" speakers are the studio standard for the best in cinema sound" - Dolby Digital website
Composition of a 7.1 speaker system
A speakers surround system has seven discrete, full-range channels of sound: Left, Center, Right, Left Surround, Right Surround, Left Back, and Right Back, and an additional subwoofer that delivers low-frequency information (the bass). The reason they work so well together is because they wrap you in sound. More really is better, especially for blue ray players who include specific audio information for each of the 7 speakers and the subwoofer. If you had only 5 speakers you would miss out.
What brands to shop for?
Popular entry level systems are everywhere, but my personal best value for the starter has to be Onkyo. You can find great deals on Onkyo 7.1 speakers on Amazon or Ebay, around 600 dolllar will buy you a receiver/amplifyer, a subwoofer and all 7 speakers. Other good brands, although more pricey, include Denon and Yamaha or Sony. The trick is to start with a full starter set which includes a receiver that supports speakers, and then replace the cheap individual speakers one by one.
My own story
I am a home theater enthusiast. I build my own screen and have a High Definition projector system. The sound system is absolutely essential. A small screen and big sound is WAY better than a big screen and poor sound. But that's my opinion. I started with the Onkyo sound system and since then, I've upgraded my center speaker to a Marting Logan Motif speaker. You can click for this brand, it's incredible sound. For my surround speakers I didn't have much space in my room so I chose to buy in-wall speakers. You want to click for for dipole or bipole speakers for great surround sound. My choice ended up being Atlantic High Performance In-Wall Surround Speakers. Just one week ago, the package came to my door.
Where to buy?
My two cents, but I bought all my stuff online. I know there's still those out there that doubt if it's safe, but just use reputable sites who pay for advertising / marketing, or established websites. I really save a lot of money since I have the chance to compare dozens of stores instead of just accepting the price at my local Best Buy. Shop around online! You will be happy for the money saved - as am I.View post: Fully Surrounded by 7.1 Speakers