Believe it or not, it’s possible to get surround sound at home that’s every bit as thrilling as what you experience in a movie theater. Get the right receiver and surround sound speakers, and you may never leave home!

Surround Sound: Understanding the Technology
         System Basics What's Your Budget? | How Big Is Your Room? | Do You Like It Loud? | How Much Gear Do You Have?
         Surround Formats
         Bass Management

Surround Sound Shopping Tips
Before heading for the stores with your wish list in hand, here are some fundamentals to keep in mind.


Receivers: Understanding the Technology: Receivers
         A/V Receiver Basics
         Power
         Setup

Receiver Shopping Tips
The receiver is the heart of any audio/video or home theater system. Be sure to review the basics before you hit the stores.


Speakers: Understanding the Technology
         How (Most) Speakers Work
         Speaker Types
         Setup

Speaker Shopping Tips
Speakers affect your system's sound more than any other component. Here are some things to remember when you go shopping.



Check out S&V's Best, our recommendations on the best gear to buy right now.