Audio

Home theater audio comes in many different formats, shapes and sizes. There is 2-channel stereo, 3-channel Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Digital (DD) 5.1 channel, DTS 5.1 channel, DD EX 6.1, DTS ES 6.1, and on and on… Additionally, there is 5.1-channel Super Audio CD (SACD) and 5.1 channel DVD-Audio (DVDA), neither of which is compatible with the other. And what is this thing called THX?

There are cube speakers, bookshelf speakers, in-the-wall speakers, tower speakers, and subwoofers. Front speakers, rear speakers, center-channel speakers…

DVDs these days generally have DD5.1 and possibly DTS 5.1. However, there are some DVDs, such as Gladiator, that have DTS ES 6.1. At some point, we may begin to see some 7.1.

Is THX necessary? THX not a format – it is a standard. It means that the equipment was sent to THX’s labs and found to meet the stringent guidelines set forth by THX for home theater equipment. Thus, having THX certified equipment can give you the piece of mind that you have TOP quality equipment, and it also gives your equipment a “coolness” factor, but for the added cost, it is often not worth it in our opinion.

SACD and DVDA have been around for some time, but have relatively few titles available, and therefore are a “must purchase” only if you are sure you want to use either one.  The sound quality is said to be quite good…

So, where should you start? Well, we at GHT believe that you should start with a realistic budget and realistic expectations of what you want and what will practically and aesthetically fit into your room. The more channels of sound you can afford to set up the better (5.1 minimum, 7.1 is optimal if you have the resources and space). However, we would definitely recommend a higher quality 5.1 system rather than a lower-budget 7.1 system. What type of speakers you buy is ultimately your choice. We cannot tell you which brand/model sounds good – we can give you suggestions, but audio perception varies from person to person. Therefore, what sounds good to you may not sound good to another. There are many, many speaker and receiver options available and at very reasonable prices. Contact us and we’ll be able to discuss with you your home audio needs.