Surround Sound Systems

Surround sound systems use multichannel audio to enrich the sound reproduction quality of an audio source using additional audio channels reproduced by additional discrete speakers. the three-dimensional space of human hearing can be achieved using audio channels above and below the listener. Surround sound technology is used in cinema theatres, home theatre systems, video game consoles, personal computers, and so on.

Low Frequency Effects (LFE) Channel
The Frequency Effects channel (LFE) is originally developed to carry extremely low (sub-bass) sound effects such as thunder or explosions on a separate channel. This allows the theatres to control the volume of sound effects to suit the size of their sound system and the acoustic environment of their cinema. However, home system may not have a separate subwoofer that can handle such effects. Therefore, modern surround systems often incorporate a bass management system that allows bass on any channel to be fed only to speakers than can handle low-frequency signals.

Television Buying Guide 7

Television Sound
Almost every new television has MTS (Multichannel Television Sound) stereo speakers, which is much better than a single mono speaker. MTS is a standard that allows the encoding of 3 channels of audio within a standard NTSC (analog) video signal to a television. A television that is able to receive MTS Stereo allows you to watch television with stereo sound. Usually 5 watts per channel or higher provides a decent audio system for a television. Some sets can simulate surround sound to provide semblance of rear speakers.

Of course no television can compete with a dedicated audio system. You can consider a home-theatre audio system for maximum impact.