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10 Best Rear Surround Speakers 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel OLED evo TV Matching Home Theater Soundbar with Rear Surround Speakers and Wireless Subwoofer, Wow Orchestra, Dolby Atmos, WOWCAST Built-in (2024 Model)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,299
Speaker Type
Placement and Mounting Options

Most important from
487 reviews

Speaker Type
The newly designed speaker driver, chamber, and subwoofer deliver exceptional sound quality with impressive bass and clarity.
Placement and Mounting Options
The soundbar's integration with LG TVs, using WOW Cinema mode, creates a robust and immersive soundscape by utilizing TV speakers.

The LG S95TR 9.1.5-Channel Soundbar is designed to enhance your home theater experience with several standout features. Its 9.1.5-channel configuration, including triple up-firing speakers, ensures a rich and immersive 3D audio experience, powered by Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology. The rear speakers are wireless and easy to set up, requiring only an outlet for power, making them versatile for various room sizes and shapes. The advanced room calibration feature optimizes sound based on your room's dimensions and speaker placement, promising clear and deep surround sound without delay.

The integration with LG TVs through WOW Orchestra and WOWCAST provides seamless connectivity and control, reducing the hassle of multiple remotes and ensuring no loss in audio quality. This soundbar also supports multiple platforms, including Google Assistant, Alexa, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2, adding to its convenience and versatility.

However, there are some drawbacks. At 34.6 pounds, it's relatively heavy, which might pose installation challenges. Additionally, being corded electric means it’s not as portable as some users might prefer. The product isn't water-resistant, limiting its use to indoor environments. While it offers premium features, it may be on the pricier side, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,299
Speaker Type
Placement and Mounting Options

Most important from
487 reviews

Speaker Type
The newly designed speaker driver, chamber, and subwoofer deliver exceptional sound quality with impressive bass and clarity.
Placement and Mounting Options
The soundbar's integration with LG TVs, using WOW Cinema mode, creates a robust and immersive soundscape by utilizing TV speakers.
#2

Polk Audio MagniFi Max AX SR 7.1.2 Channel Sound Bar with Wireless 10" Subwoofer & SR2 Surround Speakers for Smart TV, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, Polk's Patented VoiceAdjust & SDA Technologies, Black

Rating
9.4
Placement and Mounting Options

Most important from
786 reviews

Placement and Mounting Options
The Polk system lets you balance the volume between the right and left surrounds, a useful feature for customizing your setup.

The Polk MagniFi Max AX SR is a well-rounded sound system that excels in delivering immersive audio experiences, making it a great choice for home theater enthusiasts. With a 7.1.2 channel setup, including a powerful 10-inch wireless subwoofer and two surround speakers, it creates a rich and spacious sound that envelops the listener. One of its standout features is the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, which offers a realistic 3D audio experience that enhances both movies and music. The inclusion of Polk's patented VoiceAdjust technology ensures dialogue clarity, making it easier to follow conversations without straining to hear. Setup is straightforward, aided by the Google Home app, which adds to user convenience. Plus, it boasts multiple connectivity options, including 4K HDMI inputs and Bluetooth, making it flexible for various devices and streaming needs.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While the sound quality is impressive, some users might find the soundbar itself a bit bulky, which could be a concern in smaller spaces. Additionally, while the wireless subwoofer is a significant advantage, it may occasionally experience connectivity issues. The system's weight of 13 pounds might also be cumbersome for some when it comes to mounting or relocating. Lastly, while it offers extensive features, those who are less tech-savvy might need some time to explore all functionality, particularly the voice control capabilities.

The Polk MagniFi Max AX SR is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their home entertainment with high-quality surround sound, but it may require some initial setup and learning for optimal use.

Rating
9.4
Placement and Mounting Options

Most important from
786 reviews

Placement and Mounting Options
The Polk system lets you balance the volume between the right and left surrounds, a useful feature for customizing your setup.
#3

Reference Premiere RP-502S II Walnut Surround Sound Speakers

Rating
9.1
Build Quality and Materials
Size and Placement
Speaker Type

Most important from
98 reviews

Build Quality and Materials
Heavy, well-built speakers with a premium look and excellent craftsmanship.
Size and Placement
Easy to install and hang, fitting well into home theater setups.
Speaker Type
Worth the investment for anyone seeking high-quality rear surround sound.

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-502S II surround speakers are designed to deliver clear and immersive rear sound for home theater setups. They use a large Tractrix horn tweeter that helps produce sharp, detailed dialogue and sound effects, which is great for movie lovers wanting lifelike audio. The titanium tweeter and vented design reduce distortion, so highs stay crisp without harshness. Their ceramic-metal woofers provide clear bass and midrange tones, balancing well with the tweeters for a richer sound.

With a frequency response up to 20 kHz and a power handling of 400 watts, these speakers are fairly powerful and should work well with most mid to high-end receivers. The cabinet is built with quality materials and bracing to minimize vibrations, improving sound clarity and giving a premium look to your room. They come in a walnut finish and include magnetic removable grilles, which can be handy to switch between a sleek or bold appearance.

They weigh 17 pounds each and stand about 14 inches tall, so you'll want to ensure you have stable, suitable tabletop space or stands for placement. These speakers are wired only, without wireless connectivity, so cable management might be something to plan for. These Klipsch speakers are well suited for users seeking high-quality rear surround sound with detailed audio performance and robust build quality, though they may be less ideal if you need lightweight or wireless options.

Rating
9.1
Build Quality and Materials
Size and Placement
Speaker Type

Most important from
98 reviews

Build Quality and Materials
Heavy, well-built speakers with a premium look and excellent craftsmanship.
Size and Placement
Easy to install and hang, fitting well into home theater setups.
Speaker Type
Worth the investment for anyone seeking high-quality rear surround sound.

Buying Guide for the Best Rear Surround Speakers

Choosing the right rear-surround speakers can significantly enhance your home theater experience by providing immersive sound that makes you feel like you're part of the action. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs and preferences. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting rear-surround speakers.
Speaker TypeThe type of speaker refers to its design and intended use. Rear-surround speakers can be bookshelf, satellite, or in-wall/in-ceiling types. Bookshelf speakers are larger and can deliver more powerful sound, making them suitable for larger rooms. Satellite speakers are smaller and more discreet, ideal for compact spaces. In-wall or in-ceiling speakers are built into the walls or ceiling, providing a clean look and saving space. Choose the type that fits your room layout and aesthetic preferences.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response indicates the range of sounds the speaker can reproduce, measured in Hertz (Hz). A wider frequency range means the speaker can produce both deep bass and high treble sounds. For rear-surround speakers, a range of around 80 Hz to 20,000 Hz is typically sufficient, as they are mainly responsible for ambient and directional sounds rather than deep bass. Consider your overall sound system and ensure the rear-surround speakers complement the other speakers in your setup.
SensitivitySensitivity measures how effectively a speaker converts power into sound, expressed in decibels (dB). Higher sensitivity means the speaker can produce louder sound with less power. Sensitivity ratings typically range from 85 dB to 100 dB. If you have a lower-powered amplifier or receiver, look for speakers with higher sensitivity (90 dB or above) to ensure they can produce adequate volume. For more powerful systems, sensitivity is less critical but still worth considering for overall efficiency.
ImpedanceImpedance is the resistance a speaker offers to the electrical current from the amplifier, measured in ohms. Common impedance ratings are 4, 6, and 8 ohms. Most home theater receivers are designed to work with 8-ohm speakers, but some can handle lower impedance speakers. Ensure the impedance of your rear-surround speakers matches or is compatible with your amplifier or receiver to avoid potential damage and ensure optimal performance.
Power HandlingPower handling indicates the amount of power a speaker can handle, measured in watts (W). It includes both continuous (RMS) and peak power ratings. Continuous power is the amount the speaker can handle over long periods, while peak power is the maximum it can handle in short bursts. Match the power handling of your rear-surround speakers with the output of your amplifier or receiver to ensure they can handle the power without distortion or damage. For most home setups, rear-surround speakers with an RMS rating of 50-150 watts are sufficient.
Build Quality and MaterialsThe build quality and materials of the speaker affect its durability and sound quality. Look for speakers with sturdy cabinets made from materials like MDF (medium-density fiberboard) and high-quality drivers (the components that produce sound). Well-built speakers will last longer and provide better sound performance. Consider the environment where the speakers will be placed; for example, if they will be in a humid area, look for moisture-resistant materials.
Size and PlacementThe size of the rear-surround speakers and their placement in your room can impact the overall sound experience. Larger speakers can produce more powerful sound but may be more challenging to place discreetly. Consider the available space and how the speakers will fit into your room layout. Proper placement is crucial for achieving the best surround sound effect, typically at ear level and slightly behind the listening position. Adjustable mounting options can help achieve the ideal placement.

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