Speakers for TV... Think about it, is it necessary? Today, a priori, any video equipment and audio devices have a built-in acoustic system. But what quality of sound will you hear from it?
In an effort to improve the TV picture, manufacturers missed an important detail. To technically meet modern television standards, LCD TVs are produced thin or even ultra-thin. It is simply impossible to build speakers with full sound into them.
The article will tell you about the features and types of speaker systems today, what a soundbar and subwoofer are, will tell you whether there is a need for a purchase, and how to choose speakers for your TV.
What is a TV speaker system?
Sound in television is as important a component as image. Over the years, with the development of television broadcasting and comfortable visual perception from the TV screen, work has been constantly carried out to competently improve the sound.
With the advent of color television, and then with the replacement of analogue with digital television, the sound became much better: surround, stereophonic, creating the effect of presence. The modernization of screens continued, and after 2000, kinescope models were replaced by flat-screen ones.
And here the task of obtaining high-quality sound became dramatically more complicated, since there was nowhere to build in acoustics. Some branded models with a large display diagonal had an ultra-thin body that smoothly turned into a base in which the speaker system was placed.
It was necessary to look for a way out. An alternative solution to all the proposals was the use of external acoustic elements in a home theater system. The package included a TV or video projector, set-top box, receiver/amplifier, subwoofer and a set of speaker systems.
The speakers built into the TV have all the minimum sound characteristics, but seem to provide only two-dimensional sound. It should also be noted that problems with reproduction and speech speed, unclean sound, and extraneous noise that arise during listening.
If you just watch news or sports programs without making any special claims to the sound quality, this is one thing.
If you are interested not only in a bright and clear picture, but also need surround, deep and clear sound in all ranges when watching movies, listening to music or playing a game, take a close look at the TV speakers.
Types of soundbars
There are 2 types of home soundbars:
- Active – connect directly to the TV, easy to install and control. However, the sound quality may be far from ideal.
- Passive - connected through a receiver, which significantly improves sound quality.
Types of speaker systems
Like all video equipment, mobile gadgets and other external devices, the TV speaker system is divided into accessories for home and studio (professional) use. There are equipment of the budget level, mid-price category and premium class.
Today, the following types of TV acoustics are considered optimal for creating excellent sound and presence:
- speakers (Bluetooth speakers - wireless);
- subwoofers;
- sound panels (soundbars);
- multimedia centers;
- stereo systems;
- home theater systems.
Sound panels/media bars/soundbars or soundboxes have confidently won their niche in the market for individual external speaker system components. The soundbar is a rectangular speaker with built-in speakers. It is placed on the wall under the TV.
Soundbars are a very attractive attribute for creating a stereo effect, surround and live sound. The package also includes a wireless subwoofer to maintain and expand the low-frequency sound range.
Also read: How to choose a set-top box for your TV?
JBL Bar with built-in subwoofer
The cost of the JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-One device varies within 9 thousand rubles. The speaker is impressive in size, but with a power of 80 W it produces excellent sound. Moreover, the soundbar has a built-in subwoofer.
Experts consider the gadget an excellent option for connoisseurs of high-quality sound with clear bass. The device easily connects to smartphones and TVs via Bluetooth and HDMI.
The remote control allows you to control the volume of the device. Among the “cons” is the delay of sound via Bluetooth.
Features of the system for TV
1. Depending on the connection method, the systems can be wireless via Bluetooth and USB or wired using different standard connectors on the TV panel and speakers.
2. Based on the presence of an amplifier, speakers are divided into active ones with a built-in mini-amplifier and passive ones, for which the amplifier is purchased separately. There are positive aspects in both cases. Just like there are disadvantages.
Specific models of speaker systems have not been developed directly for TV. The system can consist of individual speakers or be a soundbar - a number of speakers of different sound ranges built into it.
3. Based on location in the room, the acoustic system is classified into:
- frontal;
- built-in;
- floor;
- ceiling;
- wall
4. Design features affect the functionality of the speaker. The speakers on the market differ in design, design and purpose of use. Some are designed to deliver sound in general, others - for low frequencies, and still others - to create the effect of real presence.
Structurally different shapes serve to reproduce the widest range of frequencies.
- Rectangular or square shape.
- In the shape of a pyramid.
- Round or oval shape.
The most suitable shape option for obtaining a rich and clear sound is considered rectangular.
The closed housing is considered universal for any speaker component. A housing with a bell or bass reflex is found exclusively in a subwoofer.
5. The speaker system can be two-channel (stereo) or multi-channel. The multi-channel system contains speakers:
- front - the basis of sound, the largest in size and with wideband speakers;
- the main thing is to give the sound volume and the reality of complete immersion;
- rear ones, which serve to give the effect of presence;
- satellites - auxiliary elements located on the sides, with a small frequency range;
- subwoofer responsible for low frequencies (bass).
Model rating
Let's look at some interesting models from different price ranges.
Budget models
| Model | Characteristics |
| Microlab M-1910 Acoustics 5.1 for $120, the Microlab company produces quite high-quality products in the lower and middle price segments. A total power of 45 W, a subwoofer with a bass reflex, the body is trimmed with plastic panels. Pros:
Cons: none found. | |
| SVEN HT-200 A budget model costing 80-90 dollars in an MDF case. The products of the manufacturer SVEN have been on the market for more than 15 years and in this price segment they have very good quality. The total speaker power is 60W. The declared range of reproduced frequencies is 40-22000 Hz. Pros:
Flaws:
| |
| Gemix HT-1050 Ultra budget 5.1 system for $70. She has plastic speakers and a subwoofer made of MDF. Claimed total power 60W. Pros:
Cons: the speakers do not have mounts for hanging on the wall. |
Average price range
| Model | Characteristics |
| Edifier R501T III 5.1 speakers from a well-known manufacturer of inexpensive speaker systems. The cost is about 170 dollars. Edifier has a fairly wide range of models. It began to actively develop in the domestic market about 10 years ago, during which time it managed to show itself quite well in terms of quality and reliability. Pros:
Disadvantages: there are no volume controls on the subwoofer, all settings can only be made using the remote control. | |
| F&D F5060X Large home theater speakers with a total power of 60W for $170-180. F&D products are often very similar to the SVEN brand. The quality of this manufacturer is quite good. This model supports Bluetooth for wireless music playback and has a built-in simple player. Pros:
Disadvantages: none found. | |
| Genius SW-HF 5.1 6000 Speakers for almost $200 will delight the owner with good surround sound. Total power - 100 W. Pros:
Flaws:
|
Premium models
| Model | Characteristics |
| Soundbar LG SJ5 Miniature and loud acoustics for TV. Its cost is 300 dollars. Looks quite stylish. Total power 120 W. Pros:
Disadvantages: slightly overpriced. | |
| Powerful M-Audio HCS-9950 MKIII system Your neighbors will experience the most emotions! Its declared power is 420 W. 5 speakers, 2 of them are tall floor-standing, stylish design, clear sound. The body is made of MDF, like most modern models. Pros:
Disadvantages: none found. | |
| Microlab H-600 Beautiful and powerful speaker system (270W) 5.1 system, with high front speakers and a good subwoofer. Cost about 400 dollars. Pros:
Disadvantages: with prolonged use, problems may occur with the control unit or remote control. |
Column selection criteria and nuances
View speakers for TV
Now let's take a closer look. How to choose speakers for your TV and not make a mistake? Ask yourself questions: for what purpose do you need the speaker, and how will you use it? The type of speaker system, its completeness and shape depend on this answer.
1. Important parameters in acoustic systems
The clarity, volume of sound and endurance of the speaker system are greatly influenced by the sensitivity and power characteristics of the model.
Sensitivity measures loudness in decibels (dB), while high sensitivity measures the maximum sound volume setting.
Power in watts (W) is the main indicator when choosing a device. It characterizes the reliability and mechanical endurance of the speakers of the speaker; it can be nominal, peak and maximum. Its maximum values do not always mean maximum volume values.
The connection interface is an important element when choosing. The most common and modern HDMI connector, SCART - scart, mini-“jack” TRS - 3.5 mm in diameter analog audio output, optical digital output, RCA - “tulip” for not the latest generation TVs.
Important! When choosing speakers, you should always check the material from which they are made. The best and most natural sound is obtained from a speaker system with a cabinet made of wood or multi-layer plywood. Most high-quality models are made of MDF, fiberboard, chipboard.
2. Nuances of choice
How to choose speakers with the optimal sound level according to the desired characteristics? Let's continue to figure it out. We recommend starting your choice based on an understanding of the general, but very important, provisions:
| 1. | Determine the year of manufacture and technical capabilities of your TV. |
| 2. | On the back of the TV, examine and specify the connection connectors. |
| 3. | Determine the size of the room and where the speaker system will be located in it. |
| 4. | Select speaker models, check the compatibility and synchronization of the set with your TV. |
| 5. | Please read the operating specifications and instructions carefully. Please consult. |
| 6. | Do a test run of the system. Rate the test drive. |
Manufacturing materials
Today, manufacturers use several types of materials to make TV furniture. Some models are produced in a combined style, combining several types of raw materials. The most common categories are presented below:
- natural solid wood - cabinets with carved ornaments look beautiful, but their cost will be high. The models are relevant for luxurious and calm interiors;
- glass - glass furniture is most often chosen by people who have a small living room. At first glance, such models resemble a coffee table and add visual airiness and lightness to the room. Caring for glass surfaces should be done daily, as fingerprints often remain on the glass;
- plastic - models made of durable plastic are rarely in demand and are more often purchased as temporary options. Such products cannot be called sustainable, however, among the model range there are interesting examples of rare colors;
- Laminated chipboard is the most popular material for modern furniture - laminated chipboard sheets. Products made from this raw material are affordable and can convey the structure of real wood.
When choosing furniture for a TV, you should pay great attention to the material, since not only the aesthetics of the product, but also its strength depends on it
Top 3 Xiaomi acoustics for TV
Home Cinema Xiaomi Mi Home Theater
The wireless connection via Bluetooth 4.1 will be smooth and free of interference. The panel has several connectors and ports (USB, HDMI, Ethernet, AV), and a Wi-Fi module.
High and low registers sound harmoniously, from the effect of real presence you enjoy music and watching a movie from the heart.
The speakers deliver powerful stereo sound using Dolby Audio and DTS-HD audio decoders.
Soundbar Xiaomi TV Soundbar (white)
Lightweight, compact attribute has low weight and minimalist body design. Speakers in the amount of 8 pcs. protected from dust by material that resembles eye-catching denim.
The side panel has a clear connection interface with indicators. Playback and listening are convenient at a maximum distance of up to 10 m. The sound is clear and spacious.
Display device
The image from the playback equipment is displayed on the screen. The display device can be:
- projector with canvas screen;
- TV.
Due to its greater prevalence, the last option is the most common. Also, the screen diagonals of modern TV models have reached sizes comparable to the dimensions of the projector canvas.
Home theater equipment is connected to different types of television screens:
- liquid crystal;
- electron beam;
- plasma.
Screen – plasma TV
TVs have different types of inputs for connecting to other equipment. For models of different generations, their list is different.
Yamaha NS-P60
This set includes two rear and one center speakers, designed for use in multi-channel systems.
Characteristics:
- Frequency range 30-80 thousand Hz.
- The sensitivity of the front speakers is 90 dB, the rear – 91 dB.
- Passive type.
- Housing made of durable MDF.
- Installed on a shelf, there are fasteners for hanging on the wall.
- The speakers are two-way and have magnetic protection.
- Cost – from 8,000 rubles.
There is no subwoofer included, but this model is praised for its automatic listening position detection system
It is worth noting the optimal price-quality ratio of this system. In addition, its elements are compact, which means they will not take up much space.
Bose Acoustimass 10
Compact and powerful in one system. This is the most powerful system in the manufacturer’s model line. It offers rich and spacious sound. Best used in large rooms.
Characteristics:
- System 5.1 passive type.
- The front and rear speakers have a power of 50 W, the subwoofer – 200 W.
- Single-way speakers.
- Shelf or rack mounting.
- Price – from 90 thousand rubles.
Convenient location that will save space
Conclusion
It is impossible to clearly indicate the system that you need to buy for your TV. There are many brands with different speaker models. Most often, a system is chosen based on the amount allocated for the purchase and one’s own ideas about the sound.
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New TVs transmit a detailed, bright picture with natural color reproduction, which could only be dreamed of 15 years ago. The image quality is good, but the sound is still flat. The fact is that TV panels are now thin, and it is problematic to install powerful and, accordingly, large speakers in such a case.
As a result, the viewer lacks high-quality sound effects for complete immersion. The problem is solved by using acoustics for the TV, which provides surround and loud sound. Types of audio systems, what characteristics to consider when choosing – this is discussed in the article.
Content
Sonos Playbar
This kit should be used exclusively for TV and is not suitable for listening to music.
Characteristics:
- Shelf or wall placement.
- There is a digital optical output, Wi-Fi technology is supported, due to which the system can be controlled via a mobile application.
- There is an option for separate amplification for each speaker.
- Supports Internet radio.
- It features simple connection and setup.
- Cost – from 71 thousand rubles.
Powerful equipment with a wide range of reproducible frequencies
Harman NKTS 30
The 5.1 acoustics boast an active subwoofer. An excellent solution for a home theater at a price starting from 36,000 rubles. It features a stylish design - the elegant finish with white glossy varnish will attract attention.
Characteristics:
- The set includes 2 ceiling speakers, 2 front speakers, 1 center speaker, and a subwoofer.
- Frequency – 20-45 thousand Hz.
- Two-way speakers.
- The subwoofer can offer 200 watts of power.
- Sensitivity indicator – 86 dB.
- It is compact in size but high in quality.
- The system is equipped with magnetic shielding.
A sound accessory consisting of 6 elements will allow you to efficiently disperse sound throughout the room
Advice! The quality of this system is excellent, as is the sound, but in many ways you have to pay for the stylish original design. It matters, but not that much.
In conclusion
It’s up to you to decide which system to buy. There are many brands and models that vary in power, sound quality and price. Based on your personal preferences and financial capabilities, you choose the option that suits you.
Stylish design and high-quality sound
The speaker of even the most modern TV is not capable of conveying the full range of sounds that are in the film and music. Those who value quality in everything buy a speaker system along with a new TV. Today, two simple speakers have been replaced by modern models. The rating of speaker systems presented below takes into account all the most important nuances necessary for high-quality sound.
Content:
Hanging device will save space
Budget systems include acoustic systems that cost up to 10 thousand rubles. They sound quite good, they can be used both for watching movies at home and for listening to music.
Economical option for bookshelf speakers
KEF E305
It is memorable for the original rounded design of the speakers. As for the sound, one of the “tricks” is the aluminum diffuser and magnetic system. They help keep distortion to a minimum.
characteristics:
- Passive system.
- Frequency – 33-45 thousand Hz.
- Installation is possible on shelves or mounted on a wall using complete racks.
- Sensitivity – 86 dB.
- Guarantees realistic sound.
- Price – from 88 thousand rubles.
A small beautiful accessory that also has a decorative function
Alternative: Harman NKTS 16BQ
Another representative of the rating from the manufacturer Harman. This home acoustics will cost 15,000 rubles, but it cannot be said that it is much worse than the previous option.
characteristics:
- The package includes 2 rear, 2 front, 1 center speakers and a 200 W subwoofer.
- The type of acoustics is bookshelf, but there is the possibility of mounting on a wall.
- The center channel is equipped with a dual driver, due to which voices are clearly displayed.
- Frequency – 20-35 thousand Hz.
- Sensitivity – 86 dB.
- Gloss black finish.
- High-quality surround sound.
Great option for a small room
A sample of acoustics that will expand the capabilities of your TV
Content:
- 1 Features of the equipment 1.1 Advantages of the equipment
- 2.1 Power
- 3.1 Xiaomi MI TV Soundbar
Soundbar – sound panel or multimedia speaker. It is essentially a speaker that produces sounds from a wide cabinet. Acoustics provide deep, clean, high-quality sound. And this expands the possibilities of watching full-length films and TV series. At the same time, it takes up little space. There are no difficulties when connecting, as well as with settings or operation.
Manufacturers pay attention not only to the functionality of the TV soundbar, but also to its appearance. Therefore, the speaker fits perfectly into any stylish interior and looks ideal with LCD TVs and LED panels.
