Surround Sound System

Surround Sound System

Surround Sound System

We all hate running wires across the floor, especially when they are easily concealed. We just invested in a top-notch home theater system. We have a large monitor video, a receiver and Audiophile home movies, and some great speakers. So far, so good. Now is the time to connect the rear channel surround sound. Agh! Our system was degraded look of Star Trek to Mad Max. This is an obvious application for radio, right?

In fact, there some serious problems with using wireless techniques for Surround Sound.

Delay Time:

Wireless surround sound systems have a processing / transmission time period that makes the rear-channel sound out of sync with the audio from the front speakers. The inherent time required to generate the signal transmitted to the speakers, decode the signal, and, finally, to amplify the signal for the speaker does that travel time. Low latency audio processing is required to create surround sound.

The different sound from the speakers should be heard at the same instant. For most installations, the rear channels are closer to the listener than the front channels. For this reason, Dolby Digital and Dolby Surround Pro logic systems apply a delay of a few milliseconds to surround sound channels. The point is that criticism.

When people hear the same sound from different directions, creating the illusion that the sound source is a ghost biggest source of sound. Recording engineers use the controls balance to simulate the sounds through the sound field, allowing them to localize sounds at different locations through the perception stage. Timing is critical between the surround channels where the depth and location will be determined by the ears, and ultimately the brain.

Interference:

The second problem with wireless surround sound systems is interference. There are multiple technologies used for cellular telephony surround sound, and the source of interference is specific to the technology.

Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi operating in the 2.4GHz band Bluetooth is the technology often used for wireless keyboards and mice, but the ability of Bluetooth systems is marginal for surround sound applications. The signal strength Bluetooth is only about 1 milliwatt. Dolby Digital requires a bandwidth of 400 Kbps and Dolby DTS uses a bandwidth of about 450 kbps for a 5.1 system. Bluetooth has a maximum speed of data transfer of 433 Kbps, which is cutting it very close.

Another alternative for the transmission of surround sound is Wi-Fi 802.11b (also in the 2.4 GHz band as 802.11g). A signal 802.11b is capable of 54 Mbps of peak capacity (30 Mbps in practice), which is more than enough for this application.

However, there are important sources of interference in the 2.4 GHz spectrum that the cordless phones, Wi-Fi, as wireless-enabled computers portable, wireless game controllers, fluorescent lights, and even microwave ovens. Even bad electrical connections can cause large releases of spectrum RF.

Bluetooth attempts to avoid the interference of "frequency hopping". If the signal is getting interference, (hopefully) will only be for a split second, because the system will identify the interference, and switch to a different frequency. Wi-Fi also has the ability to avoid interference by changing channel, and redundant loops of relaying information from Wi-Fi products scabies Many say interference problems. Unfortunately, the products are constrained by the capabilities of 802.11 chipsets, and the 802.11 protocol itself.

IR (infrared), which is frequently used by remote controls, is another technology sometimes used for wireless surround sound. IR has a bandwidth capacity of over 100 Mbps for infrared data transmission was popular in computers Portable few years ago. More recently it has been replaced by other wireless technologies such as Bluetooth, as it requires no line of sight direct (LOS). The infrared transmission is lost when there is a loss of LOS between the transmitter and receiver, and also the signal is subject to interference infrared remote control and ambient light.

Power:

A third problem is that the rear speakers require a power source if they are receiving the signal wirelessly. Have the power not only for real speakers, but also energy is needed for an on the card Amplifier. If our goal is to remove all cables, this is a problem. Powercast (Pittsburgh, PA) is a wireless technology that will be the power supply to small devices like cell phones, but the maximum is 10-15 watts, not enough channels for surround sound.

On a final note, if you decide to buy a wireless surround sound, read carefully the product attributes. I recently attended an installation on a DVD / Receiver System was acquired with wireless capability. However, in this case, wireless capability was for distribution to a second room for the main channels, not capacity wireless channel surround sound.

How do I use multiple optical inputs on my surround sound system?

I'm thinking in getting a PS3 in the future, mainly for Blu-ray. And I want to know how I can get surround sound from it before you buy. I got my 360 in the optical input my sound system on my PC and the 6 channel direct input. The only other input I have is digital coaxial, and I have no idea what they used to ... So is there a switch or something could be used to connect two optical inputs?

This issue has been resolved. check: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080219024909AA5WzFD as regards the coaxial digital output, is used to send the sound (like optical line) to a receiver.

Sony HTS-S370 Surround Sound Home Theater System, Black
Sony HTS-S370 Surround Sound Home Theater System, Black
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Description

Complete your entertainment experience with 5.1 channels of high-quality surround sound and 1000 watts of power with the HT-SS370 surround sound system. Connect multiple HD devices using a single HDMI cable per device and turn this great system into your entertainment hub, plus operate all your compatible BRAVIA Sync devices using one remote control. Add optional S-AIR accessories and enjoy the convenience of wireless rear speakers or multi-room streaming.

Features

  • 1000 watt, 5.1-channel surround sound system ideal for Blu-ray Disc players
  • HDMI Repeater lets you connect multiple devices and send to your HDTV with just one HDMI cable
  • BRAVIA Sync compatible for controlling multiple devices with one remote
  • Wireless S-AIR support for adding wireless speakers with multi-room capability
  • Digital media port for iPod (iPod cradle sold separately)
Panasonic SC-BT230 5.1 Surround Sound System
Panasonic SC-BT230 5.1 Surround Sound System
List Price: $399.95
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Description

VIERA Cast's assorted online content just keeps getting better - in addition to the popular contents such as YouTube and Picasa Web Albums, it now offers Pandora Internet Radio, movies streamed from Netflix, exciting sports from FOX Sports, and tweeting web communications with Twitter. No PC required. By using a combination of real speakers and virtual speakers, a more natural and smoother sound can be enjoyed. You'll notice the difference, epecially in an action scene - you'll feel like you're sitting in the center of a true cinema theater. With the new bamboo cone speakers, the sound becomes much more responsive. Vocals are more pure and cleaner, and the dialog is crisper and easier to understand than ever before. The SC-BT230 is compatible with a new feature of ARC (Audio Return Channel). ARC allows receiving audio signals from the TV, on top of the preexisting HDMI function of sending audio/video signals to the TV with just one cable. This new feature will simplify the connection by eliminating an audio cable connection between the TV audio output and the main unit's audio input.

Get your home theater going right out of the box with the Panasonic SC-BT230 home entertainment system, which includes a Blu-ray Disc player/amplifier plus a complete 5.1-channel surround sound speaker system (including one subwoofer, one center channel speaker, and four satellite speakers). It also features 1000 watts of total power, Panasonic's VIERA Cast streaming video, 7.1-channel virtual surround sound (from the 5.1-channel speaker set), an FM radio, SD memory card slot of medial playback, and bamboo cones in the speakers. And you'll be able to play music and video stored on your iPhone or iPod thanks to the included iPod dock. Key Features VIERA Cast: Enjoy Great Web Entertainment on Your HDTV VIERA Cast's assorted online content just keeps getting better--in addition to the popular contents such as YouTube and Picasa Web Albums, it now offers Pandora Internet Radio, movies streamed from Netflix (unlimited membership required) and Amazon Video on Demand, exciting sports from FOX Sports, and tweeting web communications with Twitter. And no PC is required. Connect to your home network via Ethernet or go wireless using an optional Wi-Fi dongle that connects to this home theater system via one of its USB ports. VIERA Cast streaming content. Cinema Surround: Reproduces Realistic Movie Theater Surround Experience By using a combination of real speakers and virtual speakers, a more natural and smoother sound can be enjoyed. You'll notice the difference, especially in an action scene--you'll feel like you're sitting in the center of a true cinema theater. Advanced Bamboo Cone Speaker: Clear, Beautiful Vocals With the new bamboo cone speakers, the sound becomes much more responsive. Vocals are more pure and cleaner, and the dialog is crisper and easier to understand than ever before. Audio Return Channel: Simple Connection with HDMI Cable The SC-BT230 is compatible with a new feature of ARC (Audio Return Channel). ARC allows receiving audio signals from the TV, on top of the preexisting HDMI function of sending audio/video signals to the TV with just one cable. This new feature will simplify the connection by eliminating an audio cable connection between the TV audio output and the main unit's audio input. (ARC compatible TV is required.) Specifications Total power: 1000 watts RMS (125 x 2 for front speakers; 250W for center speaker; 125W x 2 for surround speakers; 250W for subwoofer) Dolby Digital decoder: Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital DTS decoder: DTS-HD Master Audio Essential, DTS HD High Resolution Audio, DTS DVD+R/RW/R(DL) playback formats: Video, AVCHD DVD-R/RW/R(DL) playback formats: Video, DVD-VR, AVCHD, JPEG, MP3 CD-R/RW playback formats: CD-DA, MP3, JPEG BD-RE/RE DL playback formats: BD-MV, JPEG SD memory card slot: Compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC cards; plays AVCHD, MPET2, and JPEG media Universal Dock for iPod/iPhone: Integrated VIERA Cast: Yes Wireless LAN system: Ready (requires optional USB dongle) FM radio: Yes, with 30 presets Main unit dimensions: 2-1/8 x 16-15/16 x 11-5/16 inches (HxWxD) Connections HDMI output: 1 Digital audio input: 2 (optical) USB port: 1 (for optional Wi-Fi dongle) Ethernet: 1 Audio input: 1 (stereo minijack, 3.5mm) Speakers Front and surround speakers (x2): 2-1/2-inch full range, cone type; 4-11/16 x 3-5/32 x 2-11/16 inches (HxWxD) Center speaker: 2-1/2-inch full range, cone type; 3-11/32 x 5-23/32 x 2-13/16 inches (HxWxD) Subwoofer: 6-1/2-inch woofer; 11-13/32 x 5-23/32 x 10-5/32 inches (HxWxD) What's in the Box Blu-ray Disc player/amplifier, 5.1-channel surround sound speaker set (subwoofer, center channel, four satellites), remote control (with batteries), speaker cables, video cable, operating instructions

Features

  • Home theater system in a box, with Blu-ray Disc player/amplifier plus 5.1-channel speaker set
  • Provides 1000 watts of total power (RMS); 7.1-channel virtual surround sound via 5.1-channel speakers
  • VIERA Cast Internet streaming video and music from services including Netflix,
  • Connects to your home network via Ethernet or using optional Wi-Fi dongle (connects to USB port)
  • Plays Blu-ray discs plus full array of DVD and CD formats; SD memory card slot for playback of music, video, and photos
Logitech Z-5500 THX-Certified 5.1 Digital Surround Sound Speaker System
Logitech Z-5500 THX-Certified 5.1 Digital Surround Sound Speaker System
List Price: $399.99
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Description

Logitech has taken the award-winning Logitech Z-680 speaker system and made it even better. How? By improving everything from the subwoofer to the satellites and adding new innovations like real-time digital sound equalization. The result is the Logitech Z-5500 Digital, a THX-certified, 500-watt 5.1 surround sound speaker system that offers everything you could possibly want and some things you didnt even know you needed. And once you plug in your PC, DVD or music player, or video game console, youll never want to listen to anything else.

Features

  • THX-certified 5.1 speakers with 505 Watts of power
  • 10-inch subwoofer
  • Audio inputs for up to six devices
  • Includes wireless remote control with batteries
  • 2 year limited warranty
Logitech Surround Sound Speakers Z506 (980-000430)
Logitech Surround Sound Speakers Z506 (980-000430)
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Description

Logitech surround sound speakers z506—for when you want to be moved by big, 5.1 surround sound from your music, movies, and games.

Features

  • Multiple inputs make it easy to connect your PC, game console, iPod, DVD player and more
  • Rich 3D stereo in 5.1 surround sound, even from 2-channel stereo sources
  • 75 watts (RMS) of balanced power and room-filling sound
  • Ported down-firing subwoofer pumps out deep, clean, booming bass
  • On-speaker bass control lets you easily dial the bass level up or down
Sony HT-CT150 3D Sound Bar System
Sony HT-CT150 3D Sound Bar System
List Price: $299.99
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Description

Complete your 3D home entertainment experience with simple, yet powerful surround sound. The HT-CT150 32" 3D sound bar home theater system features 3D compatibility and can also be turned into your entertainment hub by connecting multiple HD or 3D devices using a single HDMI cable per device (sold separately). In addition to the latest audio decoding technology, this beautifully sleek sound bar can be easily mounted directly to select BRAVIA TVs, hung on your wall, or placed separately on a shelf.

Features

  • HDMI Repeater for simplified audio and video signal transfer
  • 3D HDMI pass-through
  • Audio Return Channel uses just one cable for TV audio
Ear Force DSS 7.1 Channel Dolby Surround Sound Processor
Ear Force DSS 7.1 Channel Dolby Surround Sound Processor
List Price: $89.99
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Description

The Ear Force DSS 7.1 channel Dolby surround sound processor transforms any stereo headset into full, immersive surround sound for playing Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 or PC games and watching movies with Blu-ray or DVD players. It works with any set of stereo headphones and is the perfect complement to the Turtle Beach Ear Force series of stereo gaming headsets (X31, X11, XLC, Z1, Z2 and PX21). The optical digital input easily connects to a game console or media player for Dolby 7.1 channel surround sound and the analog input can also be used to upgrade analog stereo audio sources to Dolby Pro Logic IIx for virtual surround sound. A bass boost control adds sub-woofer effects for enhanced realism to any audio source.With the Ear Force DSS, video game and movie fans will be able to hear distinct audio events happening all around them, greatly enhancing the overall experience and rewarding gamers with a newfound competitive edge. DSS users playing games and watching movies on their game consoles will actually hear the 7.1 surround sound from certain 5.1 channel audio tracks via additional “hidden” channels called Dolby EX.

Features

  • Dolby 7.1 channel surround sound processor
  • Works with any stereo headset or headphones
  • Headphone amplifier with variable bass boost
  • Digital optical and analog stereo inputs
  • Works with XBOX 360, PlayStation 3, PC and Mac
Electrohome ELE-HTB920E 5.1 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System with HD 1080p Upconverting DVD Player & AM/FM Digital Radio
Electrohome ELE-HTB920E 5.1 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System with HD 1080p Upconverting DVD Player & AM/FM Digital Radio
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Description

If you're looking for a complete and compact home theater system that does it all, then look no further than the Electrohome Home Theater System with 1080p DVD Player.5.1 Channel Amplifier/Receiver with 5 Speakers and Subwoofer: The integrated amplifier/receiver in this system allows you to connect the four included surround speakers, one center channel speaker, and a subwoofer for true surround sound!AM/FM PLL Digital Radio Tuner: Listen to all your favourite tunes with the integrated AM/FM radio with digital tuning. The radio in this system is PLL (Phase Lock Loop), which results in clearer reception by reducing interference and noise.1080p Upconverting DVD Player with HDMI: The DVD player in this system is capable of upconverting your DVDs to near HD quality. 1080p DVD upscaling offers the highest possible resolution your HDTV is capable of displaying with an HDMI connection. This DVD player is also compatible with non-HDTVs.Remote Control & Onscreen Display: Fully control all aspects of the DVD player with the included remote control. The onscreen display allows you to control not only DVD settings, but settings of the amplifier/receiver as well.Play Your Audio CDs and View Pictures: Compatible media includes: DVD, DVD+-R/RW, CD, CD-R/RW, JPEG CD.All the Connections you Need: Outputs include HDMI, composite video, s-video, component video, RCA audio left/right, digital coaxial audio, and all the necessary speaker outputs.Connect your iPod/MP3 Player: This system includes an auxiliary input (RCA audio left/right) for connecting audio sources such as iPods and MP3 players (cable not included).List of Contents: DVD player/receiver, 4 surround speakers, center channel speaker, subwoofer, remote control, 2 'AAA' batteries, speaker connector cables, AM/FM antennas, user manual, 1 year manufacturer's direct warranty.

Features

  • 5.1 Channel Amplifier/Receiver with 5 Speakers and Subwoofer
  • AM/FM PLL Digital Radio Tuner; 1080p Upconverting DVD Player with HDMI
  • Remote Control & Onscreen Display
  • Play Your Audio CDs and View Pictures
  • All the Connections you Need; Connect your iPod/MP3 Player
Sony BDV-E370 Sony 5.1 Blu-ray Disc System [3D Compatible]
Sony BDV-E370 Sony 5.1 Blu-ray Disc System [3D Compatible]
List Price: $399.99
Sale Price: $275.35
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Description

Enjoy Full HD 1080p and powerful 5.1 channel HD surround sound with the Sony BDV-E370 3D Blu-ray Disc Home Theater System. Minimized wait times means you can start watching your movies faster than ever. Plus, with this great system you can take your entertainment experience to the next level in 3D. You can instantly access a wide variety of movies, music and more from: Netflix, Amazon on Demand, Pandora, Slacker, and YouTube.

Features

  • 850W watt 5.1 channel surround sound (142Wx5+140W)
  • BRAVIA Internet Video: Access movies, music, videos & more
  • WiFi Ready & 3D Blu-ray Disc playback capability
  • Quick Start/Load to watch movies faster than ever
  • Enjoy music, photos and video via front USB slot
Creative Labs SB1090 USB Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 Audio System
Creative Labs SB1090 USB Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 Audio System
List Price: $113.99
Sale Price: $44.99
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Description

Adding the USB Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 sound card is the easiest way to make your music and movies sound their best. X-Fi Technology restores details and vibrance your music and movies lost during compression, making them richer and fuller, and expands stereo into surround sound with headphones or speakers. Plus it includes PowerDVD software via free download for the ultimate PC movie entertainment experience.

Features

  • X-Fi Crystalizer technology restores the detail and vibrance to your compressed music and movies.
  • Slip on your headphones and X-Fi CMSS-3D technology moves the sound away from your ears and into the space around you.
  • Expand your stereo music and movies into surround sound with X-Fi CMSS-3D technology. Voices are centered in front of you.
  • Realistic sound effects in games Bullets whiz past your head. Explosions shake the room.
  • Cinematic surround sound from DVD movies Watch your DVDs in cinematic surround sound with PowerDVD software
Panasonic SC-HTB500 2.1-Channel SoundBar Speaker System with Wireless Kelton Subwoofer (Black)
Panasonic SC-HTB500 2.1-Channel SoundBar Speaker System with Wireless Kelton Subwoofer (Black)
List Price: $349.95
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Description

Wireless Kelton Subwoofer. The included Wireless Kelton Subwoofer provides flexible and easy installation with no wires to connect. Clear-mode Dialog Clear TV Sound Reproduction With clear-mode dialog, the voice will sound more from the center of the TV display. With more precise linking between the picture and the sound, the dialog voices and vocals in movies and music can be enjoyed with clearer sound. Advanced Bamboo Cone Speaker Clear, Beautiful Vocals. With the new bamboo cone speakers the sound becomes more responsive. Vocals are purer and clearer, and the dialog is crisper and easier to understand than ever before.

Features

  • Wireless Subwoofer
  • 3D Pass Through
  • Advanced Bamboo Cone Speaker
  • 3D
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