Budget shopping tips: Home audio
The Energy Take Classic surround speaker system.
(Credit: Energy Speakers)
Home audio is one of those gadget categories where prices can range anywhere from S$100 (US$73.63) to hundreds of thousands of dollars. It also has a range of subcategories and mind-boggling terminology. So we thought we'd provide a quick and easy overview for shoppers who are just interested in getting the most for their money--especially at the lower end of the price scale.
First off, identify your audio and visual needs. If you already have a video source you're happy with--a Blu-ray player, game console, or DVD player--then you'll want to go with a component-based home theater package (a receiver/amplifier plus speakers) or you'll want to put together your own home theater system (an A/V receiver plus speaker system). However, if you're starting from scratch--you're ready to start afresh with Blu-ray or a new DVD player--you'll want to consider a Blu-ray home-theater-in-a-box (HTIB) kit. For 2009, such all-in-one systems start at S$1,599 (US$1,177.27).
Secondly, stick to 5.1 or less. For true surround, you'll need at least a 5.1-channel system (five speakers plus a subwoofer). There are also 6.1 and 7.1 configurations, but they can be an overkill for anybody but purists. Of course, all those speakers means a lot of cables and placement questions (speaker stands, commandeering bookshelf space, going for wallmounts, and so forth). For a lot of people, it's more trouble than it's worth. There's nothing wrong with opting for a stereo or "virtual surround" speaker configuration. There are several options--everything from a single sound bar that mounts under the TV to 2.1 or 3.1 configurations. You'll lose the true surround effect, but you'll also ditch the front-to-back wiring. Bottom line: Spending your money for two good stereo speakers instead of a so-so surround package is a worthwhile tradeoff.
Tags:
TV,
Home Audio,
Speaker,
cable,
video
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