Are you considering investing in a set of satellite speakers for your home theater system, or are you simply looking for an answer to the question “what is satellite speakers?”
If so, you might want to learn more about the benefits of satellite speakers and what to look for to ensure you get the best possible sound quality.
This is an ideal place to find all the necessary information.
In this article, I will explain what are satellite speakers, their benefits, and what factors you should consider before making your purchase.
Let’s get started!
Satellite Speakers Meaning
Satellite speakers are small and compact low-power speakers used to complement a surround sound system. They first became popular in the 1970s, when people wanted good sound quality from smaller devices. These speakers reproduce high and medium frequencies. They are called “satellites” because they are positioned around the room, away from the main speaker (the “center channel”).
Satellite speakers can be positioned in places that would not be suitable for larger speakers, while still producing a rich, surround-sound experience because of their size. In addition, they can be connected to an amplifier or receiver, allowing you to further customize your audio experience. Surround satellite speakers are an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their home theater system without taking up too much space.
They are often placed on the walls or ceiling to provide immersive surround sound. They are generally used in combination with other audio equipment, such as a subwoofer, to provide full, rich sound. They are also great for music listening, as they produce clear and accurate sound with minimal distortion.
Satellite Speakers Benefits
Compact
Satellite speakers are small but powerful, providing excellent sound quality. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to customize the setup to suit your space and needs. Moreover, due to their size, they are easy to handle and can be easily transported if necessary. It is possible to connect them to any audio system.
Design
Satellite speakers are designed to fit into any interior, and to complement home theater and stereo audio systems. They are typically used in pairs and are designed to work with a subwoofer to produce powerful, rich sound.
Satellite Speakers Placement
Satellite speakers are often multi-directional, meaning they can be placed in individual spots around the room to provide the best possible sound result. They’re versatile and can be used in many ways, like in home theaters, with stereo systems, or to boost your computer’s sound.
They are an excellent option for smaller spaces because they can be mounted on a wall or placed on a speaker stand. They distribute sound evenly, meaning your whole room gets filled with audio, not just one spot.
To contribute to the sound being even and clear no matter where you sit in the room, you can place them from both sides of the TV and distribute the rest around the room.
Combination With Subwoofers
Although satellite speakers can work as an independent audio system, it is always better to combine them with subwoofers for the best experience.
Different Types of Satellite Speakers
Satellite speakers are crucial components in many audio setups, particularly in surround sound systems. They’re designed to produce mid and high frequencies, while the lower frequencies are typically handled by a separate subwoofer. However, not all satellite speakers are the same. Let’s examine the most common types:
Passive Satellite Speakers:
These speakers rely on an external amplifier or AV receiver for power. They offer flexibility in system configuration and are often easier to integrate into existing setups. Passive satellite speakers don’t require a separate power connection, which can make placement easier.
Active Satellite Speakers:
These speakers have a built-in amplifier, eliminating the need for an external one. They require their own power connection, which can be a consideration in terms of placement and wiring. However, their built-in amplifier is often precisely matched to the speaker’s requirements, potentially offering superior sound quality.
Wireless Satellite Speakers:
As technology advances, more wireless options are becoming available. These speakers communicate with the amplifier or receiver using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, offering significant flexibility in placement without the need for speaker wires.
In terms of frequency response, while the ideal range for human hearing is often considered to be 20Hz to 20kHz, most satellite speakers start at higher frequencies due to their compact size. It’s common to see satellite speakers with a frequency response starting around 100Hz to 150Hz, working in tandem with a subwoofer that handles the lower frequencies. This collaborative setup can deliver a full, rich audio experience in spite of the satellite speakers’ compact size.
What to Look For When Choosing Satellite Speakers?
When choosing satellite speakers, pay attention to their weight. Don’t be fooled by their size, they should always feel heavier than they look. A weak, light, and cheap satellite speaker with a plastic cabinet and cheap drivers will not exactly give you the most pleasant experience. Pay attention to the quality and brand you buy.
Quality satellite speakers should blend seamlessly with the other speakers you own and produce full, neutral, and balanced sound with thrilling dynamics that will make you believe the sound is coming from a much larger speaker. You should also consider the size of the room are setting up in, as well as the type of sound system you have when deciding on the best satellite speakers for your needs.
Q&A Section
Are Satellite Speakers Wireless?
Satellite speakers are not wireless. They require cables to function properly. Each satellite speaker has a single wire that plugs into the back of the speaker.
Do Satellite Speakers Make a Difference?
Satellite speakers make a big difference in sound quality, providing clear and detailed sound, and are used to reproduce high and mid frequencies. They are intended as home theater speakers, and due to their design, they can easily fit into small rooms.
Satellite speaker system have a very important role in creating balanced tonality in your home theater system. This is because they help to evenly distribute sound throughout the room, allowing each part of it to be heard clearly and accurately – no matter how large or small it is.
This balanced tonality also helps to create a more convincing surround-sound experience since each speaker can be heard in its own right, rather than blending together into one big noise.
Can You Use Satellite Speakers as Front?
Yes, you can use the satellite speakers as the front, but you will have the best experience if you place them around and behind you, the goal of the satellite speakers is to produce a fully realistic sound.
Where Should I Place My Satellite Speakers?
They can be placed in different locations around the room to create an immersive, multi-directional sound that makes movie-watching or music-listening much more enjoyable. The satellite speakers should be positioned all over the room, on the ceiling, or in various locations on the walls. Always try to set them a bit further away from your ears for a better experience, about 1 to 2 feet above head height.
What Is the Purpose of a Satellite Speaker?
The purpose of satellite speakers is to fill in the gaps in a sound field, providing clearer and more detailed sound. This can make a big difference in terms of the overall listening experience.
Do Satellite Speakers Need a Subwoofer?
They do not need a subwoofer. They can function as independent speakers, but for full-range sound with improved bass, it is always better to pair satellite speakers with subwoofer.
What Are Satellite Speakers Used For?
Satellite speakers are commonly used in home theater systems and are designed to provide a more realistic and enveloping listening experience. They provide a wider range of sound and improved sound quality by dispersing audio to multiple locations.
Conclusion
Compared to other types of speakers, satellite speakers are more affordable, versatile, and provide excellent sound quality. No matter what type of satellite speaker you choose, you can be sure that it will provide you with an immersive and realistic listening experience.
I hope that this guide has been useful to you and that I have given you all the information you need. I also hope that you are now better informed about the question “what is a satellite speaker”.
If you’re still confused or have any additional questions, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll be happy to give you a detailed answer.
If you liked this article, check out our other articles: Why do my speakers sound muffled? and What Speakers Fit My Car?
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Monica Rivas is a Reviewer and Content Manager of Audiofavorite, she is an audiophile for many years and she helps people to learn all they need about audio, speakers, sound etc.