The 10 Best Budget Sound System, Tested And Researched

Piers Anthony By, Piers Anthony
Updated
Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1 Surround Sound System
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1 Surround Sound System

Klipsch's Tractrix Horn technology, which is a combination of aluminum tweeters and Tractrix Horn technology, produces the best sound quality. The wireless subwoofer's down-firing design allows for room-filling low frequencies and doesn't require too much floor space. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound

The Logitech Z906 Surround Sound System delivers the ultimate home theater experience. This 5.1 system includes six speakers, a powerful subwoofer, and a center channel speaker for full immersion in your favorite movies, games and music. 360° audio lets you have the best seat in the house no matter where you are. Read Review

3. Best Powerful: Fluance Elite High Definition Surround Sound 5.0 Channel System

Complete with five high-performance speakers, the Fluance Elite High Definition Surround Sound 5.0 Channel System will surround you with every brilliant nuance of your favorite soundtracks. Expertly timbre matched to ensure the best possible sound performance, this 5 speaker system is perfect for those who demand nothing but the best. Read Review

4. Best Quality: Energy 5.1 Take Classic Home Theater System (Set of Six, Black)

Energy 5.1 technology creates a smooth, natural sound from both the satellite speakers and the center channel. The Take Classic is a joy for movie and music lovers. It not only brings life to every entertainment experience but also ignites intense passion in each listener. Read Review

Sound systems are a great way to listen to music in your home. They allow you to play music from a variety of sources, like your computer or mobile phone, directly through speakers instead of headphones or speakers. If you don’t have much money but want the best sound system possible, it can be difficult to know what options are available.

A, affordable system might be hard to find because many manufacturers will try and sell you their most expensive system rather than something that is affordable for everyone. Here are some choose the best budget sound system.

After spending hours researching and assessing, our specialists have identified the models that would best meet your needs, particularly Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1 Surround Sound System. We've put up a buying guide as well as additional good alternatives to help you find the perfect one.

Our Top Picks

  • The Klipsch reference theater pack delivers a superior acoustic performance while keeping an incredibly minimal footprint
  • The reference theater pack brings the Klipsch cinematic sound into your home with an incredibly minimal footprint
  • Klipsch's exclusive Tractrix Horn technology and aluminum Tweeters deliver the cleanest, most natural sound possible. The down-firing wireless subwoofer is designed to deliver room-filling low frequencies without requiring too much floor space
  • To complement the easy placement of the wireless subwoofer, each satellite speaker has a keyhole mount and a threaded insert for maximum mounting flexibility
TOP Choice #2 Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound
Our Score:
9.6
Logitech
  • Delivers a continuous 500 watts of power, with the ability to deliver a peak of 1,000 watts under certain circumstances: Thunderous, room shaking audio with deep bass you can feel
  • System Requirements: Works with any device with either a headphone jack (3.5 millimeters), RCA, six channel direct, digital coaxial input or optical inputs. Signal to noise ratio, A weighted: >95dB
  • Easy sound control: Compact control console and wireless remote let you instantly personalize your surround sound experience
  • Flexible setup: Connect upto six devices : Computer, music player, TV, game console and more; Infared remote
  • THX certified home theater speakers: Your assurance of true cinema quality sound. Satellites : 4 x 67 W, wall mountable
  • 5.1 digital surround sound: Hear every detail in your Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks the way the studio intended. Sub woofer: 165 Watts
  • Premium 1" neodymium balanced silk dome tweeters, ferrofluid cooled for vibrant high-frequency response; 4" poly-coated midrange drivers with butyl rubber surrounds for rich, clear sound performances
  • Expertly timbre matched 5 speaker system that will surround you with every brilliant nuance from the greatest soundtracks that define your life
  • Full lifetime parts and labor manufacturer's direct warranty with lifetime customer support
  • Precision-crafted audio-grade MDF wood construction for reduced cabinet resonance and reproduction of natural sound
  • Powerful dual 6.5" woofers produce high definition sound and optimal low frequency response (fronts)
  • 1 gloss black Energy center channel
  • Perfect for a large or small space surround sound solution
  • 200 watt Energy subwoofer with front firing port and 8" driver and patented Ribbed Elliptical Surround(TM)
  • Wall mountable
  • 4 gloss black 2-way Energy satellite speakers
  • 11 High-Performance Speakers - With separate tweeters and woofers, deliver fuller, clearer and more powerful sound.
  • 2 Upfiring Speakers - Reflect accurate overhead sound off the ceiling for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content.
  • Dynamic and Accurate Sound - The 103dB sound pressure level and 45Hz – 20kHz frequency range deliver high-performance sound.
  • Separate Tweeters and Woofers - True 2-way speaker design delivers pristine clarity and a wider audio range.
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X - Cinematic, life-like 3D surround sound around and above you.
6 Acoustic Audio by Goldwood HD728 Flush Mount 7.2 Surround Sound
Our Score:
9.0
Acoustic Audio by Goldwood
  • Acoustic Audio 9 piece home speaker 2-way set, 4 hd-800 wall speakers, 30hz-22 kHz, 98dB, 2 hd-8 ceiling speakers, 38hz-22 kHz, 98dB, 20-350w per speaker, 8ohm, 8" Woven fiber bulletproof woofers
  • 2 HDS10 wall passive Sub speakers, 20-300w each, 26hz-200hz, 10" Woofers, cut out is 10.625" X 10.625", overall is 12" X 12", depth is 3.75", these passive subs require a Ws1005 Sub amp each
  • Butyl rubber Surrounds, pivoting titanium tweeters, Rectangular cut out 8.75" X 12.66", overall 10.125" X 14.25", depth 4", round cut out 9.5", overall 11", depth 4", low profile housings
  • Hd-6c wall center Channel 3-way speaker, 20-350 watts, 33hz-22 kHz, two 6.5" Woofers, 12mm soft dome tweeter, cut out is 19.25" X 7.5", overall is 20.5" X 8.75", depth: 3.25"
  • Use for in wall or in ceiling home entertainment, surround sound, home theater, multiple room systems, This Listing and price is for complete 9 piece in wall and in ceiling speaker set
  • RGB LIGHTS: The RGB lighting system will pulse to the beat or slowly change between colors while in use.
  • MEDIA INPUTS: There are additional ports to access your media using the USB thumb drive and an SD card slot.
  • BLUETOOTH FEATURE: Bluetooth connectivity for a more versatile experience, you can connect with most Bluetooth devices to stream wireless.
  • POWERFUL SOUND: This 5.1 surround sound system with 15 watts per channel and 50 watts for the subwoofer/receiver delivering a total of 125 watts!
  • COMPLETE SYSTEM: All-in-one ready to use home theater system right out of the box. All you need to do is connect the appropriate cables and power it up!
8 Acoustic Audio HT-85 in Wall in Ceiling 1500W Sound System
Our Score:
8.6
Acoustic Audio by Goldwood
  • Use for in wall or in ceiling home entertainment, surround sound, home theater, multiple room systems, industrial sound, this listing and price is for 1 complete 5 speaker set
  • Butyl rubber surrounds, 12mm soft dome tweeters, tweeters pivot on MT8 speakers, paintable frames and grills, low profile housings, integrated wall-lock mounting system, designed in the USA
  • Frequency response is 30Hz-22 kHz, crossover frequency is 2200Hz, efficiency is 98dB, 2-way design, 8" woofers with high rigidity polypropylene cones and extended throw drive assemblies
  • Cut-out templates included, rectangular cut out is 8.75" x 12.66", overall is 10.125" x 14.25", depth is 3.875", round cut out is 9.5", overall is 11", depth is 4", full instructions included
  • Acoustic Audio by Goldwood HT-85 in wall and in ceiling 2-way 5 speaker set, 3 pieces of MT8 in wall speakers, 2 pieces of SP8c in ceiling speakers, recommended power is 20-300 watts per speaker, 8ohm
9 Acoustic Audio by Goldwood HD518 Surround 5.1 Speaker System
Our Score:
8.0
Acoustic Audio by Goldwood
  • Butyl rubber Surrounds, pivoting titanium tweeters, Rectangular cut out 8.75" X 12.66", overall 10.125" X 14.25", depth 4", round cut out 9.5", overall 11", depth 4", low profile housings
  • HDS10 wall passive Sub speaker, 20-300 watts, 26hz-200hz, 10" Woofer, cut out is 10.625" X 10.625", overall is 12" X 12", depth is 3.75", This passive Sub requires a Ws1005 Sub amplifier
  • Acoustic Audio by Goldwood HD518 six piece home speaker 2-way set, 2 hd-800 wall speakers, 30hz-22 kHz, 98dB, 2 hd-8 ceiling speakers, 38hz-22 kHz, 98dB, 20-350w per speaker, 8ohm, 8" Woven fiber bulletproof woofers
  • Hd-6c wall center Channel 3-way speaker, 20-350 watts, 33hz-22 kHz, two 6.5" Woofers, 12mm soft dome tweeter, cut out is 19.25" X 7.5", overall is 20.5" X 8.75", depth: 3.25"
  • Use for in wall or in ceiling home entertainment, surround sound, home theater, multiple room systems, This Listing and price is for complete 6 piece in wall and in ceiling speaker set
  • Power Rating: 700 Watts System Power Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20KHz
  • Magnetically Shielded Speakers with Computerized Enclosure Design
  • Bluetooth Connectivity, SD Card, Flash Drive MP3 Player and FM Tuner
  • 5 Discrete Independent Channel Input/output for true surround sound
  • Plug and Play Connections, 3.5MM Aux to RCA Wire Included
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best budget sound system?

Channels

The number and type of speakers that you want to connect will determine the channel count. The size of your space may also play a role in this decision.
Home theatre systems that are receiver-based can be purchased in many channels. These channels include 5.1, 7.1.1, and 9.1. This number indicates the total number of speakers and subwoofers in the system.

Power

The watts denotes the total power output of an amplifier. It is essential that the receiver you choose is strong enough to provide enough power for your speakers. For optimal performance, an A/V receiver should deliver at least 100 W to each channel. Impedance is another term that describes the speaker's performance and amplifier. Speakers are usually rated between 6 and 8 Ohms. Home theatre systems require that the speakers and amplifier be properly paired by their manufacturer.

Wireless Vs. Wired

It is often easy to decide whether you want cords or cables. The main concern will be whether it is easy to hide or place the cables connecting to your home theater.
Wireless speaker systems are popular because they're easy to install. Wireless systems can be moved around easily and used in different locations. You can also use the wireless speakers outdoors, such as on your patio.

Apps And Connectivity

You want your receiver to have the ability to use apps such as Spotify, Google Cast or Apple Airplay. Many options are available with this feature, as well as many that will connect to Internet radio stations to stream your radio.
You can also control the receivers via compatible apps. This allows you to adjust settings and switch between different content from your smartphone.

Surround Sound Technology

You can select a receiver that has Dolby Atmos and DTS:X built-in. A dedicated Phono input is another important feature that you may want to include on your receiver. The input provides better sound quality than integrated circuits or computer chips and can be used to improve dynamics, sound depth, and detail. It's an excellent feature for electronics, even if your receiver doesn't come with a phonograph.

Number And Type Of Connections

What number of HDMI-connected devices can you connect? Multiple HDMI and optical connections are available on many receivers so that you can connect your television to streaming boxes, gaming consoles, cable boxes or other HDMI-connected devices. Your receiver can be used to switch between different applications. Make sure it can support all your devices. A receiver can have 4 to 10 HDMI connections.

Smart Features

You should consider receivers that have voice control. Receivers that support Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant are available.

FAQs

How Big A Screen Should I Get?

For many, this may be the most important question. For a true cinema experience, a large screen is essential. It all depends on how you want to seat and what size the space is. In medium-sized theatres, 120 inches is the most common screen size. A minimum distance for a screen that large is around 10 feet. For every foot of screen size, the average seating distance is between 10 and 12 inches. Some people prefer to be closer in order to get the best experience. Others don't like being as close. This can be achieved in multi-row seating arrangements - maybe the children will prefer the front row.

What Is The Best Speaker Setup?

A surround sound system consists of two speakers at the front and two speakers in the center. Two surround speakers are located behind your viewer. One subwoofer is included. Two speakers can be added to either side of the viewer in a seven-speaker setup. For larger rooms there are nine-speaker systems. These have two speakers next to the viewer on either side. There are also additional speakers at 70 degrees from your viewers. These traditional layouts can be enhanced by Dolby Atmos overhead speakers, which create an immersive, more real-life experience.

How Many Watts Home Theater Do I Need?

Your theater will sound better if you have more power under your hood. Strangely, but true, high-power theaters sound louder when they are at lower volume levels. 125 watts per channel would be the best power level to maintain without worrying about running out.

How Many Speakers Do I Need?

You will need five or more speakers to create a surround sound system. Dolby Atmos enabled setups should include at least five speakers. A good system should have at least five, seven or nine principal speakers. Your space limitations and your budget will determine the amount of speakers you select. You should ensure that your home theater receiver has sufficient input and output options for the speakers you have chosen.

Can I Use A Flat-screen TV For The Display?

It is possible, it may be suitable for small spaces. If you decide to go this route, an OLED set of high quality from LG is a great choice. OLED panels are perfect for film because they have excellent color reproduction and great black levels. OLED panels are larger than other projectors and measure 88 inches in height. You should also consider that black bars can reduce screen real estate when you view 21:9 wide format film, which is a popular format used for theatrical releases.

How Do You Make Your Rear Speakers Wireless?

Although you can add wired speakers to your rear using a wireless adapter, it is still not ideal. Some manufacturers offer wireless surround speaker systems that can be used wirelessly if necessary.

What Wattage Should I Get For My Home Theater System?

Performance is just like performance in cars. The more horsepower you have, the bigger and better your theater will sound. It will sound even louder if you crank it up. It is strange but true that a louder theater can actually produce more goosebumps at lower volume levels.
You should ensure that you use the recommended minimum power for the speakers. A doubling in power is required to hear volume changes up to three decibels. This means that you have 70 watts of power per channel and you desire a significantly higher sound level. You'd need 140 Watts to do this.

There are numerous points to pick from in general, but doing so well may help you be more convenient and save time! When selecting a best budget sound system, pay close attention to the elements listed above, and don't forget to verify the safety.

Have you picked a product like that after reading our article on how to choose and top the best budget sound system? Hopefully, the information provided will assist you in selecting the best option for you.


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About Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony is a freelance writer and computer expert who enjoys helping others get the most out of their technology. He has written extensively about laptops, soundbars, and other computer-related topics, and he currently serves as the editor of The Audio Insights website. When he's not writing or tinkering with his gadgets, Piers can be found spending time with his wife and family.