Discover the world of surround sound systems

Surround sound systems are not new. They have been in the homes of folks for several decades.

However, technology is always improving. With the invention of wireless and the refining of Dolby surround sound, the systems have been improved.

Home theater designs always include surround sound systems as a non-negotiable component. Rightly so. The sound is where one slips into the world they are watching. From high impact sports, to shows on nature, a good audio system can turn a television into a cinema.

There is no doubt that some surround speakers are better than others. Paradigm speakers produce a high-end system that has some of the best sound available. The chirping of crickets becomes real with such a set-up. Others such as RCA, Bose, and Pioneer also create an incredible package.

Of first importance…

The important thing to remember with surround sound, is speaker placement. Sitting all of your Paradigm speakers on top of the entertainment center is pointless. Sure, you will get some of the benefit of all the sounds spitting through different speakers, but you won't "feel" the water from the rain.

Placement of speakers is more of an art than a science. Some people like being dominated by bass, while others like a balanced approach. Regardless, get the Paradigm speakers off the shelf. Throw the low range box underneath the couch. Move the mid ranges to an end table.

Play with it. After all, it is your home theater system.

Creating the right sound does take a bit of tinkering. It is made easier with wireless speakers. Keep that in mind when you are looking for a home theater system. You can often buy a wireless solution for just a few dollars more.

Surround sound and its uses

You would think that the benefits of surround sound are obvious. So they are. However, more than likely you are going to have to justify the expense:

• Sporting games
• Movies
• Music
• Video games-make the Play station come alive

Having a surround sound system and a good Television screen makes going to an actual movie theater a chore. Sitting at home is not only more comfortable, but it is also much more convenient. Good sound is no longer an excuse to go out.

Colors and styles of the surround sound system vary. Of course, there is the traditional black box. However, wall and ceiling enclosures as well as colored boxes, are now mainstays within the industry.

It is important to note that picking something that you can have around for a while, as far as color goes, is a big factor. Systems today have the ability to last for quite a long time.

If you are buying your surround sound speakers at the same time that you are purchasing a receiver, then your choices are simple. If not, you need to make sure that your speakers will work without your current configuration.

For the most part, the industry has standardized. Most common speakers will fit with a modern receiver and network.

If your receiver is from 1974, you might consider an upgrade. After all, what good will high tech speakers do if you do not have anything to plug them in to?

Finding discounts becomes the next big issue. Probably the biggest. Going down to your local audio store is an option, but why be bothered with pushy salespeople and pressure tactics, when you can shop online?

Save time and money by browsing through our buyer's guide. It is an online guide to the online world of surround sound.

From manufacturers to middlemen who offer great prices, this guide will make your search for a sound system easy.