A 7.2 surround sound system is just one of the many channel configurations possible in a home theater setup. However, there’s a reason why this specific configuration stands out from all the others.
With seven speakers and two subwoofers, a 7.2 surround sound system can produce the audio precision, depth, and separation needed for high-definition audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X without a complicated setup.
Let’s take a closer look at what a 7.2 surround sound system is by covering the types of speakers it includes, how to properly set them up for the best sound quality, and what you should consider before deciding if a 7.2 surround sound is right for you and your space.
Understanding Channel Configurations
Before we can talk about a 7.2 surround sound system specifically, you need to understand what these numbers mean and how they compare to other channel configurations.
Channel configurations tell you how many speakers the sound system has and what type of speakers are used. Let’s use a 5.1.2 channel configuration as an example to break this down further:
Each speaker in a surround sound system works together to create an audio environment of your choice. The more channels you have, the better equipped your system is to produce a fuller surround sound.
If a surround sound system only has two numbers, that means it doesn’t include any of the additional up-firing or overhead speakers.
Now, let’s take a look at the 7.2 surround sound system.
The Types of Speakers Used in 7.2 Surround Sound and How to Position Them
A 7.2 surround sound system consists of seven speakers and two active or passive subwoofers. It includes a left, right, and center speaker placed in front of the listener, a left and right side speaker, and two rear speakers (also called satellite speakers) that sit to the left and right behind the listener to provide a fully enveloping sound.
How to Set Up a 7.2 Surround Sound System
To enjoy the immersive sound experience a 7.2 surround sound system produces, it requires correct speaker placement and separation. Here’s a basic guide to positioning your speakers and subwoofers correctly:
Center Speaker
Place the center speaker directly in front of the seating area, ideally at ear height once seated. This speaker boosts dialogues and central sounds to the screen.
Front Left and Right Speakers
Position these speakers at a 30 to 45-degree angle from the main seat location. The goal is to form an equilateral triangle between your speakers and your seat. Both should be at the same height as the center speaker.
Side Surround Speakers
The side speakers should be placed on either side of the listening area, either perpendicular or slightly behind the main seating position. For these speakers, you’ll want to set them slightly above ear height. This will improve the perception of the sound and make it feel more immersive.
Rear or Satellite Speakers
These should be placed behind the listening area, facing directly toward the front of the room. Like the side surround speakers, you’ll want to mount or place these a little above ear level to enhance the surround effect.
Subwoofers
With two subwoofers, you have some flexibility with placement. The main idea here is to make sure the bass is distributed evenly.
The dynamics of every room will have an influence on bass response, so you’ll need to experiment with these a little. Start by positioning them in opposite corners of the room or at the front and back to see which works best.
Calibration
After positioning your speakers, you want to make sure the sound is balanced throughout your room. Most modern AVRs include a microphone and an automatic calibration feature you can access in the settings labeled Auto EQ or Room Calibration.
This feature simplifies the calibration process by having the AVR generate test tones through your speakers, using a microphone to measure and adjust the sound output for each one.
If you bought your AVR second-hand and it didn’t come with the microphone or want to calibrate the speakers yourself, you’ll need a calibration microphone and an SPL (sound pressure level) meter, or you can download an SPL meter app to your phone.
Using your receiver’s on-screen display, you can then set the:
- Speaker distances
- Sound levels
- Crossover frequencies
- Subwoofer’s output
Make sure to test your calibration with music and movies to make sure the sound is balanced enough to your liking.
7.2 Surround Sound vs. Other Channel Setups
When comparing 7.2 surround sound systems to other surround sound configurations, the main differences are the number of speakers and how they’re arranged.
You’ll notice significant audio variations between a 2.1 setup and a 9.1.2 setup, with the latter creating noticeable improvements in immersion when watching movies or listening to music with the most advanced surround sound technology.
However, you may not have the space for it.
A 7.2 system strikes a nice balance between these two. It will give you a clean 360-degree soundstage, which is a plus over a 2.1 system, without the complexity and space requirements of a full-bodied 9.1.2 setup.
Here’s a look at some of the most common channel configurations you’ll see in surround sound systems:
- 5.1 Surround Sound: This includes a front left and right speaker, a center speaker, two surround speakers (typically placed to the sides or just behind the listening position), and a single subwoofer. This setup is the standard for home theater surround sound.
- 5.1.2 Surround Sound: This configuration builds on the 5.1 setup by adding two overhead or up-firing speakers to create a three-dimensional audio effect. This is often used in setups compatible with Dolby Atmos or DTS:X surround sound technology for an improved vertical sound.
- 5.2 Surround Sound: Adds an additional subwoofer to the 5.1 system for better bass distribution and low-frequency sounds across the listening area.
- 7.2 Surround Sound: This includes all the elements of a 5.2 setup (front left and right, center, two surround speakers, and two subwoofers) with the addition of two rear speakers or additional surround speakers placed behind the listener to further enhance the envelopment and directionality of the sound field.
- 9.1.2 Surround Sound: This is the most advanced configuration setup meant for Dolby Atmos. It comes with left, right, and center speakers, left and right side speakers, left and right rear speakers, two wider left and right speakers that could be part of the front or rear setup, adding more layers to the sound field, and two overhead or up-firing speakers for even more precise sound positioning.
If you’re looking for a simpler and more affordable audio setup, especially for smaller spaces, you can also consider a soundbar.
High-end soundbars, with their multi-speaker setup and unique audio processing, come close to performing the same way a dedicated surround sound system does.
Even soundbars priced under $200 can produce good sound quality for the casual listener who just wants an audio upgrade when listening to music or watching movies.
Our article on soundbars vs. surround sound systems explains the advantages and capabilities of both types of audio systems and can help you determine which one is best for you and your space.
What to Consider Before Buying a 7.2 Surround Sound
Before investing in a 7.2 surround sound system, consider the following to make sure it’s the best surround sound system that meets your needs and space:
Room Size and Acoustics
A 7.2 surround sound system works best in medium to larger rooms where soundwaves can fully develop.
At a minimum, the room should measure at least 12 by 15 feet. For optimal performance, a 7.2 setup would work best in a room that’s at least 15 to 20 feet wide and 25 to 30 feet long.
A room this size will provide enough spatial volume to appreciate the nuances of the surround and rear speaker effects. If the room you plan to install it in is smaller, you risk overwhelming the space with sound, especially with the boom from the two subwoofers.
Even if you have the ideal space for a 7.2 surround sound setup, a room’s acoustics can affect the sound quality when watching movies and listening to music.
For example, if your room has hard floors, bare walls, and many hard surfaces, you might experience more echoing or reverberation in the audio, making it hard to hear.
On the other hand, if your room has too many soft surfaces, it might overly dampen the sound, limiting the immersion and detail you paid for. In these situations, certain acoustic treatments may be necessary, like:
- Ceiling Clouds: Installing ceiling clouds overhead absorbs front speaker sound and reduces reverberation, enhancing clarity and preserving spatial depth.
- Acoustic Panels: Made from materials such as hard fiberglass, mineral wool, or foam, acoustic panels are installed in areas where sound initially reflects off walls. They absorb early echoes, balance room echoes, and prevent unclear sounds, resulting in more distinct audio.
- Diffusers: Placed on walls or ceilings behind the listener, diffusers scatter sound in various directions. This helps spread sound waves evenly throughout the room and maintains the natural atmosphere of the space. It enhances clarity and provides a more immersive listening experience.
- Bass Traps: Designed to absorb low-frequency sound waves, bass traps are installed in corners where walls meet. This is because corners are where low-frequency sounds tend to accumulate the most due to sound waves bouncing off and reinforcing each other in these areas.
Calculating room modes, reverberation time (RT60), and the optimal listening position can help you determine whether a 7.2 system would work well in your space.
This involves determining your room’s acoustics and taking into account the size, shape, and type of materials used for the walls, floor, and ceiling. To help you with this, you can use our room acoustics calculator.
Check Your AV Receiver
Make sure your receiver can support a 7.2-channel setup. It should have the necessary inputs and outputs for all speakers and subwoofers and be compatible with any advanced audio formats you plan to use, such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. If not, you would have to purchase a new AV receiver as well for the best audio experience.
Add Speakers to Your Existing Setup
Consider adding additional speakers or replacing older speakers in your existing setup instead of buying an entirely new surround sound system. Compare the cost of the two options.
If your current AV receiver supports a 7.2 configuration and has enough outputs to add two more speakers and a subwoofer, this might be the better and cheaper option.
Ideally, you should try to match any new speakers with the same series or brand as your current speakers so the audio stays consistent across all channels. However, it’s not a requirement.
If you’re looking to add speakers, check out our top picks for the best bookshelf speakers under $1,000.
Final Thoughts
While there are many other channel configurations you can choose for your home theater, don’t overlook a 7.2 surround sound system. It’s easy to set up, and it’s capable of surrounding you with a multidimensional soundscape you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Take time to understand where to place your speakers for optimal performance and enjoy the immersive audio experience that a 7.2 surround sound system can provide.
