Whether you want to blast music with your friends at your house party or enjoy a cinematic experience in the comforts of your home, the 7.1 Home Theater System has you covered. In this post, we have listed the best 7.1 home theater system.
Traditional Speakers have evolved tremendously over the years to enhance our listening and viewing experience.
Speakers are no longer hefty, highly cabled, and overpriced as they used to be.
Unlike earlier, you do not have to get individual components and build them together to get the best Home Theater System.
All you need to decide is whether the 5.1 system suits you or the 7.1.
There are a couple of differences; however, the main one is the number of speakers involved.
While the 5.1 system has 6 speakers feeding into six channels, the 7.1 Home Theater System Gives you eight.
That being said, today, we will discuss and help you pick the best 7.1 Home Theater System.
Top 3 Best 7.1 Home Theater System
1. Klipsch 7.1 RP-250 Reference Speaker
What We Like
- Center Channel
- Floor Standing
- Surround Sound Speaker
What Is Missing
- No receiver
2. Sony 7.2-Channel Home Theater
What We Like
- DTS:X and Dolby Atmos
- 360-degree surround sound
- Supports High Dynamic Range (HDR)
What Is Missing
- No wires included
3. Yamaha 7.1 Channel Speaker
What We Like
- 8 Inch Cone Woofers
- High Definition Digital Cinematic Sound
- In-Ceiling 2-Way 150 watts Speaker
What Is Missing
- None
9 Best 7.1 Home Theater System
- Klipsch 7.1 RP-250 Speaker
- Sony 7.2-Channel Home Theater•
- Yamaha 7.1 Channel Speaker
- Klipsch 7.1 System
- Onkyo 7.1 Ch. Home Theater Speaker System
- Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2.4
- Polk Audio Signature 7.1 System
- Definitive Technology 7.1 System
- Acoustic Audio by Goldwood Acoustic In-Wall
- 9 Best 7.1 Home Theater System
- 1. Klipsch 7.1 RP-250 Reference Speaker
- 2. Sony 7.2 Home Theater
- 3. Yamaha High Definition Speaker
- 4. Klipsch 7.1 System
- 5. Onkyo 7.1 Home Theater Speaker System
- 6. Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2.4
- 7. Polk Audio Signature 7.1 System
- 8. Definitive Technology 7.1 System
- 9. Acoustic Audio
1. Klipsch 7.1 RP-250 Reference Speaker
Klipsch 7.1 RP-250
The 7.1 Klipsch 250 reference clip speakers are known for their exceptional quality.
Unfortunately, this does not come with a receiver; however, this RP-250 Reference Premiere Surround Sound Speaker comes with two floor standards and speakers with cones similar to ceramic.
It is also accompanied by a center channel speaker, a pair of surround speakers, and a pair of monitor speakers with a ceramic like cones.
This wired system is known to improve audio details.
These powerful speakers give you a very high-quality listening experience. Any living room or entertainment room can be comfortably managed with these speakers.
Pros
- Subwoofer
- Floor Standing
- Center Channel
- Free Wireless Kit
- Surround Sound Speaker
Cons
- No receiver
2. Sony 7.2 Home Theater
Sony 7.2
Key Highlights
- DTS:X and Dolby Atmos
- 360-degree surround sound
- Supports High Dynamic Range (HDR)
Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-Channel Home Theater is one of the best selling receivers on the market, and it’s so good it won many awards, including product of the year and best selling receiver under 500.
You would assume that Sony STR-DN1080 7.2- provides a two-dimensional audio experience like most speakers.
However, this system is supported by DTS X, and Dolby Atmos, which feel like the sounds aren’t just coming from around you but also from above you.
The best 3d Audio experience deserves the highest possible picture quality.
This is possible as Sony STR-DN1080 allows you to pass through 4K HDR video, including Dolby vision with built-in Wi-Fi and network capabilities.
Another thing worth mentioning is that it has Chromecast for audio built into the system and support for various other systems.
HDMI is never going to be an issue since this home theater has 2 HDMI and 6 HD
MI Input with zone control all supporting 4K HDR. Configuring this system has been user-friendly as you can do this on the fly with your tablet or phone. It doesn’t matter if it’s iOS or Android.
Usually, in a home theater system, the speakers are the main heroes while the receiver is simply a sidekick. However, this budget system revolves around the receiver.
Although the speakers do not have anything except we have noticed the speakers and receiver are a perfect fit.
This one-time purchase is great for any room and provides you with everything you need for a home theater effect.
Since this home theater won’t burn a hole in your wallet, you shouldn’t expect the best sound quality money can buy like specific other systems mentioned in this list.
On that note, the Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-Channel Home Theater is one of the best pocket-friendly 7.1 systems out there.
Pros
- DSEE HX Upscaling
- DTS:X and Dolby Atmos
- 360-degree surround sound
- Supports High Dynamic Range
- High-Resolution Audio File Formats
Cons
- No wires included
3. Yamaha High Definition Speaker
Yamaha
Key Highlights
- 8 Inch Cone Woofers
- High Definition Digital Cinematic Sound
- In-Ceiling 2-Way 150 watts Speaker
The next home theater we have on this list is by another top brand in the electronics segment.
Things you can expect straight out of the box are High Definition Digital Cinematic Sound 770 Watts 7.1 Channel 3D A/V Receiver with iPhone & iPod Dock + Yamaha Natural Sound Custom Install In-Ceiling 2-Way 150 watts Speaker (Set of 6) with 8″ Cone Woofers and 1″ Swivel Titanium Dome Tweeter Designed a 100 AWG 16 Speaker Wire additionally.
This incredible system effortlessly provides you with a very natural listening experience in your theater setup.
What differentiates this system from its competitors is that this is easy to set up. Now, who wants to spend hours installing a home theater?
By connecting this system with HDTV and playback things, you can enjoy watching Blu-Ray movies.
Another benefit of the Yamaha High Definition Digital Cinematic home system is that you have tons of connectivity alternatives, including 4 HDMI inputs, allowing you to quickly access and control the system.
Additionally, your theater experience gets much better since you can control it with a convenient remote.
Pros
- Easy to set-up
- Long wires 100ft
- 8 Inch Cone Woofers
- High Definition Digital Cinematic Sound
- In-Ceiling 2-Way 150 watts Speaker
Cons
- None
4. Klipsch 7.1 System
Klipsch 7.1
Again on this list, we see Klipsch, this time. They have teamed up with Denon to provide an impeccable listening experience.
This fantastic theater system comes with Denon’s X44OOH mid-range receiver. In this system, you can expect incredible power.
Think of a feature that you expect from your home theater, and I’m sure the Klipsch 7.1 System with Denon AVR-X4400H has it.
We noticed that the design is very typical Klipsch with the prominent horns that are visible and the copper spun speakers.
This system comes with two eight-inch cerametallic woofers and the Tractrix horn.
You would notice that four 4 inch copper accompanies the center channel speaker spun cerametallic drivers with a centrally placed horn.
However, it doesn’t stop there. The surround speakers come with a unique design that has a sound spread that is two-way.
There are cabinets that contain drivers that are spun with copper along with a Tractrix horn to enable the sounds to move all around you while listening to music.
The Klipsch 7.1 System comes with a monster for a sub which is 800 watt, along with a 15-inch long-throw woofer that is cerametallic spun copper.
You do not have to worry about receivers’ compatibility since there are right and left line-level connections and RCA inputs connected to almost all receivers.
Excellent home theater experience won’t come cheap hence you will be shelling out some money for this system.
It’s perfect for large rooms since the speaker position can be changed for the best experience and we wouldn’t recommend this system for small rooms.
All you need to know about this system is that it has a fantastic receiver, brilliant speakers, and a lovely surround system arrangement.
Pros
- Dolby Atmos
- Powerful system
- Premium build quality
- Center Channel Speaker
- Premiere Surround Speakers
Cons
- Not suitable for small rooms
5. Onkyo 7.1 Home Theater Speaker System
Onkyo 7.1
If you would like a listening experience that is highly detailed and offers a high frequency, then the Onkyo SKS-HT993THX 7.1 Ch.
THX Home Theater Speaker System should be the speakers of your choice.
Black ash is the colour of this home theater speaker set and subwoofer with 3 speakers in the front that are round in their shape.
The speakers are covered in black wooden material, which is not glossy.
In the front, you would notice there are 130W 2-way speakers that have 5-inch woofers and a 1-inch balanced-dome floating tweeter.
The bass-powered subwoofer has a 230 Watts output along with a cone driver that is 10 inches.
Now let us get to the audio performance and enjoy authentic THX-quality sound with this THX-certified receiver.
The THX certification ensures that you will hear the THX movie soundtracks as a director intended.
The 125-watt subwoofer ensures the bass distortion is reduced.
This system ensures film soundtracks demonstrate rich layers of detail and immersive wide-spectrum dynamics.
The home theater is designed for optimal sound. This system’s solid MDF cabinets are designed to keep vibration minimal.
Its A-OMF woofer achieves enhanced speed and accuracy for a better listening experience.
The advantage of the sealed speakers here is that they can be positioned anywhere.
They can even be mounted onto room walls without compromising the clarity of music or the bass.
Pros
- Front-firing cone
- Solid MDF cabinets
- Detailed audio quality
- A-OMF woofer diaphragms
- 2-Way Acoustic Suspension
Cons
- Not stylish
6. Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2.4
Nakamichi
Key Highlights
- Room-filling bass
- Can connect up to 6 devices
- Support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
To give you a brief background on Nakamichi in case you are not aware.
They are a company running since the year 1948 which began as a research and development organization in optics and electronics, but these days they make music systems.
Soundbars were designed to provide quality audio. They generally put one very long speaker on your television, which would be the middle or center speaker and that there would be side speakers and subwoofers.
This gave an audio experience superior to the general Television audio but not as good as a real home theater system.
Here is where Nakamichi swooped in and made a system that was incredibly easy to use, giving the proper home theater systems a tough competition.
We noticed that the Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2.4 is a combination of two subwoofers and a soundbar and two speakers, which together comprise the 7.2.4 system.
In case you are not familiar with the 7.2.4 system, what it means is that 7 is the number of channels you have in the center of the system, in the front left and right, and 4 other channels.
106 decibels is as loud as this system gets with 800 Watts power.
Another thing worthy of noting is that Nakamichi technology creates a sound stage what that means is that you will hear the audio from every direction.
Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2.4 works great even in large to average sized rooms but not suited for small rooms.
We were impressed by the superior bass, which did not compromise the mids.
Movie and game dialogues are clear and are now lost in low frequencies, which can sometimes happen.
If your TV has Atmos capability, then you are in for a treat since Dolby Atmos adds to this system by giving a surround sound experience.
Pros
- Value for money
- Room-filling bass
- 52-key backlit remote
- Can connect up to 6 devices
- Support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
Cons
- Not fit for small rooms
7. Polk Audio Signature 7.1 System
Polk Audio
It’s worth looking into the Polk Signature 7.1 system.
It’s a full HTIB (Home-Theater-In-A-Box) with everything you’ll need to set up surround sound in your home.
The device incorporates multiple speakers from the company’s excellent S series, all of which provide good sound.
A beautiful Denon receiver is paired with this device, which has simple features but brings out the best in this speaker kit.
Pros
- Center Speaker
- Value for money
- Subwoofer included
Cons
- Mediocre sound
8. Definitive Technology 7.1 System
Definitive Technology
Key Highlights
- High definition sound
- 300-Watt powered subwoofer
- Satellites and center speaker can be wall mounted
It earns our approval in terms of appearance and design, as well as construction quality.
Every aspect of this design has been carefully considered, including the feet that support the floor-based tower speakers.
Chrome outrider style supports an elegant build. And it will undoubtedly be regarded as one of the most modern 7.1 home theatre systems available.
Some businesses exude a particular aesthetic in their design concepts.
The majority of the time, European design ideas are used, but this American firm has something special.
Two tower speakers, a central channel speaker, and four dual directional surround speakers are included. A Subwoofer completes the sound.
Each of the floor-standing speakers features a powered subwoofer that offers additional bass support while also providing an overall immersive sound.
They are the base of what you are hearing, describing every aspect of the sound. High-performance drivers and aluminum dome tweeters are housed in the middle tube.
A bass woofer that is well-supported adds a little more bottom end to the overall tone.
And it succeeds, delivering vocals and dialogue of exceptional consistency and clarity.
It’s not only suitable for movies, but it’s also good for music. The surround speakers provide a complete movie experience by filling the room with music.
All you need is something substantial at the bottom, and you’ve got it.
It’s available from Definitive Technology. The 12-inch long-throw front-firing subwoofer is powered by a BASH amp with a peak power of 1000 watts.
It has volume controls and crossovers that can be adjusted. Not cheap, but this incredible system produces results.
Pros
- High definition sound
- 300-Watt powered subwoofer
- Bass radiators deliver rich sound
- Satellites and center speaker can be wall mounted
Cons
- Expensive
9. Acoustic Audio
Acoustic Audio
A low-cost device that can be installed on the wall or ceiling, It’s very much a beginner’s method. It could, however, be of interest to those who have smaller rooms in which eight speaker cabinets will be impractical.
This system goes a step further by using nine speakers.
The additional speaker is a subwoofer. As a result, the low frequencies are given by two passive subwoofers with ten-inch speakers.
The ten-inch drivers with woven fiber cones are used in both subwoofers.
Four rectangular-shaped wall or ceiling speakers are also included.
Two round speakers can be mounted on the wall or suspended from the ceiling.
A dual center channel speaker is also included.
The circular speakers come in three sizes, each with woven fibre cones and 5.25, 6.5, or 8-inch drivers.
They even have titanium dome tweeters that pivot. The four rectangular speakers have the same driver choices and driver and tweeter construction.
Two 6.5-inch woofers and 12mm soft-dome tweeters are used in the middle tube.
The butyl rubber surrounds on the speakers in all of the cabinets have vibration resistance.
White grilles and surrounds are standard, but they can be painted if desired.
They all have wall locking systems for added protection, and models for cutting the holes are given.
Pros
- Easy Installation
- Titanium tweeters
- 7.2 Surround Sound
- In Wall or In Ceiling Speakers
Cons
- Not exceptional quality
Buying Guide For Best 7.1 Home Theater System
External vs wall speakers
On one side, in-wall and ceiling speakers have the advantage of being unobtrusive.
You can tuck them away to create a sleek, minimalist look in your space.
The problem is, that’s pretty much the only benefit. In return for the echoing, hollow space in your walls and ceilings, you’re giving up any advantages a tuned speaker cabinet could have.
And tiny, self-contained in-wall speakers won’t sound as good as individual speakers.
Room size
The size of the room is something to think about while designing your system.
If you go for wall or ceiling mounted systems, which we tested a few, the 7.1 systems take up more room.
The size of the room is critical, and a 7.1 device requires a little extra room.
First, because of the physical size of the speakers, and second, because of the sound quality. To get the best results from some, you may need to turn up the volume.
Receiver
It would be best if you determined whether or not you want a built-in receiver. Some models have a receiver, while others do not.
If you need to buy a receiver, it will be more costly, and receivers are not inexpensive.
Television
Before you buy your home theater, make sure you check your TV set.
Do you want Dolby Atmos and the best sound you can get? If you have Atmos Systems, you will notice a significant difference in the surround sound experience.
However, this function appears to increase the cost of the systems.
Before you go out and buy something, check your television.
To get the best acoustic experience, you can need a new sound system and a new high-end television.
Connectivity
Would Bluetooth and WiFi be a requirement? If that’s the case, some systems have them, and others don’t.
Frequency
Frequency measurement is a measurement of how high or lows the pitch of a sound is.
Hertz is the unit of measurement (Hz). Humans can hear between 20Hz (a shallow bass note) and 17kHz (a very, very high-pitched finger-on-a-glass note).
By the way, kHz stands for kilohertz, or a thousand hertz (for example, 17,000 Hz).
Speaker placement
By spreading the sound through four speakers rather than two (as in 5.1 surrounds), the rear surround speakers help fill larger spaces more fully and bring more complexity to the experience, resulting in more directed, immersive sound.
The center speaker, which should be labeled as such, is the easiest to place.
Place it in front of or just underneath your television. First, inspect the front left and right speakers, which should be numbered.
It’s not easy to put these in the right place.
When you’re sitting in your listening spot, you want them to be at ear level, and they shouldn’t be too far apart or too close together.
If you do one of those things, the sound would be messed up.
Start with the speakers about three feet away from the TV on each side and work your way out. To get it right, you’ll have to experiment a little.
A 7.1 surround sound system would be useless in a small room.
You’re better off investing in a 5.1 system or, even better, preceding surround sound altogether and opting for a decent pair of floor-standing speakers.
Dolby Atmos
It’s a big dog, and it uses object-based surround sound, which means that instead of sending a sound to a specific channel simply because that’s what it’s blended as it uses positioned programming tricks to combine the sounds, putting them indistinct, predetermined locations around the room by combining them between the speakers.
Ending Thoughts On Best 7.1 Home Theater System
This post is an in-depth guide on the Best 7.1 Home Theater System. After evaluating numerous speakers, we found these 9 to be the Best 7.1 Home Theater System.
Let us know your views about these speakers in the comment section.
Check our recent post on headphones, speakers, soundbars and earphones.