10 Best Home Theater Systems (Review) In 2020

Logitech is a heavyweight name in the surround sound systems industry, and their Z906 system is our best choice. Its THX-certified speaker system is ready to turn any of your rooms into the coolest home cinema on the block. Expect 5.1 channels of explosive, detailed sound that’ll allow you to hear every rumble, footstep, or tire squeal. They’ll surely deliver that cinematic sound experience all Netflix lovers long for.

Whether it’s acoustics for your movie, music, or games, the dynamic center and satellite channel speakers and 165-watt subwoofer are ready to deliver crystal-clear trebles, rich mid-range tone, and a badass, deep bass. Then, the DTS encoding steps in and accurately recreates the final surround so that you can hear every detail in your DVD, Blu-ray, or live streamed soundtrack.

With its HT-S3910 home audio theater receiver and speaker, Onkyo addresses all those who want to turn their home movie nights from dull to dramatic. Delivering an immersive sound experience, this audio system uses the latest Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies to mix object-based audio in the 3D space. Thanks to these features, you’ll be able to hear every individual sound in a life-like top-to-bottom dimensionality.

Six HDMI inputs and high dynamic range are other highlights, and we particularly like the Height Virtualizer that creates a virtual surround for an even more immersive listening experience. The Bluetooth-compatible system even lets you to seamlessly listen to audio from all your devices. Whether it’s your Bluetooth-enabled PC, smartphone, or tablet, Onkyo’s smart receiver recognizes your device automatically and starts playback whenever it detects incoming wireless audio stream. Another highlight is the DTS playback feature that provides advanced sound mapping, allowing effects to move from speaker to speaker. It doesn’t really matter if it’s a movie or your favorite game, you’ll surely be able to enjoy the beauty of 3D sound. All this for a more than affordable price. For more quality devices like this, check out our selection of the best soundbars.

Next entry on our list of best home theater systems, the Pioneer HTP-074 is one of those premium systems that everyone would love to have. This 5.1 setup is designed to deliver impressive sound clarity even when you’re playing premium content. A sleek AV receiver and compact speakers and subwoofer are easy to position on shelves or mount on a wall, and all you have to do is connect your Blue-ray disc or DVD player to enjoy high-quality sound in your home entertainment room.

Designed with the next generation technologies in mind, the system features four HDMI inputs as well as Ultra HD pass-through, so the system can easily support the latest HDR video standard. Similar to the Onkyo, the Pioneer system also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to enjoy audio streaming from compatible devices. The HTP-074 even supports DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD soundtracks. Furthermore, you can even enjoy quality sound from compressed audio files, including MP3, AAC, and WMA, while a convenient front USB input allows for quick connection of a memory stick. Honestly, what else could you wish for? 

Are you tired of figuring out how to hide ugly home theater system wires when creating your set up? We surely are; that’s why the Enclave Audio CineHome has made it to our list. This wireless home theater system delivers uncompromising surround sound while integrating seamlessly in your home décor. With the possibility to place the speakers wherever you want – no strings attached – Enclave is perfect for movies, video gaming, sports, and music alike.

This system delivers a true home theater experience with its wireless speakers and convenient remote control. The only cable is the one connecting the Enclave Smart Center to your TV, but rest assured the system is capable of hosting both HDMI and SPDIF optical sources. We also like that the WiSA certified CineHome delivers high-quality 24-bit uncompressed audio straight out of the box. Featuring 3 HDMI cable inputs, it lets you connect your dish, DVD or Blue-ray player, streaming appliance, or HDMI pass-thru. It doesn’t matter if you want to watch movies or listen to Bohemian Rhapsody at full volume, the enveloping surround experience will surely spellbind you.

Packing an aggressive gaming look, the Rockville HTS56 can be the solution to your surrounding need if you’re after a crazy loud system. Four full-range speakers – two front and two rear – a center speaker and a subwoofer deliver that immersive, 3D sound experience with no compromises. It doesn’t matter if you’re using the radio, watching a movie or challenging someone in your favorite video game – this system surely lives up to expectations.

Perhaps the most impressive is the super-clear, deep, rich bass provided by the 8-inch subwoofer. No rattling or discernible distortion even at high volume will quickly turn you into the neighborhood’s home party king. Speaking of parties, you’ll also love the two ¼-inch MIC inputs with echo control on the front, that are just perfect for Karaoke nights. A wealth of inputs on the rear gives you the possibility to use the system with whatever devices you want to use it, from TVs to PCs and everything in-between. Including your mobile devices, that is, thanks to the Bluetooth capability, but keep in mind that no input is HDMI. Coming at a fraction of the price of other home theater systems, the Rockville surely knows how to impress. No doubt, the best home theater system for enthusiasts on a budget. Be sure to check out our reviews of the best portable Bluetooth speakers for more amazing audio devices like this.

If you’re one of those who don’t mind the budget but want the best home theater system around, then you should go for Sonos. At first glance, it looks like one of those minimalist wireless home theater systems that don’t promise much, but it packs a punch. Despite looking like a 3.1 system, this is actually a 5.1 with the front speakers hidden in the sophisticated playbar. This 3-channel sound device can amp up any movie with its nine amplified drivers. It hides six mid-woofers and three tweeters, a setup capable of delivering crisp, natural sounds.

But that’s not it! Sonos 5.1 Home Theater System also comes with a highly performing subwoofer developed to bring out all those deep bass sounds. Whether it’s playing Metallica or living an immersive gaming experience, the bass’s got you covered.

When a 5.1-channel system is not enough, Sony could be the answer to your prayers. This home theater system features a 7.1.2 configuration with Phantom Surround Back, a technology developed to envelop you in 3D sound. Not only you’ll hear the audio from your front and back; this system delivers an accurate 360° surround sound. Pair it with reliable 3D goggles, and there you have it – 3D cinema experience at your home.

Nine speaker channels deliver even the most subtle nuances of any audio, be it music, movies, or games. A nice touch is the flexible speaker solution Sony came up with that virtually relocates the sound in an attempt to simulate the optimal angle and position for a real-life audio experience. While all these features do need a lot of resources, Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-Channel Home Theater supports HDR signal pass-thru, so you can also enjoy the best image quality. Our guide to the best tailgate speakers features more cool audio devices like this, so check them out.

Another wireless home theater system that’s made it to our list comes from Yamaha. This 5.1-channel setup packs all the audio performance Yamaha is known for in an affordable price range. You can expect enveloping, cinematic sound delivered by a powerful AV receiver, subwoofer, and five speakers. One thing you should get wrong, though, it’s the wireless capability that only refers to the system’s ability to play audio files from your phone or other devices. Yet, you’ll still have to wire the speakers to the receivers, which is a letdown.

That said, we still love the way Yamaha Yht-4950U sounds, and the fact that it’s compatible with all modern technologies. Thanks to the exclusive Yamaha CINEMA DSP technology, the system supports playback of high-definition audio, including DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD. Then, a parametric room acoustic optimizer can even analyze the acoustics in your room and adjust the audio to provide the most immersive, natural sound imaging. Ideal to use with the latest televisions, Yamaha also supports 4K video transmission at 60fps, as well as HDR10 and Dolby Vision. Whether you want to use it for movies, video streaming, or gaming, this system won’t let you down. For more quality devices for your home, check out our selection of the best tower speakers.

Having a home cinema is great and all, but sometimes you might just not want to spend eye-watery amounts. Luckily, the Acoustic Audio system by Goldwood is proof that cheap doesn’t necessarily mean low quality. Sure, you won’t get the highest performing system out there, but Goldwood Acoustic Audio 2.1 Bluetooth Speaker System can satisfy most gamers and movie enthusiasts living in a small studio apartment.

Its greatest strength is the satellite speakers that deliver clean high notes as well as lush mid ranges. At the same time, the powerful subwoofer fires powerful bass. A front panel volume control knob, as well as a full-function remote control, makes it easy to get the volume up or down. What we wouldn’t have expected from a home theater system this cheap is built-in Bluetooth connection, but the Acoustic Audio boasts it. You can seamlessly connect most devices, including gaming consoles, smartphones, tablets, and even a DVD player or PC. Compact, stylish, and affordable, this home theater setup will surely have little impact on your wallet.

The last among the best home theater systems on this list, the VIZIO SB3651-F6 is a 5.1-channel setup designed for those who want an all-round home theater system but don’t have the budget to invest in an expensive top-of-the-range. With a design inspired by some of the most famous brands, the VIZIO comes with a three-channel soundbar, wireless subwoofer, as well as two rear speakers developed to redesign your listening experience. Incorporating the acclaimed virtual overhead technology, the system can even deliver a 360° surround feel.

Using WiFi instead of Bluetooth, it also connects with your mobile devices and Chromecast-enabled audio apps, including Google Play, Pandora, and Spotify. The Smart Cast Mobile app even allows you to turn your mobile into a powerful remote control, and we like that the bar even works with Google Home. You may also be interested in some of the best gaming speakers from our list, so be sure to check them out.