What's all the fuss about the sound quality of HDTV and what can it do for you? The improved sound capabilities of HDTV are due to the digital transmission that brings clearer sound to your ears. It's quite comparable to the way CD players deliver better sound than a tape recorder. A more desirable sound quality is not the only thing making HDTV a popular hot topic, but also the surround sound options, as well as other technological advances. Before you get too excited, keep in mind that you must possess additional equipment to enjoy these entertainment luxuries.

Dolby Digital 5.1

One of the leaders in digital audio technology is Dolby Laboratories, Inc, who delivers some of the most reliable audio products. When it comes to HDTV, Dolby Digital Surround is considered a standard not to be ignored. You will find not every television uses Dolby Digital Surround. If you want the best, check to see if your HDTV possesses Dolby surround sound potential before making a purchase.

Set Up Options

There are three different ways to approach the set up for Dolby Digital Surround Sound. Some consumers will purchase a television that comes with superb quality in the arenas of channel speakers, tweeters and woofers. The Dolby technology is also already installed within the TV set. This eliminates the need to buy additional equipment to enjoy an advanced audio experience.

The purchase of a television with all of these perks is not always necessary. Numerous customers possess an external set of surround sound speakers that connect to the television. The set usually includes a couple of front and surround speakers, as well as a subwoofer. A center channel is also included. If you have opted for the front speakers resembling a tower, the subwoofers appear within.

If you don't like the idea of having all of those speakers in your living room, you may want to simply purchase just one external front set. You won't be able to enjoy the full experience of surround sound, but you will still receive heightened sound quality.

Proper Speaker Placement

For those who absolutely demand the look and feel of a surround sound entertainment room, the placement of the speakers is an important aspect of the set up. Consumers should place the center channel speaker either below or above the TV. Front left and right speakers should form an arm with the center channel speaker. The surround speakers should be placed behind the couch or other listening areas. An easy way to achieve this part of the set up is to install wall mounts.

Additional DVD & VCR Connections

The television is not the only piece of equipment that you use when watching movies; don't ignore the VCR and DVD connection. This is accomplished by hooking up to the proper audio and video outputs. This can be achieved by following their respective manuals. This set up is also important because you want to make sure you will be able to still record your favorite television shows. The Dolby Digital Surround Sound can also be connected to one of the video outputs to receive higher audio quality. CD players can also be connected through the AV receiver.

Equipment Checklist

Once you have gathered all of the basic items pertaining to the Dolby Digital Surround Sound set up, you will also need the necessary cables to complete installation. Make sure you have all of your connection cords on hand, which also come in varying lengths to accommodate a wide range of set ups.