Tips & tricks for TV speakers

External TV speakers are key to an immersive viewing experience. However, without the right setup and optimisation, the sound often falls short of expectations. Whether you’re looking for powerful bass, clear dialogue or a genuine home cinema experience, there are a few tricks you can use to get the most out of any speaker system. Modern technologies such as Dolby Atmos, high-quality soundbars or subwoofers make impressive sound more accessible than ever before. But even minor adjustments and proper care can make a big difference. Here are the best tips and tricks for getting the most out of external TV speakers.

Perfect positioning of TV speakers for the best sound

The positioning of TV speakers has a decisive influence on the sound quality of a TV system. Even small adjustments to their placement can bring about a significant improvement in sound reproduction and optimise the overall listening experience. To achieve the best possible sound, it is important to observe a few basic principles.

Firstly, TV speakers should ideally be placed at ear level. This ensures that the sound is directed straight towards the listening position and can therefore be perceived more clearly and precisely. If the external TV speaker is positioned too high or too low, this can lead to uneven sound perception. In addition, a minimum distance from walls should be maintained. This distance helps to avoid disruptive reflections that can distort the sound. Particularly with TV speakers that produce low frequencies (such as a subwoofer), positioning them too close to a wall can lead to unpleasant distortion and less precise bass.

Another important aspect is controlling the distance between the TV speakers and the listening position. Consistent distances ensure a balanced and harmonious soundstage, where all frequencies are evenly distributed throughout the room. This is particularly important for surround sound systems with external TV speakers, where the correct placement of the rear and centre speakers is crucial for the surround sound experience. Incorrect positioning of the rear speakers, which are responsible for sounds from the background, can result in the sound feeling less immersive and the direction of sounds not being perceived correctly.

Some types of TV speakers require special attention when it comes to placement. Subwoofers used as external TV speakers benefit from being positioned close to a wall to amplify the low frequencies. However, care should be taken to ensure that the subwoofer is not placed directly in a corner. In corners, subwoofers tend to overemphasise the bass and fill the room with too much ‘booming’, which can negatively affect sound quality. Precise placement is also crucial for soundbars used as external TV speakers. These should ideally be positioned centrally beneath or in front of the television, as they are responsible for the clear reproduction of dialogue. Asymmetrical placement can result in the sound being distorted or perceived as uneven.

Sound optimisation with small adjustments and a big impact

Even the best TV speaker system requires fine-tuning to perfectly adapt the sound to the room’s acoustics and personal taste. Even high-quality external TV speakers or soundbars can only deliver their full performance if they are configured correctly. The right settings ensure that all frequencies are perceived clearly and in balance, making the overall experience as realistic as possible.

Using Dolby Atmos and surround sound

Modern TV speakers equipped with Dolby Atmos or surround sound technology offer a whole new dimension of sound. Atmos-compatible systems create a three-dimensional sound that fully immerses the viewer in the action on screen. By positioning speakers around the room - and, specifically with Atmos, above your head as well - impressive sound effects are created that come from above and all around, making the audio experience significantly more intense.

Surround systems such as 5.1 or 7.1 also offer a thrilling sound experience. Correct speaker placement and configuration are crucial here. The rear and centre speakers must be positioned so that the sound is perceived evenly from all directions without distortion. Incorrect placement can result in certain channels being too loud or too quiet, which disrupts the immersive experience. Correct positioning and alignment of the speakers ensures that sound effects and dialogue come across as clear and realistic.

Equaliser settings

Another important step in sound optimisation is the use of the equaliser. This allows the sound to be adapted to the room’s acoustic conditions and individual preferences. The equaliser enables you to control the treble, midrange and bass of the external TV speakers individually. In a room with challenging acoustics, such as one with many hard surfaces that reflect sound, the equaliser can help to soften the sound so that the treble does not sound too shrill and the bass does not sound too boomy.

A well-adjusted equaliser ensures that the sound remains clear and balanced. For external TV speakers used in larger or irregularly shaped rooms, the equaliser can also help to reduce unpleasant echoes or reverberation. Particularly in rooms with a lot of glass or hard wood, this setting can significantly improve the sound and ‘acoustically adapt’ the room.

Subwoofer fine-tuning

Another essential element in a TV audio system that is often overlooked is the fine-tuning of the subwoofer. The subwoofer handles the low frequencies and plays a key role in delivering a full and powerful sound. However, it must be properly integrated into the overall system to ensure that the bass does not sound overwhelming or uncontrolled.

The crossover frequency between the subwoofer and the main speakers must be set so that the low frequencies from both do not compete with one another. If the crossover frequency is set too high, the bass from the main speakers and the subwoofer may clash, resulting in a muddy sound. If the crossover frequency is set too low, the subwoofer may dominate too much and drown out the mid-range frequencies of the main speakers.

Correct fine-tuning ensures that the subwoofer perfectly complements the low frequencies without the bass sounding unpleasant or overpowering. This setting is particularly important when playing action films or music where powerful bass is required, but clarity and precision in the mid and high frequencies must also be maintained.

Soundbars: practical all-rounders for TV sound

Soundbars are an ideal solution for anyone looking to improve their TV sound with minimal effort. Particularly in flats or rooms where space is limited, they offer an excellent way to enhance audio quality without the need to install a complex speaker system. They provide a compact alternative to traditional speaker systems and are particularly suitable for users seeking a simple yet effective audio experience.

Why soundbars are a good choice

Soundbars combine multiple speakers in a compact housing and are easy to install. They are designed to significantly improve the sound experience by directing the sound directly towards the listening position. Most modern soundbars also offer features such as virtual surround sound, which simulates a surround sound experience even though only a single device is used. A soundbar can therefore significantly improve a television’s audio quality without the need to place multiple speakers around the room.

A major advantage of soundbars is that many models feature built-in subwoofers or the option to connect wirelessly to a subwoofer. These additional components deliver significantly deeper bass, which is particularly beneficial for action films or music. The built-in or wireless subwoofer creates a fuller soundscape and amplifies the low frequencies, ensuring an immersive experience. This means the user is not restricted by the space requirements and cabling of a traditional subwoofer.

Optimising soundbars

To ensure a soundbar can reach its full potential, it is important to choose the right connection options. HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or optical connections guarantee lossless audio transmission and ensure a stable, high-quality connection between the TV and the soundbar. HDMI ARC is particularly practical as it not only transmits the audio signal to the soundbar but also enables two-way communication, allowing the TV and soundbar to be controlled with a single remote control.

For soundbars with a wireless subwoofer, this should be positioned optimally in the room to maximise bass reproduction. The subwoofer should not be placed directly in the corner of the room, as this can lead to excessive bass boost. Instead, it is better to position it at a point in the room that distributes the sound evenly without the bass ‘booming’. Careful positioning of the subwoofer ensures that the bass remains powerful and precise, enhancing the overall sound experience of the soundbar.

OSKAR as a soundbar

The OSKAR TV speaker can also be described and used as a soundbar, as it offers excellent sound quality in a compact form and significantly improves a television’s audio performance. Like a traditional soundbar, it combines multiple speakers into a single unit, ensuring clearer dialogue and balanced sound reproduction. Furthermore, the OSKAR TV speaker is easy to install and offers seamless integration with modern televisions. Thanks to its unique voice optimisation technology, it also delivers a targeted improvement in speech intelligibility, making it the ideal choice particularly for users with hearing difficulties or for those who wish to understand dialogue in films and series more clearly.

Subwoofer tips for rich bass without compromise

The subwoofer is the heart of any sound system when it comes to reproducing low frequencies. When correctly set up and positioned, it delivers the necessary punch and ensures a powerful and full sound experience that creates an intense sensation when listening to music or watching films and TV series. It is important to position and configure the subwoofer so that the low frequencies are reproduced both powerfully and precisely.

The right placement

The placement of a subwoofer can have a significant impact on sound quality. To find the ideal position, a technique known as ‘subwoofer crawling’ is recommended. This involves first placing the subwoofer at the listening position, then determining the best sound by testing different locations within the room. The idea behind this method is that the subwoofer is perceived differently in various areas of the room, depending on how the sound waves propagate and interact with the room’s walls and furniture. By positioning the subwoofer at different points and selecting the position based on the best bass response, you can achieve the perfect sound.

It is advisable not to place the subwoofer directly in a corner, as this can often lead to excessive bass that fills the room with unpleasant rumbling. Instead, the subwoofer should be positioned at a point that distributes the bass evenly without overemphasising it. A position near the wall is often ideal, but it is best to avoid placing it too close to the wall or in a corner, as this can distort the bass.

Adjusting settings

Another important aspect when integrating a subwoofer into a speaker system is the settings. Many subwoofers offer various adjustment options to optimise the sound. The most important settings include:

• Volume: The subwoofer’s volume should be set to complement the other speakers in the system without dominating the sound. A subwoofer that is too loud can drown out the overall sound, whilst one that is too quiet may not achieve the desired effect. The volume should harmonise with the overall volume of the other speakers.
• Phase: The phase determines whether the subwoofer plays in sync with the other speakers in the room. Incorrect phase can cause the subwoofer to delay the sound or clash with the other speakers. The phase should be set so that the low frequencies are well-aligned with the mid and high frequencies from the other speakers.
• Crossover frequency: The crossover frequency sets the point at which the subwoofer takes over responsibility for the low frequencies that are no longer reproduced by the main speakers. This frequency should be adjusted so that the transition between the subwoofer and the other speakers is seamless, without the subwoofer sounding too dominant. A crossover frequency that is too high can result in the bass not being deep enough, whilst a frequency that is too low can cause the transitions to sound muddy.

Surround sound for that home cinema feel in your living room

Surround sound systems are the first choice when it comes to creating a genuine cinema experience. To ensure the sound is truly immersive, the correct speaker configuration is crucial. Only then can the surround sound unfold its full effect and take the home cinema experience to a new level.

Speaker placement

Speaker placement is the key to balanced surround sound. The front speakers should be positioned to the left and right of the TV to optimally align the main sound source with the listening position. The centre speaker should be placed centrally, either directly above or below the TV, as it is responsible for reproducing dialogue and central sound elements. The rear speakers, on the other hand, should be positioned behind the seating area to support the surround sound and create the sensation that the sound is coming from all directions.

Dolby Atmos for the third dimension

The integration of Dolby Atmos ensures an even more intense home cinema experience. Atmos-compatible speakers or ceiling speakers extend the sound upwards, making the audio feel three-dimensional. This technology allows sound to move from above or around the viewer, creating a more realistic and immersive experience, particularly with action films or 3D audio effects. With Dolby Atmos, the home cinema setup becomes a surround sound system that incorporates not only the horizontal but also the vertical dimension of sound.

Technical settings to get the most out of your system

The sound quality of a TV system depends not only on the hardware, but also on the correct settings on the TV and the speakers. Optimising the technical settings ensures that the entire system performs at its best and takes the sound experience to the next level.

Check the audio source

A crucial step in configuring the TV audio system is selecting the correct audio source on the TV. The chosen audio output must be compatible with the connected speakers or soundbar. Commonly used options include HDMI ARC or optical connections, which ensure lossless audio transmission. When using HDMI ARC, this input must be enabled on both the TV and the speakers to allow proper communication between the devices. For optical connections, you should also ensure that the correct input is selected in the TV menu.

Equaliser and sound modes

Many TVs and speaker systems offer the option to adjust the sound via equaliser settings and preset sound modes. The equaliser allows you to adjust the treble, midrange and bass individually to adapt the sound to the room’s acoustics and your personal preferences. In addition, various sound modes such as ‘Film’, ‘Music’ or ‘Sport’ offer preset sound profiles that are specifically tailored to the respective content. ‘Film mode’, for example, can boost the bass and raise the treble to enhance the sound experience when watching films, whilst ‘Music mode’ enables a more balanced and clearer reproduction of music tracks.

Receiver options

Another technical feature that aids sound optimisation is receivers with calibration microphones. These receivers automatically analyse the room acoustics and adjust the speaker configuration so that the sound is distributed evenly throughout the room. By using the calibration microphone, the audio output is adapted not only to the room but also to the specific position of the speakers and seating. This feature ensures that the sound always remains balanced and precise, regardless of the room size or the placement of the TV speakers.

Troubleshooting common issues

Even with an optimal setup, issues can arise that affect the listening experience. Fortunately, many of these challenges can be resolved with simple measures. Here are the most common problems and their solutions in detail:

No sound or poor sound quality

• Check connections: Are all cables properly plugged in and are there any visible physical damages? HDMI and optical cables should be securely connected, as a loose connection can lead to signal loss.
• Select audio source: Set the correct audio source in the TV menu, e.g. "HDMI ARC" or "Optical". A common mistake is using the wrong source.
• Test inputs: If there is still no sound, try a different input on the TV or speaker to rule out a faulty connection.
• Check the volume: Ensure that the speakers and the TV are not muted or set to an extremely low volume.

Booming bass

• Change the subwoofer position: A subwoofer placed too close to a wall or in a corner can produce boomy bass. Moving the subwoofer to the centre of the room or to a less reflective spot can often resolve this issue.
• Adjust the crossover: The crossover frequency between the subwoofer and the main speakers can be adjusted via the receiver or the subwoofer settings. A lower frequency often prevents the bass from becoming too dominant.
• Improve room acoustics: Echoes and resonances can be minimised using carpets, curtains or acoustic panels. Bass is often too strong, particularly in empty rooms.

Out-of-sync sound

• Use audio delay settings: Many TVs and receivers offer a function to synchronise sound and picture. This function can be adjusted in the menu under ‘Audio Delay’ or ‘Lip Sync’.
• Fix Bluetooth latency: Latency can occur with wireless connections. Using devices with aptX Low Latency significantly reduces delays. Alternatively, a wired connection can be used.
• Perform firmware updates: Some devices require an update to resolve synchronisation issues.

Restart the device

• A simple restart: It often helps to disconnect the TV and speakers from the mains for a few minutes. This resets minor software errors and re-establishes the connection.
• Reset to factory settings: If a restart does not solve the problem, resetting both the TV and the speakers to their factory settings may help. This deletes all configurations, which often resolves connection issues.

Bluetooth connection issues

• Unpair and reconnect: If the connection between the TV and the speakers is unstable, unpair the devices in the Bluetooth settings and pair them again.
• Avoid interference: Bluetooth signals can be disrupted by other electronic devices such as Wi-Fi routers. Increase the distance from such devices.
• Note the range: Bluetooth has a limited range. If the speakers or TV are too far apart, this can lead to connection drops.

Unclear or distorted dialogue

• Adjust the equaliser settings: Use an equaliser to boost the mid-range frequencies to make dialogue clearer.
• Check the centre speaker: For surround sound systems, ensure that the centre speaker is correctly connected and positioned. This speaker is responsible for most of the dialogue.

Firmware or software issues

• Install firmware updates: Regular updates for TVs, speakers or receivers often fix bugs and improve performance. Check for updates and install them.
• Check compatibility: Some older devices have issues with new audio formats or connection methods. If necessary, consider adapter solutions or new hardware.

Firmware updates for TV speakers and televisions

Many modern external TV speakers and televisions offer regular firmware updates to integrate new features or fix existing bugs. These updates are an important part of ensuring that the audio system functions optimally and remains compatible with the latest technologies.

Why firmware updates are important

Firmware updates play a crucial role in connection stability and can help optimise sound quality. They often improve communication between the TV and the connected speakers, making audio transmission more efficient and stable. Bug fixes provided by firmware updates can, for example, resolve issues with picture and sound synchronisation, connection drops or unwanted interference in sound reproduction. Furthermore, new features can be unlocked that enhance the user experience, such as advanced sound modes or support for additional audio formats.

Regular updates

It is advisable to check regularly for new firmware updates in the menu of your TV or speakers. These updates are often easy to install and require only a few steps. As soon as an update is available, it should be installed promptly to ensure that the system remains up to date and delivers the best possible performance. In many cases, the installation of an update is also offered automatically when the device is connected to the internet.