When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn moreThe best surround sound systems include soundbars with rear satellites and large speaker setups with AV receivers.Tyler Hayes/Klipsch/Business InsiderThe best surround sound systems create an enveloping soundscape with audio effects that move around you. As someone who reviews home entertainment gear for a living, I've tested everything from compact soundbars to full-scale speaker setups. With that in mind, I'm here to break down the basics of surround sound and offer my top recommendations.The Samsung Q990F is a standout option for anyone who wants a powerful system that has everything you need right in the box. It's an impressive soundbar package with rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer, so you can get big, room-filling audio without much setup. But if you have extra space and a bigger budget, building a system with Klipsch Reference Premiere series speakers will deliver even more impactful, detailed sound. Just keep in mind you'll need to add an AV receiver to power those speakers.If you're not familiar with AV receivers or other surround sound components and jargon, don't worry — I've got you covered. This guide includes an FAQ section that explains key home theater terms, like "audio channels," "Dolby Atmos," and "HDMI ARC," so you can shop with confidence.Our top picks for the best surround sound systemsBest soundbar model: Samsung 11.1.4-Channel Q990F - See at AmazonBest high-end speakers: Klipsch 5.1.4-Channel Reference Premiere - See at AmazonBest budget option: Sony Bravia System 6 - See at AmazonBest wireless setup: Sony 4.0.4-Channel Bravia Quad - See at AmazonBest soundbar modelThe Samsung Q990F is the best surround sound system for anyone seeking a powerful Dolby Atmos setup in a single, convenient package. Included in the box are a 48.5-inch soundbar, two wireless rear speakers, and a wireless subwoofer, providing a genuine surround sound experience.In total, the system provides a whopping 756W of power and 11.1.4 channels of audio, which results in a fantastic sense of immersion. Our reviewer was impressed by the system's rich clarity and the rear speakers' ability to engulf them in lively soundscapes while watching movies like "Dune II."The Samsung Q990F is a premium soundbar system with dedicated rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer.Tyler Hayes/Business InsiderDolby Atmos technology is also supported with up-firing audio drivers built into the soundbar and satellites. This enables audio effects to bounce off your ceiling, making it seem as if they're coming from overhead. Movies like "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Ready Player One" are a great showcase for the Q990F's Atmos effects, creating a dome of audio that extends around and above the listening area.Our reviewer also liked the new subwoofer, which is now more compact than previous models in the Q990 series. It also features a sealed design to minimize rattling. Despite its smaller stature, it delivered plenty of rumble even at default settings, so there's room to further enhance the low-frequency response for those who love bass.However, this is still a soundbar at its core, so there are limitations to keep in mind. Although it's incredibly powerful for its size, the Q990F can't match the presence and depth of speakers like Klipsch's high-end Reference Premiere models. But within this size and price range, the Q990F is hard to beat. It's also a lot more convenient than a traditional speaker setup since it doesn't require a separate AV receiver. The Q990F has built-in amplification, processing, and connectivity.It features an HDMI eARC port, an optical port, and two HDMI 2.1 inputs with 4K HDR passthrough. That latter feature was missing on the older Q990C, and it enables the soundbar to pass 4K/120Hz signals with VRR to a connected TV. This is perfect for people who want to use a PS5 or Xbox Series X with the Q990F. That said, it's a bit annoying that the HDMI ports are being positioned at the bottom of the bar rather than the rear. Alexa is also integrated for hands-free voice control, and the soundbar supports Q-Symphony. This feature allows the Q990F to pair with certain Samsung TVs, including the S90F and S95H OLEDs, so you can use your TV's speakers with the soundbar. Editor's note: Samsung also sells a newer edition of this soundbar, the Q990H. However, this 2026 model has nearly identical hardware and only offers a few new software features. With that in mind, the Q990F is typically the better buy since it's often less expensive. Read our Samsung HW-Q990F soundbar review.Visit our guide to all of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars.Best high-end speakersAlthough all the home theater packages included in this guide are great performers in their own right, Klipsch's Reference Premiere speakers are on an entirely different level. Designed for true enthusiasts, this is one of the best surround systems available for
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