How to Upgrade Your Home Sound System for a Better Audio Experience

A great home theater sound system can help you enjoy movies, music and family time. However, if you have been using your current system for a while, you may be finding that the sound isn’t as good as you would like. This could be due to the sound not being as clear, the bass being poor, and/or your equipment not being able to support new devices features.

These issues can often be solved by upgrading a few parts of your sound system. It is important you know what part of your system needs improving and pick the correct equipment for it.

Below are some easy ways to upgrade your current home sound system without spending unnecessary money.

Check What Is Missing in Your Existing Sound System 

Before purchasing any new audio equipment, spend a little time to work out what is wrong with your current set up so that you can make sure you purchase the right upgrade.

You may have issues such as:

Muffled sounds - Voices and music lack clarity.

Lack of bass - You aren’t getting enough bass from your system when watching films or listening to music.

Low volume - Not enough volume coming from your speakers.

Inconsistent volume - Some areas of the room are louder than others.

Old connections - Your system may not be compatible with modern devices or streaming your music wirelessly.

Once you know what the issue is then you can easily determine if you need new speakers, an amplifier, AV receiver or subwoofer.

Replace Old Speakers with Better Ones

One of the most impactful components in your sound system would be your speakers. If your current speakers are old or do not deliver the quality desired then upgrading them can be a great place to start.

Depending on the room you are looking to use them in you have a few options.

Floor standing speakers – These are ideal for larger rooms giving powerful sound for music and movies.

Bookshelf speakers – These are best suited for smaller rooms and are great for daily music listening.

Centre speakers – These help to make voices and dialogue clearer. Great for movies.

Surround speakers – These give a surround sound effect making movies more immersive.

Outdoor speakers – Useful if you have outside spaces such as gardens, balconies or outdoor entertaining areas.

Before purchasing new speakers ensure they are compatible with your current amplifier/AV receiver.

Upgrade Your AV Receiver for Better Performance

An AV receiver allows you to connect various audio and video devices and will send audio signals through to your speakers, whilst also providing support for various audio formats.

If your current AV receiver is a few years old then there may be some functions missing which are provided on newer televisions, projectors and gaming consoles.

• Features to look out for in an AV receiver include:

• Support for Dolby Atmos, providing a more immersive cinematic experience.

• HDMI 2.1 to make sure any modern devices you have are compatible.

• Support for 4K video.

• Wireless streaming via Bluetooth/WiFi.

Multiple HDMI ports so you can connect your TV, projector and gaming console. You don’t need to purchase the most expensive receiver. Make sure you get something that will work with your speakers and has only the features you really need.

Add a Subwoofer for Deeper Bass 

If you are experiencing a lack of fullness when listening to action movies or music, adding a subwoofer could help.

Subwoofers play low frequencies that normal speakers may not be able to cope with. This will make the explosions, background music and songs with bass in your movies really stand out.

Consider the size of your room and what kind of sound you enjoy. If you have a small room then a smaller subwoofer may be ideal. Whereas if you have a large home theatre room you may want to go for a more powerful subwoofer.

Keeping your subwoofer in the correct position will help keep the bass balanced in your room.

Adjust Your Speaker Placement

Sometimes you may be able to improve your audio set-up by just adjusting the placement of your current speakers.

For example: Speakers that are too close to walls or tucked behind furniture will not work as well.

• Front speakers should be spaced out enough,

• Centre speaker should be close to your TV or Projector Screen

• Surround Speakers should be placed depending on your room and speakers.

• Make sure nothing is blocking your speakers.

• Try experimenting with your Subwoofer position so you can hear a more balanced bass.

Also consider your room! Adding things such as curtains, carpets and furniture will make your listening experience more comfortable by reducing any unnecessary echoes.

Check Compatibility Before Buying New Equipment 

Getting the most out of your sound upgrade by making sure they are compatible.

For example, if you're upgrading your new speakers, ensure that they can be powered by your current amp. When upgrading your AV receiver make sure it has the correct connections for your TV or projector.

Before purchasing, ensure:There is the correct speaker impedance and power requirements.

• The correct amplifier and receiver.

• HDMI and audio connections.

• Correct audio format support.

• Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and more.

This ensures you do not purchase anything that does not work well with your existing setup.

 Conclusion

Upgrading your home sound system does not always mean buying everything new. You can start by improving your speakers, adding a subwoofer, replacing an old AV receiver or simply changing the position of your existing speakers. 

At Melody Home Theater Store, we help you choose the right speakers, amplifiers, AV receivers and other audio equipment according to your room size, listening needs and budget. With over 50 years of experience in audio-video solutions, we also help with system planning, installation and setup. Our aim is to make choosing and enjoying your home sound system simple.