Diy home audio system guide
22nd Jul '19 • By Emily Ayers
Home audio systems go beyond a few simple speakers. Providing a comprehensive sound setup with more volume, definition and fidelity is a goal for all the audiophiles amongst us. The exciting part is that you don't have to be an expert to install these systems by yourself at home. You don’t need much more than a few tools and the determination to get the job done. So, what is the process of installing a home audio system, you may ask?
Here's what you need to know about what it takes to install your own home audio system. In reality, it’s not too difficult and the pros far outweigh the cons if the cost of an electrician is not within your budget.
Audio systems are primarily used for listening to music, but can also be hooked up to your television for a more impressive audio-visual experience. This has become very popular for those who want that cinematic surround sound experience.
Choosing the best audio system
The first step to choosing your audio systems is to determine what your needs are and how you intend your new system to look and work within your home. To determine what kind of audio system you require, it's important to think about the type of audio you are most likely to play. This will be an influence on whether for example, you are looking for a strong bass or treble response. Of course these are often a personal taste choice and will even vary within your own family.
Choosing an audio system solely on budget can lead to dissatisfaction as the system might not meet your needs. It is paramount that you purchase a system that has the features you require and will work best in your home acoustics. As previously stated, you may want that complete home theatre surround sound experience, which involves the purchase of an AV receiver, speakers and subwoofer.
However, a simple sound bar and small speaker may be enough to satisfy your audio requirements. The choices available on the market today are extensive and geared towards the consumer. All major electronics stores carry the name brands but with the number of Chinese brands entering the market, prices are dropping without loss of quality.
The best position for your home audio system
The positioning of your system is another key factor to consider when trying to obtain optimum sound. Depending on the system you have chosen, you may be able to position speakers in each corner of the room. It is best to try and make sure they are behind your normal listening position. If you have a subwoofer, try placing it in a corner spot, where the output may be magnified and therefore sound louder. Try and keep it off the floor as it will reverberate and reduce the bass quality. It will also be a “slave” to your room dynamics. If this is an issue, purchase and install some bass traps which are great for sound absorption.
The size of your space, the types of furnishings throughout your home and the nature of the system you have installed all contribute to the overall effectiveness of your sound system. Try out different locations in your media room or intended area to get the best sound for your listening experience and if the budget allows, look to purchase the add-ons mentioned that can help solve sound issues.
Installing soundproofing
Once you have chosen the position for your system, you may have to also think about soundproofing. Soundproofing can reduce any nuisance you might cause to your neighbours or to those that live with you. It will also improve the quality of the sound in your desired space. Acoustic wall paneling is a good start where layers of acoustic drywall can easily be added around your speakers to reduce noise transfer.
The beauty of a DIY audio system is that you are only dictated by your budget. You can spend as little or as much as you want. Either way with careful planning and a bit of research you can really give yourself a decent audio system to be proud of. The amount of expert advice at hand or just a call away is significant and will go a long way to getting your listening requirements just right.
Putting together your own audio system is a great way to improve your entertaining options at home. Throw some bluetooth speakers outside and you have the perfect party setup for any occasion, being just one of the things you need to create a killer BBQ area. Even though the medium has changed over time with CD’s today being replaced by live streaming apps like Spotify, music will never go out of fashion.
Beyond this, by including an HD TV and a Blu-Ray player or movie streaming service, you can have the full cinema experience at home. All you need now is for someone to bring the popcorn!
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Further reading:
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The 10 Best Ways to Save on Your Energy Bill