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If you have basic knowledge of sound systems, you know that an 8.1 surround sound setup is not common. While a 7.1 surround sound is popular, having an 8.1 is not a bad choice though. Proper 8.1 speaker placement can provide you with immersive audio quality.
Quick Setup Guide:
- Place 2 front speakers on both sides of the Screen or TV.
- Place 2 Top front speakers above the front speakers.
- Place 2 surround speakers on both sides of the seating area.
- Place 2 Rear speakers behind the listening area,
- The subwoofer will be on the front wall on any side of the screen.
What does 8.1 surround sound mean?
8.1 surround sound system refers to the 8 speakers and 1 subwoofer. Here it comes with the front left/right, front top left/right, Surround left/right, rear left/rear right speakers and one refers to a subwoofer. Those 8 speakers deliver sound from every direction, while the subwoofer handles low frequency and deep bass.
- Front Left and Front Right speakers
- Front top left and right speakers
- Surround left and Right Speakers
- Rear Left and Rear Right speakers
- Subwoofer
8.1 Surround Sound Speaker Placement
For the immersive audio quality, speaker placement plays a crucial role. Here is how you have to place all 8.1 Surround sound speakers:
Finalize Seating Position:
For an immersive audio experience, seating position plays a crucial role. Measure your room size and try to put your preferred furniture (Sofa, customized seat) in the middle of your room or slide the back. If your room is not squire-shaped, hire professionals for a better outcome.
Front Left and Right Speakers:
- It will be placed on both sides of your TV screen and at an equal distance from the primary listening position.
- Ensure both speakers will angle to the listening area and position both speakers at ear level when seated.
- Keep those speakers about 1 to 2 feet away from the walls.
Top Front Left and Right Speakers(Height):
- Place them above the front left/right speakers, angled downward to the listening area.
- Make sure both speakers are placed at the same distance and angled seating area.
- These speakers add a vertical dimension to the audio experience.
Surround Left and Right Speakers:
- Place the surround speakers on both sides of the seating area.
- Mount the speakers 2 feet above ear level, aimed downwards towards the seating area.
- Ensure both surround speakers are equidistant from the listening area.
Rear Left and Right Speakers:
- Position the rear speakers behind the listening area, ideally at a 90 to 120-degree angle from the front speakers.
- Aim for a height slightly above ear level, around 2 feet higher.
- Ensure the rear speakers are equidistant from the listening area and are not attached to the back wall.
Subwoofer Placement:
- Place the subwoofer near the front wall, and choose any side of your TV. The subwoofer can be placed in various locations. This placement can maximize the bass response.
- The subwoofer’s location can significantly affect the audio experience, so test it before finalizing the position.
Don’t be confused about speaker position, it’s a very important part of setting up an 8.1 surround sound system. If you are still confused, leave it to professionals, they can handle all things.
Final Adjustments and Calibration of the 8.1 sound system
Once all 8 speakers and subwoofer are placed, it’s essential to calibrate your system to ensure that each speaker is delivering sound at the correct levels and delays.
Many modern AV receivers come with automatic calibration systems that can simplify this process. Alternatively, using an SPL meter or test tones you can do manual calibration. In this scenario, I would prefer to invest in a high-quality AV Receiver, which can handle this type of issue.
7.1 vs 8.1 surround sound system: Which is best?
7.1 surround sound system is closest and popular to an 8.1 surround sound, that is why we’re comparing to know which one is best. Here we come with a detailed comparison:
Speaker Configuration:
- 7.1 Surround Sound: 7 (Front Left, Right, Center, surround left, right, Rear Left, Rear Right) + 1 Subwoofer.
- 8.1 Surround Sound: 6 (Front Left, Center, Right, Front left, right, Rear Left, Rear Right, Rear Center) + 1 Subwoofer.
Audio Experience
- 7.1 Surround Sound: Immersive surround sound.
- 8.1 Surround Sound: Enhanced sound field with an additional 2 front top speakers.
Content Compatibility
- 7.1 Surround Sound: Widely supported by movies, TV shows, and games. Most used in games.
- 8.1 Surround Sound: Limited content available on 8.1-specific mixes.
Installation and Setup
- 7.1 Surround Sound: Simpler, fewer speakers, easier installation.
- 8.1 Surround Sound: The additional speaker requires more careful placement on the front top.
Room Size and Acoustic Considerations
- 7.1 Surround Sound: Suitable for every size room or theatre.
- 8.1 Surround Sound: Better for larger rooms.
Cost:
- 7.1 Surround Sound: Generally lower, and cost-effective, but it depends on the quality and brands.
- 8.1 Surround Sound: It may cost you more due to an additional speaker and potentially more advanced receiver.
Best sound solution For:
- 7.1 Surround Sound: Sound enthusiast, medium to large-sized rooms, standard media consumption.
- 8.1 Surround Sound: Audiophiles, larger rooms, users seeking enhanced Dolby-type experience.
These detailed comparisons show that the 7.1 surround sound setup is more effective than the 8.1 sound system. I will choose 7.1 rather than an uncommon speaker setup like 8.1.
Conclusion:
An 8.1 surround sound system is not a common setup for all, reason why many are confused with speakers position. If you already read this article, it’s enough for a person to set 8.1 surround sound. If you are still confused, hire a sound setup professional who can do it for you.
I’m sourav, a music lover and sound enthusiast. After experiencing multiple sound qualities, I thought many people searching regarding this topic, but there is not enough detailed information on it. That’s the main reason why I created this blog.