The 7 Best Mini Audio Systems, Tested And Researched

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Rockville HTS56 Home Theater
Image credit: Amazon.com

What’s the best way to enjoy your favorite music? A great pair of headphones or speakers, naturally. But what if you don’t have either? Or maybe you have both, but they’re old and broken. What are your options in a digital age when good sound reproduction has become so accessible at such a reasonable price? Not everyone can afford high-end audio systems, which makes finding a reliable alternative all the more crucial.

Fortunately, with the right system and some tuning, even your smartphone or tablet can produce great-sounding audio that rivals that of most dedicated home audio systems on the market today. Here are our top picks for mini audio systems!.

Our team spent about 15 hours researching, sifting, and selecting many high-quality models. Rockville HTS56 Home Theater is the product that receives the highest award from us. In addition to the other suggestions on this list, which are equally deserving of your consideration, we have also compiled a helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Rockville HTS56 Home Theater
Our Score:
9.9
Rockville
  • 2x 3” Full Range Front Channel Speakers. 2x 3” Full Range Rear Channel Speakers. Top Quality MDF Wood Cabinets with Plastic Front Panels. Built-In FM Receiver with Amazing Reception. Built-In Optical input to connect to your Television. Digital Display. Selectable preset equalizer curves.
  • You can independently control the volume of each speaker and the subwoofer. Bluetooth v2.1. USB Input (max file size 16Gb). SD Input (max file size 16Gb). 2 ¼” MIC Inputs with Echo function for karaoke. 5 RCA Audio Outputs. 6 RCA DVD Audio Inputs. 2 RCA AUX Inputs.
  • Zero distortion can be heard even with volume and bass settings all the way up! The sound on this system is better than anything even that cost twice the price!. Cable Length: Front L/F: 12Ft, Rear L/R: 30Ft, Center: 10Ft. Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20KHz. Certification: CE and RoHS Compliant. Signal to noise ratio: ≥70dB (Maximum output with THD+N < 1%)
  • Optical input to connect to your TV. FM Antenna Input. Full Function Remote. The Subwoofer unit has 4 LED lighting modes: (blink to the beat, solid on, spectrum EQ analyzer, off) and selectable with 7 colors or multi-color mode.
  • HTS56 5.1 Channel Home Theater System with LED Light Effects. Plug and play system with everything you need right out of the box. 1000-Watts Peak Power. 500-Watts Program Power. 250-Watts Continuous RMS Power. 8” Subwoofer with Built-In Receiver. 1x 3” Center Channel Speaker.
  • Polk's exclusive Voice Adjust Technology even lets you INDEPENDENTLY CONTROL VOICE LEVELS maximizing sound clarity and minimizing voice delays and muzzled sounds. Equipped with INDEPENDENT MODES FOR MOVIES, MUSIC, AND SPORTS, it delivers balanced sound clarity so that you hear every word, making your movie, sports and music experience exquisite
  • EXPERIENCE IMMERSIVE SURROUND SOUND WITH POLK's PATENTED SDA AUDIO TECHNOLOGY and 5.1 Dolby Digital and DTS decoding that creates an expansive surroundstage and detailed stereo image delivering an incredible room-filling listening experience, which is comparable to what you would experience in a concert or theater
  • Includes powerful PLUG-AND-PLAY WIRELESS SUBWOOFER that is instantly recognized by the sound bar the moment you power it on. An 8" DOWNWARD FIRING DRIVER fills your living room, bedroom, or media room with high-impact multi-dimensional surround sound
  • ENDLESS CONNECTION OPTIONS - 3 HDMI Inputs (HDCP 2.2 compliant), 1 HDMI-ARC output for connecting your smart TV and other devices, an Optical port for Blu-Ray players and set-top box, and an Auxiliary Analog input for connecting any non-digital device with a 3.5 mm pin. In addition, you can connect a multitude of devices using Bluetooth, USB and Internet
  • BIGGER, MORE DYNAMIC SOUND - Packed inside this slim and sleek sound bar 7 powerful drivers and tweeters produce exceptionally clear sound, more superior than any traditional sound bar
  • QUICKLY AND EASILY SETUP THE SOUNDBAR SYSTEM IN MINUTES using the Google Home app on your Android or iOS devices
  • WIRELESSLY STREAM MUSIC with GOOGLE CHROMECAST from your smartphone, tablet or other compatible Android devices for a multi-room system. You can now cast your favorite music tracks to your sound bar and enjoy unlimited playback using services like Pandora, Spotify and others. Connect to a host of smart devices, TV, speakers and enjoy high-quality sound instantly
  • BLUETOOTH COMPATIBLE: The professional integrated indoor house stereo receiver is equipped with Bluetooth wireless music streaming. Works w/ today’s latest devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and computers with hassle free receiver pairing
  • EQ CONTROLS: The speaker sound amplifying device has crisp buttons for the audio sources and selectors, rotary knob for equalization and master volume adjustments. It also features blue LED illuminated buttons and knobs for high visibility
  • NOTE : PD3000BT is just an upgraded version of the PD3000BA
  • DISPLAY METER: The compact and rack mount amplifier has a built in digital fluorescent display meter which displays all the functions and input used. Remote control is also included in the package for distant audio adjustments
  • 3000 WATT POWER: The Pyle 4 Channel Pre Amplifier is perfect for your karaoke and home entertainment sound system. It gives you 3000W peak power to be used for multi speakers with 2-8 ohms impedance allowing you to enjoy high quality audio
  • The Klipsch reference theater pack delivers a superior acoustic performance while keeping 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
  • The reference theater pack brings the Klipsch cinematic sound into your home with an incredibly minimal footprint
  • Our mini design with big sound make these perfect for a living room, bedroom, kitchen, restaurant, and more. Product Dimensions: 4.13" x 4.13 x 7.3" x 4.74" inches. Product Weight: 1.32 Lbs. (Per Speaker)
  • (2) Speakers. (2) mounting brackets with metal bars. (2) safety cables. (8) screws. (1) User manual?. Features: Cube by Rockville - Pair of White 3.5 Speakers With Swivel Mounting Bracket. RMS Power: 30 Watts each / 60 Watts per pair. Peak Power: 75 Watts each / 150 Watts per pair
  • Audiophile grade sound quality. You can use these along with a subwoofer for an amazing home theater experience. Great for use as surround speakers. Euro block speaker terminals with quick disconnect
  • Impedance: 8 Ohm. Easy Wall Mount Brackets with 360 Degree Swivel Rotation For Optimal Sound Staging. 3.5 Woofer with Paper Cone has Natural Sound Reproduction with Clear Mids and Bass. 0.5 black PEI tweeter delivers crystal clear highs
  • True 2 way speaker system delivers way better sound quality than famous brands who make these in a 1 way design. Sensitivity: 86 dB +-2dB (1M/2.83V). Frequency Response (3db): 130Hz - 20kHz. Cabinet Material: ABS. Color: White. Shielded grill offers additional protection from dust and damage
  • YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC AT YOUR FINGERTIPS - With built-in Bluetooth, play music from eight different devices, and create an integrated multi-room audio system with Denon HEOS LINK. Allows wireless music streaming from Spotify, TIDAL, Pandora and more
  • With its 100-year legacy and Japanese precision technology, Denon AV Receiver S540BT DELIVERS MULTI-DIMENSIONAL SURROUND SOUND with 5.2 channel compatibility and SUPPORTS 4K ULTRA HD PICTURE QUALITY, perfect for your home theater and entertainment system
  • CONVENIENT CONTROL - Connect the AVR with your Smart TV Remote and access all your speaker sources and surround mode selections using just one remote, or download the Denon 500 Series Remote App for iOS and Android and control the AVR through your phone
  • OUR EASY ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT walks you through clear simple instructions to connect your TV, specific EQ settings and helps you optimize your surround sound
  • FOUR QUICK SELECT BUTTONS ON THE FRONT PANEL help you store your preferred audio settings for television, Blu-Ray, and more, and allows you to switch between them quickly
  • MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR 4K UHD TV – At 140W per channel, the Denon AVR-S540BT receiver delivers exceptional brightness and contrast, and supports HLG, HDR, BT.2020, Wide Color Gamut and 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling for realistic display and immersive sound
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Factors Should You Consider While Choosing best mini audio systems?

Getting to the best decision for a product purchase may take a bit of time. In a nutshell, we're available to serve you with your product problems at all hours of the day and night!

You can rest assured if you consider the following points before selecting best mini audio systems:

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.

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.

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.

A/V Receivers

An A/V receiver forms the core of any home theater setup. You need to make sure that you get a high-quality package. Modern technology has made it possible to pack A/V receivers with many cool features. It's great that there are so many options available, but first-time buyers might be confused about which one to choose. Before you decide on the home theatre package that is right for you, there are important points to consider.

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.

Smart Features

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

Speakers

Good audio quality is also dependent on the speakers. Some packages include bookshelf speakers while others come with floor-standing or table speakers. Home theatre systems typically come with either 5.1 or 7.1 channel speakers. This subwoofer reproduces low frequencies, while satellite speakers are used for front, centre, and rear channel speakers. You can either mount four satellite speakers at each corner or place them on the floor in your home theater setup.

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.

Budget And Space

You will narrow down your options based on your needs and budget. Most people will spend considerable time setting up their home, including the interiors, and the TV set. Many people neglect amplifiers and speakers. Other factors to consider include the size and placement of speakers, as well as whether there is enough space. You can choose a package with bookshelf-sized speakers for small rooms. You can choose a package with bookshelf speakers or floor-standing speakers for rooms that are slightly larger.

FAQs

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.

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 Hook Up A Home Theater System And How Long Does It Take?

It will take 2 days for your system to be up and running. Day 1 will be required to connect all wires. Day 2 will allow you to read through the owner's manual page by page to personalize your system. Home theatre receivers have menus which guide you through every option, as opposed to stereo receivers. Today's home theatre receivers are self-calibrating, which is a good thing. Self-calibration refers to the use of an integrated microphone by the receiver to automatically measure the room's acoustics, and then to set the distance and levels for each speaker relative to the listening position.

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 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 Most Important Speaker In A Home Theatre?

The Center Channel Speaker is the Most Important Speaker in Your Home Theater System: Audiophiles consider the center channel speaker to be the best. It produces superior sound quality than any other speaker. It's also the speaker that most dialogue is heard from.

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 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.

In general, product information and news are now available to users. In addition, as previously said, the Internet is constantly updated with new technology. Thus, customers will need to be informed so please subscribe to our newsletter or visit our website frequently to check the latest information.

Do you have any product-related questions or concerns you'd like to share? As a result of your efforts, we will attempt to ensure even greater standards of excellence!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.