Upgrade options for lackluster TV speakers

by Philip Wong | 22 February 2012 5:23pm SGT

Let's face it. Demanding well-balanced sound from skinny flat-panel TVs will always be a challenge due to the inherent space constraints. It is even harder for these displays to output deep bass and convincing surround effects. But if you're willing to invest in better sound, we've some solutions for you.

Before we check out the options, here's a quick overview of the available TV audio outputs. You'll find an analog audio out (red and white color-coded) and an earphone jack for most panels. These terminals offer analog stereo sound compatible with just about any speaker system in the market.

(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)

Better-equipped TVs have additional digital audio outputs, which not only provide more pristine signals, but also support 5.1-channel surround sound. These digital ports are available in either optical or coaxial formats. Refer to the above image to identify these audio terminals.

Computer speakers

Logitech Z323.
(Credit: Logitech)

For just US$70, you can buy a 2.1-channel kit with two compact satellite speakers, as well as a powered subwoofer for stronger bass reproduction. However, you'll have to settle with basic stereo sound and go without a remote control at this low price-point.

Connection to the TV is via the earphone jack or analog audio output.

Mini stereos

Onkyo D-M38.
(Credit: Onkyo)

You're essentially stepping up the stereo sound quality, thanks to the bundled bookshelf-type speakers. Most models feature a two-way design using a separate tweeter and woofer for better defined treble and more musical sound. Moreover, these mini stereos can play back CDs and come with a remote control.

The TV connection is similar to computer speakers, though mini stereos average at around US$200 or more for a set.

Sound bars

Yamaha YAS-101.
(Credit: Yamaha)

These sleek longish speaker arrays are designed to offer simulated surround sound without the hassle of installing rear speakers. This is typically achieved by "bouncing" sound waves off walls and using digital signal processing technologies. This means that your room's layout will also have an impact on the performance.

A sound bar is considerably pricier at around US$400 on average, but they're mostly equipped with digital audio inputs compatible with 5.1-channel Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound. Newer models also support an audio return channel (ARC) function for routing audio back to the sound bar using an HDMI connection.

Home-theater-in-a-box (HTIB)

Philips HTS5591.
(Credit: Philips)

An HTIB kit is a highly integrated, lifestyle version of a full-fledged home theater system. Most sets come with dedicated center and rear speakers to output clearer movie dialog and surround effects for a more immersive movie viewing experience. A disc player is also built right into the amplifier unit to minimize overall footprint and cable clutter.

While you can enjoy all the features provided by a sound bar and improved cinematic sound, installing an HTIB will require more space and wiring. Nonetheless, this is worth the effort as an HTIB can cost as low as US$300 for a DVD version. On the other hand, higher-end Blu-ray models can retail at up to US$1,100.

A/V receivers and speakers

Denon AVR-1912.
(Credit: Denon)

For movie buffs and audiophiles, an A/V receiver and home theater speakers are the basic ingredients to assemble a proper home theater system. The sky is the limit here as you can start from compact satellite speakers to their larger bookshelf counterparts and even choose towering floor-standers for full-bodied sound.

Most A/V receivers are also much more powerful than their HTIB counterparts with sufficient headroom to prevent distortion at high volumes in larger rooms. Discerning users should be able to appreciate the full dynamics of high-resolution Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD surround sound through these systems, too.

Note that you do have to set aside at least US$1,500 to assemble an entry-level component system.

Conclusion

Upgrading your TV's audio performance doesn't always have to be a costly affair. The latest advancements in audio-visual technologies make it possible to replicate the same theatrical experience of cinemas in your own home, for much less money than before.

About the author

Philip Wong is an A/V, PC, photography and gaming enthusiast. Besides spending countless days and late nights fiddling with his home theater system and watercooled PC, he also hits the roads frequently on his iron horse to sweat it out. Now, who says geeks don't work out?

Philip Wong, Associate Editor