Soundbars vs surround sound systems. Which is right for your space?

soundbar installer

Professional surround sound system setup and soundbar installer.

When upgrading your home entertainment setup, audio quality can play a major role in creating an immersive experience. Two of the most common solutions are soundbars and surround sound systems with each offers a different level  of performance, complexity, and style.

While surround sound systems once ruled the home theatre world, soundbars have become increasingly popular due to their sleek design, ease of use, and space-saving convenience. But which one is right for your needs?

Below AV specialist, Peter, breaks down the pros and cons of each option, and why hiring a professional (like Peter) ensures your system is installed and performing at its best.

soundbar installer
Soundbars can be wall mounted or sit on a cabinet or shelf. Ask Peter about his ingenius soundbar shelf (no drilling or wall mounting required).

Soundbars

Where simplicity meets performance.

Soundbars are all-in-one speaker systems designed to sit beneath or in front of your TV. Many modern soundbars simulate surround sound using clever acoustics and built-in subwoofers, making them an attractive choice for those wanting improved audio without the hassle of multiple speakers.

The benefits of soundbars

  • Compact and stylish – Minimal visual impact, ideal for apartments or open-plan living.
  • Easy installation – Often requires just one cable for setup.
  • Wireless options – Bluetooth and Wi-Fi streaming make it easy to connect other devices.
  • Budget-friendly – Great sound without breaking the bank.

The limitations of soundbars

  • Limited true surround experience – Even the best soundbars can’t fully replicate the depth of a dedicated speaker setup.
  • Less customisable – You’re limited to the sound profile and configuration of the bar.

To ensure professional setup and installation, Peter will ensure your soundbar is positioned correctly for optimal acoustics, mounted securely (if needed), and integrated with your TV and smart devices for seamless use. No tangled wires or frustrating settings, just crisp, clear sound.

surround sound system installation
Surround sound systems feature multiple speakers including front, rear, centre and subwoofer.

Surround Sound Systems

A fully immersive experience.

A surround sound system uses multiple speakers – front, rear, centre, and subwoofer – to deliver audio that moves around you, just like in the cinema. It’s a powerful choice for dedicated media rooms or anyone wanting the full home theatre experience.

The benefits of surround sound systems

  • True cinematic experience – Rich, multi-directional audio that envelops the room.
  • Customisable – Choose speaker size, placement, and brand based on your space and preferences.
  • Higher fidelity – Audiophiles will appreciate the depth and clarity.

The limitations of surround sound systems

  • More complex installation – Requires speaker placement, wiring, and often a receiver.
  • Takes up space – Not ideal for smaller rooms or minimalist layouts.
  • Can be expensive – Quality equipment and installation add up.

When setting up your new surround sound system, Peter assesses your room’s acoustics and layout to design the ideal speaker configuration. He can route cables,  calibrates the system for balanced sound, and walks you through how to use it.

So, which is best? 

If you’re after something simple, stylish, and easy to set up, a soundbar is probably the way to go. But if you’re looking for full cinema-quality audio and a more immersive experience, a surround sound system might be a better fit. Not sure which option suits your space or needs? Peter can walk you through the pros and cons and help you choose the right setup based on your room, how you watch TV, and your budget.

Professional surround sound and soundbar setup services

When it comes to setting up your home audio system, hiring a surround sound system and soundbar installer like Peter can make all the difference. DIY installations often result in poor speaker placement, messy cable runs, incomplete setups, and missed opportunities to get the best possible sound from your equipment. Peter brings the expertise and attention to detail needed to ensure everything is installed correctly, looks tidy, and performs at its best.

When Peter handles your installation, you get more than just technical setup—you benefit from expert advice on the right equipment for your space, clean and concealed cabling, and seamless integration with your TV and smart home devices. Best of all, you get a reliable setup that works perfectly from day one. Whether you’re installing a simple soundbar or a full home theatre system, Peter delivers professional results every time.

Peter has developed an ingenious no-drill solution for mounting soundbars, a perfect solution for renters and anyone wanting to avoid wall damage. His custom-made soundbar shelves discreetly hang from the TV wall mounting bracket, securely holding the soundbar in place without the need for additional drilling. It’s a smart, clean, and tenant-friendly option that delivers great results with zero fuss.

Ready to upgrade your audio setup? Contact Peter for expert advice and installation.