Best Surround Sound Systems of 2026

Jerry Franklin Avatar
Jerry Franklin
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2026

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Surround sound systems are an essential component of any home entertainment system. They provide an immersive audio experience that enhances the viewing experience of movies, TV shows, and games. These systems typically consist of multiple speakers placed strategically around the room, which work together to create a 360-degree sound field. The result is a more dynamic and realistic audio experience that brings the action to life. Some systems also come with advanced features like wireless connectivity, voice control, and compatibility with popular streaming services. Whether you're a movie buff or a gamer, a good surround sound system can take your viewing experience to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ULTIMEA Aura A40 7.1ch Sound Bar System Cover #TOP 1
ULTIMEA Aura A40 7.1ch Sound Bar System
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AIWA Exos Home Speaker System Cover #TOP 2
AIWA Exos Home Speaker System
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Klipsch R-41SA Home Speaker Set Cover #TOP 3
Klipsch R-41SA Home Speaker Set
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Surround Sound Systems

#TOP 1

ULTIMEA Aura A40 7.1ch Sound Bar System

U2601
Black
ULTIMEA Aura A40 7.1ch Sound Bar System Cover
ULTIMEA 7.1ch Sound Bar with Subwoofer, Virtual Surround Sound System for TV, Sound Bar for Smart TV with 4 Surround Speakers, Peak Power 330W, TV Soundbar with App Control, Opt/AUX/BT, Aura A40

The ULTIMEA Aura A40 Sound Bar offers a rich 7.1 channel virtual surround sound experience, making your TV audio clearer and more immersive. You’ll enjoy sharp dialogue and dynamic sound effects thanks to its advanced SurroundX technology and AI that fine-tunes audio for realism. The system includes four surround speakers wired for easy setup, so you can effortlessly create a theater-like atmosphere at home. Plus, with the Ultimea Smart App, you can control sound settings, switch EQ modes, and receive updates, giving you full control to tailor your listening experience to your preferences.

What We Like
Affordable price
Clear surround sound
Easy setup
Bluetooth connectivity
Compact design
What We Don't Like
Weak bass
Basic manual

AIWA Exos Home Speaker System

AI6006-WHT-T49-2
White
AIWA Exos Home Speaker System Cover
AIWA - Exos Home Speaker, Premium 30W RMS Sound System with CD Player, Bluetooth Connectivity, FM Radio, Optical Digital Input, Dual 1” Tweeters + Dual 2” Bass Units, IR Remote Control

The AIWA Exos Speaker delivers powerful sound with its dual tweeters and bass units, giving you clear highs and deep lows for an enjoyable listening experience. With 30 watts of room-filling power, you can easily fill your space with rich audio, making it great for parties or relaxing at home. The built-in CD player lets you enjoy your old CD collection without needing extra devices, blending nostalgia with modern convenience. Plus, the FM radio offers 20 preset stations so you can stay entertained and informed, switching channels with ease. This speaker is designed to bring versatility and quality to your music listening.

What We Like
Crystal clear sound quality
Easy setup and operation
Bluetooth and CD functionality
Programmable FM stations
Attractive design
What We Don't Like
Remote control responsiveness
CD player build quality
#TOP 3

Klipsch R-41SA Home Speaker Set

R-41SA
Black
R-41SA
Klipsch R-41SA Home Speaker Set Cover
Klipsch R-41SA Powerful Detailed Home Speaker Set of 2 Black

The Klipsch R-41SA Home Speaker Set includes two black speakers that are Dolby Atmos compliant, making it perfect for surround sound systems. The speakers have a 4" spun-copper woofer, 1" aluminum lets tweeter, and a 90x90 square Tractrix Horn, which provides powerful and detailed sound quality. With 100 watt power handling, you can enjoy a high-quality audio experience.

What We Like
Clear immersive sound
Easy integration with Klipsch systems
Flexible mounting options
Good value for price
High quality drivers
What We Don't Like
Does not include mounting hardware
Minor cosmetic imperfections possible
#TOP 4

Bose Surround Speakers

809281-1100
Black
Bose Surround Speakers Cover
Bose Surround Sound System for Home Theater, Black

The Bose Surround Speakers are the perfect addition to your home entertainment system. As the smallest speakers designed by Bose, they provide full immersive surround sound without taking away from the focus of your entertainment. These speakers are simple to set up, with wireless connectivity to your sound bar, and are compatible with Bose sound bars 500, 700, and Sound Touch 300. The speakers have a wireless range of 30 feet and stand less than 4 inches tall, making them easy to place in any room.

What We Like
Easy setup and connection
Immersive surround sound quality
Clear dialogue enhancement
App-based audio customization
Attractive design and build
What We Don't Like
Initial low volume issue
Minor setup challenges

Google Nest Audio Bluetooth Speaker

GoogleSpeakers-WH
Charcoal
Google Nest Audio Bluetooth Speaker Cover
Google Audio Bluetooth Speaker - Wireless Music Streaming, Powerful Sound, Assistant Built-in, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity, Smart Home Control, Stereo Pairing (Charcoal)

The Google Nest Audio is designed to elevate your audio experience with its impressive sound quality. It features a 3-inch woofer and a 0.7-inch tweeter, providing powerful bass and clear vocals that fill your room. With Google Assistant built-in, you can effortlessly control your smart home devices using just your voice, making your life more convenient. Enjoy wireless streaming from your favorite music services with its dual-band Wi-Fi 5 and Chromecast capabilities. Additionally, you can pair two speakers for a true stereo experience, allowing you to enjoy music throughout your home.

What We Like
Easy setup and configuration
Good sound quality
Strong bass for size
Seamless Google Nest integration
Convenient smart features
What We Don't Like
Limited low bass
Lacks wired audio input
#TOP 6

Klipsch Reference Cinema Dolby Atmos 5.1.4 System

1069177
Black
Klipsch Reference Cinema Dolby Atmos 5.1.4 System Cover
Klipsch Reference Cinema Dolby Atmos 5.1.4 System

The Klipsch Reference Cinema Dolby Atmos 5.1.4 System is a powerful surround sound system that delivers an incredibly immersive and realistic 360° audio experience. The system includes four satellite speakers with Dolby Atmos technology, providing height effects from both the front and back for an exceptional audio experience. The exclusive Tractrix 90° X 90° horn technology and aluminum tweeters deliver impressive high-end response and greater extension, while the built-in all-digital subwoofer amplifier delivers ample power with high efficiency and true-to-source accuracy.

What We Like
Powerful subwoofer performance
Immersive surround sound
High build quality
Easy to set up
Excellent value for price
What We Don't Like
Small gauge speaker wire
Upward firing speakers less impactful
#TOP 7

ULTIMEA Poseidon M60 5.1CH Soundbar

U3721
ULTIMEA Poseidon M60 5.1CH Soundbar Cover
ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar with Subwoofer, Dolby Atmos, VoiceMX, BassMX, APP, 300W Soundbar for Smart TV, Home Theater Surround Sound System for TV, BT 5.4, Poseidon M60 (2025 Model)

The ULTIMEA Poseidon Soundbar offers an immersive audio experience with its real Dolby Atmos and 5.1-channel setup, creating wide surround sound without extra rear speakers—perfect for enjoying movies and shows in your living room. Its VoiceMX feature enhances vocal clarity, so you can easily hear dialogue even during loud or busy scenes. The system delivers powerful sound with 300W output from five full-range drivers plus a wooden subwoofer, filling the room with rich audio. The subwoofer’s advanced design produces deep, tight bass, adding realism to every scene and making your home theater feel truly cinematic.

What We Like
Immersive surround sound
Easy setup and installation
Clear dialogue and vocals
Strong value for price
Convenient app control
What We Don't Like
Bass could be deeper
Not premium build materials
#TOP 8

Polk SR2 Wireless Surround Sound Speakers

Black
2 Count (Pack of 1)
Polk SR2 Wireless Surround Sound Speakers Cover
Polk Audio SR2 Wireless Surround Sound Speakers for Select Polk React and Magnifi Bars - Wireless Surround Sound System for TV, Easy Setup, Multiple Placement Options, 2 Count (Pack of 1)

The Polk SR2 speakers are wireless speakers that can be paired with the Polk MagniFi Mini AX, MagniFi Max AX, React, Magnifi 2 soundbars to provide immersive surround sound. Each speaker is equipped with a custom-tuned 3" driver and built-in amps. They can be connected wirelessly to the soundbar and can be easily integrated into your home theater system by placing them on a shelf or mounting them on the wall.

What We Like
Easy wireless setup
Immersive surround sound
Compact and discreet design
Excellent sound quality
Great with movies and sports
What We Don't Like
Subtle rear volume at low settings
Price could be lower
#TOP 9

Polk Monitor XT90 Height Speaker Pair

MXT90
Black
4 Inch (Pack of 1)
Polk Monitor XT90 Height Speaker Pair Cover
Polk Monitor XT90 Hi-Res Height Speaker Pair for 3D Sound Effect - Dolby Atmos-Certified, DTS:X and DTS Virtual:X Compatible, Surround Sound Speakers, 4" Dynamically Balanced Woofer, Midnight Black

The Polk Monitor XT90 Height Speaker Pair delivers a multidimensional listening experience with its 4" Dynamically Balanced Woofer that enhances special FX and ambience. It is compatible with AV Receivers that support Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X enhanced content. The speaker pair is easy to set up and can be placed on top of bookshelf or floor-standing speakers, or wall-mounted using their built-in keyhole slots. The timbre matched Polk components ensure seamless speaker-to-speaker blending, making it an affordable home theater option with premium build quality and modern design.

What We Like
Excellent value for money
Strong bass performance
Easy setup and controls
Compact, modern design
Versatile input options
What We Don't Like
Somewhat basic build quality
Not ideal for large rooms
#TOP 10

Rockville TM150B Home Theater System Tower Speakers

TM150B
Black
10 inch
Rockville TM150B Home Theater System Tower Speakers Cover
Rockville TM150B Powered Home Theater Tower Speaker System, Black, 1000W, 10" Subwoofers, Bluetooth, USB/SD Playback, FM Radio, Remote Control, Karaoke Ready, Perfect for Home Entertainment

The Rockville TM150B Home Theater System Tower Speakers is a complete powered home theater tower speaker system with dual 10" subwoofers, built-in Bluetooth, USB and SD card playback, and FM radio. It features a peak power of 1000 Watts, RMS power of 250 Watts, 8-band equalizer, adjustable bass and treble, and a quad amp design. The system is expandable and can be connected to a television through RCA or optical connection. It also includes a noise rejection cable, remote control, signal cable, antenna cable, manual, and warranty card.

What We Like
Powerful, rich sound quality
Deep, impactful bass
Attractive, premium appearance
Easy setup and connectivity
Versatile features (Bluetooth, FM, Karaoke)
What We Don't Like
Optical input issues
Remote feels cheap
Buying Guide Image

Everything You Need to Know About Surround Sound Systems

Introduction

Surround sound systems can greatly enhance your home theater experience, immersing you in the action on the screen and bringing your favorite movies and TV shows to life. But with so many options available, choosing the right surround sound system can be a daunting task. In this article, we'll take a look at some key considerations to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.

Types of Surround Sound Systems

One of the first things to consider when choosing a surround sound system is the type of system you want. There are several different options available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

5.1 Surround Sound

The most common type of surround sound system is the 5.1 system, which consists of five speakers and one subwoofer. This setup is suitable for most living rooms and home theaters, and it provides a good balance of sound quality and cost.

7.1 Surround Sound

If you want a more immersive listening experience, a 7.1 surround sound system is a good choice. This setup includes seven speakers and one subwoofer, allowing for a more detailed and realistic soundstage. However, it also requires more space and is more expensive than a 5.1 system.

Atmos Surround Sound

Atmos surround sound systems are the latest and greatest in home theater technology. These systems use ceiling-mounted speakers to create a more immersive, three-dimensional soundstage. However, they are also the most expensive and require a dedicated home theater room with the ability to mount speakers in the ceiling.

Features to Look for in a Surround Sound System

Once you've decided on the type of surround sound system you want, there are a few key features to look for when shopping.

Audio Format Support

One of the most important things to consider is the audio formats that a surround sound system supports. Many modern TVs and Blu-ray players support high-resolution audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. If you want to take advantage of these formats, make sure the surround sound system you choose supports them.

Connectivity

Another important factor to consider is connectivity. Most modern surround sound systems support HDMI, which is the best option for sending high-resolution audio and video to your TV. However, some older systems may only support optical or coaxial connections, which are not as capable of handling high-resolution audio.

Wireless Capabilities

Wireless surround sound systems are becoming increasingly popular, as they eliminate the need for messy cables running around your living room. If you want a wireless system, make sure the system you choose supports the latest wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Ease of Setup

Setting up a surround sound system can be a complex and time-consuming process, so it's important to choose a system that is easy to install and configure. Look for systems that come with clear instructions and that offer user-friendly setup tools, such as smartphone apps.

Conclusion

Choosing the right surround sound system can be a daunting task, but it's well worth the effort. By considering the type of system you want, the features you need, and your budget, you can find a system that will enhance your home theater experience and provide years of enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are surround sound systems worth it?

Yes, surround sound systems are worth it if you want a superior sound quality and an immersive audio experience. Positioning speakers all around the room creates a sense of being in the center of the action, enhancing your overall entertainment experience.

2. Is surround sound still a thing?

Yes, surround sound is still popular and relevant. Newer soundbars now offer surround sound options, allowing you to create an immersive and high-quality home theater experience. For example, the Cinema 600 Sound Bar + Wireless subwoofer comes with Surround 3 speakers to enhance the audio.

3. What is better than 7.1 surround sound?

In terms of sound quality, an expensive 5.1 surround system can outperform a cheap 7.1 system. Additionally, the size of your room should be considered when choosing a surround sound system. Proper speaker placement and spacing are crucial for optimal audio performance.

4. Are soundbars better than surround sound?

For a full audio experience and true surround sound, a surround sound system is recommended. However, if you are looking for an upgrade from your TV's built-in speakers and want improved audio, a soundbar can provide a noticeable improvement and enhance your TV watching experience.

5. What is better 2.1 or 5.1 surround sound?

A 5.1 surround sound system provides a richer listening experience compared to a 2.1 system. The additional center channel in a 5.1 soundbar improves dialogue clarity, and the multiple speakers create a more immersive surround sound experience.

6. Why are soundbars replacing surround sound?

Soundbars are becoming popular because they provide a better audio experience in smaller spaces. The front speaker placement in soundbars creates a more directed sound, which is suitable for smaller rooms. Soundbars are a convenient and space-saving alternative to traditional surround sound systems.

7. Is Dolby Atmos better than 7.1 surround?

Dolby Atmos takes surround sound to the next level by adding a third, overhead dimension. It allows for a more immersive and realistic audio experience, going beyond the traditional 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound setups.

8. Is 7.2 surround sound worth it?

Yes, investing in a quality 5.2 or 7.2 surround sound system improves the overall audio quality for various forms of entertainment. Whether you're watching movies, listening to music, or playing games, a 7.2 surround sound system provides a fuller and more even sound, enhancing your everyday listening experience.

Editor's Notes

During our surround sound system research, we found 24 surround sound system products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 53,318 customer reviews through our big data system to write the surround sound systems list. We found that most customers choose surround sound systems with an average price of $251.14.

The surround sound systems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of surround sound systems, including ULTIMEA, Aiwa, Klipsch, Bose, Google. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 101 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Jerry Franklin Avatar

Jerry Franklin's persistent curiosity and research inspire a love of writing how technical things work and help him build a wealth of knowledge in computer equipment and other electronic tools. He has always enjoyed great pleasure in taking all things apart and researching how to put them together again since his childhood.

Surround Sound Systems Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand ULTIMEA Aiwa Klipsch Bose Google Klipsch ULTIMEA Polk Audio Polk Audio Rockville
Speaker Type Surround Sound Smart Speaker Woofer, Tweeter Surround Sound Smart Speaker Satellite 5.1ch Soundbar with Dolby Atmos Rear Surround Height Module Tower
Item Weight 4.6 Kilograms 7.11 pounds 6.75 Pounds 2.2 Pounds 1.68 Kilograms 30 Kilograms 8.82 Pounds 1.8 Pounds 6 Pounds 57.4 Pounds
Connectivity Technology Bluetooth 5.3, Optical, AUX, USB, (not support HDMI) Bluetooth Single Gold Plated Binding Posts NFC Bluetooth, Wi-Fi RCA HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth 5.4 wired, wireless Dolby Atmos wired, wireless
Mounting Type Tabletop Mount, Wall Mount - Wall Mount Bar Mount,Surface Mount Shelf Mount Wall Mount Tabletop or Wall Mount Wall Mount Wall Mount Plug Mount
Model Name Aura A40 - Klipsch R-41SA B07F39ZKK9 GoogleSpeakers-WH Reference Cinema System 5.1.4 Poseidon M60 SR2 MXT90 TM150B
Recommended Uses For Product For Computers, For DVD Players, For Gaming Consoles, For Music Players, For Smartphones or Tablets, For Surround Sound Systems, For Televisions - Music For Televisions music For Surround Sound Systems For Gaming Consoles, For Smartphones or Tablets, For Surround Sound Systems, For Televisions Music,Movies For Surround Sound Systems Home Theater
Compatible Devices Desktop, Gaming Console, Projector, Smartphone, Television - Home Theater Television Smartphone, Tablet, Laptop Home Theater Desktop, Gaming Console, Home Theater, Television Smartphone, Television Home Theater Gaming Console, Home Theater, Laptop, MP3 Player, Tablet, Television
Surround Sound Channel Configuration 7.1 - 5.1 5.1 2.0 5.1.4 5.1 5.1 5.1 2.0
Color Black White Black Black Charcoal Black - Black Black Black
Is Waterproof False - FALSE FALSE false FALSE FALSE FALSE False False
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy