite speakers for use as your front and rear surround audio channels. These satellite speakers each have a 1-inch Tweeter, a 3.25-inch BDSS woofer, and a bass radiator that weighs two and a half pounds.

The small but powerful center channel speaker has a 1-inch Tweeter, (2) 3.25-inch Mid/Woofer BDSS Drivers, and radiators. You quickly notice the clarity of dialogue coming from the center channel speaker.

The sound from these satellite speakers is crisp and clear whether you are watching movies or just listening to music.

For bass lovers out there, you will have a powered 250-watt subwoofer with an 8-inch driver and radiator. The bass produced by the subwoofer is nice and punchy.

Connectivity:

Wired connectivity.

The power cord for the subwoofer is 6 feet long, giving you an ample amount of space. This powered subwoofer can be connected via your regular speaker cable or by using an LFE cable.

Both the center channel and satellite speakers can be mounted on the wall if you choose by using the threaded inserts located on the back of them.

Why you should buy them:

  • Outstandingly clear dialogue
  • Immersive speaker experience
  • Nice looks
PROS

  • Nice punchy bass
  • Clear audio
  • Immersive experience
  • 5.1 channel setup
CONS

  • Rather expensive

Energy 5.1 Take Classic Home Theater System

Design and Build Quality:

The 5.1 Take Classic system comes in a subtle glossy black finish. It includes four surround speakers, one center channel speaker, and a subwoofer.

Each satellite and the center speaker have a ¾ inch tweeter a 3-inch woofer in their housings. Energy placed these close together to prevent any sound separation.

Sound Performance:

This system provides a great warm sound to your room. While listening to movies, you pick up on subtle effects that you wouldn’t usually notice due to this 5.1 setup.

The surround speakers gave the immersive feel you would expect from a 5.1 setup and were pretty clear. However, we did notice a bit of vibration from the surround speakers, so make sure that they are equalized well and not bass-heavy.

Dialogue comes out very clear from the center channel speaker across the multiple different sound sources we used. The subwoofer also gives out plenty of low-frequency sound without coming across muffled at all.

Connectivity:

Wired connectivity.

This system can be mounted on the wall or by using stands. The center channel speaker weighs 3.2 pounds and measures in at 10.25 inches wide and just over 4 inches tall. You shouldn’t have a problem fitting this on most TV stands.

Why you should buy them:

  • Solid sound
  • Great looks
  • Wall mounting option
  • Relatively affordable price.
PROS

  • 5.1 channel setup
  • Deep bass
  • Clear dialogue throughout
  • Beautiful looking gloss finish
CONS

  • Slight vibration from surround speakers

Acoustimass 6 Series V  – Bose Home Theater Speaker System

Acoustimass 6 Series V – Bose Home Theater Speaker System

Design and Build Quality:

The superb speaker from Bose is a wonder to behold. It comes with five different speakers, coupled with a massive sub-woofer. Those who have used it, call it the best surround sound system because of its functionality, sound quality, and many other qualities. They come in a sublime carbon black color and a sleek and portable design.

Sound Performance:

Each satellite speaker has a capacity of 100-120W, which is why it is known as the product that has small speakers with surprising performance. With Acoustimass, you will bring films, sports, and music to your home as if you’re live on stage or in the studio with performers.

Connectivity:

Wired and wireless connectivity.

The speakers are designed for wall mounting, and cables and connectors are easy to install. Depending on your choice, you can install the speakers and modules to fit your room aesthetics. The speakers can be connected wirelessly with the use of an Ethernet Wi-Fi.

Why you should buy them:

  • An exquisite design
  • Great quality sound
  • Suitable for smaller rooms
  • Wired or wireless connectivity options
  • Massive subwoofer
PROS

  • Sleek and portable speakers
  • Several facets for input connections
  • Wireless digital surrounds
  • Unique bass module
CONS

  • Additional speakers not supported
  • Costly
  • Not suitable for large rooms
  • Absence of an inbuilt BLU RAY player

Sony Home Theater System (BDV-N9200W)

Sony Home Theater System (BDV-N9200W)

Design and Build Quality:

There is an upright speaker for each corner of your room included in the Sony Home Theater System (BDV-N9200W). They are self-standing slim and tall speakers that look stylish. The set is completed with a powerful center channel speaker and a strong subwoofer.

Sound Performance:

If you are the user who loves a sound quality that can bring the roof down, you will love this home entertainment system for each of its powerful 100 W speakers. Your movie and music experience will be amplified to a whole new level with the Dolby Atmos sound.

Connectivity:

Wired connectivity for speaker, wireless to the system.

This wireless 5.1 surround sound system still uses a wired connection for its speakers.

Why you should buy them:

  • Great sound power (1200 W output) and quality
  • Complete with USB port, HDMI connection, Bluetooth and many other tasty features
  • Blu-ray player with playback options with this one of the best home theater systems
  • The home theater is a perfect choice for connecting to the Internet without cables because of the inbuilt W-Fi system
PROS

  • A wireless system (connecting to the Wi-Fi) with wired speakers
  • Blu-ray player with fantastic playback options
  • Impressive 1200W output
  • Bluetooth, an auxiliary port, and a USB port
CONS

  • No option of wall mounting
  • No bass adjustment option
  • 4K USB playback not supported

LG Home Sound Theater Systems (LG LHD657)

LG Home Sound Theater Systems (LG LHD657)

Design and Build Quality:

This 1000W 5.1 home theater system offers slick, small, and beautiful speakers, a central speaker and a powerful subwoofer. Al in black stylish color. The signature pitch-black speakers are designed with a wall-mountable function and a standalone sub-woofer which is equally great looking.

Sound Performance:

Very nice sound quality and relatively powerful. Most suitable for smaller rooms.

Connectivity:

The LHD657 comes with an inbuilt Wi-Fi connection which makes streaming movies and sports and other streamable content experience to long for. This wireless Bluetooth surround sound can play BLU-RAY and 3D DVD movies without conversion, and it is a top choice for those who love high definition movies. For the best of the movie experience, you can always enjoy your LG sound system with an LG smart TV, which has the feature of downloadable apps.

Why you should buy them:

  • Great for small rooms as speakers are relatively small and not that powerful
  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Blue Ray supported
  • Relatively affordable
  • Many practical features
  • Compatible with LG SmartTVs
PROS

  • Great combination of affordable price and peculiar features
  • Built-in wireless Wi-Fi connection that is compatible with smart TV and also a perfect choice for online streaming
  • Suitable for blue ray movies of high definition without conversion
  • 5.1 digital surround channel
CONS

  • The small size of the speakers also means the low output of 50W
  • Only suitable for small rooms.
  • It doesn’t have Dolby Atmos sound system
  • It cannot be upgraded to 7.1

YAMAHA YHT-4930UBL

YAMAHA YHT-4930UBL

Design and Build Quality:

The YAMAHA YHT-4930UBL 5.1 system includes 5 compact and glossy speakers that cover the front middle, left, right, surround left, and surround right and a 6.5 inch and 100-watt powered subwoofer. Speakers all look very compact and stylish.

Sound Performance:

This best home theater speakers system packs Yamaha Parametric Acoustic Optimizer (YPAO), which automatically optimizes the system based on the acoustics of the room. So, you can use the YHT-4930 for a wide range of activities such as watching a game with your friends without losing anything from the live experience or wirelessly streaming high-end music to the speakers. The system is equipped with an Extra Bass setting.

Connectivity:

Wired speaker.

Wireless music playing and connectivity to the receiver.

Why you should buy them:

  • 1-Channel powerful surround sound
  • Bluetooth for wireless music streaming
  • 4K Ultra HD pass-through with HDCP 2.2 support, HDR Video including Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma, and BT.2020
  • YPAO sound optimization tuning for your home
  • Virtual Cinema Front
  • Extra Bass setting provides more bass output from smaller speakers
  • 1-channel compact black gloss speaker package
  • 6-1/2” 100 watts powered subwoofer
PROS

  • Great sound quality
  • Easy to setup
  • Works well in small to medium rooms
CONS

  • The mids can be a bit harsh
  • Wireless setting can be unreliable
  • The receiver is rather large

ENCLAVE AUDIO CINEHOME HD 5.1

ENCLAVE AUDIO CINEHOME HD 5.1

Design and Build Quality:

The Enclave Audio Cinehome HD 5.1 includes 6 stylish speakers, with special corner-design surround speakers. Speaker and the unit are all in black, which makes them highly universal. This reputable brand offers high-quality materials built to last.

Sound Performance:

This speaker system is aimed at top-notch performance, so all its components help it to surround you with every nuance of sound. Music, movies, video gaming – these are all activities Enclave HD 5.1 is suitable for. What is more, keep in mind that these home theater speakers have also got a wireless subwoofer. And as you know, that’s a true guarantee of high-grade bass.

Connectivity:

Wireless connectivity.

This speaker system will be able to host HDMI and SPDIF sources, which include a satellite, a cable, streaming appliances, and gaming consoles.

Why you should buy them:

Enclave Cine Home HD 5.1 includes Smart Centre with ARC and CEC support, which will save your money as well as space. You won’t need to get additional audio and video receiver, running speaker, or a speaker cable.

PROS

  • Smart Centre with ARC and CEC support
  • Multiple inputs
  • Wire-free
  • Subwoofer is included
CONS

  • High price
  • Remote quality
  • Size

Yamaha YHT-5950U – Best 4k Home Theater System for You

Yamaha YHT-5950U – Best 4k Home Theater System for You

Design and Build Quality:

The Yamaha YHT-5950U is probably the best 4k home theater system currently available. It offers a great design and quality build that will satisfy even the most sophisticated audio enthusiasts.

Sound Performance:

The Yamaha YHT-5950U is an entertainment system that finds itself in the 80db sound department with its massive subwoofer, two pairs of side speakers and a two-way center speaker all packed with a powerful sound capacity of 145 W. Each speaker has a considerable response frequency range of about 50Hz and less and a twitter rate of 0.5 to deliver the crisp and clear acoustic that has made them the favorite of sound quality lovers.

Connectivity:

Wired speakers connectivity. Wireless rear surrounds.

The central unit enables Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplay 2, Spotify connect and Music Cast multi-room; Music Cast Surround Capable: Add Music Cast 20 speakers to create a 5.1-channel setup with wireless rear surrounds.

Why you should buy them:

  • Best for 4k movies and concerts.
  • Loud and clear sound.
  • Easy setup with Yamaha YPAO room optimization and flexible speaker placement options.
PROS

  • Complete 5.1 channel system with the perfect speakers, and woofer
  • One of the best subwoofers with its enhanced bass
  • 4K Ultra HD HDMI with HDR10 and Dolby Vision
  • Average aesthetic appeal for those who love a splash of color on black.
CONS

  • Only suitable for wall mounting
  • Only suitable for confined places.

Sony STR-DN1080

Sony STR-DN1080

Design and Build Quality:

The Sony STR-DN1080 is a 7.2 home theater speaker system. It includes an AV receiver and offers very nice looks. Since Sony is a highly reputable brand, the high quality is to be expected.

Sound Performance:

The Sony STR-DN1080 7.2 is a solid performer. It’s a system built around the excellent STR-DN1080 receiver, which is one of the company’s biggest successes

Connectivity:

Wired speakers.

Why you should buy them:

  • For its full access to Dolby Atmos sound and 8 speakers.
  • Perfect speaker and receiver pairing
PROS

  • Perfect speaker and receiver pairing
  • Full access to Dolby Atmos surround sound
CONS

  • Very pricy
  • Feels a little rough around the edges

SONOS – Best Wireless Home Theater System

SONOS – Best Wireless Home Theater System

Design and Build Quality:

The SONOS offers one of the most unique 5.1 system designs. The three front speakers are combined in a single larger unit. The subwoofer also offers an extremely modern and stylish look. The quality is superb and built to last. All-in-all, SONOS is a sleek and sophisticated device that you can only find extremely classy homes.

Sound Performance:

The sound is loud and clear. However, some users say this system isn’t as strong as it looks and that the speakers are not overpowering like its contemporaries in the same price category.

Connectivity:

Complete wireless connectivity.

App operable.

Why you should buy them:

  • If you want maximal wireless experience and in-app operation, this is probably the best option for you.
  • Great look and compact size.
PROS

  • Great combination of glossy console and small-size
  • The wireless system makes streaming of movies, music, and other media very easy.
  • With the wireless connection, each of the speakers can be used in various rooms.
  • This is the perfect entertainment system for you if you are all about apps
CONS

  • Limited performance in larger open spaces
  • The speakers are quite small in size and not as powerful as other equally priced systems
  • Probably too pricey for those not fascinated by the techy vibe

What to look for in High-End Home Theater Speakers before buy?

This section will be especially useful for those of you who plan to stray from the list above. The content below is basically a buyer’s guide to help you choose the best home theater speakers system.

Speaker Sound Quality

This is where it gets subjective. A good sounding speaker for one person, might not sound great to another. Thus it helps a lot if you can visit a local store to test out the speakers.

If you can’t manage to hear speakers for yourself, then you will just have to rely on the specifications and/or the opinions of others. All the speakers made by the leading brands will sound good.

Moreover, bear in mind that the sound of a set of speakers will vary depending on the amplifier used, and the room they are in.

Speaker Frequency Response

The range of human hearing is about 20Hz – 20kHz (our high-end hearing will usually reduce with age, and the bottom end is more ‘felt’ than heard). You would need to see the chart for a particular speaker to know how well it reproduces the full frequency range. The sound of a speaker is determined by how well it reproduces all the audible frequencies. A high-end speaker would be expected to reproduce these frequencies more accurately.

Choose speaker systems by room size

Speaker size and power should correspond to the amount of space you have. A 5.1 channel setup will take up a lot more room compared to an individual speaker would or a small 2.1 system. If you have a large open space, you will want more powerful larger speakers but for smaller, closed rooms most powers will do. If you have an extra small room, you may want to settle for a 2.1 or 3.1 home theater system.

Speaker Size and Type

This one matched the section discussed above. Size isn’t everything and must be looked at in combination with power. When it comes to the type of speakers, always make sure to know which system do you want (2.0, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1, 5.1, etc.). But this is only relevant when you are buying speakers separately. The best home theater speakers will come in sets of speakers that will provide you with the best results. And 5.1 are still the best home theater speakers systems.

The total number of speakers

The greater the number of speakers, the greater the surround experience (if the quality is not compromised). However, most homes need no more than 5.1 (six proper speakers) to create an amazing home theater experience.

Warranty

All speakers should come with at least a 1-year warranty. In some cases, this can be even up to 5 years or more.

Design

Generally speaking, most speakers follow a pretty standard universal design that suits most living spaces. There are some more classical options and some more futuristic ones. It is totally up to you to choose the ones that best suit you. However, we strongly advise you to focus more on the sound quality than the design.

Price

Prices can vary a lot. A solid 5.1 sound system can be purchased at about $250 but the 7.1 or 7.2 surround systems can be well over $1500. Keep in mind that the price is not everything, however, as a rule of thumb ‘more you pay, more you get’.

Easy to Install

These days there are several 100% wireless options. These are without a doubt the easiest to install as they require no wires. However, they normally cost extra.

Also, know where you plan to place the speakers. Do you want self-standing ones, on the shelves, or hang them on the wall?

Input interface/Bluetooth connectivity

If you are purchasing a complete system, it will normally include the interface unit. In some cases, this is a part of the central speaker. Make sure the interface unit provides you with all the connectivity options you need for your TV central station.

3D capability

The newest and least defined format in the world of audio is 3D Audio. Virtual Reality has brought about this format as most audiences in VR experience want the sound to move around them as they explore virtual environments just like the visuals do. Most latest surround system speakers will provide you with this option.

FAQs

What is the difference between wireless and wired speakers?

For wired speakers, you will need to use wires to connect them to the central unit or amplifier. With wireless speakers, you can use Bluetooth or WiFi (varies from model to model) to connect them to the central unit (which is often built-in the central speaker).

Do speakers support Wi-Fi? How about Bluetooth?

If the speakers are wireless, they support either Bluetooth or WiFi or both, yes.

What is the difference between the 5.1 and 7.1 surround systems?

7.1 has two additional rear surround speakers.

Can I use more than one subwoofer for my set up?

This will depend on the central unit, but generally speaking yes. There are 5.2 and 7.2 systems that use two subwoofers.

Should I put all my speakers in the same room?

This depends on the room size and the purpose of use. If you want a full surround experience while watching a movie, you should have all the speakers in the same room. However, if you just want to be able to play the same music in various rooms, then place them accordingly in other rooms.

Do I need an amp with my speakers?

This depends on the system, whether the main unit is included and whether it has an amp built-in. It also depends on the power of your speakers and the experience you are looking for. Most smaller and mid-range rooms systems have all you need built-in and you will not require an amp.

Will speakers accept USB input?

All speakers that are part of the surround system will normally not have USB slots. However, the main unit or the central speak may very often have that option.

Will speakers work with any receiver?

Wired speakers will work with any receiver that has a sufficient amount of channels. If speakers are wireless, the receiver must also support wireless connectivity.