Best Home Theatre Systems in India 2019 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

1. Philips Multimedia Speakers

 

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2.sony ht rt3 home theatre

 

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3. Logitech Surround Sound Theatre

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Let’s face it. All of us would love to have the best home theatre system in our very own apartments or homes. However, new or first-time buyers will find themselves in a horde of options. The most obvious self-raised questions to oneself would be “Why do different home theatres cost little to all the way up to 6 digits?” “What is the actual difference between 2.1, 5.1 and 7.1?” “What does even an HDMI ARC even mean and do I/we need it?” Well, let’s start with the first question:

Why should we even buy a home theatre system?

Well, to listen to your favourite audio tunes, watch movies or do the usual, a simple stereo system or even a miniature integrant system carries out the job. However, people will miss out on the value and experience which can be delivered through a home theatre system which is possible of pleasing a literal audiophile. A work surface stereo system or a miniature integrant system usually does not provide the standard or quality of acoustics compared to a speaker setup which is amp aided.

To amplify the entertainment system (if we do own one), it is definitely necessary to add in a home theatre system. But honestly, even high definition TVs are becoming inadequate in terms of speaker capabilities because they are recently becoming thinner over time. Furthermore, these TVs alone cannot provide the quality and clarity of voice of the faintest whispers or even those explosive blows which bring action movies to life. This even applies to surround sound speakers which can deliver extremely high ranged sound effects.


To recap, consumers should know that a home theatre system will mix an AV receiver/amplifier along with the speakers all in the same package. Despite this, as we will see, a home theatre system in a box can vary. Therefore, you should take time and select the right option for you.

Let’s look into the different features of a Home Theatre System

1. Speakers and Amplifiers

The best Home Theatre Systems in India will include amplifiers and speakers. The main perk of having an all-in-one system would be getting speakers and amplifiers to blend in well and work together.
Consumers do not need to stress on equalising the quality levels of speakers with amplifiers. Even so, consumers do no need to learn technical insights which can puzzle them.

Using an all in one package, consumers will get all the accessories in the box which is used for up and running like a speaker cable for example. However, if a consumer purchases a wireless home theatre system then obviously, a speaker cable will not be necessary.

2. Blu-ray Player or HTiB with DVD?

With lower end or even entry models in the market, there are few systems which provide a Blu-ray player or DVD as part of the package.When coming to higher-end systems, it will generally focus on offering outmatching quality sound. Thus, in order for this to happen, amplifiers and speakers are used but nothing else. Along with these, consumers would need to provide in a separate player, where they would need to link to the sound system. Or maybe just use the sound from the TV.This is carried forward in the next point.

3. External Devices being connected

Now, this is where it gets a little confusing. The whole point of revamping the sound is to hear the audio from the devices. For example It can be from the Blu-ray player, TV, Amazon or Netflix or even from a games console.The consumers themselves should be clear about what they would want to playback via the speakers and thus choose the system which enables this.

There are few home theatre systems which will have one, or even more, HDMI inputs. This would allow you to join your Blu-ray player or even a games console or maybe, any device which has an HDMI output.

Although, there are only a few systems which are only restricted to their input connections. There are some systems which do not permit usage of external devices at all, and these may be built-in players which are budget models.

It is important to be clear on what needs to be connected to the new home theatre system (sound system) and hence purchase the right product according to the needs.

4. Layouts with Surround Sound Speakers

Surround speakers come along with the package of these systems whether normal or best home theatre systems. Currently, the most usual layouts are both the 5.1 home theatre system and the 7.1 home theatre systems.

As mentioned previously, a surround sound 5.1 speaker system comprises of a centre speaker, set of two rear speakers and a set of two left, right and front speakers. When you are wondering about the .1, it cites a subwoofer which offers additional bass.

Moreover, there are few systems which do not provide surround audio but deliver 2.1 or 3.1 speaker systems.

In a major opinion, it is said that HTiB systems which offer a surround speaker layout with a 5.1 system are used since it is the best way to hear the cinematic sounds.

On a similar note, there are few recent models which guide the latest audio formats of companies such as the: Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

If this feature is important to you, then you should decide on the speaker layout preferable and purchase the model which offers this.

5. Power Ratings

This is an interesting feature. Power rating is one of the main specifications which is needed to be looked out for when purchasing a separate amplifier and speakers.It will offer an overall guide on how booming a system will be in the room in terms of sound, and how effective the amplifier will operate a set of speakers.

Despite on what is being said, when we come to home theatre systems, our general advice would be to neglect power ratings. It is said that when power rating is being used then juxtaposing one system with another is impossible.

There are few manufacturers such as Yamaha and Onkyo who offer power ratings just like with their standalone AV receivers. These ratings are just listings or measurements which are used in contrast to a standard which is accepted. Along with this, consumers can collate one device with another.

In contrast, with all these all-in-one systems, it is not always the case. For example, Samsung and Sony provide ratings which may sound spectacular since they provide high technology. However, it is surprising to note that these ratings are not compared with the same standards used by Yamaha and Onkyo. If seen in the real world, these ‘upper dog’ systems would most likely be not as loud as the specifications would suggest.

Also, producers such as Bose, Sonos and Enclave Audio usually do not show any power ratings at all. Comparatively, in some ways, this might be the best method when dealing with power ratings along with the all-in-one systems

Finally, when coming to the amplifiers and speakers, they are being designed and created to blend, co-ordinate and work well together. Moreover, they are also suffused to fill a living room which is average sized. As a rough estimate, if the viewing distance tends to be around 5-10 feet, then a good home theatre system will be suitable. In contrast, bigger spaces are better, but it depends on how loud the consumer would want the sound to be. So it all rolls down to one question: If there are many or even any specific needs, then is an all-in-one system even a good choice to consider?
Here are some factors for you to consider:
1. The Type of System you want:
Back in the day, things were much simpler for a consumer. Whenever a consumer walks into a store for a “home theatre system”, the options were limited. However, as time and technology progressed, there are now immense amount of options available to purchase such a system. In fact, it can be very confusing.

When we speak of a good typical system, it would include a set of bookshelf speakers or floor standing speakers, a channel speaker in the centre, pair of rear surround sound speakers and a subwoofer. Ultimately, this is known to be a 5.1 system where it contains five speakers and one subwoofer. As it is natural to assume, high standard theatre systems include additional speakers. In a 7.1 system, there are supplemental pair of speakers behind the listener. Let’s view it on a more defined note:

When looking at the 2.0 system, it comprises of a basic stereo setup which contains an output stereo sound and set of speakers (both left and right). If you take a sub-woofer and add it for bass, it will become a 2.1 setup. However, even if the wires and price are less, consumers should not expect high surround sounds just like the 5.1 setup.

When looking for a 5.1 setup, consumers will get five speakers apart from the subwoofer. Within this setup, a consumer can find a central speaker, two speakers on the sides wherein the other two speakers are on the back/sides and used for surround channels. Overall, this setup is befitting for a surround sound experience and also provides value for money as well.
If a centre speaker were detached from the 5.1 setups, you would ultimately get a 4.1 system. Consumers can make the most of this system like the 5.1 setups but does not create an equalizer for the experience felt.

With a 7.1 setup, consumers can attach in a set of two speakers behind the read beside the two surround channels. This creates and adds to the experience, however; increases the wire clutter and price.

It is important to note that you will need quality content to reinforce the standards, Moreover, when using the best 5.1 home theatre system or any 5.1 system, in fact, consumers should not spend until they have an HDMI ARC or a digital optical port.

Let’s take a look at Dolby Atmos systems. Dolby adds in extra speakers which can blast upwards from the right and left channel speakers or even better, downwards when facing from the ceiling. Moreover, these speakers generate audio effects which don’t produce sounds from a usual part of the room but in fact, come from an actual single area (point) in space. This is remarkable as it produces unthinkable three-dimensional quality experiences available. Most of the time, these systems can be purchased within a single package where you will get everything you need thus making the decision even easier.

If this route was followed then consumers can speakers which are manufactured to accompany each other. Thus, consumers who choose the pre-packaged route will find it much effortless to setup and even more inexpensive compared to purchasing components individually. Furthermore, many of the best 5.1 home theatre systems especially 5.1 home theatre systems in India are being designed with furniture aesthetics so that the system won’t seem out of place or be an ‘eyesore’.

2. Planning a system
Attention all audiophiles, it is usual for a pre-packaged setup to be a favourite amongst some. But for people such as yourselves; it is preferred to build a very own system from scratch. Despite being a bit too time-consuming, this do-it-yourself approach is remarkable and does come with few benefits. Initially, people who aim to design their very own system can match their individual needs.

This is usually for good performance reasons wherein one intense movie lover may prefer or be picky about his/her centre channel speaker, for example. However, there might be a music enthusiast who might just be customizing a system or an entertainment centre with a set of awestruck floor standing speakers. Sometimes, it is even possible that some individual needs do not fit whole package systems.

Every listening room is different from each other and will always force the people to make different setting changes and accommodations. For example, huge soaring speakers can be set up front, but there might be not enough space to accommodate surround speakers at the rear end of the room. In such cases, it is advisable to use in-ceiling or in-wall speakers just in case.

Using the ‘a la carte’ method enables you to choose separate components wherein you can blend and combine different products which seem to ‘click’. This, however, is not as difficult as it seems since you get a chance to look at the different mix and match components for different types of speakers giving the freedom to do so.

Therefore, you can think about which would be a better suggestion for your application one at a time. With this type of method, you can pick between four to five options and not five out of 60 options which can leave you dissatisfied due to many opportunities lost along the way of choosing something else. Separate systems can cost more initially, but the amazing experience and wow factor on a cinematic note is worth all of the bucks spent on it.

3. Comprehending a system layout:
Initially, before even choosing best 5.1 home theatre systems in India, consumers should stop and wait to consider the layout of their entertainment rooms. If a consumer has hopes in optimizing the home theatre system quality, it is very crucial to comprehend and visualise on how to lay it out.

The general standard would be to place the main channel speaker either above or right below the TV screen and stationed well to face listeners. If these speakers were to be situated on a stand, then it is recommended to place the speaker’s edge on the end of the stand. As a final result, this will guide and avoid dialogues from resonating wobbly- wonky. With at least six feet distance, the bookshelf/floor standing speakers now can be placed on either side of the TV.

It is good to note that there is equal distance from the screen to achieve the best delivery of sound. When coming to surround speakers, it is necessary to position these guys somewhat overhead and behind the field of vision – which is approximately two-three feet above the viewers’ heads. Moreover, these speakers should also be positioned uniformly from the hearing position from all sides.

Furthermore, it is essential to know how to run the speaker cables. It is more effective if placed on the walls. You may not have the capabilities to do it all by yourself hence calling in a technician is a good idea. Moreover, make sure the wires do not clutter along the way where it may be a walking hazard for families especially. Since people do face such problems on wire clutter, then there are a plethora options on wireless speakers.

If you tend to purchase a subwoofer, then things will be easier and flexible. As corners are a good option for an easy location, the walls reflectivity does not always mean the best area from a performance point of view, but you have all the freedom to give it a try it near a front speaker or even along a wall. If it is not done already, then it is recommended to try out the Klipsch WA-2 Kit which makes the subwoofer wireless, thus enabling flexibility and finds the ultimate perfect spot for your subwoofer.

Along with this, maintaining the best home theatre systems in India should be considered as well. Such as investing amounts into the AC system since the home theatre system tends to generate heat intensively. Along with this, unnecessary quivers and vibrations can be absorbed if a decent speaker is purchased and lastly, avoid halting speakers with other household furniture and other items since it will lead to a decline in sound production.

4. Maybe a sound bar might be a final solution

Comparing to a good/best complete surround sound system, a sound bar still constitutes a rise up from TV’s default speakers. A sound bar’s super basic installation is more than enough to draw out power when it comes to the electronically challenged. In fact, what is more, impressive is that the compact solo speaker device (ideal for small spaces) generate killer sounds?

Strong tacit sounds can be delivered through the right sound bar. A sound bar ultimately engages and resonates surround sound. A perk to using this system is its physical size wherein it is lightweight, sleek and does not come with multiple wires. If a sound bar is being used with Bluetooth connectivity, it’ll smoothly and continuously play music directly from the smartphone, tablet and even a computer.

Even though it has some cool mob-pleasing features, there are some who prefer to combine both a subwoofer and a soundbar in order to elevate low, sonorous frequencies. Also, there is a feature which is the easy plug and play function which does not restrict a living room’s home theatre setup. Now, consumers can readily move it to the kitchen, bedroom or even a covered porch.


There are chances where the sound bar can block the remote sensor of the TV, but it all depends on where the TV’s remote sensor is, how it is positioned and the dimensions of the sound bar. It is good to note that, sound bars often claim the surround sound experience without the actual need of rear speakers but in most cases, this is not true. We are not proclaiming that surround modes are ineffective- but they do offer a decent experience if enlarging the sound stage. However, rarely, consumers will feel the sounds are coming from the sides or behind.

Top 10 Best Home Theatre Systems in India 2019

1. Philips SPA8000B/94 5.1 Channel Multimedia Speakers System (Black)

Philips-5.1-Channel-Multimedia-Speakers-SystemBeing about 12.3 kg, the bold black home theatre system is a 5.1 surround system which has both USB and SD card slots for music playback and pictures to view. It resonates a thrilling sound experience for the consumers and definitely a good choice.

To get a free demo for this Home Theatre System, you can contact the Phillips service centre for a free demonstration of the product. Along with this, it has an FM tuner, therefore, can enable radio enjoyment also it ideal to use for PC, TV, MP3, CD and more. Its design has been created with prominent style, and also as good surround sounds as well. Also, the subwoofer driver is an 8 inches productivity woofer wherein the cable length is 1.3 meters with a connector of RCA x 6.

The home theatre systems also use Audio systems Left/Right channels. On a similar note, the subwoofer contains the power on and off button which makes it convenient for the individual. Also, it works perfectly with any Bluetooth-powered device. The speaker connectivity is not wireless and has a total of 1 USB port.

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2. Sony DAV-TZ145 Home Theatre System (Black)

Sony-DAV-TZ145-Home-Theatre-SystemHaving a weight of 8 kg, this black beauty of a Home Theatre System is indeed a 5.1 speaker surround sound channel configuration and contains an HDMI Output which is an upscale/expensive 1080p for DVD. However, this system provides a USB movie playback which is an Xvid and MPEG4 Simple Profile.

In terms of power, it has a total power output of 360 watts with a USB play. On a more exciting note, this Home Theatre System uses BRAVIA Sync where it enables Sony’s other HDMI products to achieve connectivity such as handycams and home entertainment systems without needing to make use of other multiple remote devices/controls.

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3. Sony HT-RT3 Sound Bar Home Theatre System (Black)
Sony-HT-RT3-Sound-Bar-Home-Theatre-SystemHaving a weight of 2.1kg, this 5.1 surround sound channel system can fill the room ultimately with its 5.1 channel surround sound. It has a galvanizing power output of 600 watts wherein it also includes a simple and easy accessible Bluetooth connectivity with NFC single-touch wireless streaming (audio).

Moreover, it also contains a USB playback audio thus listening to music, watching movies are just a few of the plethora of options available. Consumers can browse through lists of music from a pen-drive within distance using the Songpal application.

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4. Logitech Z906 Surround Sound Speaker System
Logitech-Z906-Surround-Sound-Speaker-SystemBeing 16.6kg, this particular home theatre system has a set of 2.0 double input multimedia speakers which enable 6 watts of maximal power and remit clear clarity stereo sound.

In terms of control, it is basic and convenient for consumers with the amalgamation of both volume and power. Moreover, it includes a helpful headphone jack which is used for listening pleasure privately.

This theatre system provides 1000 watts high power with small yet compact wireless remote and a control console. Also, there are input slots for many audio sources such as TV, game console, computer and many more. It is a THX certified and approves theatre-quality audio where the manufacturer provides a two year limited warranty on hardware.

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5. Sony HT-IV300//M-E12 Home Theatre System
Sony-HT-IV300-M-E12-Home-Theatre-SystemWeighing 11.8kg, the Sony Home Theatre System is a 5.1 channel surround system where it can draw out 1024 watts RMS output power thus enabling beautiful sound surround across the entire room. Furthermore, this system uses NFC technology where it is programmed to enable setting of communication procedures which allows two electronic devices (wherein one device is a portable device such as a smartphone) to enable communication by guiding both of the devices within 4 cm of each other.

Moreover, it uses wire speakers and Bluetooth technology creating a versatile environment with flexibility. Also, this home theatre system uses multi-format playability via USB hence creating a more multifaceted system. Finally, it also assists Blu-ray player and the DTH.

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6. Sony BDV-E4100 Home Theater System
Sony-BDV-E4100-Home-Theater-SystemBeing light weight (2.7kg) just as the Sony HT-RT3 Sound Bar Home Theatre System (2.1kg), this home theatre system enables consumers to enjoy 5.1 surround system as it uses NFC technology wherein it can connect to different devices wirelessly.

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7. Mitashi BS-120BT 5.1 Channel Home Theatre System with Bluetooth

Mitashi-BS-120BT-5.1-Channel-Home-Theatre-System-BluetoothThe Mitashi Home Theatre System weighs about 9.6kg where it defines sound through the power and a powerhouse within the system. It contains a 5.1 channel surround system where it consists of 1 subwoofer plus five satellite speakers. When going deep into the specs, it has a power of 8500 watts PMPO.

It also offers a USB playback along with the SD card playback thus opening doors to multiple opportunities. Also, there is an added feature of a digital FM radio with Bluetooth thus enabling flexibility of the system. It provides a fully serviceable remote control which is infrared along with a LED display. This elevates the level of standards in technology so far.

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8. Sony HT-RT40 5.1 Channel Sound Bar Home Theatre System (Black)
Sony-HT-RT40-5.1-Channel-Sound-Bar-Home-Theatre-SystemJust like the Sony HT-RT3 Sound Bar Home Theatre System (2.1kg) in terms of weight, it provides a genuine 5.1 channel surround sound wherein it blasts out the immersive sound in the room.

Using NFC technology and Bluetooth connectivity, it enables listening via a single touch wireless network. Furthermore, enables compatibility when using the Music centre application. Consumers now can enjoy their favourite tunes by just plugging in the USB port and listen to it with the use of tall boy speakers which create and impact of sound.

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9. Philips SPA5220B 5.1 Channel Multimedia Speakers (Black)
Philips-SPA5220B-5.1-Channel-Multimedia-SpeakerWeighing about 14.7kg, the Philips multimedia speakers tends to be one of the best music systems for home use as it uses 5.1 surround sound thus enable an incredible sound experience.

Moreover, it provides an FM tuner feature where consumers now can enjoy listening to the radio. This system also provides an USB and SD card slots to initiate music playback, therefore, extends the flexibility option.

It is an ideal option when using for TV, PC, MP3, CD and more. The design is being created for style and even looks appealing as it sounds do to its sleek character and contour. Along with this, it provides graceful matt finished speakers where it is used for any devices which are Bluetooth enabled. Finally, it beams out a power of 120W RMS sound output power.

To view a demo version, consumers are advised to contact the Philips service centre for a free demonstration.

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10. Samsung HT-J5100K/XL 5.1 Channel Home Theatre System (Black)
Samsung-Home-theatreBeing about 9.4kg, this masterpiece of a 5.1 system adds in a powerful bass to execute an immense sound power boost. Moreover, uses Crystal Amp Pro in order to bring out a marvellous transcendent sound experience where it enables you to balance your sounds in your way by offering different modes.

Consumers can also watch TV using the surround sound quickly without hesitation. Coming to the features, this system offers: key control, CD ripping, TV sound, karaoke scoring, music USB with record a microphone, quick start mode, USB recording (Data disc to USB), fanfare. Moreover, it also contains an FM tuner as an added feature as well.

This system provides connectivity using ARC technologies and Anynet+ where it allows consumers to command as well as control devices connected via HDMI while using only a single remote control. Finally, the whole system gives a power of 1000 watts and enables a beautiful, thrilling experience.

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Conclusion
So there you have it, here are the Top 10 Home Theatre Systems which are well known to create an immense experience in India and globally. It is advisable for consumers to be self-aware on what he/she would want in a system before purchasing. Without assessing the factors, it would leave you dissatisfied with the decision as the money spent would be wasted on a system where it did not meet the individual needs.