It goes without saying, that sound is a vital aspect of life. I mean that is one reason the majority of us are glad that we are not deaf as I cannot even imagine what life is like without the ability to ever hear a sound and with how more than half of entertainment in the world are sound-based? a multi channel home theatre is an answered prayer.
Anyways, I had to begin with that, as this post is going to be dealing with one of the best sound systems to ever happen to humanity. Don’t roll your eyes at me because I am not even exaggerating guys.
A Multi Channel Home Theatre basically means that the sound can handle multiple audio channels and consolidate each channel into one.
That is to say, that in the setup of the sound system, there are a front centre speakers between the left and right speaker and also two surround speakers at their sides. This is as opposed to the two-channel sound system which only had a left and right speaker effect.
So with these features, a multi-channel theatre gives you the feeling that you are right in the scene of whatever is showing and not just a listener. That’s basically to say the effect is 3D’ish.
Don’t miss these recommended “Home Theatre Power Manager.”
Types of Multi Channel Home Theatre Amplifier
As the name implies, the system has multiple speakers, which are classified on the basis of units identified by digits. This means they support a frequency range between 95Hz to 25kHz. First are the;
2.0 and 2.1 Channel Systems
2.0 is a basic stereo system that has two channels of sound, left and right produced by two speakers, While a 2.1 channel system adds a subwoofer into the mix for extra warmth and bass(A subwoofer is a type of speaker that boost the lowest frequencies in whatever audio you are listening to).
2.1 Channel Systems are very ideal if you are one to prefer using speakers to headphones. In fact, the simple logic here is that every speaker system that ends with a ”1” automatically has a subwoofer.
5.1 Channel Systems
This one comes with an additional three speakers, a center speaker, alongside two other speakers that can either be positioned to the sides or the back of the center speakers(deciding where to position it is all up to you).
6.1 Channel System
As you could already guess, a 6.1 speaker system comes with an extra speaker to what the 5.1 system has, and that is a central speaker that goes in the back.
The catch here is that the speakers in a 5.1 system that can either be positioned at the sides or at the back will in a 6.1 be positioned at the two sides for a true surround sound experience (surround sound is the technique used in enriching audio, to give it depth and make sound reproduction more life-like as multiple speakers (audio channels) surrounds the listeners. It gives the feeling of actually being in the scene of the event and not just a passive listener.
7.1 Channel Systems
These ones come with an additional speaker on top of what a 6.1 system already has. So it has two front channels, a center channel, two side channels, two back channels, and a subwoofer. Little wonder it is considered the overall best in-home theatre audio setup.
7.1 system also has a back-left and back-right channel while the 6.1 system only has a back-center channel(this is where the upgrade lies).
So with the two speakers in the back of each side, the sound is distributed better.
Very importantly, the thing you must know is when it comes to home theatres, whatever you are showing will have to support the surround sound system you have set up. That is to say, the majority of the time, video games will support up to the 7.1 surround sound but movies and TV shows may only offer a 5.1 experience.
8.1 and beyond
These ones are the future of multi channel home theatres as these realms will be a whole different experience altogether.
Basically, do your research and then settle for the system that will be best for what you will be doing the most.
What to Consider Before Choosing a Multi Channel Home Theatre
Before making up your mind on a particular home theatre, they are certain factors you have to put into consideration, in order to ensure that you get value for your money and the system actually meets your specific need at the end of the day.
So here are some things you want to consider before buying a home theatre:
Size of the Installation Room:
Where exactly you are looking to install your home theatre is a crucial factor as that will determine the size and particular features you should go for. For smaller rooms, it is just wisdom not to buy a massive home theatre as the sound might pose a challenge. Especially if you are not looking to dedicate your entire house to sound system(laughs). So wisdom is profitable here.
Number of Speakers
Again, the number of speakers also depends on the size of the installation room. In fact, I will suggest having a dealer inspect your room for better decision but the best multi channel home theatres usually has five speakers.
Type of Television
Truth is, with a good television, you don’t necessarily need a home theatre. That not withstanding, you can still find a good one that will be compatible with your TV.
Reviews and Recommendations
We are grateful for the world of social media and Google, go online and read honest reviews and recommendations from people who are already users. That way, you will make an informed decision.
Ease of Installation
I don’t know if you have ever bought something, only to get home and you really can’t figure out how to use it. The frustration from that alone can make you want to throw it away (laughs) and I am sure you are not looking for such an experience with your multi channel theatre.
To avoid this, ask questions and if possible ask for a demo at buying point. Let the dealers take some time to put you through the process of installation once and for all, so you know it for yourself.
Why your Need a Multi Channel Home Theatre
The following constitute to why you need a multi channel home theatre at home
The 3D’ish Feel:
Having a multi channel home theatre basically takes every viewing experience to a whole new level. Imagine your favorite football team playing and you can almost feel like you are right in the stadium, cheering them on. Yeah, because the sound resonate so real, plus the big screen. My my. What an experience!
Increase Home Decor
Do you know, that having a multi channel home theatre can make you always want to run home? which is a good thing as opposed hanging out and spending money(that you might not even have). Just go home, put on your home theatre, relax and be taken care of. I mean what more can a person want.
Makes You a Memorable Host
This is particularly appealing if you are one to like playing host. Imagine having your friends all in your sitting room with your home theatre in full gear. You all cheering to a football team or just Netflix’ing. I bet, that’s just out of this world.
Disadvantages of a Multi Channel Home Theatre
As with everything in the world, home theatres also have their unique disadvantages. Some are:
Time Consuming Installation
Honestly, installing a home theatre is not a walk in the park. You will need to create the time and plan as well, as it will definitely require all of that. Coupled to that, is the expertise needed which if you don’t have? Then you have to consider paying for it.
Price
Of course, nothing good comes cheap and that applies here as well. In all honesty, multi channel home theatres are not cheap especially if you are going for advanced and modernised ones. Just be prepared to part with some investment worthy amount, which is not bad? As home theatres can as well be considered an investment(smiles).
Best Choice Mult Channel Home Theatres
Out of the many goods and durable home theatres available, we have carefully selected five that you can consider if you are looking to get a home theatre any time soon. So here there are;
JBL BAR 9.1 by Haman
This has built-in Dolby by Atmos that changes the experience of sound output and quality. Has a 1year warranty. Has about 65% 5-star ratings and 21% 4- star rating. Comes with a wireless subwoofer that allows for seamless connection.
Sony HT-Z9F 5.1 Channel Dolby Atmos
Do we have to talk so much about Sony? Or we just allow the name do the talking. This is actually one of the best home theatre systems you with come across. It is fully equipped with a 5.1 channel system, just perfect for a living room.
Also has a 1 year warranty guarantee and its ratings are 65% 5-star and 18% 4-star respectively.
Denon DHT- S316 Home Theatre
This is compatible with all sorts of devices, TVs, phones, laptops etc (I personally love that feature). Also connects with an HDMI cable as well as the traditional optical output. Has a year warranty and comes with a free installation and demo(Now, that’s so reliving).
JBL Bar 2.1
The ratings and reviews are equally 65 and 21 percent as with the JBL BAR 9.1 by Haman. Supports both Bluetooth and HDMI connections. Comes with a deep bass effect that is supported by the JBL surround system.
Sony SA-D10 4.1 Channel Multimedia Speaker
This one comes with a remote control for easy navigation. Has four speakers and a large subwoofer that is optimum for all requirements. Has 64% 5-star ratings and 22% 4-star ratings respectively with a years warranty.
Conclusively, do not forget that your choice of a home theatre is largely dependent on what you will be doing the most. That is video games, movies, sports, or music.
So whichever set you decide to settle for, let that guide you, and more research will also help you in making a good decision.