Surround sound is a great way to enrich the sound you hear when listening to audio recordings, cinema, a home theater system, or a variety of other options. The multichannel surround sound basically circles the listener with left, right, and back sound opposed to front left and front right. The quality of the sound is some of the best you can find comparable to anything, anywhere that you can hear. Generally, an in-home surround sound package is installed in the living room, entertainment room, or den. The first use of surround speakers was in 1940 when the Disney Studios used them for the movie, ‘ Fantasia.’ However, in those days the system was known as ‘Fantasound.’ It had three audio channels.

Today surround sound speakers are available in home theater systems.

This is usually referred to as the home theater in a box. Also, it is possible to purchase them separately. To receive the authentic sounds you should have a digital sound receiver, multi-channel speaker system, and a DVD player or an HDTV tuner.

The speakers must be set up properly or you will not receive the sound you are hoping to receive. As the 5.1 continues in popularity more and more people are replacing their 2-channel stereo systems and replacing it with the full multichannel systems.

When you purchase your surround system you will find they are available in various channel configurations. The basic one is called 5.1 channels. This contains the system that will be discussed shortly in how to install the system. In the 5.1 the five refers to the number of speakers. The one refers to the subwoofer. This follows suit with a 6.1 as well as a 7.1. When preparing to purchase a surround sound package it is wise for the consumer to do your homework and to compare prices. You will understand why when you visit the stores and see systems beginning at a few hundred dollars and reaching into the thousands of dollars.

Professional installation is available although you can install the speakers yourself which will save you considerable money. The basics of setting up a surround sound system is going to be centered around the 5.1 previously mentioned. This is the basic package more people buy. It can be used for movies on DVD.

First, you place the left and right front speakers so they are basically in a triangular arrangement and closer to the viewing area where you are seated. When you place the center speaker it should be put close to the television. If your television is in a cabinet it is best to place the center speaker in the cabinet also.

You will also have a subwoofer. This can be set up anywhere you find the space in your room. Next, you still have the rear speakers to set up. They should be placed behind the viewing seat and to the side. It is important that they are placed higher than the front speakers. Also, the rear speakers should be placed so they face each other.

When you first use your new surround sound you should set the volume low. If you do not do this, and the volume is on a high setting, be prepared for what you are going to feel (the vibrations) and hear. You are set to have the enjoyment similar to that of the movie theater.