Sound system for TV?

[Moondrelor]

What's the best sound setup for a TV? I honestly know nothing about TV Sound setups and would like to learn a bit on it. I hate the speakers on my current TV, they are horrid. No bass to them either.

 

And in terms of best, price to performance.

[Guest]

We should discuss a realistic budget, because the answer will be different depending on that.

[johnt]

What's the best sound setup for a TV? I honestly know nothing about TV Sound setups and would like to learn a bit on it. I hate the speakers on my current TV, they are horrid. No bass to them either.

 

And in terms of best, price to performance.

 

Sound cannot be measured in terms of price to performance ratios. It is usually very subjective. Speakers are designed with the same mindset as something like video cards or processors.

 

The industry has covered from sound bars and home-theater-in-a-box around $100 to fancy home theater setups costing near $10,000. Let's not even discuss the extra fancy stuff.

 

How much do you want to spend?

[Moondrelor]

We should discuss a realistic budget, because the answer will be different depending on that.

 

Sound cannot be measured in terms of price to performance ratios. It is usually very subjective. Speakers are designed with the same mindset as something like video cards or processors.

 

The industry has covered from sound bars and home-theater-in-a-box around $100 to fancy home theater setups costing near $10,000. Let's not even discuss the extra fancy stuff.

 

How much do you want to spend?

 

Realistically speaking, no more than 300 probably, but if given a reasonable answer I can maybe stretch to 500.

[johnt]

Realistically speaking, no more than 300 probably, but if given a reasonable answer I can maybe stretch to 500.

 

With that budget, the best choice is to go to the local electronics store and see which one sounds best to you between $300-$500. Just make sure it has HDMI or optical inputs.

 

My vote is for a home-theater-in-a-box because I can't stand the sound of sound bars. 

[Guest]

Are you looking for surround sound?

[Donk Quixote]

When you say "TV sound" do you mean everything plugged into the TV like cable boxes and games consoles?  If that's the case it starts with a good receiver.  Something you plug everything into and its sends power and audio signals to the speaker and video signal to the TV.  You probably want a 5.1 or 7.1 instead of just a stereo reciever because it doesn't cost that much more and gives you way more flexibility if you want to upgrade to surround.  Simply connect more speakers at a later date.  I have the Yamaha RX-V377 5.1 and it works great.  It's $200.  I recommend spending an extra $35 on Chromecast Audio so you can stream Spotify and Pandora and other stuff, it's just awesome.

 

If it's really just a TV you want to add good sound too and you only ever want 2 speakers then it's the same for everything you want to add good sound too (like computers or MP3 players) - get a $20 Lipai 2020a amp and 2 speakers.  Just make sure you're TV has outputs that can connect to it (RCA outputs or a 3.5 jack) - most have them but some don't.

 

For speakers in either case I recommend something like the Micca MB42X for $95.  There's hundreds of possibilities with speakers with different size, aesthetics, and price points to consider.  I think all of them will sound better than TV speakers.

[Moondrelor]

When you say "TV sound" do you mean everything plugged into the TV like cable boxes and games consoles?  If that's the case it starts with a good receiver.  Something you plug everything into and its sends power and audio signals to the speaker and video signal to the TV.  You probably want a 5.1 or 7.1 instead of just a stereo reciever because it doesn't cost that much more and gives you way more flexibility if you want to upgrade to surround.  Simply connect more speakers at a later date.  I have the Yamaha RX-V377 5.1 and it works great.  It's $200.  I recommend spending an extra $35 on Chromecast Audio so you can stream Spotify and Pandora and other stuff, it's just awesome.

 

If it's really just a TV you want to add good sound too and you only ever want 2 speakers then it's the same for everything you want to add good sound too (like computers or MP3 players) - get a $20 Lipai 2020a amp and 2 speakers.  Just make sure you're TV has outputs that can connect to it (RCA outputs or a 3.5 jack) - most have them but some don't.

 

For speakers in either case I recommend something like the Micca MB42X for $95.  There's hundreds of possibilities with speakers with different size, aesthetics, and price points to consider.  I think all of them will sound better than TV speakers.

 

Is that Yamaha RX-V377 just the receiver? What kind of speakers should I really add to it? Is the receiver just the strong point of it?

[Moondrelor]

With that budget, the best choice is to go to the local electronics store and see which one sounds best to you between $300-$500. Just make sure it has HDMI or optical inputs.

 

My vote is for a home-theater-in-a-box because I can't stand the sound of sound bars. 

 

I honestly hate buying from electronic stores, they usually over charge out the ass. Got any brands that you'd recommend? 

[johnt]

Is that Yamaha RX-V377 just the receiver? What kind of speakers should I really add to it? Is the receiver just the strong point of it?

 

Yes, the RX-V377 is just a receiver. It's an "older" model at this point, so it only comes with HDMI 1.4. That means any 4k 60Hz devices you connect will only run at 4k 30Hz. The newer RX-V379 comes with a single HDMI 2.0 input for 4k 60Hz. However, almost any receiver on the market with HDMI inputs is going to work flawlessly with blu-rays and 1080p content.

 

 

I honestly hate buying from electronic stores, they usually over charge out the ass. Got any brands that you'd recommend? 

 

I can't say I blame you. The problem is, $300-$500 is pretty low for home theater. Are you comfortable buying used speakers? Used speakers will stretch your budget much further than anything brand new. Also, in terms of the receivers, I'm a Yamaha guy myself. However, there is usually very little difference between receiver brands in terms of sound and features. So don't be suckered into trying multiple receiver brands around the same price point for no good reason.

 

I strongly recommend the RX-V577. It has 7 speaker support and dual subwoofer pre-outs. But I recommend you start with two speakers for your front. Then add additional speakers as your budget permits. Also, this will help you gauge whether you need more speakers for surround sound. Some people don't like the hassle. But at least your receiver won't be the bottleneck.

 

Also, be careful when you're looking for speakers. Make sure the connectors are in tact and fully working. Ensure there aren't any major flaws on the dust caps (like holes). And look at the specifications before you purchase. I recommend buy speakers that are rated 75w to 100w RMS and also something with 88 dB sensitivity or higher.

[Moondrelor]

Yes, the RX-V377 is just a receiver. It's an "older" model at this point, so it only comes with HDMI 1.4. That means any 4k 60Hz devices you connect will only run at 4k 30Hz. The newer RX-V379 comes with a single HDMI 2.0 input for 4k 60Hz. However, almost any receiver on the market with HDMI inputs is going to work flawlessly with blu-rays and 1080p content.

 

 

 

I can't say I blame you. The problem is, $300-$500 is pretty low for home theater. Are you comfortable buying used speakers? Used speakers will stretch your budget much further than anything brand new. Also, in terms of the receivers, I'm a Yamaha guy myself. However, there is usually very little difference between receiver brands in terms of sound and features. So don't be suckered into trying multiple receiver brands around the same price point for no good reason.

 

I strongly recommend the RX-V577. It has 7 speaker support and dual subwoofer pre-outs. But I recommend you start with two speakers for your front. Then add additional speakers as your budget permits. Also, this will help you gauge whether you need more speakers for surround sound. Some people don't like the hassle. But at least your receiver won't be the bottleneck.

 

Also, be careful when you're looking for speakers. Make sure the connectors are in tact and fully working. Ensure there aren't any major flaws on the dust caps (like holes). And look at the specifications before you purchase. I recommend buy speakers that are rated 75w to 100w RMS and also something with 88 dB sensitivity or higher.

 

Well I'm running a 42" UHD TV, so would it be better that I get the RX-V577 or the RX-V379? Also I guess I'll start off with just a 2.1 system. I'd rather buy new. I don't trust used speakers. What should be my expected budget for this? I guess a more realistic budget in terms of a good audio solution?

[johnt]

Well I'm running a 42" UHD TV, so would it be better that I get the RX-V577 or the RX-V379? Also I guess I'll start off with just a 2.1 system. I'd rather buy new. I don't trust used speakers. What should be my expected budget for this? I guess a more realistic budget in terms of a good audio solution?

 

Well the V379 has a single HDMI 2.0 input for 4k 60Hz. All other HDMI inputs are going to run 4k 30 Hz. The V577 has zero HDMI 2.0 inputs so it will only work up to 4k 30Hz. If you want multiple HDMI 2.0 inputs at this time, you need a $1,000 budget for your receiver alone.

 

Buy the receiver you need, make sure it has at least one HDMI 2.0 input. And spend the rest of your budget on two speakers for your fronts. A receiver and two speakers are going to destroy the little noise coming from your TV speakers.

 

Take a look at these two articles. He has good reviews, information, and links to products in a lot of price ranges. Look through his receiver recommendations, and pick one of the speakers he recommends in your left over budget after the receiver. He also recommends a range of subwoofers.

 

Upgrade path 2.0 to 5.1 (or more): https://www.reddit.com/r/Zeos/comments/23d9ny/how_to_buildup_a_20_to_a_51_surround_sound_april/

 

Home theater product recommendations: https://www.reddit.com/r/Zeos/comments/3qvbpm/guide_surround_sound_systems_51/

[Moondrelor]

Well the V379 has a single HDMI 2.0 input for 4k 60Hz. All other HDMI inputs are going to run 4k 30 Hz. The V577 has zero HDMI 2.0 inputs so it will only work up to 4k 30Hz. If you want multiple HDMI 2.0 inputs at this time, you need a $1,000 budget for your receiver alone.

 

Buy the receiver you need, make sure it has at least one HDMI 2.0 input. And spend the rest of your budget on two speakers for your fronts. A receiver and two speakers are going to destroy the little noise coming from your TV speakers.

 

Take a look at these two articles. He has good reviews, information, and links to products in a lot of price ranges. Look through his receiver recommendations, and pick one of the speakers he recommends in your left over budget after the receiver. He also recommends a range of subwoofers.

 

Upgrade path 2.0 to 5.1 (or more): https://www.reddit.com/r/Zeos/comments/23d9ny/how_to_buildup_a_20_to_a_51_surround_sound_april/

 

Home theater product recommendations: https://www.reddit.com/r/Zeos/comments/3qvbpm/guide_surround_sound_systems_51/

 

I see that the V379 also has bluetooth, does that mean I could bluetooth my phone to it and play music?

Also thank you very much for your help @JohnT

You've been very very helpful. I'm quite thankful.

 

If I could give you an award I would

[johnt]

I see that the V379 also has bluetooth, does that mean I could bluetooth my phone to it and play music?

Also thank you very much for your help @JohnT

You've been very very helpful. I'm quite thankful.

 

If I could give you an award I would

 

Don't mention it   It's my pleasure! I love home theater stuff.

 

Yup it seems Yamaha added Bluetooth with the V379 for wireless music streaming. Pretty nice feature! You will even be able to control the volume remotely from your phone I'm sure during streaming.

[Moondrelor]

Don't mention it   It's my pleasure! I love home theater stuff.

 

Yup it seems Yamaha added Bluetooth with the V379 for wireless music streaming. Pretty nice feature! You will even be able to control the volume remotely from your phone I'm sure during streaming.

 

That is a great feature  After I build my computer I'm going to get that V379. I'll be sure to include you when I finish the home theater setup

[Moondrelor]

@JohnT

Also, with the addition of the V379, I decided on these speakers. 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IEDL8EM?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_1&smid=A1WPEQCN6WJKZG

 

Now I just got to kind of figure out a place for the receiver, seeing as my TV is above the fire place... Aha...

[Donk Quixote]

Ugg, I forgot about 4k TVs.  You probably want a newer receiver if you go that route, most of them have UHD @60hz capability.  Just make sure it does before you buy.  

 

When picking a receiver 5.1 is much more important than 2.0 (surround vs stereo).  6.1 or 7.1 is not that much better than 5.1 and most people will never use the 6th or 7th speaker.  2 subwoofer outs is that important (which would be 5.2, 6.2, or 7.2) because almost no one adds a second sub.  Bluetooth is nice to have so you can play music over your phone.  The ability to stream a service like Pandora or Spotify is really nice, but you can do that through your phone if it has bluetooth or you can add that functionality with Chromecast Audio for $35 at a future date.

 

The next most important thing is the inputs.  The more the better. 

 

The Denon AVR-S510BT 5.2 has more inputs than the Yamaha RX-379BL, still has bluetooth, and is $40 cheaper right now.  I'd recommend that.  

 

As far as speakers, on the one hand it's really hard unless you physically listen to them first.  You may have to listen in your actual house in order to get feel since the room changes how speakers sound.  On the other hand literally anything you choose will be miles better than your TV speakers.  So if you completely flub this choice, the speakers will only be 7 times as good as your TV.  If you nail it out of the park it will be 10x as good.  If it was me buying blind (or I guess buy deaf is a more accurate term) I would get the Micca MB42X.  In fact I might do exactly that and use them as computer speakers.  The Pioneer SP-BS22-LR are also well regarded.  You could wait for a deal on black friday and get a kick ass set of tower speakers for really cheap.

[Donk Quixote]

I didn't see your most recent post.  Those Fluance speakers are a nice choice.  I would still go with the Denon receiver over the Yamaha.  One more input and $40 cheaper.

[johnt]

That is a great feature  After I build my computer I'm going to get that V379. I'll be sure to include you when I finish the home theater setup

 

Definitely! Let me know if you have any questions.

 

 

@JohnT

Also, with the addition of the V379, I decided on these speakers. 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IEDL8EM?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_1&smid=A1WPEQCN6WJKZG

 

Now I just got to kind of figure out a place for the receiver, seeing as my TV is above the fire place... Aha...

 

Nice! Kiss those TV speakers good bye.

 

 

 

I forgot to mention that you might also need some speaker cable. Here is my recommendation for your speakers. Yes there are *many* cheaper alternatives. But these are oxygen and aluminum free copper, plus they have a insulation tube. They are designed for in wall wiring, but I think they are a great buy for the price. And they look good than plastic clear tubing.

 

Speaker cable: AWG 16 and 100 feet is $21.99 http://amzn.com/B009EA7XKC 

 

Optional banana plugs: You can also get banana plugs if you want to go all out http://amzn.com/B0097JLQVC it says there is a 15% discount. Five pairs for $8 or less is pretty dang good

[Moondrelor]

@Donk Quixote

@JohnT

 

Thank you very much Looks like I'll be spending $440. Glad it worked within a bit of my stretch limit. I have no doubt that I will enjoy this system, it looks very nice and with your guy's help and information I got a good feeling for this one. I think I'm going to be spending some money into some nice shelving all along that way with the fireplace though, because I don't use that wall for anything else, so maybe I'll post up a whole project for it. Though not sure where that thread would go... Haha. Again, thanks for the help.

 

With some images online I found I think I'm going to be aiming for a look similar to this.

 

But of course with the speaker cut outs and receiver cut out. I think it's going to look fantastic

Thanks guys!

[johnt]

I didn't see your most recent post.  Those Fluance speakers are a nice choice.  I would still go with the Denon receiver over the Yamaha.  One more input and $40 cheaper.

 

I don't know... I've heard horrible reviews about Denon's lower cost offerings. I almost purchased one until I came across a page that said the front display would keep going out.

 

 

Ugg, I forgot about 4k TVs.  You probably want a newer receiver if you go that route, most of them have UHD @60hz capability.  Just make sure it does before you buy.  

 

When picking a receiver 5.1 is much more important than 2.0 (surround vs stereo).  6.1 or 7.1 is not that much better than 5.1 and most people will never use the 6th or 7th speaker.  2 subwoofer outs is that important (which would be 5.2, 6.2, or 7.2) because almost no one adds a second sub.  Bluetooth is nice to have so you can play music over your phone.  The ability to stream a service like Pandora or Spotify is really nice, but you can do that through your phone if it has bluetooth or you can add that functionality with Chromecast Audio for $35 at a future date.

 

The next most important thing is the inputs.  The more the better. 

 

The Denon AVR-S510BT 5.2 has more inputs than the Yamaha RX-379BL, still has bluetooth, and is $40 cheaper right now.  I'd recommend that.  

 

As far as speakers, on the one hand it's really hard unless you physically listen to them first.  You may have to listen in your actual house in order to get feel since the room changes how speakers sound.  On the other hand literally anything you choose will be miles better than your TV speakers.  So if you completely flub this choice, the speakers will only be 7 times as good as your TV.  If you nail it out of the park it will be 10x as good.  If it was me buying blind (or I guess buy deaf is a more accurate term) I would get the Micca MB42X.  In fact I might do exactly that and use them as computer speakers.  The Pioneer SP-BS22-LR are also well regarded.  You could wait for a deal on black friday and get a kick ass set of tower speakers for really cheap.

 

HDMI is all the input you need in a home theater environment these days. I don't have a cable box, but I think they have been supporting HDMI for quite some time now as well. The legacy offerings aren't really used anymore. Maybe the occasional RCA.

 

Also, 7-channel surround sounds absolutely amazing. While most people don't bother with it because of speaker placement and running cables, it doesn't mean it's not better. Some of the best processors output 11 or more channels for upmixing or Atmos/DTSx. Plus, every new blu-ray released supports 7.1. It's only in gaming where we get gypped.

 

I know a lot of people that own multiple subwoofers... it all depends on the crowd you hang out with.

[spwath]

I don't know... I've heard horrible reviews about Denon's lower cost offerings. I almost purchased one until I came across a page that said the front display would keep going out.

 

 

 

HDMI is all the input you need in a home theater environment these days. I don't have a cable box, but I think they have been supporting HDMI for quite some time now as well. The legacy offerings aren't really used anymore. Maybe the occasional RCA.

 

Also, 7-channel surround sounds absolutely amazing. While most people don't bother with it because of speaker placement and running cables, it doesn't mean it's not better. Some of the best processors output 11 or more channels for upmixing or Atmos/DTSx. Plus, every new blu-ray released supports 7.1. It's only in gaming where we get gypped.

 

I know a lot of people that own multiple subwoofers... it all depends on the crowd you hang out with.

Yeah, problem is, not many people have surround sound for their pc, so not many people implement it well.

 

 

On another note, I highly recomend purchasing banana plugs. They are so much nicer than bare wire. But if you are the person who sets something up then leaves it, it doesnt matter as much.

[Donk Quixote]

One thing to consider is that it is usually recommended to keep the speaker away from the wall at least a foot.  If you have to have it really close to the wall speakers with front ports, like the Fluance XL7S, are affected less than speakers with rear ports, like the SX6.

[johnt]

Yeah, problem is, not many people have surround sound for their pc, so not many people implement it well.

 

I knowwww but they need to keep up with the movie industry. The pc gaming market is slowly making its way next to consoles... which is a more likely location for surround sound with subwoofers.

[spwath]

I knowwww but they need to keep up with the movie industry. The pc gaming market is slowly making its way next to consoles... which is a more likely location for surround sound with subwoofers.

Right, so mabye in the future we will have good support.

Mabye,,,