GoKawiilAudio expert Anthony Grimani shares simple fixes for better home surround sound
Sound engineer Anthony Grimani explains that room acoustics, not expensive equipment, are usually the biggest factor hurting home theater sound quality. Hard surfaces like bare walls and tile floors reflect sound waves, causing echo and muddled audio, but simple additions like rugs, curtains and framed art can absorb those reflections. He also outlines proper speaker placement and angling for both 5.1 and 7.1 setups.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Many people invest heavily in speakers and receivers without realizing that room layout and decor can undo those gains through reflected sound. These fixes are low-cost and accessible, meaning better audio doesn't require new hardware, just smarter placement and furnishing choices.
- Hard surfaces cause over half of unwanted sound reflection in typical rooms.
- Rugs, curtains and wall art can meaningfully reduce echo without foam panels.
- Correct speaker distance and angling toward the seating position is essential for clear sound.
Sonos Beam (Gen 2) Soundbar — If you're rethinking your home theater setup, a compact soundbar like the Sonos Beam is a great way to upgrade dialogue clarity and surround-style effects without complicated speaker placement. It pairs easily with rear satellite speakers later, letting you build out a true surround system as your room acoustics improve. It's an easy first step toward the kind of sound staging the article describes.
See Sonos Beam (Gen 2) Soundbar on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Gabriela Vătu, 2026-09-20
Published there as: “These small changes can improve your home surround sound in a big way”
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