Imagine a movie night where sound swirls around you, making you feel like you’re right in the action. That’s the magic of surround sound. But what if you want that amazing experience without a mess of wires tangling up your room? That’s where wireless surround sound comes in, promising freedom from cable clutter.
Choosing the perfect wireless surround system can feel like a maze. You see lots of terms like “true wireless” or “multi-room audio,” and it’s easy to get confused. You want great sound that fits your space and budget, but figuring out which system delivers that without frustrating setup issues is the real challenge.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what wireless surround means, what features truly matter, and how to pick a system that brings immersive audio into your home without turning your living room into a spaghetti junction of cables. Get ready to ditch the wires and step into better sound.
Top Wireless Surround Recommendations
- Three full-range speakers inside the soundbar, two surround speakers, and one wireless compact subwoofer deliver 96dB of detailed and dynamic high-impact sound that’s perfect for medium to large-sized rooms.
- Soundbar remote control sold separately.
- Receive the latest product updates and adjust advanced soundbar settings by downloading the VIZIO mobile app for your Android or iOS device (A VIZIO Account is required.)
- Use your existing TV remote to control volume on your soundbar when connected through your TV's HDMI eARC port. (HDMI eARC Output ONLY.) No TV HDMI port? No problem! Contact VIZIO customer support 844-254-8087 or visit support.VIZIO.com if your TV requires optical connection.
- When watching Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content, this soundbar puts you at the center of your entertainment, creating an immersive audio experience
- 5.1.2ch Surround Sound System: A 5.1.2-channel system featuring up-firing speakers, surround sound, and a powerful subwoofer creates lifelike, multidimensional audio. Feel the Sky Around You—raindrops falling from above, helicopters circling overhead, thunder rumbling in all directions. Sound isn’t just around you, it engulfs you, as if the ceiling disappeared. This is Dolby Atmos: not just heard, but felt.
- Up-Firing Drivers with Neodymium Core: The up-firing channels use neodymium internal magnets and 18-core large voice coils to enhance height precision and vertical throw. This aerospace-grade configuration ensures better high-frequency dynamics, delivering focused and elevated sound images that unlock the true potential of Dolby Atmos.
- 360° SurroundX Audio: SurroundX technology combines two rear surround speakers and dual up-firing Atmos drivers to build a true 360° sound field. Powered by intelligent spatial algorithms, the system precisely positions audio around and above you—enhancing Dolby Atmos with a more natural, three-dimensional soundstage. Note: Not compatible with DTS.
- Lossless Audio Transmission: Unlock full Dolby Atmos performance with HDMI eARC, supporting up to 37Mbps bandwidth for lossless 5.1.2-channel audio. Compared to regular ARC, eARC delivers richer detail and better surround effects with no compression. With CEC, your TV and soundbar work as one—power, volume, and input sync automatically for effortless control.
- Advanced App Control: Customize every detail of your audio experience with the Ultimea App. Fine-tune your surround sound with 13-step level adjustment (-6 to +6), optimize with a 10-band graphic EQ, and choose from 121 preset sound settings. Enjoy seamless OTA updates that unlock new features and keep your system performing at its peak.
- Simplified 5.1ch Dolby Atmos Setup: Enjoy immersive 4D sound with real Dolby Atmos and 5.1-channel audio. Five built-in speakers, including two side-firing drivers, create wide surround without rear speakers. Precision DSP ensures <0.5 ms latency for smooth, theater-like sound. Setup takes less than 1 minute.
- Voice Clarity Enhancement: VoiceMX technology uses advanced DSP algorithms to isolate and enhance vocal frequencies in real time. Dialogue remains crisp and easy to follow by separating speech from background effects and music, even at low volumes or during intense scenes.
- 300W Output with 6-Driver System: Featuring five precision-tuned full-range drivers and a dedicated wired wooden subwoofer, the system delivers up to 300W of peak power for bold, room-filling sound. With a frequency response of 45 Hz–18 kHz and a maximum SPL of 99 dB, it reproduces everything from subtle nuances to explosive cinematic effects.
- 18 mm High-Excursion Driver: Powered by BassMX technology, the wired wooden subwoofer features a 18 mm high-excursion driver, a 5.3L tuned cabinet, and a high-density magnetic circuit. This design delivers deeper, tighter bass with greater air displacement and enhanced low-frequency performance—bringing more realism to every scene.
- HDMI eARC for True Dolby Atmos: HDMI eARC supports up to 37 Mbps of bandwidth, unlocking the full potential of lossless Dolby Atmos 5.1-channel audio. Compared to standard ARC, eARC delivers richer surround effects and greater detail. CEC integration allows the TV and soundbar to work together with unified control.
- 7.1ch Virtual Surround Sound System for TV: This 7.1ch sound bar includes 3 main channels for clear dialogue and 4 surround sound speakers for a virtual surround sound field. SurroundX technology delivers precise audio with 99.99% detail accuracy. AI optimizes sound for lifelike audio, coordinating speakers to simulate accurate sound movement, enhancing your home theater experience.
- Wired Connection between 4 Surround Speakers: Connect sound bar and 2 front surround speakers with front surround cables (FR & FL). Connect 2 rear surround speakers with rear surround cable, power the rear right surround speaker to pair it wirelessly with sound bar. If pairing fails, hold the SURROUND button on the remote for 5s until "SUR" flashes. Then hold the PAIR button on the rear right speaker for 5s until its light flashes. When paired, the light will stay on.
- 4 Adjustable Surround Speakers: The Aura A40 soundbar for tv features 2 wired front surround speakers and 2 wired rear surround speakers, ensuring precise sound projection from the front and back, enhancing audio spatiality and immersion. With 13 adjustable surround levels, the rear speakers and sound bar connect wirelessly, reducing cables and improving space use.
- Ultimea Smart App Control: Ultimea is dedicated to making life more intelligent through the Ultimea Home. Ultimea smart App of this 7.1 tv sound bar for smart tv can switch multiple EQ, adjust bands and matrix. Stay ahead with regular OTA upgrades to ensure a seamless premium audio experience with Ulitmea 7.1 virtual surround sound system for TV.
- 121 Preset EQ Matrices: The Ultimea App caters to the ultimate audio enthusiast with 121 preset equalizer matrices, tailored for four distinct sonic preferences: Bass, Pop, Classical, and Rock. Explore precision tuning and fine-tune your listening experience with dynamic adjustments to achieve your desired effects.
- 7.1ch Virtual Surround Sound System: Upgraded from the 5.1ch Poseidon D50, the Poseidon D70 meets more needs with enhanced surround sound. Enjoy crystal-clear dialogue from three main channels, 4 wired surround speakers, and a 6.5" wireless subwoofer for a wider sound field. (Note: Not compatible with Dolby Audio/Atmos.)
- 4 Adjustable Wired Surround Speakers: This tv sound bar features 2 rear and 2 front speakers, ensuring precise sound projection from the front, back, and sides, enhancing audio spatiality and immersion. With 13 adjustable surround levels that elevate your surround sound experience, this soundbar for tv takes your audio to the next level. 2 rear speakers connect to subwoofer with 20-foot cable, which allows for versatile layouts and enhances space utilization.
- Ultimea Smart App Control: Ultimea is dedicated to making life more intelligent through the Ultimea Home. Not only can Ultimea Smart App meet all your needs, but it also allows you to customize your own favorite styles. Stay ahead with regular OTA upgrades to ensure a seamless premium audio experience of this sound bar with subwoofers.
- 121 Preset Equalizer Matrices: For the ultimate audio connoisseur, ULTIMEA App presents 121 meticulously crafted preset equalizer matrices. Explore four distinct styles: Bass, Pop, Classical, and Rock, and immerse yourself in the art of precision tuning, where every adjustment brings you closer to your ideal soundscape.
- 10-Band Equalizer Settings: Elevate your audio experience with 6 tailored EQ modes: Movie, Music, Voice, Sport, Game, and Night, each finely tuned for optimal performance. Plus, use the ULTIMEA App's "Customize" feature to fine-tune your sound for a perfect, personalized experience.
- DTS VIRTUAL:X: Expand your listening experience; DTS Virtual: X creates spacious 3D sound putting you at the center of the action for an elevated and immersive home theater experience
- SUBWOOFER INCLUDED: Get that big boom with our included subwoofer; Bring home intense sound with rich, powerful bass; Elevate the action and take things to the next level
- BASS BOOST: Bass you can boost with a tap; Feel the depth of distant thunder as your listening experience is taken to another level; Tap the button Feel the power
- ADAPTIVE SOUND LITE: Enjoy all your favorite video content with dynamically optimized audio and enhanced voice clarity so you can follow along with action packed games and blockbuster films
- GAME MODE: Optimize your gaming experience with perfectly synced directional audio that moves with the onscreen action; Game Mode eliminates distractions so you can hear better and play harder
- Immersive 5.1 Surround Sound for Movie Nights: Transform your living room into a personal theater with our 5.1 channel soundbar, designed to deliver stunning, immersive audio. SurroundX Technology upgrades 2.0 PCM to 5.1 surround sound, while aerospace-grade magnets in Ultimea speakers provide crisp, precise audio. Elevate every movie night with sound that surrounds you, making every scene more captivating.
- Cinematic Surround Sound with Dual Rear Speakers: Upgrade your entertainment setup with our 5.1 channel soundbar, featuring two wired rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer. Perfect for movies, gaming, and gatherings, it includes a 19.6-foot cable for flexible placement. Enjoy immersive, theater-quality sound in any space, creating a customized audio experience tailored to you.
- Deep Bass Subwoofer for an Intense Gaming Experience: Feel the action with powerful bass from a high-performance subwoofer featuring BASSMX Technology. Every explosion, revving engine, and impact comes to life with dynamic, room-shaking sound, delivering an adrenaline-pumping gaming experience.
- Seamless Setup with Advanced HDMI ARC Connectivity: Effortlessly switch between TV, music, and gaming with HDMI ARC, ensuring premium audio and convenience. The Poseidon D50 supports a wide range of devices, including Bluetooth, optical, and AUX inputs, providing universal compatibility for a hassle-free setup.
- Precision Audio Customization: The ULTIMEA App offers 121 meticulously crafted preset equalizer matrices across four styles: Bass, Pop, Classical, and Rock. Additionally, six optimized EQ modes—Movie, Music, Voice, Sport, Game, and Night—ensure peak performance. With a 10-band customizable equalizer and "Customize" mode, you have full control to tailor your sound for the perfect listening experience.
- 7.1ch Virtual Surround Sound System for TV: Featuring 3 main channels for crystal-clear dialogue and 4 surround speakers, this 7.1ch sound bar creates an immersive virtual surround sound field. SurroundX technology delivers precise audio with 99.99% detail accuracy. AI fine-tunes the sound for lifelike audio, coordinating all speakers to replicate realistic sound movement and elevate your home theater experience.
- Wired Connection between 4 Surround Speakers: Connect sound bar and 2 front surround speakers with front surround cables (FR & FL). Connect 2 rear surround speakers with rear surround cable, power the rear right surround speaker to pair it wirelessly with sound bar. If pairing fails, hold the SURROUND button on the remote for 5s until "SUR" flashes. Then hold the PAIR button on the rear right speaker for 5s until its light flashes. When paired, the light will stay on.
- 4 Adjustable Surround Speakers: The Aura A40 soundbar for tv features 2 wired front surround speakers and 2 wired rear surround speakers, ensuring precise sound projection from the front and back, enhancing audio spatiality and immersion. With 13 adjustable surround levels, the rear speakers and sound bar connect wirelessly, reducing cables and improving space use.
- Ultimea Smart App Control: Ultimea is dedicated to making life more intelligent through the Ultimea Home. Ultimea smart App of this 7.1 tv sound bar for smart tv can switch multiple EQ, adjust bands and matrix. Stay ahead with regular OTA upgrades to ensure a seamless premium audio experience with Ulitmea 7.1 virtual surround sound system for TV.
- 121 Preset EQ Matrices: The Ultimea App caters to the ultimate audio enthusiast with 121 preset equalizer matrices, tailored for four distinct sonic preferences: Bass, Pop, Classical, and Rock. Explore precision tuning and fine-tune your listening experience with dynamic adjustments to achieve your desired effects.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Wireless Surround Sound Systems
Ready to ditch those tangled wires and bring true cinema sound to your living room? Wireless surround sound systems offer amazing audio immersion without the hassle of running cables everywhere. This guide helps you pick the perfect setup.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features:
- True Wireless vs. Partially Wireless: Some systems require a wire from the main soundbar to the subwoofer, but the rear speakers connect wirelessly. True wireless means *all* speakers connect without wires back to the main unit. Look for true wireless for the cleanest setup.
- Audio Formats Supported: Make sure the system handles modern sound formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. These formats create sound that seems to come from above, making movies much more exciting.
- Connectivity Options: Check for HDMI (eARC/ARC) for the best connection to your TV. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity are also important for streaming music easily from your phone or tablet.
- Speaker Configuration: Surround sound is often described by numbers (e.g., 5.1.2). The first number is the number of main speakers, the second is the subwoofer (the “.1”), and the third is the height/up-firing speakers (the “.2”). More numbers usually mean better immersion.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect both sound quality and how long your system lasts.
- Speaker Drivers: Look for drivers (the parts that make the sound) made from strong, light materials like treated paper or specialized polymers. These materials help produce clear, fast sound.
- Cabinet Construction: Good cabinets should be dense and solid, often made of MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard). Heavy, non-resonant cabinets stop the speaker box itself from buzzing or coloring the sound. Cheap plastic cabinets often sound hollow.
- Wireless Technology: Ensure the system uses modern, reliable wireless standards (like Wi-Fi or specialized low-latency proprietary connections). This prevents annoying delays (lag) between the picture on the screen and the sound you hear.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a system sound fantastic or just okay?
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Calibration Technology: Many high-end systems include automatic room calibration. The system sends out test tones and adjusts the volume and timing of each speaker based on where you sit. This greatly improves sound accuracy.
- Dedicated Rear Channels: Systems that offer true, separate rear speakers (not just sound bouncing off walls) deliver much better positional audio effects.
- High Power Output (Watts): More power usually means the system can play louder without distortion, filling large rooms easily.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Reliance on Bluetooth Only: While convenient, standard Bluetooth compresses audio signals more than dedicated Wi-Fi connections, potentially lowering sound fidelity.
- Small or Missing Subwoofer: If the subwoofer is too small, you miss out on the deep, rumbling bass that makes action movies exciting.
- Proprietary Wireless: While some brands use their own wireless, if the connection is weak, you will experience audio dropouts.
User Experience and Use Cases
A great wireless system should be easy to live with every day.
- Setup Simplicity: The main selling point of wireless is easy setup. The best systems guide you through pairing the rear speakers using simple on-screen prompts. If setup takes hours, the “wireless” benefit is lost.
- Latency (Lag): This is critical for gaming and fast-action movies. If the sound arrives late, it ruins the experience. Always check reviews specifically mentioning low latency performance.
- Use Cases: Are you mainly streaming Netflix? Then Dolby Atmos support is key. Do you listen to a lot of music? Check the system’s ability to handle high-resolution music files over Wi-Fi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will wireless sound the same as wired surround sound?
A: Modern, high-quality wireless systems sound almost identical to wired ones. The technology has improved a lot. However, cheaper wireless systems might introduce slight delays or signal interference.
Q: Is setup really easy if it is wireless?
A: Yes, setup is usually very simple. You plug in the main soundbar, plug in the rear speakers (to a nearby power outlet), and press a sync button. The system handles the connection automatically.
Q: Do I still need a wire from the TV to the main soundbar?
A: Almost always, yes. You need one HDMI cable (or optical cable) running from your TV to the primary soundbar/receiver unit to get the audio signal from your TV sources (like built-in apps or cable box).
Q: What is Dolby Atmos, and why should I care?
A: Dolby Atmos is a sound technology that adds height to the soundscape. It makes it sound like rain is falling from the ceiling or a helicopter is flying overhead. It makes movies much more realistic.
Q: Can I use these speakers to stream music from my phone?
A: Most systems include Bluetooth or Wi-Fi streaming capabilities. This lets you easily use the powerful surround speakers as a great music speaker system when you are not watching movies.
Q: What is the biggest problem with wireless speakers?
A: The biggest potential problem is signal interference or dropouts if you have a very crowded Wi-Fi area, or if the speakers are placed too far from the main unit. Always check the recommended range.
Q: Does wireless mean the rear speakers don’t need any power?
A: No. Wireless refers to the *audio signal* connection. The rear speakers still need to be plugged into a wall outlet for electrical power.
Q: How much money should I expect to spend?
A: Basic, decent 3.1.2 systems usually start around \$400-\$600. Premium, high-fidelity systems with true wireless rear speakers and full object-based audio support often cost \$1000 and up.
Q: Can I mix and match speakers from different brands?
A: Generally, no. Wireless surround sound systems are designed to work together as a matched set. Mixing brands usually results in incompatibility issues.
Q: Are these systems good for gaming?
A: Yes, provided they have low latency (lag). Many modern systems are excellent for gaming because they deliver impactful, positional sound cues crucial for competitive play.