Tips & tricks for TV speakers

External TV speakers are the key to an immersive viewing experience. But without the right setup and optimization, the sound often falls short of expectations. Whether it's powerful bass, clear dialog or a real home cinema feeling - with a few tricks, you can get the best 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 the right care can make a big difference. Here are the best tips and tricks for getting the most out of external TV speakers.

Perfect placement of TV speakers for the best sound

The positioning of the TV speakers has a decisive influence on the sound quality of a TV system. Even small adjustments to the placement can make a big improvement to the sound reproduction and optimize the overall listening experience. To achieve the best possible sound, it is important to follow a few basic principles.

First of all, TV speakers should ideally be placed at ear level. This ensures that the sound is aimed directly at 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 an uneven sound perception. In addition, a minimum distance from walls should be maintained. This distance helps to avoid annoying reflections that can distort the sound. Particularly with TV speakers that produce low frequencies (such as a subwoofer), positioning them too close to the wall can lead to unpleasant distortion and less precise bass.

Another important aspect is the distance control between the TV speakers and the seating position. Even spacing ensures a balanced and harmonious sound image in which all frequencies are evenly distributed throughout the room. This is particularly important for surround systems with external TV speakers, where the correct positioning of the rear and center speakers is crucial for the surround sound experience. Incorrect positioning of the rear speakers, which are responsible for the sounds from the background scenery, can result in the sound being less immersive and the direction of the sounds not being perceived correctly.

Some types of TV speakers require special attention when placing them. Subwoofers used as external TV speakers benefit from a position close to the 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 overemphasize the bass and fill the room with too much "boom", which can negatively affect the sound quality. Precise positioning is also crucial when using soundbars as external TV speakers. Ideally, these should be placed centrally under or in front of the TV, as they are responsible for the clear reproduction of dialog. Asymmetrical placement can lead to the sound being distorted or perceived unevenly.

Sound optimization with small settings and a big effect

Even the best TV speaker system needs fine-tuning to adapt the sound perfectly to the room 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 setting ensures that all frequencies are perceived clearly and balanced and that the overall experience is as realistic as possible.

Use 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 completely immerses the viewer in the action on the screen. By positioning speakers around the room - and especially with Atmos above the head - impressive sound effects are created that come from above and all around, making the audio experience much more immersive.

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

Equalizer settings

Another important step in sound optimization is the use of the equalizer. This can be used to adjust the sound to the acoustic conditions of the room and individual preferences. The equalizer makes it possible to individually control the treble, mid-range and bass of the external TV speakers. In a room with difficult acoustics, such as one with many hard surfaces that reflect sound, the equalizer can help to soften the sound so that the treble is not too shrill and the bass is not too booming.

A well-adjusted equalizer ensures that the sound remains clear and balanced. For external TV speakers used in larger or irregularly shaped rooms, the equalizer can also help to reduce unpleasant echoes or reverberation. Especially in rooms with a lot of glass or hard wood, this setting can significantly improve the sound and "acoustically adjust" 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 provides the low frequencies and contributes significantly to a full and powerful sound. However, it must be properly integrated into the overall system to ensure that the bass is not overpowering or uncontrolled.

The crossover frequency between the subwoofer and the main speakers must be set so that the low frequencies of the two do not compete with each other. If the crossover frequency is set too high, the basses of the main speakers and the subwoofer may collide, resulting in an unclean sound. If the crossover frequency is set too low, the subwoofer could dominate too much and drown out the mid frequencies of the main speakers.

The right fine-tuning ensures that the subwoofer complements the bass perfectly without the bass being unpleasant or too strong. This setting is particularly important when playing action films or music, where powerful bass is required, but clarity and precision in the mids and highs should also be maintained.

Soundbars as practical all-rounders for TV sound

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

Why soundbars are a good choice

Soundbars combine multiple speakers in a compact housing and offer easy installation. They are designed to significantly improve the sound experience by directing the sound directly to 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 the audio quality of a TV without the need to distribute multiple speakers around the room.

A major advantage of soundbars is that many models offer integrated subwoofers or the option of wireless connection to a subwoofer. These additional components provide significantly stronger bass, which is particularly beneficial for action movies or music. The integrated or wireless subwoofer provides a fuller soundstage and boosts the low frequencies for an immersive experience. This means that the user does not have to rely on the space requirements and cabling of a classic subwoofer.

Optimization of soundbars

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

For soundbars with a wireless subwoofer, this should be optimally positioned in the room to maximize the bass response. The subwoofer should not be placed directly in the corner of the room, as this can lead to excessive bass amplification. Instead, it is better to place it at a point in the room that distributes the sound evenly without the bass "booming". Careful positioning of the subwoofer will ensure that the bass remains powerful and precise, improving 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 the audio performance of a TV. Like a traditional soundbar, it combines several speakers in one device and ensures clearer dialog and balanced sound reproduction. In addition, the OSKAR TV speaker is easy to install and offers seamless integration with modern TVs. Thanks to its unique speech optimization technology, it also delivers a targeted improvement in speech intelligibility, making it the ideal choice for users with hearing problems or for those who want to understand the 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. Correctly set up and positioned, it delivers the necessary pressure and ensures a powerful and full sound experience that provides an intense feeling for music, movies and series. It is important to position and configure the subwoofer in such a way that the low tones are reproduced both powerfully and precisely.

The right placement

The placement of a subwoofer can have a significant impact on the sound quality. A technique called subwoofer crawling can be used to find the ideal position. The subwoofer is first placed in the listening position and the best sound is determined by testing different locations in the room. The idea behind this method is that the subwoofer will be perceived differently in different areas of the room, depending on how the waves propagate and interact with the room walls and furniture. By placing the subwoofer at different points and choosing the position based on the best bass, the perfect sound can be achieved.

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 booming. Instead, the subwoofer should be positioned at a point that distributes the bass evenly without emphasizing it too much. A position close to the wall is often ideal, but too close to the wall or in a corner is better avoided as this can distort the bass.

Adjust settings

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

• Volume: The volume of the subwoofer should be set so that it complements the other speakers in the system without dominating the sound. A subwoofer that is too loud can drown out the entire sound, while a subwoofer that is too quiet may not achieve the desired effect. The volume should harmonize with the overall volume of the other speakers.
• Phase: The phase determines whether the subwoofer plays in harmony with the other speakers in the room. An incorrect phase can result in the subwoofer delaying the sound or conflicting with the other speakers. The phase should be set so that the low frequencies are well balanced with the mid and high tones 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 appearing too dominant. A transition frequency that is too high can result in the bass not being deep enough, while a frequency that is too low can result in the transitions sounding unclean.

Surround sound for that home cinema feeling in the living room

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

Loudspeaker placement

The placement of the speakers is the key to a balanced surround sound. The front speakers should be positioned to the left and right of the TV to align the main sound source optimally with the listening position. The center speaker should be placed in the middle, either directly above or below the TV, as it is responsible for reproducing the dialogue and central sound components. The rear speakers, on the other hand, should be positioned behind the seating position to support the surround sound and create the feeling 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 so that the sound feels three-dimensional. This technology allows the sound to move from above or around the viewer, creating a more realistic and immersive experience, especially for action movies or 3D audio effects. With Dolby Atmos, the home theater setup becomes a surround sound system that incorporates not only the horizontal but also the vertical sound dimension.

Technical settings for the best from the system

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

Check audio source

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

Equalizer and sound modes

Many televisions and speaker systems offer the option of adjusting the sound via equalizer settings and preset sound modes. The equalizer makes it possible to adjust the treble, mid-range and bass individually in order to adapt the sound to the acoustic conditions of the room and personal preferences. In addition, various sound modes such as "Movie", "Music" or "Sport" offer preset sound profiles that are specially adapted to the respective content. The "Movie mode", for example, can boost the bass and treble to improve the sound experience when watching movies, while the "Music mode" enables a more balanced and clearer reproduction of music tracks.

Receiver options

Another technical aspect that helps with sound optimization are receivers with measuring microphones. These receivers automatically analyze the room acoustics and adjust the speaker configuration so that the sound is distributed evenly throughout the room. By using the measuring microphone, the audio output is not only adapted to the room, but also to the specific position of the speakers and the seats. This function ensures that the sound always remains balanced and precise, regardless of the size of the room or the placement of the TV speakers.

Troubleshooting for common problems 

Even with the best setup, there can be problems that affect the listening experience. Fortunately, many of these challenges can be solved with simple measures. Here are the most common problems and their solutions in detail:

No sound or bad sound

• Check the connections: Are all cables plugged in correctly and is there no physical damage visible? HDMI and optical cables should be tight, 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". Using the wrong source is a common error.
• Test inputs: If the sound still fails to appear, try another input on the TV or loudspeaker to rule out a fault in the connection.
• Check the volume: Make sure that the speakers and TV are not muted or set to an extremely low volume.

Booming basses

• Change the subwoofer position: A subwoofer that is too close to a wall or in a corner can produce boomy bass. This problem can often be solved by moving the subwoofer to the center of the room or to a less reflective location.
• 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 minimized with carpets, curtains or acoustic panels. Basses are often too strong, especially in empty rooms.

Asynchronous sound

• Use audio delay settings: Many televisions and receivers offer a function to synchronize sound and picture. This function can be adjusted in the menu under "Audio delay" or "Lip sync".
• Eliminate Bluetooth latency: Latency can occur with wireless connections. Using devices with aptX Low Latency significantly reduces delays. Alternatively, a wired connection can be selected.
• Carry out firmware updates: Some devices require an update to resolve synchronization problems.

Restarting the device

• A simple restart: It often helps to disconnect the TV and speakers from the power supply 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, a factory reset can help both the TV and the speakers. This deletes all configurations, which often solves connection problems.

Connection problems with Bluetooth

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

Unclear or distorted dialogs

• Adjust equalizer settings: Use an equalizer to emphasize the mids to make dialogue easier to hear.
• Check the center speaker: For surround systems, make sure that the center speaker is correctly connected and aligned. This is responsible for most of the dialog.

Problems with firmware or software

• Install firmware updates: Regular updates for televisions, speakers or receivers often fix bugs and improve performance. Check for updates and install them.
• Check compatibility: Some older devices have problems 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 speakersand TVs 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 the stability of the connection and can help to optimize the sound quality. They often improve the communication between the TV and the connected speakers, making the audio transmission more efficient and stable. Bug fixes provided by firmware updates can, for example, resolve problems with the synchronization of picture and sound, connection interruptions or unwanted interference in sound reproduction. In addition, new features can be unlocked to improve the user experience, such as enhanced sound modes or support for additional audio formats.

Regular updates

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