Soundbar vs surround sound: Which is better for home audio setup?

Tired of missing dialogue in movies? Do you wish your home theatre explosions had the same rumble as the cinema? You're not alone. The key to an amazing viewing experience lies in your choice of sound system, but with so many options on the market, it's tough to know where to start.

When it comes to elevating your home cinema to that next level, the choice often boils down to soundbar vs surround sound. But which is the best fit for you? This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons so that your next movie night hits all the right notes.

What is a soundbar?

A soundbar is a sleek, long speaker designed to sit pretty under your screen. It boosts the TV's audio without turning the living room into a mini cinema. But are soundbars worth it? Absolutely.

Now, you might wonder, how do soundbars work? To put it simply, they use acoustics to bounce sound off walls to give the illusion of a wider sound field from a single spot. This means that even without multiple speakers, you still get richer, more immersive sound.

What does a soundbar do, then? It transforms the audio from your TV to make dialogues clearer and sound effects more impactful. Overall, it gives your favourite shows and movies the sound quality they deserve. 

What is a surround sound?

Surround sound systems involve multiple speakers placed around the room. This setup creates a sound experience that comes at you from all directions, giving you the sensation of being right where a show or movie is happening.

Did You Know? A recent study found that using a multi-channel surround sound system for educational content can make it more engaging for kids. So, if you're using your TV to teach your children, setting up a surround sound system could make educational programming come alive in a more dynamic, participatory way.

Surround sound systems can include various speaker configurations, which are referred to by numbers like 5.1, 7.1, or even 9.1.2. The first number tells you how many speakers are in the setup, while the second number refers to the subwoofer (that's the part that brings the boom and bass). Lastly, the third number (if there is one) is for speakers that add height effects. The last ones make things like helicopters flying overhead sound ultra-realistic.

Surround sound vs soundbar: Which is the ideal choice for your home theatre?

Choosing between a soundbar and a surround sound system for your home theatre setup can be tricky. After all, you're looking to capture that immersive, cinematic experience in your living room—or maybe even for an outdoor cinema night under the stars.

Both options have unique advantages and cater to different needs and spaces. But don't worry—we'll explore the key factors that could sway your decision. From audio quality and space considerations to the type of entertainment you enjoy most, we've got you covered. 

In terms of sound and audio quality

Soundbars and surround sound systems are in totally different leagues. In fact, a study from BBC established that even two soundbars can't replicate the sound quality that surround systems offer.

A soundbar, because of its streamlined design, might not separate sounds quite as distinctly as a surround system does. On the other hand, a surround sound setup divides audio across multiple channels, so you're enveloped in a more dimensional and accurate representation of your movie or music.

If you're keen on soundproofing a room, a surround sound system might push you to go the extra mile. Since it involves speakers scattered around the room, soundproofing might help minimise sound leakage and enhance your audio experience. 

In terms of space requirements 

When it comes to sound systems for homes, the choice between soundbars and surround sound systems heavily depends on your available space. A soundbar's compact, all-in-one design makes it a no-brainer for those with limited room. It can sit neatly under your TV without requiring extra space for speakers around the room.

On the other hand, surround sound systems require a bit more room to spare. To get that immersive audio experience, you'll need to position multiple speakers in specific spots and strategically place each component for the best sound. 

In terms of design flexibility

When you're eyeing the aesthetics of your space, a soundbar can be a simple addition. It's designed to blend in right below your TV without taking up too much space or sticking out. You can also mount it on the wall, which is perfect if you're after a minimalist vibe.

Surround sound setups, on the other hand, offer different kinds of flexibility. You can spread out the speakers to perfectly match your room's acoustics and design preferences. It's great because you're not stuck with one layout. You can tweak the setup until it sounds right and looks good in your space.

But remember, all those speakers and wires can clutter up a room if you're not careful. It's a bit of a balancing act to find spots for each component that won't mess with your room's flow. 

In terms of their setup process

Getting a soundbar setup is generally straightforward. You'll just plug it into your TV and maybe a power source, and you're good to go. This simplicity is a big plus for those who aren't tech-savvy or just want to avoid a complicated setup.

Setting up surround sound components requires a bit more work. Each speaker must be strategically placed in the right spot to create that enveloping audio experience. Sometimes, wires need to be hidden or managed. It's definitely more time-consuming, so professional help might be worth considering.

To strike a balance, you can go for soundbars with surround sound. This is often easier to install than a full-blown surround system but can mimic their immersive experience. You won't need to run wires all over the place, but you'll still spend a bit more time on setup than with a basic soundbar. 

In terms of device compatibility

When deciding whether to get a soundbar or surround sound for your TV, it’s also essential to consider how well the sound system will play with your other devices. You should be able to connect anything from MP3 players, computers, and smartphones to microphones, instruments, and amplifiers.

Most soundbars are often plug-and-play, so they can easily connect to various brands and technologies. However, they might not have as many ports. That limits your ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously. 

Meanwhile, a surround sound setup can connect to multiple inputs and outputs. Meaning, you can integrate it into gaming consoles, streaming devices, and even old-school vinyl players. Just make sure to check compatibility more carefully to prevent any issues. This is especially the case if you’re incorporating components from different manufacturers.

In terms of cost

Soundbars are affordable for both budget-conscious shoppers and those willing to splurge on high-end models. In the UK, the range is around £15 to a hefty £1,149.

As for surround sound systems, they're generally more expensive due to their complexity and the sheer number of components involved. It's not just buying multiple speakers. There's also the cost of receivers, possibly more cables, and the occasional additional remote control to consider. Some standalone speakers can cost anywhere from £32.99 to £94. Meanwhile, high-end sets can be priced from £249 to £1,599. 

Streamline your sound system installation with Airtasker

Whether you're leaning towards the simplicity of a soundbar or the immersive experience of a surround sound system, the setup can really be a daunting part. Luckily, there’s an easier way to get things done.

By posting your task on the Airtasker platform, you can find professionals ready to tackle everything from home theatre setups to sound system installation. They've got the skills and know-how to make the process seamless. All that's left for you to do is enjoy your enhanced audio experience without any of the hassle.

Why not take the guesswork out of installation? Post a task today and connect with skilled Taskers who can bring your home audio dreams to life.