HOW DO YOU HOOK UP SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM?

A surround sound system can completely change the way you watch your favorite movies, sports, and TV shows. While every setup is a little different, most installations follow the same basic steps. Here’s what you can do: 

1. Identify your components

Before connecting any cables, take a moment to identify your receiver, speakers, subwoofer, and TV. Knowing which components you have will make the installation process much easier.

2. Understand your speaker layout

Your speaker configuration depends on the number of speakers included in your system. The most common surround sound setups include:

• 2.1: It has two front speakers and one subwoofer
• 5.1: This configuration includes left, center, and right front speakers, two surround speakers, and one subwoofer
• 7.1: This is similar to a 5.1 system, but with two additional rear speakers behind the seating area

3. Position the speakers correctly

Proper speaker placement plays a major role in overall sound quality.

1. Place the center speaker directly above or below your TV
2. Position the front left and right speakers on either side of the screen at ear level
3. Place surround speakers slightly to the sides or behind the main seating area
4. Position the subwoofer on the floor, typically near the front of the room
5. Keep the receiver in a well-ventilated location with easy access to power

4. Connect the speakers to the receiver

Connect each speaker to its matching terminal on the back of the receiver. Most receivers clearly label connections such as Front Left, Center, and Surround Right. Just be sure to match the positive (+) and negative (−) terminals correctly. Reversed wiring can affect audio performance.

5. Connect the subwoofer

Many powered subwoofers use a dedicated LFE connection.

1. Connect one end of an RCA or subwoofer cable to the subwoofer
2. Connect the other end to the Sub Out, Sub Pre-Out, or LFE port on the receiver

6. Connect the Receiver to Your TV

For most modern TVs and receivers, HDMI ARC or eARC provides the simplest connection and the best overall audio performance.

1. Connect one end of a High-Speed HDMI cable to the HDMI ARC/eARC port on your TV
2. Connect the other end to the HDMI Out (ARC/eARC) port on your receiver

If your TV doesn’t support HDMI ARC, a Digital Optical connection is usually the next best option.

7. Connect your streaming and media devices

Streaming devices, gaming consoles, and Blu-ray players should generally connect directly to the receiver’s HDMI input ports. The receiver will handle the audio while passing the video signal to your TV.

8. Turn everything on and test the system

Once everything is connected, power on your TV, receiver, and media devices. Select the correct input on the receiver and test the system using a movie, TV show, or song you’re familiar with.

If one of the speakers isn’t producing sound, double-check the wiring and receiver settings before moving on.

Need Help?

If you’re still having trouble getting everything connected, Geeks on Site can help. Our local technicians can install and configure your surround sound system, verify that every component is working properly, and fine-tune the audio for the best listening experience. We’ll take care of the setup so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your favorite content with immersive sound.

Home theater setup services start at just $139 and include a 7-day service warranty. Call (888) 368-8442 to book an appointment.