Best Surround Sound Systems for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: July 23rd, 2024

🎬Picture transforming your living room into your very own cinema or concert hall with top-tier surround sound. Whether you're big into movies, serious about gaming, or just love music, the right surround sound system can take your listening experience to new heights.

We’ve done the heavy lifting to find the best systems of 2024, tailored for different needs and budgets. Dive into our top picks to find the perfect audio setup for your home.

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Overall Best: Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 eARC SSE Max

Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Dual 10" Subwoofers (Wireless), 4 Rear Surround Effects Speakers, eARC and SSE Max Technology (Flagship) Ultra 9.2 DTS-X/Atmos/eARC/SSE Max

The Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 eARC SSE Max tops our list as the Overall Best surround sound system. It delivers an extraordinary audio experience that mimics a theater setup, ensuring every movie, game, or song sounds rich and immersive. Armed with nine channels, dual subwoofers, and four rear speakers, this system covers all audio frequencies with incredible depth and precision. The inclusion of eARC and Dolby Atmos support means you'll benefit from the latest advancements in sound technology. While it's a significant investment, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 is perfect for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts who demand the best.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,499.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Soundbar? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?
Yep, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 supports both [Dolby Atmos](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddolby%2Batmos%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [DTS:X](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddts%253Ax%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). The manufacturer mentions that it has HDMI eARC, which is key for sending uncompressed audio like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X to your devices. So, you're in for some pretty amazing sound quality if your setup is compatible. This system isn't messing around — it's loaded with dual 10-inch wireless subwoofers and four surround speakers, giving you that full 360-degree audio feel. Our research shows that people really appreciate the deep bass and immersive sound it delivers. One thing to keep in mind, though, is the setup. If you have a bigger room, you might need to play around a bit with the settings to get that perfect sound balance. It's generally impressive, but adjusting it to fit your space and taste might be needed. Another perk? The HDMI eARC feature means you're set for future upgrades and new audio formats. So, you'll stay compatible with the best soundtracks out there now and for a while. To wrap it up, if you're on the hunt for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4's got you covered. It's a great option for anyone wanting to pump up their home theater experience with some serious audio power.
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How easy is it to set up the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 system?
Setting up the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 system is generally pretty straightforward, but there are a few details you'll want to keep in mind to get everything running smoothly. According to what the manufacturer says, this system supports both [Dolby Vision](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddolby%2Bvision%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Dolby Atmos](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddolby%2Batmos%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which means it's designed to give you that immersive theater-like experience right at home. It's also equipped with eARC support, so it can handle high-end audio formats like [DTS:X](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddts%253Ax%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) really well. From what we've gathered, the eARC connectivity is a highlight here, making it a solid pick if you're aiming for both impressive sound and video quality. You'll also be working with dual wireless 10-inch subwoofers and four modular surround speakers. To make the most out of these features, it's a good idea to think about the layout of your room and position the speakers for the best surround sound. On the video side, it supports Dolby Vision passthrough. If your TV is compatible, this keeps the picture quality top-notch when using this audio system. Just double-check that all your devices—like your TV and any source devices—can handle Dolby Vision for the best results. If you're a bit unsure about setting up such an advanced system, you might want to consider some professional setup help. Nakamichi offers detailed guides and customer support if you need a hand getting started. All in all, once your devices are confirmed as compatible and you've taken the time to place the speakers in the right spots, you'll likely find the setup to be quite do-able. While professional help can certainly optimize everything, many folks find that following the included guides does the trick just fine. Making sure your gear is Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos compatible will let you fully enjoy what this system has to offer in terms of transforming your media experience at home.
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What are the connectivity options for the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4?
Hey! So, if you're curious about how you can connect stuff to the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4, it's got quite a few options. **HDMI ARC and HDMI Inputs:** The soundbar has HDMI ARC capability, allowing high-quality audio to go from your TV with fewer cables—convenient if your TV also supports it. Plus, there are several HDMI inputs, which means you can easily hook up things like gaming consoles, [Blu-ray players](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DBlu-ray%2Bplayers%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and streaming gadgets. **Optical and Coaxial Inputs:** If your setup includes some older gear without HDMI, you're covered with optical and coaxial digital inputs. This lets you connect, say, an older CD player or DVD player while keeping the audio quality decent. **Bluetooth Connectivity:** For streaming from your phone or tablet, Bluetooth is in the mix. According to our research, folks appreciate the ease of wirelessly playing music or podcasts on this thing. **3.5mm Aux Input:** There's also a 3.5mm aux input for devices that still rely on a headphone jack. So, if you've got older tech hanging around, it can still get some playtime. **Wi-Fi and Streaming Services:** Now, even though it doesn't have built-in Wi-Fi, you can still stream stuff like [Netflix](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DNetflix%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Spotify](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSpotify%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) by integrating it with other wireless streaming devices via HDMI or similar connections. Heads up: while the connectivity is solid, some people mention it has an auto standby mode that kicks in and shuts the soundbar off when it can't detect an active signal. It's worth keeping an eye on your connections—using HDMI or optical consistently might help avoid this. Overall, it’s about making the most of the options to get your audio setup just the way you like it. Let me know if this helps!
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Runner-up: Sony HT-A9

Sony HT-A9 7.1.4ch High Performance Home Theater Speaker System Multi-Dimensional Surround Sound Experience with 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, works with Alexa and Google Assistant,White

Our runner-up, the Sony HT-A9, stands out for its exceptional surround sound quality, especially in larger rooms. This system excels in dispersing clear and balanced audio throughout the space. It integrates seamlessly with Sony Bravia TVs and supports various connectivity options such as Chromecast and AirPlay, enhancing its versatility for both video and music. The usability is further improved with the Sony Music Center app, which allows for easy control and customization of your music streaming experience. The Sony HT-A9 is an excellent choice for those wanting comprehensive and immersive sound.

Lowest at Amazon
$398.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$398.00 at Abt Electronics & Appliances

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Budget Pick: Vizio M51ax-J6 M-Series 5.1 Home Theater Soundbar

VIZIO M-Series 5.1 Premium Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Bluetooth, Wireless Subwoofer and Alexa Compatibility, M51ax-J6, 2022 Model

For budget-conscious buyers, the Vizio M51ax-J6 M-Series 5.1 Home Theater Soundbar is a compelling pick. Despite its affordable price, this system delivers a robust surround sound experience. Configured with a soundbar, subwoofer, and two rear speakers, it ensures comprehensive audio coverage. Ideal for smaller rooms or users upgrading from standard TV speakers, this system offers straightforward setup and solid performance, making it a great entry-level option for anyone looking to enhance their home audio setup without breaking the bank.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$299.99 at Amazon

Best for Odd-Shaped Rooms: Sony HT-A9 High-Performance Home Theater System

Sony HT-A9 7.1.4ch High Performance Home Theater Speaker System Multi-Dimensional Surround Sound Experience with 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, works with Alexa and Google Assistant,White

The Sony HT-A9 High-Performance Home Theater System is perfect for users with odd-shaped or larger rooms. Thanks to its advanced virtual surround sound technology, this system allows for flexible speaker placement, delivering a high-quality audio experience without the need for traditional configurations. It integrates seamlessly with Sony Bravia TVs and supports advanced streaming options such as Chromecast and AirPlay. This system is a superb choice for those seeking adaptable and high-fidelity audio solutions in challenging room layouts.

Lowest at Amazon
$398.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$398.00 at Abt Electronics & Appliances

Best Smart-Home System: Sonos Immersive Set with Arc

Purpose-built for smart home enthusiasts, the Sonos Immersive Set with Arc combines top-tier sound quality with ultimate convenience. This Wi-Fi-enabled system supports Dolby Atmos and includes voice control capabilities, fitting perfectly into modern smart homes. It allows for easy expansion with additional Sonos products to match your evolving needs. The up-firing speakers in the soundbar provide a truly immersive audio experience, making it ideal for movies, music, and gaming. The Sonos Immersive Set with Arc is a remarkable choice for those wanting a future-proof, high-tech audio solution.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$2,096.00 at B&H Photo-Video-Audio

Best Overall Sound Quality: Klipsch 7.2 RP-260 Reference Premiere Surround Sound Speaker Package

For those who prioritize sound quality above everything else, the Klipsch 7.2 RP-260 Reference Premiere Surround Sound Speaker Package is unmatched. This WiSA-enabled system delivers an incredibly dimensional and immersive 7.1 surround sound experience. Known for their reliability and premium audio quality, Klipsch delivers a top-tier listening experience worthy of its higher price tag. While setup may be more involved, the end result is a home theater experience that’s second to none. If superior audio fidelity is your top priority, this system is the one to beat.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon
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