Top 9 Best home theatre systems in India 2024: Expert Picks

Last Updated on 15 February, 2024 by Sourav Roy

If you are a cinephile, nothing will please you as much as having the best home theatre systems in India in your living room. Imagine sitting on the couch with your big fat family and having a theatre-like experience. An eye-catching picture quality, immersive sound experience and a bowl of popcorn. Yes, you can now bring the magic of cinema home!

Best home theatre systems in India

What can you expect from my blog? A compiled list of 10 trending home theatre systems. Their features, advantages, disadvantages and our expert take on them. Not just that, a buying guide to help you choose one out of them. So, keep away your paralytic analysis and let’s get going.

How We Tested: We looked at everything from the sound quality to the build quality of these Home Theatre Systems. We also considered things like ease of use and level of immersion to come up with a list of models that will give you the most theatre-like experience at home.

1. Sony HT-S40R Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio 600W Home Theatre System

Of course, we have to start with Sony, whose superb audio gadgets have captivated listeners for decades. The Sony HT-S40R deserves first place on our list of the best home theatre systems in India. It offers state-of-the-art features mixed in with build quality acquired over decades of experience. Let’s take a closer look at all the features.

Sony HT-S40R Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio Home Theatre Soundbar 1

Max Output600W
Sound Channel5.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsDolby Digital
Available ConnectionsHDMI, Optical, Analogue, Bluetooth

What We Like

  • 4 easy-to-select audio settings offer extra convenience for watching different types of content.
  • Comes with a wide variety of connectivity options for maximum versatility.
  • 5.1 Channel output makes the audio float all around the user, not just in front of them.
  • Perfect for watching movies, thanks to dialogue customisation options.

Why Do We Recommend The Sony HT-S40R Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio 600W Home Theatre System?

Sony-HT-S40R-Real-5.1ch-Dolby-Audio-Home-Theatre-System-2

Best Home Theatre System For Movies: Immersion is paramount when it comes to movies, and the HT-S40R doesn’t disappoint. It has four audio settings designed to enhance your experience with different content. For example, you can use the ‘Cinema’ mode for movies or the ‘Music’ mode when streaming your favourite tunes. Additionally, there are also options for dialogue enhancement and night mode so that you can customise the audio even further.

Ideal Mid-range Option: The HT-S40R easily sets itself apart from other home theatre systems in its price range with its extensive list of features. We don’t consider it such a great mid-range home theatre system just because of the features, though. It comes with a build quality far superior to its competitors, though that’s unsurprising considering that it’s from a premium brand like Sony.

Pros

  • Lots of input options.
  • Long and colour-coded cables.
  • Excellent design with the good build quality.
  • Ideal for medium-sized rooms.

Cons

  • A bit too quiet.
  • No NFC.
  • No Dolby DTS support.

This speaker is top-tier just for these features, but it offers more. Head to our extensive review to learn more about how this home theatre system works.

Sony-HT-S40R-Real-5.1ch-Dolby-Audio-Home-Theatre-System-3

Available from:

 

2. Sony HT-S350 2.1Ch Dolby Digital Home Theatre System

Here is another home theatre system from Sony. This one is special in its own right and provides ear-pleasing audio using conventional speakers and a soundbar. This device is a good choice if you are looking for a home theatre system with a sleek design that doesn’t take up too much space.

Sony HTS350 Soundbar 1

Max Output320W
Sound Channel2.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsDolby Digital
Available ConnectionsHDMI, Optical, Bluetooth

What We Like

  • Comes with HDMI ARC and Optical Input support, ensuring great compatibility with other TVs.
  • S-Force PRO Front Surround helps save space by removing the need for rear speakers.
  • Bluetooth support allows users to play music straight from the phone.
  • Offers increased versatility for different kinds of content with 7 audio modes.

Why Do We Recommend The Sony HT-S350 2.1Ch Dolby Digital Home Theatre System?

Sony HTS350 Soundbar 2

Great 2.1 Channel Output: 2.1 channel audio is good enough for watching movies. We recommend this Sony speaker if you want to save up on space and are looking for a good alternative for home theatres with more channels. You get advanced surround sound technology and good overall audio in one package.

Best Versatile Home Theatre: The versatility of this speaker makes up for the absence of additional channels. For a start, it has seven audio modes. As a result, you can play different content without difficulty. You might watch movies in ‘Cinema’ mode or listen to music in ‘Music’ mode. There’s even a ‘Sports’ setting that enhances the action by tuning the ambient crowd noises.

Pros

  • Clear audio.
  • Good overall sound quality.
  • Punchy bass.
  • Strong Bluetooth connection.
  • Simple remote.
  • Numerous preset settings for different situations.

Cons

  • HDMI Cable is not included in the box.
  • No general display or setup screen shows up on TV.

To learn more about this Sony speaker, you can take a look at our experts’ take on it.

Sony HTS350 Soundbar 3

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3. Yamaha YAS-209 200W Alexa Compatible WiFi Home Theatre System

In addition to powerful motorcycles, Yamaha produces high-quality audio equipment. In fact, the company manufactures some of the best home theatre systems in India. The YAS-209 is packed with features, including HD audio that never fails to wow. Compared to other models on our list, it’s rather underrated since most people are unaware that the brand makes more than bikes. Allow us to explain everything this system has to offer.

Yamaha YAS-209 200 Watt Wireless Bluetooth Soundbar with Alexa 1

Max Output200W
Sound Channel2.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsDTS Virtual:X
Available ConnectionsHDMI, Optical, Bluetooth, WiFi

What We Like

  • Virtual Surround Sound offers great immersion while taking up minimal space.
  • Comes with a special clear voice mode that helps make dialogue pop and sound more dynamic.
  • Convenient to control thanks to Alexa support and multi-device WiFi support.
  • Has a traditional design and long-lasting build quality.

Why Do We Recommend The Yamaha YAS-209 200W Alexa Compatible WiFi Home Theatre System?

Yamaha YAS-209 200 Watt Wireless Bluetooth Soundbar with Alexa 2

Easier To Use: The Yamaha YAS-209 is one of the most convenient home theatre systems on our list, thanks to the extra support of Amazon’s voice assistant, Alexa. You can now use voice commands to control the system with barely any effort. It also supports multi-device WiFi connectivity, so it can connect to the web and run music from various smart devices.

Consumes The Least Power: If you like everything in your home to be energy-friendly, this is the system for you. Even at full volume, it only consumes around 200W of power, and the rest of the features don’t need much electricity either. So, you won’t have to worry about your electricity bills spiking up too much after using this system.

Pros

  • Works great with movies.
  • Voice recognition.
  • WiFi connectivity.
  • Good overall sound quality.
  • Very good at playing dialogues and vocals.

Cons

  • Not particularly good for bass.
  • No display comes on TV.
  • The maximum volume is a bit underwhelming.

There’s a lot more to this model. If you’d like to take a closer look, check out our comprehensive look at it.

Yamaha YAS-209 200 Watt Wireless Bluetooth Soundbar with Alexa 3

Available from:

 

4. Logitech Z906 5.1 Channel Surround Speaker System

Because of its top-notch audio products, Logitech is currently a favourite amongst Indian users, both regulars and audiophiles alike. The Z906 is one of their most popular offerings, and it’s not difficult to see why- it has a great design, easy installation process and superb sound quality. Let us tell you how it made the cut for our best home theatre systems in India list.

Logitech Z906 5.1 Channel Surround Speaker 1

Max Output1000W
Sound Channel5.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsDolby Digital, DTS
Available ConnectionsCoaxial Input, Six-channel Direct Input, Optical Input, RCA Input, 3.5 mm Input

What We Like

  • Support for high-quality codecs ensures support for any track.
  • Produces well-balanced and immersive audio.
  • Runs perfectly with many TVs, PCs and even gaming consoles.
  • Versatile remote that lets users fine-tune their system.

Why Do We Recommend The Logitech Z906 5.1 Channel Surround Speaker System?

Logitech Z906 5.1 Channel Surround Speaker 2

Excellent Overall Performance: The Logitech Z906 isn’t perfect in every aspect, but it does everything far better than the average home theatre system. For starters, it has a great build quality immediately apparent when you touch it. Additionally, the audio is well-balanced and immersive, and we didn’t find any major complaints with this one.

A Great Pick For Older TVs: If you have an older TV that doesn’t support HDMI, then the Logitech Z906 is one of the best home theatre systems in India for you. It has a wide range of input options, so you’re bound to find one that works with your TV.

Pros

  • Superb sound clarity and booming bass.
  • Supports multiple active connections.
  • Cost-efficient.
  • High power output.
  • Supports a lot of devices.

Cons

  • Distorted bass at lower frequencies.
  • No wireless connectivity.
  • No HDMI support.

We’ve got a lot more to say about this sound system. Take a look at our exclusive review to learn more about it.

Logitech Z906 5.1 Channel Surround Speaker 3

Available from:

 

5. Sony HT-S20R 5.1 Channel Dolby Digital Soundbar Home Theatre System

There’s no shortage of Sony products on the list, but they all deserve praise. If you ask an audiophile about good sound equipment, they’ll likely mention Sony numerous times. This product is no different. The Sony HT-S20R 5.1 Channel Dolby Digital Soundbar Home Theatre System offers great value for the price. Read on to find out how it does that.

Sony HT-S20R Real 5.1ch Dolby Digital Home Theatre System 1

Max Output400W
Sound Channel5.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsDolby Digital
Available ConnectionsBluetooth, USB, HDMI

What We Like

  • 400W power output combined with Dolby Digital ensures booming and clear audio.
  • Takes little to no time to connect with most TVs.
  • Multiple preset settings offer extra versatility and make the system perfect for various kinds of content.
  • Bluetooth and USB compatibility allow users to play from a wider range of audio sources.

Why Do We Recommend The Sony HT-S20R 5.1 Channel Dolby Digital Soundbar System?

Sony HT-S20R Real 5.1ch Dolby Digital Home Theatre System 2

Best Value For Money: The Sony HT-S20R is one of the least expensive 5.1-channel home theatre systems out there. It doesn’t sacrifice quality for the price, though. You still get the great features and fantastic audio performance you’d expect from Sony.

Good Balance Between Audio And Power Consumption: This system isn’t the most powerful on our list, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s still plenty loud and clear without being an energy-hungry monster. This makes the HT-S20R a great choice if you want to save on your electricity bill.

Pros

  • Great overall sound clarity.
  • Dialogues come out crisp and clear.
  • All sorts of connectivity options, except for NFC.
  • Volume can go very high.

Cons

  • The low volume takes sound a little too low.
  • The rear satellite speakers are a bit weak.
  • No option for setting treble, but good enough for bass.

Want more details about this home theatre system? You can take a look at our full analysis of it.

Sony HT-S20R Real 5.1ch Dolby Digital Home Theatre System 3

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6. Sony HT-S500RF Real 5.1ch Dolby Digital Soundbar Home Theatre System

Don’t worry; this is the last Sony product we’ll be going over. We couldn’t help but include it since it’s such a good system. The Sony HT-S500RF Real 5.1ch Dolby Digital Soundbar Home Theatre System is one of the best-performing soundbars in its price range. It offers fantastic audio quality, a wide range of features and plenty of power. Let’s take a more in-depth look, shall we?

Sony HT-S500RF Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio Home Theatre System 1

Max Output1000W
Sound Channel5.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsDolby Digital
Available ConnectionsBluetooth, USB, HDMI ARC and Optical IN

What We Like

  • 1000W Power Output ensures loud and clear audio.
  • Has front tweeters fitted to the soundbar for more immersive surround sound.
  • Large and powerful subwoofer blasts good bass with no distortions.
  • More convenient to set up thanks to multiple connectivity options.

Why Do We Recommend The Sony HT-S500RF Real 5.1ch Dolby Digital Soundbar Home Theatre System?

Sony HT-S500RF Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio Home Theatre System 2

Best Home Theatre For Bass: If you’re looking for a home theatre system with some truly powerful bass, your search is over. The Sony HT-S500RF can fill any room with booming bass through its large subwoofer, and you’ll truly feel the power of the bass.

Fantastic Audio Quality: This system doesn’t just have good bass; it has great overall audio quality. The front tweeters give the soundbar a more immersive surround sound, while the multiple presets ensure you get the perfect sound no matter what you’re watching.

Pros

  • Reliable build quality.
  • Easy to install.
  • Balanced sound output.
  • Plays 2.1 Channel tracks well.
  • Several connectivity options.

Cons

  • No HDMI passthrough.
  • The front channel separation could be better.

As usual, we’ve got a separate, more detailed review of this product. You can check that out in this post.

Sony HT-S500RF Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio Home Theatre System 3

Available from:

 

7. Philips SPA8000B/94 5.1 Channel Multimedia Speakers System

Philips also deserves to be on this list of best home theatre systems in India, not only because it’s a reputable brand producing premium products but also because this sound system is a big crowd favourite right now. And we can already see why so- let’s talk about its capabilities.

Philips Audio SPA8000B 94 5.1 Channel 120Watt Multimedia Speaker System 1

Max Output120W
Sound Channel5.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsNone
Available ConnectionsBluetooth, USB, Audio-in

What We Like

  • An 8-inches subwoofer driver ensures that the listener truly feels the bass.
  • Plenty of connectivity options, so the user can hook it up to any source they want.
  • It can be both a home theatre and an FM Radio.
  • Offers consistent audio with minimal distortions.

Why Do We Recommend The Philips SPA8000B/94 5.1 Channel Multimedia Speakers System?

Philips Audio SPA8000B 94 5.1 Channel 120Watt Multimedia Speaker System 2

Best Basic Home Theatre System: The Philips SPA8000B/94 home theatre system, like the JBL Cinema SB231 system, is a fantastic choice for simple systems. It is cost-effective and lacks fancy features, but the audio production quality is excellent. You can still choose this model with your eyes closed. We tested playing numerous types of tracks with this system, and it played all of them without any unpleasant interruptions or odd noises.

Good For Small Spaces: This system is a superb choice if you need a full-fledged sound system that offers proper 5.1 channel audio but doesn’t use too much space. All the main components are packed into the subwoofer rather than a separate control unit, making it more compact. You won’t miss out on any of the good features either; everything is included in the subwoofer itself.

Pros

  • Various connectivity options.
  • Great bass.
  • Long wires for easier placement.
  • Versatile subwoofer.
  • Individual speaker volume adjustment.
  • Top-tier surround effects.

Cons

  • Remote is barebones.
  • The Bluetooth connection is slightly unstable at full volume.

Feel free to check out our in-depth review if you want to know more about this model’s features and how they perform.

Philips Audio SPA8000B 94 5.1 Channel 120Watt Multimedia Speaker System 3

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8. F&D F5060X 5.1 Channel Multimedia Speaker

F&D is a newer brand, and it’s already on its way to building up a strong reputation. The F5060X is like a diamond in the rough, with many fun-to-use features in an easily affordable package. Though it doesn’t explicitly say that it’s a home theatre system, it has all the components of one. So, it deserves a spot on this list of best home theatre systems in India. Let’s talk about its capabilities in more detail.

F&D F5060X 135 Watt 5.1 Channel Wireless Bluetooth Multimedia Speaker System 1

Max Output135W
Sound Channel5.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsNone
Available ConnectionsAudio Input, RCA, Bluetooth

What We Like

  • Comes with stable and reliable Bluetooth functionality.
  • Has a plug-and-play USB reader that easily decodes and plays multiple formats.
  • Offers FM connectivity and storage for 100 stations, ensuring the user never runs out of content.
  • Multi-coloured LED speakers that stand out and add to the music.
  • Has a versatile remote control and mobile app for maximum control convenience.

Why Do We Recommend The F&D F5060X 5.1 Channel Multimedia Speaker?

F&D F5060X 135 Watt 5.1 Channel Wireless Bluetooth Multimedia Speaker System 2

Best Home Theatre For Convenience: The F&D F5060X system is one of the most feature-packed and convenient systems on this list. It includes everything you could possibly need in a home theatre system, such as Bluetooth, USB, FM radio, and even an app. You can control everything with ease using the included remote or your smartphone.

Great For Decor: You’re already getting all that you’d expect from a good home theatre system, so why not get one that also looks great? That’s where the F&D F5060X comes in. It has unique multi-coloured LED speakers that will definitely turn heads. They’ll add some extra flair to your music listening experience as well.

Pros

  • Extensive remote control.
  • Smartphone control support.
  • Powerful sound and superb bass.
  • Durable design.
  • FM radio support.

Cons

  • Doesn’t have a display.
  • Switching between Bluetooth and USB takes some time.

If you liked what you read so far, then you’ll definitely want to check out our comprehensive review of this home theatre system.

F&D F5060X 135 Watt 5.1 Channel Wireless Bluetooth Multimedia Speaker System 3

Available from:

 

9. Tronica Super King 40W 5.1 Ch Home Theater System With AUX and FM

While Tronica isn’t on the same level as other big-name audio brands like Sony and JBL, it still has a good place in the market. The brand’s products shine in the lower price ranges; they’ve made some of the most cost-effective audio products on the Indian market. The Super King is the perfect example; let us tell you why.

Tronica Super King 40W 5.1 Bluetooth Home Theater 1

Max Output44W
Sound Channel 5.1
Advanced Surround Sound FormatsNone
Available ConnectionsAUX, Bluetooth, USB

What We Like

  • SD Card and Pendrive support for more flexibility and convenience while playing music.
  • FM Radio provides easy access to more content.
  • AUX and Bluetooth make it perfect for use with phones, music players and laptops.
  • The subwoofer comes with enhanced bass to offer a more dynamic experience.

Why Do We Recommend The Tronica Super King 40W 5.1 Ch Home Theater System?

Tronica Super King 40W 5.1 Bluetooth Home Theater 2

Best Entry-Level Home Theatre System: The Tronica Super King is one of the most inexpensive home theatre systems on our list, but that doesn’t mean it lacks quality. It still offers features like Bluetooth, AUX, FM radio, SD card and USB support. You also get impressive sound quality for the price, with a powerful subwoofer that delivers solid bass.

Super Power Efficient: Didn’t like the Yamaha YAS-209? In that case, this sound system is a perfect alternative. It consumes minimal power and can run for hours without significantly increasing your electricity bill. Even when we played powerful tunes at maximum volume, the battery consumption remained low. Although we recommend getting the Yamaha model if possible, this Tronica theatre is for those who prefer something simple. It doesn’t have many functions, and the volume levels aren’t exceptionally high.

Pros

  • Offers immersive sound despite lacking special technology like Dolby.
  • Superb bass.
  • Excellent mids and highs.
  • No distortions at maximum volume.

Cons

  • Short cable.
  • The Remote is decent but needs more options.
  • No support for HDMI or Optical Input.

Did anything about this home theatre system catch your attention? If so, you can check out our full-length review of it.

Tronica Super King 40W 5.1 Bluetooth Home Theater 3

Available from:

 

Best Home Theatre Systems In India – Buying Guide

Now, let’s get started with the buying guide. Before you start looking into features and specifications, there are certain things about a home theatre system that you need to know to make a happy purchase.

 

What Is A Home Theatre System?

What Is A Home Theatre System

The answer may be obvious, but the definition is sometimes confusing- some people have different ideas on what it is. But, for the most part, a home theatre is essentially a high-quality sound system. There’s a large gap in sound quality between a standard speaker and a home theatre system, which is more extensive. Immersion is what makes watching things on TV more enjoyable and having a good home theatre system will give you that and much more.

A home theatre system is essentially a combination of 5 speakers and a subwoofer plugged into an AC receiver in a way so that the audio resembles surround noise, similar to that of an actual movie theatre.

 

How Many Speakers Will You Need?

home theatre speakers

As a thumb rule, the more speakers you get, the better. You can enjoy a home theatre-like experience with a few speakers, but to have an authentic home theatre experience, you need to have at least 5. In this speaker combination, there will be one in the centre in front of you, two on your left and right and another two on each side of your rear. There will also be a subwoofer.

The centre speaker will sound out most of the dialogue, while the rest of the audio will be distributed evenly across the other speakers. That way, you get the audio coming from all around you.

 

What Do The Channels Mean?

You’ve probably seen some home theatre systems use 5.1, 7.1 and other similar numbers. These mostly refer to the number of outputs the audio can be channelled through. So, in other words, the numbers are how many speakers the system uses. For instance, in a 5.1 home theatre system, there are 5 speakers. The .1 part indicates if the system uses a subwoofer or not. So, the 1 means there’s 1 subwoofer.

Some home theatre systems also have another number to them, like 5.1.2. Here, the 2 means that there are 2 Dolby Atmos speakers.

Although many music formats only need two channels (left and right), having more channels adds to the level of immersion the home theatre system can offer. You should at least go for five channels, or even seven if you can. With seven, you can have the equivalent of a full-fledged cinema sound system at home.

 

Home Theatre Vs. Soundbars

Home Theatre vs Soundbars

Home theatres are an excellent choice for speakers in your home. However, you also have an alternative; a Soundbar. They aren’t all that great when it comes to immersion, but they do provide good bass and low-frequency sounds. More importantly, they’re still a huge step up from a TVs in-built speaker. High-end TVs usually have pretty good speakers, but having either a soundbar or home theatre with one will still enhance the sound significantly.

So, if you want a bit more affordable option as an upgrade for TV speakers, soundcards are a good choice. They’re compact, easy to set up and have decent sound. Although, you still won’t be getting the immersion of a cinema-level sound system. That’s where home theatre speakers excel at. They take some time to set up, but these speakers are easier to put in different locations, and you also get several options based on room size like 5.1, 7.1.2, and so on.

 

Different Types Of Home Theatre Systems

As we’ve mentioned earlier, home theatre systems come in different combinations. For the most part, you’ll see these three home theatre systems in the Indian market; 2.1 Home theatre Systems, 3.1 Home theatre Systems and 5.1 Home theatre Systems. Here’s a short description of how each of these is like.

2.1 Home theatre Systems: These systems are bass-focused. There are two front speakers, with a subwoofer added in to increase the bass power.

2.1 Home theatre Systems
2.1 Home Theatre

They’re good if you just want fairly good audio quality but not an ideal choice if you want surround sound.

3.1 Home theatre Systems: These systems have a pair of front speakers and a subwoofer as well.

3.1 Home Theatre System
3.1 Home Theatre

However, there’s also a central speaker, which makes it seem like the dialogue is coming from the centre of the screen.

5.1 Home theatre Systems: These are the most commonly bought home theatre systems. In fact, these are the best home theatre systems as they have a good balance between price and quality. The speakers here are arranged so that there are two in the front, two in the back, and one in the centre of the front two. There’s also the subwoofer.

5.1 Home Theatre System
5.1 Home Theatre

This whole setup is meant to produce a surround sound effect. Hence, if you want really high quality and immersion, then it’s best to go for this kind of system over the other two.

Recommended Reading: 15 Simple Tips To Improve Home Theatre Sound Quality

 

What is Surround Sound Technology?

While home theatres offer surround sound, the technology they use for it varies. These technologies, also known as codecs, affect audio differently. There are two main codecs for surround sound, used by most home theatre brands. These codecs are Dolby Atmos and DTS.

 

Dolby Atmos And DTS

Dolby Atmos codec system

Dolby Atmos is a recent codec that started out by being used in cinemas and is now with Blu-ray discs as well. This codec is object-based. Here an object creating sound isn’t restricted to a specific channel- rather, it has the liberty of being in a more precise position in a sound field.

Considering the setup will help put that in perspective- a setup with Dolby Atmos requires two more front speakers that are higher than the others. These will help provide sound from not only left and right, but also up and down.

The setup is denoted by an extra 2 at the end when indicating the home theatre type. For instance, if it’s a 5.1.2 Home theatre system, then the first two numbers imply a standard 5.1 home theatre setup, with the 2 at the end referring to the two Dolby Atmos speakers.

The DTS codec is a bit less common. This one is usually detected and decoded by an AV receiver when it goes through it, using a DTS decoder. The receiver uses optical/coaxial connections or HDMI to acquire the DTS signal before sending the audio over to the speaker system.

There will still be a little reduction in sound quality from the studio product. That’s because Dolby and DTS are lossy formats, where disc compression causes the quality to go down slightly. DTS is slightly better as it’s transferred at a higher rate, but the difference is minimal and unnoticeable for an average person.

Recommended Reading: 8 Mistakes You Must Avoid When Setting Up Your Home Theatre

 

Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Home Theatre System In India

It’s time to talk about the finer details now- choosing these properly is going to be important. Especially so, when you’re watching a movie for the first time and want to enjoy it to the fullest. These things are going to determine whether if the home theatre system you get is good enough to be the best home theatre system in India or not.

1. Purpose

One surround system isn’t necessarily suited to every activity. Every one of the surround systems we’ve listed is excellent, but you probably won’t have much use out of them if you use them where they aren’t all that needed at.

In other words, you have to consider what you’re going to use them for. If you want to play games or run regular music playlists, then 5 speakers aren’t all that important. You can go for systems with fewer speakers.

However, if you intend to watch movies, then a bigger system will undoubtedly be beneficial.

2. Room Size

The size of your room will determine the placement of all the home theatre system’s speakers. Based on it, you’ll likely be paying a lower or higher price for the theatre system.

Always count for the room’s size before getting the speakers- compact speakers might look good, but if you have a large room, you’re better off getting bigger speakers.

Also, do note that the room you install a home theatre system in should be at least 15 ft long, with a 12 ft width and 8 ft ceiling height for a proper home theatre experience.

3. Connectivity

Home Theatre Connectivity

Consider what sources you’re going to connect to the system before you get it. There are various systems which have different numbers of connectivity options. If you want to connect your mobile to the system to play something, you should look for models that include Bluetooth and NFC.

4. Audio Quality

Of course, to get the best home theatre system for yourself, you have to make sure the speakers of the system stand up to the mark in terms of quality. Generally, the best audio is offered by theatre systems with more speakers, like the 5.1 ones, where there is RMS power support. This support enables the speakers to create high-quality audio with no left out details. Although most makers test their systems for the bass, dialogue and surround sound quality, you can still get an idea of the quality by yourself.

In a 5.1 Home theatre System, you can take a look at the two main speakers to get a feel for the quality. For the most part, these speakers handle all the dialogue and other sound audio. They come with a switch that allows you to run certain speakers rather than all at once. You can use the switch to make sure each speaker provides good audio.

Another thing to take a look at is the subwoofer- generally, home theatre systems have subwoofers with good bass. If you go for a system with a dominant subwoofer, then you can get an idea of its energy volume through the RMS power rating. You can also get an idea of its capabilities by looking at the subwoofer’s peak power.

5. Receiver

AV Receiver

The entire home theatre system is centred around the Audio-Visual (AV) receiver. It’s responsible for interpreting and processing audio signals from a TV and sending them out to the speakers.

In terms of features, you don’t really need to get much as you likely wouldn’t have a use for the additional features. So, you can opt for a reasonably cheap AV receiver with essential features and still be satisfied with it. That is, unless you’re a full-on audiophile. In that case, you probably should get an AV with extra capabilities if you need them later. However, you should at least get an AV receiver with 5.1 output.

You’ll get more usability and quality in the long run if you choose to get one with Dolby Atmos and with seven channels rather than five. Although, you should only get the latter if you know your room can support it.

It would be best if you thought about getting a good AV receiver because such a receiver can correctly process the audio signals and send them to the proper channels. It can also serve as a central unit for all the wireless and wired speakers around your home. Better yet, if the AV receiver is wireless, it can stream things like music and even podcasts.

Lastly, some can also offer you various audio modes so that you can select them based on the condition of the area surrounding the speakers.

6. Design

When it comes to design, there’s a wide choice available to you for a home theatre system. Some come with streamlined accents, eye-catching symmetry and even glossed surfaces. With such a large variety, you won’t have any problems finding something that fits into your home’s decor. Generally, high-end home theatre systems come with universal designs that can fit into different kinds of homes.

7. Build Quality

Getting a stylish sound system at a reasonable price may seem like an excellent deal. However, do make sure to consider the rest of the build quality before making your purchase. Doing this is important because the build quality will directly impact sound quality.

If you’re picking speaker cones, getting ones made with glass fibre is ideal. That’s because you also get a practical benefit with these- this kind of material enables broader frequency, leading to better overall sound quality and faster responses.

If you’re the kind of person who likes to save as much power as possible, you can go for speakers that have magnetic fluid. Additionally, they also offer excellent audio clarity and fluid suspension. Some speakers come with mica-reinforced cones, which can stretch the consistency of sound pressure. As a result, there’s an improvement in frequency extension.

Some systems are also designed to be compatible with floor stands, which enable you to raise the speakers to ear levels.

8. Wattage And Compatibility

Home theatre systems are based on two main components- the receiver or amplifier and the speakers. The receiver needs to send enough power to the speakers to make the whole system function properly. To ensure it can do that, you can refer to the RMS or Root Mean Square wattage levels.

The RMS wattage, also sometimes called continuous wattage, indicates the amount of power a receiver can provide to a speaker over a period of time.

Although, you should also keep in mind that RMS and Dynamic wattages are not the same thing. You have to ensure both are in the same range as the amplifier range indicated on the speaker. For instance, if the amplifier range of a set of speakers is 20-150 watts per channel, then you have to get a receiver with an RMS and Dynamic power in the same range.

It would be best if you make sure these are in range. Otherwise, The speaker will get damaged when you run high-quality audio tracks for a long time. To keep everything functioning at its highest potential, you should use a receiver with less RMS power than the speaker’s maximum range.

One more thing you should check is the power that’s supplied to the device at a certain resistance level. It should be somewhere on the box with the Ω(Ohm) symbol. You have to ensure the symbol’s value is more than the speaker’s requirement. For example, if a speaker requires 60W of RMS amplifier power at 10Ω, you should see if your receiver can produce more than 10Ω.

9. Additional Features

home theatre remote control system

Once you’ve made sure that the base audio fits your taste, there are certain features you can keep an eye out for, which can improve your home theatre experience. Such features include remote controls, a backlit/LED display, Bluetooth support and Music/Video streaming capabilities.

10. Brand

When it comes to sound equipment, brands really play an essential role. There are some brands like Sony who have perfected the art of audio production and have been making audio devices for a long time. If you want the best home theatre systems in India, then you should look towards these brands. They can also offer you good build quality, reliable warranty and excellent customer service.

11. Warranty

Warranties vary by product and brand. Generally, you get at least a year of warranty if you buy the system from an authorised dealer. It’s best to get a product from a popular brand in this scenario, as later on, you can get repairs done to the system within the warranty period. A popular brand is ideal because they fix up devices much faster than the brands that aren’t as well-established.

12. Price

The budget is going to really decide what your final purchase will be. If you’re going for cheaper systems, you might have fewer speakers, compatibility and average sound quality. If you want to save money, you should go for a 5.1 Home theatre System or a 7.1 one if it fits your room and is within your budget.

Recommended Reading: What Are Audio Formats? Uncompressed, Lossy and Lossless Audio Explained

 

Best Home Theatre Brands In India

As we said earlier, the brand can impact the overall quality of the home theatre. You can look into these brands. In fact, these are the best home theatre brands in India, offering high-quality audio in a reliable and long-lasting package.

1. Sony

Sony Home Theater system

Some of Sony’s products have been iconic during the last few years, and if one talked about high-level audio, then Sony would come to mind first most of the time. Their walkman series was loved by people across the entire globe for its excellent sound quality. They still produce other similar premium audio equipment today, including home theatre systems. You can undoubtedly go for a Sony home theatre system if you want unparalleled sound quality.

2. Philips

Philips Home Theatre System

You’ve probably heard of Philips as well. They’re known for creating several home accessories. They also work in producing home theatre systems. In fact, some of these systems have been an instant hit in the market, while others have a respectable number of satisfied customers. If affordability and build quality is your primary focus, you can go for their home theatre systems.

3. Yamaha

Yamaha Home Theatre System

Yamaha is well-established and respected by all kinds of Indian customers. You’ve likely heard about how good their motorbikes are. As they have a fairly strong foundation due to these bikes, you can expect their other products to be just as reliable. Their home theatre systems are top-notch and are always reliable purchases.

4. JBL

JBL Home Theatre System

JBL is one of the less-known brands that are doing well in the home theatre market. Due to their innovative home theatre systems, they already have a solid base of satisfied customers. They can offer sound systems with many features and good quality, and their customer service is admirable as well.

Recommended Reading: What the top Home Theatre Brands are offering the market in 2024 – the trend overview

 

Best Home Theatre Systems In India – Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 5.1 system better than a 7.1 one?

That really depends. Speaking purely channel-wise, a 7.1 system is obviously superior as you get a total of 8 channels, with 7 speakers and 1 subwoofer.

However, if you’re comparing two specific products that are 7.1 and 5.1, then you should also check the output power of the speakers. If the 5.1 speakers have more output power, then they’ll be better than a 7.1 system.

Why can't I get a soundbar for surround audio?

The way a home theatre system emulates surround audio is by literally surrounding the listener with numerous synchronised speakers. A soundbar only stays in a certain direction of the listener, causing the sound to come from that direction rather than all around. Hence, it cannot produce any kind of surround audio on its own.

Can a home theatre system be upgraded?

Yes, it can. However, there are some things to consider both when purchasing the system and the upgrade afterwards. For instance, you have to make sure the system you buy has extra ports so you can add in other things later when you need to upgrade. And there are things you need to think of while buying upgrades as well.

Suppose you want to buy a high-power subwoofer. In that case, you might have to upgrade more than the subwoofer. Something like a low-sensitivity speaker set will not allow your new subwoofer to run at full power. Either way, you can still upgrade your subwoofer, receiver and speakers.

We’ve also considered upgradability when compiling our list of the best home theatre systems in India, so you can rest assured if you go for any of the products on the list.

What's the best placement for a 5.1 home theatre system?

First off, you have to put the central speaker, which outputs dialogues, in front of you for a better sound spread. You can then set the right and left speakers at your two sides while placing the rear two behind you.

How long can home theatre systems last?

Well, if you use it sparingly, you might be able to keep the system for as long as 10 years- though it might be quite outdated by then. However, if you’re a heavy user who uses it often and always keeps it updated with new technology, the lifespan might go down to 5 years instead.

Do I have to place my subwoofer in a specific position?

Subwoofers don’t affect the audio based on direction. You can put them anywhere without having to worry about your audio changing. Their focus isn’t on producing audio but instead on producing extensive frequencies and good bass. They’re also supposed to reduce and eliminate distortion.

 

Conclusion

You’re likely thinking that getting a good home theatre system is a lot of work. But, this time, the work has some good results, and you’ll immediately notice the difference from your old TV speakers. Even boring dialogues can seem like music to your ears with the best home theatre system. You have a lot of options to choose from; you can go for the tested products on our list or even pick one yourself with our buying guide.

Plus, having more good sources of home entertainment is essential for every home right now- with all the quarantines and lockdowns.

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