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Best Home Theater Systems In 2021

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This product guide was written by GearHungry Staff
Published March 3, 2020
GearHungry Staff
GearHungry Staff posts are a compilation of work by various members of our editorial team. We update old articles regularly to provide you the most current information. You can learn more about our staff here.
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It’s one of those chill Friday night-ins. You’ve uncapped a beer, turned on Netflix on your smart TV, and are ready to start rolling with a night-long Game of Thrones marathon. But wait! Things don’t really sound right, don’t they? Your TV’s speakers can hardly reproduce the movie audio with deserved accuracy. If you want to do it right, you need a home theater system. Luckily, the market spoils you with choices, and we’ve even compiled a rundown of the best home theater systems around. Check them out.

The Best Home Theater System

1
Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Home Theater System

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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.

Obviously, you’ll have the flexibility to set up your Dolby Digital system the way you want. The main channel accepts up to six audio sources – be it your smart TV, gaming console or computer, music player, and more. As for the satellite speakers, just place them wherever you want, on shelves around your entertainment room, or wall-mounted. Offering a quite different experience than your traditional two-channel stereo, the Z906 can definitely turn your movies, games, or music into an immersive sound experience.

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Key Features:

5.1-channel Dolby Digital surround sound system

Inputs for multiple audio sources

Compact control console

Wireless remote control

THX-certified

1,000 watts of peak power

Specification:
  • BrandLogitech
  • Model980-000467
  • Weight36.6 pounds
Pros

Superb functionality and sound with powerful bass despite the small subwoofer size

Relatively compact footprint compared to most home audio systems

The system maintains sound clarity even when the sound is on max

Cons

Wiring seems rather flimsy

The aesthetics could be improved

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

2
Onkyo HT-S3910 Home Theater System

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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 an 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.

Key Features:

5.1-channel Dolby Atmos system

Bluetooth compatible

Height Virtualizer technology

4K HDR support

High-current analog amp system

155 watts per channel

Specification:
  • BrandOnkyo
  • ModelHT-S3910
  • Weight41.4 pounds
Pros

All channel stereo mode offers an immersive, natural sound experience

Very easy to set up and connect to a TV

Bluetooth connectivity allows you to play audio files from all Bluetooth enabled devices

Cons

The subwoofer could use more power

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

3
Klipsch Black 5.1 Home Theater System

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You might not have heard of Klipsch before (unless you’re a true audiophile) but they’re one of the most well-respected audio companies in the world. An American company, they’ve been making loudspeakers since 1946 and are constantly voted above Bose and other famous audio companies for the quality of sound their speakers provide. Because of the focus on tonal quality, Klipsch speakers often provide a crisper and more detailed sound. The Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1 Surround Sound System is the ultimate choice if you want professional-quality audio in your home. 

The set includes five speakers and a down-firing wireless subwoofer, which fills the room with thunderous bass wherever you place it. Each speaker is designed to be mounted, with a keyhole mount and a threaded insert. Plus, they all come in Klipsch’s ultra-classy black and gold color scheme. If you can afford this home theater system, we reckon it’s one of the best on the market. 

Key Features:

Includes five speakers and a wireless subwoofer 

Tractrix Horn Technology 

Aluminum tweeters 

Keyhole mount and threaded insert

Specification:
  • BrandKlipsch
  • Model1064177
  • Weight32 pounds
Pros

Clear and detailed sound 

The subwoofer can be placed anywhere 

Classy speaker housing

Cons

More expensive than competitors 

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

4
Enclave Audio CineHome HD 5.1 Wireless Audio Home Theater System

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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 into 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 surrounding experience will surely spellbind you.

Key Features:

5.1 channels

360-degree 24-bit HD wireless audio

WiSA-certified

Dolby Digital and DTS

Analog, optical, and Bluetooth inputs

Compatible with Android/iOS streaming

Specification:
  • BrandEnclave
  • Model006007
  • Weight30 pounds
Pros

Full-range drivers on opposing sides deliver a widespread, surround sound experience

Instant wireless connectivity allows you to use the system straight out of the box

The system is easy to control wirelessly via a mobile app

Cons

The included remote control is very minimal

Bulky DC power supplies

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

5
Yamaha Yht-4950U 5.1-Channel Home Theater System

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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.

Key Features:

5.1-channel system with AV receiver

Can play music from your devices

Flexible speaker placement options

YPAO room optimization

Advanced YST II subwoofer

Specification:
  • BrandYamaha
  • ModelYht-4950U
  • Weight40 pounds
Pros

The receiver in this kit handles the DD+ output from Amazon and Netflix channels, and it’s perfect for movies

The surround system is flawless thanks to the YPAO room optimization technology

Excellent value for money

Cons

The remote control is rather flimsy

Speakers must be wired

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

6
Goldwood Acoustic Audio 2.1 Bluetooth Speaker System

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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 a 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.

Key Features:

2.1-channel system

200 watts total power

Built-in audio amplifier

RCA audio outputs

Built-in Bluetooth

Specification:
  • BrandGoldwood
  • ModelAA2103
  • Weight6 pounds
Pros

Very easy to set up in any room

Ideal for gaming, movies, music listening, and general audio playing

Built-in Bluetooth allows you to play music from your devices

Cons

Only RCA inputs

Sound quality isn’t the best

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

7
VIZIO SB3651-F6 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar System

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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-around 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.

Key Features:

5.1-channel system

Built-in WiFi technology

Works with Chromecast-enabled audio apps

Customizable setup

Specification:
  • BrandVIZIO
  • ModelSB3651-F6
  • Weight5 pounds
Pros

Sound quality is surprisingly good, and the system is very easy to set up

Compatible with most devices as well as Chromecast-enabled apps

Excellent quality-price ratio

Cons

The surround sound quality is not the best

Subwoofers and speakers must be connected through a wire

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

8
Yamaha YHT-5950UBL HD 5.1-Channel Home Theater System

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Choosing the right home theater system isn’t easy. There are a ton of big brand names with amazing products to choose from and when it comes down to it, they all basically do the same thing. But, whether you’re buying home sound equipment or professional audio equipment, the name Yamaha will keep popping up. This electronics behemoth is one of the most trusted names in audio and the YHT-5950UBL is their best home theatre system. 

Earlier in the list, we featured the Yamaha YHT-4950U. Well, this is its big brother. It packs all of the same features but with an improved bass response and all-round quality of sound. This 5.1 channel home theater comes with a MusicCast AV receiver, five speakers, a subwoofer, and speaker wire. If you want stands, you’ll have to buy them separately but, other than that, this set has everything you need.

For easy setup, it has Yamaha’s YPAO Room Optimization technology, that analyzes the room’s acoustics and adjusts the EQ settings for the perfect balance. Plus, they have updated the connectivity that we saw on the Yamaha YHT-4950U. In addition to Bluetooth, this home theater system has Wi-Fi built-in, Airplay 2, Spotify connects, and MusicCast Multi-Room (which makes it similar to a Sonos system).

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Key Features:

Comes with a MusicCast AV receiver, 5 speakers, subwoofer, and speaker wire 

5.1 channel surround sound 

4K HD HDMI with HDR10 & Dolby Vision 

YPAO Room Optimization technology 

Bluetooth, Wi-Fi built-in, Airplay 2, Spotify connect, and MusicCast Multi-Room

Specification:
  • BrandYamaha
  • ModelYHT-4950UBL
  • Weight40 pounds
Pros

Easy set up with YPAO room optimization 

Trusted brand

High-quality audio

Packed with connectivity

Cons

No stands included 

Not wireless

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

9
Logitech Z606 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System

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If you’re looking for a great budget option home theater system, the Logitech Z606 is up there with the best. It’s the smaller and less powerful version of the Logitech Z906 we featured as our Best Choice product. A decade ago, it would have been impossible to get true 5.1 surround sound for less than $100. As technology improves quicker and quicker, anything’s possible.

Admittedly, you have to forgo some of the features that make the Z906 so desirable. For example, it only has two wired inputs instead of six, so you can only hook up a couple of devices (a TV and a music player for example. It also doesn’t have a separate amplifier, which means you get around a fifth of the continuous power. It’s not going to shake your whole house, but it will sound better than the speakers on your TV. On the plus side, it has Bluetooth connectivity, so you hook up your smartphone without getting out of your chair.

Key Features:

True 5.1 surround sound 

160 watts of continuous power

Five speakers and subwoofer 

Bluetooth connectivity 

Remote control included

Specification:
  • BrandLogitech
  • ModelZ606
  • Weight12 pounds
Pros

Amazing price for true 5.1 surround sound 

Decent connectivity

Cons

Speaker wires not long enough for big rooms 

Not enough power to listen loud

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

10
Samsung SWA-8500S 2.0 Speaker System

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Samsung soundbars are a great way to improve the quality of sound you get out of your TV. But, if you own one of these Samsung soundbar models – the T450, T550, T650, Q60T, or S60T – you can take the sound quality one step further. The Samsung SWA-8500S 2.0 Speaker System is designed to turn a soundbar into one speaker in a surround sound setup, creating a truly immersive audio experience. 

The set includes a wireless receiver module and two surround speakers that are designed to be put behind the listener. You also get the necessary speaker cables and power cords. The speakers are wireless, so you don’t have to run a cable from the soundbar to the receiver.

Key Features:

Includes wireless receiver module and two surround speakers 

Compatible with T450, T550, T650, Q60T, or S60T

Wall mountable 

54-watt output

Specification:
  • BrandSamsung
  • ModelSWA-8500S/ZA
  • Weight 16 ounces
Pros

Improves the audio experience of Samsung soundbars 

High-quality audio 

Attractive speaker housing 

Cons

Not very flexible

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Home Theater System Buying Guide

Features To Look For In Home Theater Systems

We would all love to live a cinema-like experience at home, but before investing your hard-earned money into a home theater system, you should make sure it is the best. Here are a few features you should consider before buying.

Quality – The quality of a system is rarely guaranteed by the brand or price point. Sure, some brands are better than others, but overall, you should check the sound quality as well as the system’s compatibility with your devices. Keep in mind that a home theater system can impact the image quality, too, so make sure the one you want is compatible with your TV, computer, or other devices you might want to use.

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Size – Depending on your interior décor, you might want to get a big system that stands out or a sleeker one that can blend with your furniture. Then, you should also consider the actual size of the system by evaluating how many speakers it comes with. Some of the best home theater systems come with soundbars that incorporate the receiver and front speakers, for a sleeker, more sophisticated design.

Type – Last but not least, also decide if you want a wired or wireless system. The former is cheaper, but if you don’t want to see any wires along the walls, a wireless home theater could be your best bet. Pay attention to the product description, though. Some systems come with actual wireless speakers and woofer, while others only have the capability to connect with your wireless-enabled devices to play audio from them. That said, a wireless system not only cuts wires off the equation but also gives you the flexibility to place the speakers wherever you want.

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