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Speakers built into your TV are fine for casual viewing, but if you’re looking for an immersive audio experience, you’re going to want to upgrade to an actual
home theater system
. Home theater systems include multiple speakers and support for surround sound, enabling you to hear movie soundtracks the way they’re meant to be heard: with effects moving throughout your room.
Most home theater systems also include subwoofers for dedicated bass, bringing more impact and rumble to explosions in action movies. An AV receiver is often required as well. The AV receiver is used to power and process your speakers, and many receivers also serve as a connection hub to hook up multiple HDMI devices to your TV.
I’ve been reviewing home theater gear for nearly a decade, and through hands-on testing and research, I’ve selected the best home theater systems you can buy for a variety of budgets. Find out more about how Insider Reviews tests and reviews tech products.
Note: Some of our picks include AV receivers or built-in amplification, but if an amp isn’t included, we’ve provided a link to a recommended model.
Here are the best home theater systems you can buy:
Best home theater system overall: Polk T Series 5.1 speaker system, $610.90 on Amazon
The Polk T Series 5.1 system is an impressive speaker package that doesn’t break the bank.
Best budget home theater system: Vizio Sb3651n-H6 5.1 soundbar system, $179.99 on Best Buy
The Vizio Sb3651n-H6 Soundbar System offers an entry-level home theater experience in a budget-friendly package.
Best mid-range home theater system: Jamo S 809 5.1 Home Cinema Pack, $1,036 on Amazon
The Jamo S809 Home Cinema bundle delivers big sound and a stylish design for a reasonable price.
Best high-end home theater system: Klipsch Reference Premiere 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos system, $4,484 on Amazon
If the high price doesn’t scare you off, Klipsch’s Reference Premiere 7.1.2 speaker package is a home theater dream come true.
Best wireless home theater system: Enclave Audio CineHome II 5.1 speaker system, $1,098.98 on B&H
The Enclave Audio CineHome II offers solid audio quality, but its main selling point is its wireless connectivity.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/tech/best-home-theater-system