The sound quality of a movie theater is hard to beat. Striking visuals and an amazing audio experience are what make the experience of watching a movie in a theater special. Home theater systems bridge the gap in quality one might typically except from home audio/video equipment and that of specialized movie theater equipment. With a great home theater system, you can at least partially recreate the movie theater experience right in your living room.
Typically a home theater system will consist of the following components:
• An audio/video(A/V) receiver/module. This device receives signals from input devices like DVD and Blu-ray players, processes the audio and video and then sends these signals to your television and speakers. Some receivers will even have Blu-ray and other video playback capabilities built right in such as the ability to stream videos from the internet.
• Speakers. For a 5.1 system this will be 2 floor-standing or bookshelf speakers, a center channel speaker, two rear speakers and a subwoofer. A 7.1 system will contain 2 additional speakers.
Of course you will need a television or a projector to complete your setup but typically home theatre packages will not include a television/projector. It is much more common for persons to pick out this component separately from the other components.
Before we get started let’s get familiar with a few more terms:
• Soundbar: A sound bar consists of a long bar enclosure, containing a number of speakers usually configured in such a way as to emulate surround sound.
• Dolby/DTS: Variations of Dolby and DTS formats are the most common audio formats used with home entertainment media. Preferably the system you choose should support one of each.
• THX certification: This is a certification given to home theater systems basically deemed to meet a specified set of high quality standards.
Common functionality included with many home theater systems these days is the ability to connect to devices such as smartphones via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or NFC(Near Field Communication).
If you are considering purchasing a home theater system, you will probably be wondering where to start. Well we’re here to help. Consider the above background information and see below for 50 of the best home theater systems available today.
1. Onkyo HT-S7700 5.1.2-Ch Dolby Atmos Ready Network A/V Receiver/Speaker Package
The Onkyo HT-S7700 package takes 5.1 surround sound to a new level with 5.1.2. The 2 front speakers both have additional speakers in the top portion of their housings, angled upward to help reproduce overhead sounds. Built in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth means that you can stream from the internet and from connected devices. There is also a free control app for the system available for iOS and Android devices.
Additional features:
• Dolby Atmos Multidimensional Sound Format Support
• 7 HDMI inputs
• HDMI 2.0 ports capable of 4K/60Hz
2. Yamaha YHT-4920UBL 5.1-Channel Home Theater in a Box System with Bluetooth
The Yamaha YHT-4920 offers Bluetooth wireless streaming and supports 4K Ultra HD video. The system is capable of automatically calibrating the sound output for optimum settings. The speakers included with the package are compact but effective, delivering bass tones which seem to defy the speakers’ size.
Additional features:
• Virtual surround sound can be configured to work with just two speakers
• Excellent bass response
• YPAO sound optimization facilitates automatic speaker setup
3. Samsung HT-J5500W 5.1 Channel 1000-Watt 3D Blu-Ray Home Theater System
You can have a cinematic experience from the comfort of your home with the Samsung Samsung HT-J5500W Home Theater System. With an integrated 3D Blu-ray player, up-conversion to near HD quality of non-HD content and 1000 watts of dynamic 5.1 surround sound, this home theater system will keep you entertained.
Additional Features:
• Integrated 3D Blu-ray player
• Wi-Fi connected, allowing for the streaming of content
• Steam wirelessly and control system via Bluetooth
4. Sony BDV-E3100 5.1 Channel 3D Blu-ray Home Theater System
The Sony BDV-E3100 offers crystal clear video quality with built in noise reduction for the Blue-ray drive and upscaling of non HD content to near HD quality. The system also comes with a full range bass reflex speaker system with a 7.1 inch subwoofer.
Additional Features:
• NFC, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Supports upscaling of non HD content to near HD quality and 2d content to 3D
• Enjoy content from tablet on TV with Sony TV Side View App
• Front USB slot allows for easy access to content
5. Onkyo HT-S5800 5.1.2-Channel Dolby Atmos Home Theater Package
The Onkyo HT-S5800 home theater package combines clever technologies in an effort to give users the best experience possible. With the the unique Onkyo 5.1.2 channel surround sound system, the 2 front speakers both have additional speakers in the top portion of their housings, angled upward to help reproduce overhead sounds. The system is also capable of providing Ultra HD quality video and can upconvert non-HD quality media to near HD quality.
Additional Features:
• USB port for easy access to USB media storage devices
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Dolby surround up-mixer scales channel based content to surround sound system
6. Samsung HT-H7730 7.1 Channel 1330-Watt 3D Blu-Ray Home Theater System
The Samsung HT-7730 home theatre system offers impressive 7.1 channel sound quality with vacuum tube amplification. The system comes with an integrated Blu-ray player which is capable of playing 3D and 2D movies in full HD. The system also upscales non-HD content to near HD quality. Wireless rear speakers are a nice touch and save customers the hassle of having to worry about running speaker wires to the rear of the room where their system is located.
Additional Features:
• Auto AV sync makes sure that video always matches with sound output
• Wi-Fi connected
7. Onkyo HT-S9700THX 7.1-Channel Network A/V Receiver/Speaker Package with Dolby Atmos
This impressive home theater system comes with plenty of bells and whistles. With 7 HDMI inputs capable of transmitting 4K quality, you will not be disappointed. As for sound, its THX Integrated System Plus provides theater quality sound in an affordable package with listening modes for games, movies and music.
Additional Features:
• Supports Dolby Atmos multidimensional sound format
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
8. Bose SoundTouch 300 + Virtually Invisible 300
The Bose Soundtouch 300 + surround speakers provide powerful surround sound in a sleek package. With HDMI ports included in the control unit, you can control several different video sources easily.
Additional Features:
• Universal remote control system
• Wireless surround speakers
9. Panasonic Home Theater System SC-XH105
This affordable package will upconvert standard quality content to near HD quality. The sound experience is stellar with the system stocked with a selectable speaker layout system which allows for the adjustment of sound in order to suit the design, shape and size of the room the system is installed in.
Additional features:
• USB slot for easy access to media
10. Pioneer HTP-074 5.1 Channel Home Theater Package
The Pioneer HTP-074 5.1 is capable of providing Ultra HD quality video and supports 3D content. With Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master audio soundtrack support, the system can also produce theater quality sound, bringing you one step closer to having the theater experience in your living room.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Front USB input allows for easy access to USB media
11. BIC Acoustech PL-980 5.2 Home Theater System- PL-200
This sturdily built home theater package delivers sterling audio quality. With 8″ woofers, you can enjoy stunning sound. Overall this system offers sturdy build quality and will provide stunning audio quality which is reflected in the price tag.The PL-28 II center speaker delivers even more impressive audio performance that you’re sure to enjoy.
Additional Features:
• Crystal clear sound for audio and video
12. Enclave Audio CineHome HD 5.1 Wireless Audio Home Theater System
This Enclave Audio system offers users the convenience of HD audio wireless speakers. This means that the hassle of speaker wires is completely unnecessary with the Enclave system. In addition, each of the rear surround speakers contains 2 full range drivers on opposite sides which provides a more enveloping surround sound experience.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
13. Bose Lifestyle SoundTouch 135 Entertainment System
This Bose home theater system provides near, theater quality sound in a compact package. The system makes use of a soundbar and a subwoofer instead of the traditional 5/7 speakers and a subwoofer. The soundbar included with this Bose surround sound system, contains 6 drivers and 2 sound radiators which act to project sound into areas where there are no speakers. In terms of video, the system supports up to 6 HD video sources and can upscale non HD video content to near 1080p quality.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth and Wi-fi connectivity
14. Sony 5.1 Channel 800 Watts 3D Blu-ray DVD Surround Sound Home Theater System
This affordable Sony home theater system will play back 2D and 3D content in full HD. Included in the package is a 3D Blu-ray player.
Additional Features:
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• A/V module comes with a full web browser installed for easy access to web content
• Built-in FM tuner
15. Monoprice 10565 Premium 5.1 Channel Home Theater System with Subwoofer
The Monoprice 10565 features 4 satellite speakers and one center speaker with a 3 inch polypropylene mid-range driver. Expect theater quality sound with these high performing speakers. Sound quality is further enhanced by the vibration resistant construction of the speakers.
Additional Features:
• 8 inch subwoofer has 4 big rubber feet to reduce floor vibrations
16. Samsung 5.1 Channel 500 Watt Bluetooth Blu-ray Home Theater System
This Samsung home theater system is capable of playing back 2D and 3D video in full HD. It includes a blu-ray player and supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD audio, allowing for theater quality sound.
Additional features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Built-in FM tuner
The Sony Bravia DAV-HDX265 system ships with a digital cinema auto calibration system which is aimed at helping you to produce theater quality sound right in your living room. Included is a microphone and software which allows you to calibrate your system to produce the best sound output possible based on the location of the system. The DAV-HDX265 also supports the decoding of Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic and DTS audio. The system supports full HD and can also upscale DVD quality video to near HD picture quality.
Additional features:
• Remote capable of controlling Bravia sync capable devices
• iPod compatibility and connectivity
With Dolby and DTS audio decoding capabilities, this system is well equipped to produce theater quality sound from a wide range of movies. There is a 3D Blu-ray player integrated into the A/V module which supports full HD playback as well, ensuring that you can enjoy content in crystal clear quality.
Additional features:
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Smartphone remote control
• iPod/iPhone support
19. Bose SoundTouch 300 Soundbar with Wireless Surround Speakers and Bass Module
This system includes four HDMI inputs. Not only does it support high quality video, it also supports decoding of Dolby and DTS audio for theater quality sound. The included ADAPTIQ calibration system allows for adjustment of the speakers’ performance to suit the acoustics of the room the system is located in.
Additional features:
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
• One-touch access to music services such as Prime Music, Spotify and Pandora
• Control system with Sound Touch App on your smartphone or tablet
• Universal remote control included
20. LG Electronics LHD657 Home Theater System
This LG home theater system comes with an integrated 3D capable Blu-ray player. It supports both Dolby and DTS audio formats for theater quality sound as well.
Additional features:
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Built-in FM tuner
21. VIZIO SB4051-D5 Smartcast 40-Inch 5.1 Slim Sound Bar System
The VIZIO SB4051-D5 40 makes use of a soundbar based surround sound system. The speaker setup includes a wireless subwoofer, 2 wireless rear speakers and a soundbar. Although technically this is only 3 speakers, the soundbar is setup in such a way to project sound into the areas where the other 2 speakers in a conventional 5.1 surround sound system would usually project. The system also supports Dolby and DTS audio formats for high quality cinema level sound.
Additional features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
22. Samsung 5.1 Channel 500-Watt Blu-Ray Home Theater System
Although the Samsung only carries 1 HDMI pass through input, it will still provide crystal clear video output to an HDMI device of your choice or by using the integrated Blu-ray player. The system will upconvert DVD quality video to near HD quality video as well. An immersive audio experience will also be provided thanks to the Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Surround sound support.
Additional features:
• USB input allows for easy access to multimedia
23. Yamaha (BD-S681 B) Higher Quality DVD Home Theater
The Yamaha BD-S681 B provides the best in video quality with 4K resolution support. This system will also upscale DVD content to near 1080P quality. With Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio support, cinema quality sound is not a stretch of the imagination. You can also enjoy your favorite movies with the system’s built in 3D Blu-ray player.
Additional features:
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Content can be cast via Miracast from smartphones or tablets to your TV through the system
24. Onkyo HT-S3700 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package
Another offering from Onkyo, the HT-S3700 home theater package offers 6 HDMI inputs which support 4K/60Hz video. Even if your current video source and/or display don’t support this level of quality yet, at least you will have the peace of mind that with the S3700 your setup is future proofed. In terms of audio, the system supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. The package’s high output amplifier maintains precise control of the speaker drivers, giving them the ability to produce anything from delicate piano packages to thunderous action movies accurately.
Additional features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
• USB port for easy access to media
25. Philips HTS3372D 1000-watts 5.1 DVD Home Theater System
This powerful 5.1 home theater system comes with an integrated 3D home player and supports full 3D video output. Prepare for a cinematic experience with its amazing audio capabilities.
Additional features:
• iPod/iPhone connectivity via USB
The Nakamichi Shockwafe Pro home theater system utilizes a combination of a soundbar, 2 rear satellite speakers and a subwoofer module to create a 7.1 channel system. The 45.5” soundbar contains left, right, center and 2 front surround speakers in individually sealed speaker chambers. The Shockwafe allows for upmixing of any 2 channel sound source to 5.1 channel quality. Superior video quality is supported with the 2, 4k HDMI pass through inputs. Both Dolby Audio and DTS Digital Surround audio formats are supported for cinema quality audio
Additional features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Backlit LCD remote
27. Philips Fidelio E5 Wireless Surround on Demand Speakers
This Phillips home theater system features detachable wireless surround speakers which allow for easy alteration of sound experience. With support for Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround audio decoding you will be provided with a stellar multichannel surround sound experience. The included 2 HDMI inputs allow you to connect up your HD players for impressive picture quality output to your TV.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth and NFC connectivity
28. Sony BDVN5200W 1000W 5.1 Channel Full HD Blu-ray Disc Home Theater System
This capable Sony Home Theater System comes with an integrated Blu-ray player and 2 HDMI inputs which support 4K quality content. In terms of audio, there are 2 wireless rear surround sound speakers which simplifies the installation process by removing the hassle of having to worry about running speaker wire to the rear of the installation room. For as close to theater quality audio as possible, the system is equipped with a decoder capable of handling both Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master audio formats. Included in the package is a calibration microphone which allows for the configuration of the system based on its location.
Additional Features:
• Control system with SongPal App
• Bluetooth, NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Compatible with iPod and iPhone
29. Samsung HT-E6500W 5.1 Channel 1000-Watt 3D Blu-Ray Home Theater System
The Samsung HT-E6500W comes with an integrated 3D Blu-ray player and supports 1080P quality video output. With woven glass fiber speakers and Samsung’s 3D Sound Plus technology, you will experience crystal clear sound. In addition, the system makes use of a combination of vacuum tube and digital amp technology to ensure the best possible sound quality. As expected of a top home theater system, it also supports the decoding of both Dolby and DTS audio formats. Finally, wireless rear speakers will make the installation of the system a little easier by eliminating the running of speaker wires to them.
Additional Features:
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• iPod cradle included
• Web browser
30. Bose Lifestyle 650 Home Entertainment System
The Omni Jewel Satellite speakers which ship with the Bose Lifestyle 650 Home Entertainment System are the smallest speakers offered by Bose and help to create a better 360 degree sound experience. The wireless bass module is also designed to eliminate distortion as much as possible in order to create a bass sound which is as clean and deep as possible. The system supports both Dolby and DTS audio formats and can be calibrated using Bose’s ADAPTiQ audio calibration system in order to tune the sound specifically to your room and the things in it. Finally, with 5, 4K compatible HDMI inputs, the system supports crystal clear video quality for stunning visuals.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth and NFC connectivity
• Control speakers with the SoundTouch app
31. Yamaha YHT-3920UBL 5.1-Channel Home Theater in a Box System with Bluetooth
The YHT-3920UBL supports 4K ultra HD pass-through with HDCP 2.2 support for crystal clear video playback. You will also enjoy great audio since Yamaha’s YPAO system automatically calibrates your system to suit the environment in which it is located, in order to produce optimal audio output. Users also have the option of using the Virtual Cinema Front option as an alternate setup configuration where all of the speakers can be installed at the front of a room to create a virtual 5.1 surround sound experience. This comes in handy with room configurations which don’t allow for the installation of speakers at the rear of the room. The YHT-3920UBL also supports Dolby True HD, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Master audio decoding. With this capability you can expect to enjoy thrilling cinema quality audio when your system is all setup.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
32. Bose Lifestyle SoundTouch 535 Entertainment System
The SoundTouch 535 Entertainment System carries 4 HDMI inputs capable of full HD output. The system is also capable of upscaling non HD content to near 1080P video quality. With the ADAPTiQ calibration system, you can also calibrate the system to suit your system’s environment. Dolby and DTS audio sources are supported for optimal sound performance.
Additional Features:
• FM/AM Tuner
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Universal remote included in package
33. RCA RTB10230 Home Theater System with Blu-Ray Player
This is a simple but effective home entertainment system. With an integrated Blu-ray player and 1080P support you will enjoy high quality video. With DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, and Dolby Pro Logic II audio support, you will enjoy accurately rendered 5.1 channel surround sound with this system as well.
Additional Features:
• USB port for easy access to media through USB storage devices
The Denon A/V module includes the latest HDMI 2.0a connectivity which support 3D video at 4K resolution. It is capable of decoding both Dolby and DTS audio formats which ensures that you will have near theater quality audio played back to you via the small but powerful 5.1 surround speaker set included in the package.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth Connectivity
35. Klipsch THX Ultra2 7.2 System With Onkyo TX-NR3010 9.2-Ch-and Furman Elite-20
The Onkyo TX-NR3010 9.2-Ch THX Certified Network A/V Receiver is capable of driving audio to three rooms, hass 11 HDMI inputs and can output HD video to 2 displays. This is quite the powerhouse as reflected in the price tag. With advanced functionality such as picture-in-picture input source preview and crossover interference cancelling, this A/V receiver means business. It of course, also supports both Dolby and DTS audio formats. This package includes a Klipsch THX Ultra2 7.2 speaker system as well which comes with 2 subwoofers for amazing audio reproduction. Finally, the Furman Elite-20PF is an AC power source which included in the package which provides pristine AC power, making sure that the combined system always performs as intended.
Additional Features:
• Remote App for iPhone/iPod
36. JBL SCS145.5 Home Cinema Speaker Package with Powered Subwoofer
This simple setup comes 6 speakers which have a powerful subwoofer that delivers impressive and high perfomance sound. The system supports Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround decoding as well.
Additional Features:
• 100-watts on-board amplifier
• Half-inch titanium-laminate for high frequency sound
37. RCA RT2911 1000-Watt Home Theater System
The RCA RT2911 offers full HDMI output, 3 HDMI inputs and support for both DTS and Dolby digital decoding.
Additional Features:
• Line-in connection
38. Sony 5.2-Channel 725-Watt 4K 3D A/V Surround Sound Multimedia Home Theater System
This compact but powerful system supports 3D and 4K HDMI sources. You can use the Digital Cinema Auto Calibration for easy and accurate setup of the speakers. Support for both Dolby and DTS surround sound decoding is offered.
Additional Features:
• FM Tuner
• USB input
This combo system supports the latest in 4K Ultra HD technology and supports both Dolby and DTS digital decoding. The powerful speakers included are capable of producing cinematic quality sound to fill your living room easily.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Music cast allows for wireless multi-room playback
40. Samsung HT-J4500 5.1 Channel 500 Watt 3D Blu-Ray Home Theater System
This system features 1 HDMI output and support for Dolby Digital and DTS decoding.
Additional Features:
• Blue-ray player
• USB port for easy access to USB media
41. Onkyo HT-S5400 7.1-Channel Home Theater System
The Onkyo HT-S5400 7.1 channel home theater system carries 4 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output with support for 3D sources. Doly True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio are also supported.
Additional Features:
• iPod/iPhone connection
• FM Tuner
42. Panasonic SC XH50 Home theater system
The Panasonic SC XH50 Home Theater System supports full 1080P HD output and can upconvert non-HD content to near 1080P quality. Support is offered for Dolby audio sources.
Additional Features:
• iPod/iPhone support
43. Yamaha 5.1 channel 600-Watt Bluetooth 3D Home Theater System
This Yamaha system supports the output of 4K Ultra HD quality content at 60 frames per second. 3D content is also supported. For theater quality sound, Dolby Digital audio sources are supported.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
• AM/FM Tuner
44. Sony DAVTZ140 DVD Home Theater System
The Sony DAVTZ140 features 2 HDMI inputs and comes with an integrated 3D Blu-ray player. For theater quality sound, the speakers support both Dolby and DTS audio formats.
Additional Features:
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• iPod/iPhone dock
• USB slot for easy access to USB media
• Web Browsing
45. LG Electronics BH5140S 500W Blu-Ray Home Theater System with Smart TV
The BH5140S features an integrated Blu-ray 3D DVD player and a unique speaker configuration. These are quality speakers for 5.1 channel surround, this system makes use of 4 satellite speakers with built-in subwoofers which are configured to create a virtual surround sound effect. This device also plays Blue-ray movies.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Smartphone remote app
• FM Tuner
46. Samsung HT-J5500W 5.1 Channel 1000-Watt 3D Blu-Ray Home Theater System
This system supports full HD output and also has the ability to upconvert no-HD content to near HD quality. DTS and Dolby audio formats are also supported.
Additional Features:
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• USB slot for easy access to favorite media
47. Samsung 5.1-Channel 1000W Bluetooth 3D Smart Blu-ray Home Theater System
This Samsung home theater system supports the playback of 3D content and comes with an integrated 3D Blu-ray player. The system supports DTS audio decoding and can thus create theater quality sound with the help of the speaker system. Wireless rear speakers make setup a little easier as speaker wire doesn’t need to be run to the rear of the room they are installed in.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Full web browser
• USB port for easy access to USB media devices
48. Sony BDV-E2100 3D Smart Blu-ray Home Theater System
The Sony BDV-E2100 supports full HD output and the playback of 3D content. It comes with an integrated 3D Blu-ray player for your viewing pleasure and offers room-filling 5.1 channel surround sound.
Additional Features:
• Bluetooth, NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Smartphone remote control with TV SideView App.
• FM Tuner
49. Yamaha YHT-399UBL 5.1 Channel Home Theater in a Box System
The Yamaha YHT-399U supports both Dolby and DTS audio formats for theater quality sound and features 4K pass through for super high resolution images. The system’s A/V receiver also supports 3D. with Yamaha’s YPAO system, the sound settings will be adjusted based on the characteristic’s of the room the unit is installed in.
Additional Features:
• Front panel USB input for iPhone/iPod
50. Yamaha YHT-3920UBL 5.1-Channel Home Theater in a Box System with Bluetooth
This home theater system use bluetooth to connect to wireless device and allows you to easily listen to music. The 5-channel speakers supports the decoding of HD audio and supports 3D audio 1080P video through it’s 3 HDMI inputs. Yamaha has configured the speakers to replicate 7.1 channel surround sound using only a single location for the speakers.
