10 tips to maximise the potential of your home sound system

If there’s one thing music lovers, movie enthusiasts, and avid gamers have in common, it’s a need for perfect sound quality.

Thankfully, technology has evolved to the point where you can have your own club, cinema, or arcade-level experience right in the comfort of your home. Your home sound system can turn any room into a captivating audio haven — and you don’t have to overspend or make drastic changes. With these helpful tips, you can unleash its full potential.

Your property inspiration

Any audiophile would be wise to take note of this stunning five-bedroom house in sought-after Bonnie Doon. As you enter the cosy lounge, you'll be greeted by a plush sofa and elegant wooden floors. But, what grabs attention is the stellar entertainment and home sound system. There’s an impressive flat-screen TV, perfect to gather around and watch all your favourite shows. And the experience is made better by crystal-clear audio delivered by the bookshelf speakers and subwoofer neatly tucked away on the side. Every beat and every note will resonate through the room, enveloping you in a symphony of sound.

Turn up the volume with these tips

Like this Bonnie Doon property, you can follow some simple ways to achieve exceptional sound quality.

1. Select the right speakers: First up, two or three speakers will work fine (a right and left channel to deliver stereo sound) and a subwoofer to crank up the bass. Because music is recorded and mixed with stereo output in mind, you don’t need to add multiple speakers to create the effect. When choosing speakers, consider your budget, the size of your room, and online reviews to get a feel for sound quality and longevity.

2. Find your sound sweet spot: You can have the best speakers and subwoofers on the market. However, their sound can be impacted by how you place them. Experiment by angling your speakers and seeing how the sound travels to your preferred listening area. The same applies to your subwoofer and you may even find you’ll need to change the position of furniture to prevent a dull or muddy sound.

3. Rethink your seating: Your room’s layout can also enhance how you enjoy your sound system. The general rule is to create an equilateral triangle with both of your speakers and your seating arrangements. Put the speaker on one side of your TV and the speaker on the other side. Your seating should be placed in front of these speakers. About foot feet in distance is the standard length for an ideal sound experience.

4. Opt for speaker stands: Even if you’re using bookshelf speakers, these should be placed on a speaker stand rather than on the floor or a bookshelf. On the floor will see sound travel to your feet rather than your ears and cause a reverb. Place them on shelves and you risk the sound being trapped and even causing an annoying vibration.

5. Calibrate audio settings: Your sound system will come with calibration tools to produce the best experience in your home. Adjust settings like bass, treble, and surround sound levels to get the best return on your investment.

6. Invest in quality cables and connectors: High-quality cables and connectors can make a noticeable difference in sound quality. Choose cables that are suitable for your specific audio setup and invest in connectors that provide a secure and reliable connection.

7. Consider your room’s acoustics: The size, shape, and layout of your room have a distinct impact on your sound system’s audio quality. Speak to a designer with expertise or do some research yourself. Small acoustic treatments like curtains, rugs, or sound-absorbing panels can reduce echoes and improve sound clarity.

8. Upgrade components if needed: If you feel like your sound system isn’t performing as it did before, it may be time to do a maintenance check. Drivers can get rotten and damaged and audio cables can get frayed. Where parts can’t be fixed, it might be worth investing in a new system and reaping the benefits of advanced technology.

9. Change your headphones: Sometimes the smallest fix can make the biggest change. If you use your sound system with a headset, it might be the reason for diminished sound quality. Invest in a good pair and you’ll see the difference.

10. Regularly clean and maintain your equipment: Dust and debris can affect the performance of your audio equipment. Regularly clean and maintain your speakers, amplifiers, and other components to ensure they continue to deliver optimal sound quality.

Your home should inspire you

By following the tips, you can elevate your audio experience and create a captivating atmosphere in your living space. Whether it's immersing yourself in a cinematic masterpiece, getting lost in the melodies of your favourite music, or feeling the pulse of a thrilling game, a well-optimised sound system can transport you to new realms of audio bliss.

If you’re in search of a home with the perfect space for your home system, look to the team at Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, the most prominent real estate company in South Africa, to find it. Browse our portfolio of exceptional properties for sale and get in touch with our team now.