Get The Right Speakers For Your Projector

If you’re in the market for a new or replacement speaker to use with your projector, it’s hard to know what to get. There are so many options on the market that it’s challenging to choose which one is best for you and even more complicated when you know nothing about speakers. Luckily, we have some helpful tips to show you everything you need to know before making your purchase!

Check your room

The first step is to measure your listening space. The room size you have may allow or restrict you to a certain type of speaker and narrow down where they can be positioned. If you have a large room, 20 ft x 15 ft, then the best option is to place your speakers on opposite walls. In this case, I would recommend two floor-standing speakers at least 12″ high.

Now that we’ve determined where the speaker placement should be, we can start to look at the type of speakers.

Projectors speaker types

Depending on your budget and acoustics requirements, you can choose between different audio solutions.

Bookshelf speakers as a balance between price and quality

If you want a versatile home theater system and good value for money, it will be best to go with bookshelf speakers. These speakers are tiny and compact and complement your projector well. They are specially designed to maximize sound enhancement in small to medium-sized rooms. Moreover, such speakers are the best compromise between price and quality, as they produce a decent sound with a good value for money.

Another good plus is that you can purchase bookshelf speakers as a standalone addition to your projector or as part of a larger system that already works with the projector. This is the versatility of bookshelf speakers.

And you also need to consider one aspect – shelf speakers are designed to be placed on a shelf, table, anywhere except the floor. But this does not mean that they should be exactly. Think outside the box and be creative with where you place them.

Amplifier + speakers for the most demanding users

Amplifier + speakers offer great sound quality and performance for demanding users. However, they are not the best option if you need a more versatile system that can be used in different home theater configurations. The installation process is also slightly more complicated because of their size requirement, and it requires knowledge about audio systems.

Soundbar for easy installation

Soundbars are usually the best and easiest solution for people that do not require powerful audio. Unfortunately, most of them only offer essential sound quality, and they cannot replace all your home theater speakers. Nevertheless, it can be a good option if you’re looking to buy something quickly without breaking the bank or if you want an easy installation process that doesn’t require any previous knowledge.

Design and size

When searching through the speaker systems for the projector, you will find many options depending on the size of your room and what type of music system you want.

The best option for rooms, like a bedroom or small living room, is the bookshelf speakers. They will provide you with excellent sound quality while taking up less space in your room than larger models. Alternatively, for more powerful systems that need to fill larger spaces, there are many options, including tower speakers.

Ideally, you want speakers that are portable and simple. You do not need a speaker system with an amplifier if the best option for your room is bookshelf speakers.

Configuration

There are several types of speakers: 2.0, 2.1, 5.1.

The most common type is 2.0. There is a stereo pair comprising two identical speakers. This type is best suited for background accompaniment and listening to music. Each speaker reproduces low, mid, and high frequencies.

Further, 2.1 is an option well suited for movies and games. There are two identical speakers here. They play mid and high frequencies. A separate third speaker is intended only for low frequencies. It is called a subwoofer. We consider 2.1 kits to be the best choice for movies and games for a limited budget.

The 5.1 is an extended version of 2.1 systems. Three more speakers are added here: two rear and one central. This is the best option for movies and games. However, keep in mind if you can place two columns behind you and another one in the middle in front.

Wired or wireless speakers for projector

Along with portability, you need to think about the wired and wireless types of speakers.

Wired speakers are best for those who want the best sound quality and don’t mind being restricted to a specific location. The wires can be an annoyance, but it is possible to hide them inside walls or ceilings if you’re installing these types of speakers in your home theater space. You also have more control over where each speaker goes without needing any additional setup.

Wireless speakers for projectors are best for those who want to move their sound around the home or office and don’t mind sacrificing some sound quality in favor of convenience. The wireless connection can experience interference from other electronics. You don’t have total control over where each speaker goes – but it is possible to add additional speakers whenever you need them.

Which power output should have projector speakers?

Speakers should be powerful enough to fill the space without distortion when turned up high to maximum volume.

The speaker’s speaker’s power output defines the loudness, and it is rated in watts (RMS). The good speakers for the projector have a power output of 50 watts or more.

Speakers should also be able to fill the space with no distortion on maximum volume. So it is best if they can produce crisp highs, deep lows, and clear vocals without distortion at top volumes or resonance.

Some people may wish to add subwoofers to their system as well, but this is usually best reserved for people who are seriously into a home cinema.

Impedance

The impedance refers to the resistance of amplifier encounters when trying to drive a speaker. A speaker’s impedance changes depending on frequency. Like pencil-type speakers and horn drivers, more efficient speakers can have impedance as low as a few ohms at the very lowest frequencies they produce. This is because their magnetic fields require less energy to generate the lower tones.

Since most loudspeakers are rated at 8 ohms, modern solid-state amplifiers can effectively drive them without issue. Still, for reasons too complex to delve into here, look for speakers with a “nominal” 8-ohm impedance and select one which fits your needs best.

Frequency range

When you are shopping for a projector sound system, make sure it has a wide tonal range. The frequency is depicted in Hertz and shows how the speaker will respond to different tones. A speaker with a wide range of responses makes your audio richer and more accurate. The best frequency range is between 20Hz to 25kHz. The lower the number, the less capable it will be to reproduce lower frequencies and higher tones. For example, a speaker with an inadequate response would not have an output below 80 Hz or above 12 kHz.

Sensitivity

Sensitivity is measured in decibels per volt (dB/volt). A sensitivity of 86 dB/volts means the speaker will produce sound at an output level of 86 dB when given one volt of power from a typical amplifier. It’s expressed as ‘dB per 2.83 volts’. The higher the sensitivity, the more sound the speaker will produce at a voltage. For example: “88 dB/2.83V.” If you’re using a receiver, you may want speakers with a higher sensitivity (i.e., over 86 dB), or if not, you may want to purchase a speaker with built-in amplification.

Sound staging

You also should consider stereo imaging or “sound staging.” Sound stage speakers enable you to hear the location of different sounds as if the band was playing in front of you. Perhaps the vocals are front and center while off to either side are guitars and keyboards, and behind them are drums that play percussion instruments loudly.

Still, if you want to have the right sound stage, you must keep in mind some nuances. Sound staging can be simulated in two ways: using a sound field processor or providing an appropriate speaker placement. If you have space, use both to maximize your experience. The best setup for surround sound is having a center channel and four speakers on all sides of the room to create that 360-degree effect from every angle possible.

You should also make sure that the speakers are angled correctly to maximize your sound stage and be heard properly. If you’re placing them in front of a wall, angle the speaker so it is pointed towards the center of your room for the best effect. It doesn’t matter where they are placed as long as it sounds good!

Overall Durability

To purchase a durable speaker for your projector, you should pay attention to high-quality materials. With premium build quality, the speaker will resist ordinary exterior damages and help it last longer (compared to inferior products). You may also want to consider speakers with a water-resistance rating or capability because the best outdoor speakers for projectors must be very weather resistant.

Additional Components

You won’t be able to use speakers without other components. You’ll want to make sure you have a receiver, cables, and an integrated control system before shopping for any speaker systems.

Receivers & amplifiers

The primary job of a receiver is to send an audio signal from a media player (such as a CD player, cable box, or video games system) to speakers and a projector. A receiver typically features built-in amps that power the same speakers when driven by a headphone wire feed. You can add external amplifiers if you like, but not necessary for most systems.

Brackets, stands & mounts

Placing a speaker on a flat surface such as a table can lead to vibrations that obstruct the sound quality. Speaker stands to provide better clearance for your sound while also opening up placement possibilities. Speaker mounts and brackets are similar in function but go one more step by providing mounting solutions with additional benefits such as access to power outlets or cable management.

Wires & cables

Many speakers don’t come with the wiring necessary to hook them up, so make sure you have enough speaker wire for your setup. Additionally, you will need audio and video cables to connect your projector and speakers to the receiver. If you already set them up, you most likely have what you need!

Let’s summarize the above. The best type of speaker will depend on your personal preferences while also considering aspects such as installation requirements, compatibility with other electronics (such as televisions and projectors), desired use, and how much you’re willing to spend.

If you’re looking for something easy to install, requires no external amplification, and is best suited for use with a projector on the wall or ceiling (and has speakers in front of the viewer). Your best option would be an IR wireless speaker. These will allow you to cut costs while still providing seamless integration between audio and visuals.

If you’re looking for something that’s best suited to be used with a projector in front of the viewer, then your best option would be an active speaker. These will provide more clarity and power than passive speakers while also delivering unrivaled quality from a sound perspective. Active components are expensive, however, so this is only recommended for those with larger budgets.

Best speakers for projectors

ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2

The best-selling ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 offers the best sound quality on this list. They have combined a high power and deliver crisp, articulate sound even at high volumes with no distortion – perfect for movie nights or gaming parties. The speakers are also designed to fit in any interior, so they won’t get in your way while you’re enjoying your best entertainment.

Logitech Z313

The Logitech Z313 Speaker System is the best speaker system for projectors. It has a combined power of 50 watts, which gives it a deep sound that won’t distort at high volume levels. The subwoofer offers tight bass reproduction and will ensure you have plenty of oomph to your movie or gaming experience with no boominess.

Klipsch R-51PM

It’s great for music, movies, and gaming thanks to its powerful 60 W per channel or 120 W total output. The wireless setup means you can place the speakers wherever you like without having any unsightly cables running across your living room or bedroom. It offers a perfect balance of sound and portability, making it the best choice if you’re looking to buy a good set of cheap speakers.

Best home theater setup for projectors

YAMAHA RX-V4A – with Polk Audio T50

The Yamaha RX-V6A and the Polk Audio T50 is the mid-price combination. You get seven channels of speaker amplification and surround sound decoding. The sound is amazing for the price and is absolutely feature-packed. And this is the easiest way to fit your projector into your home cinema.

The best soundbar for projectors

Samsung HW-Q60R

The Samsung HW-Q60R is eye-catching and well done, with a decent subwoofer that integrates seamlessly with other speakers. It handles music well, and the various modes make watching TV shows, movies, and video games more fun. However, it lacks immersive audio support in Dolby Atmos and DTS: X.

F.A.Q.

How can I make my projector sound better?

The best way to make your project sound better is by getting high-quality speakers. Many factors go into deciding what the best speaker for your personal needs will be.

Do I need to buy speakers for a projector?

In most cases, yes. Speakers are best suited for larger rooms, and they allow you to enjoy the best sound possible when watching a movie or TV show. Also, speakers are significant for a projector in front of the viewer.

Can I use Alexa as a speaker for my projector?

Yes, you can use Alexa as a speaker for your projector. Just create a voice profile and link it to the Amazon Echo device to stream music wirelessly from anywhere in the house or office without any hassles of your projector to support these features.