How to Connect Surround Sound to Television

If you want the best sound quality from your home entertainment center, you should opt for adding surround sound. This form of speaker system makes you feel like you are in the movie. The process for connecting is relatively easy after you figure out what type connections you are working with.

1. Figure out the type or types of connecting you may use to connect your sound system. You will notice one of the following connection options: HDMI, optical, digital or RC. There is sometimes an option for a 1/8 mini jack, but this is for headphones only and you can connect this on an as-needed basis. If you have more than one connection option, choose the HDMI, if it is available. If not, the optical connection is the nest best. Digital is the third, while RCA comes next.


2. Purchase the correct cables based on your television’s options. If you already have the wiring, you can skip this step.


3. Connect the cable to your surround system. You must match the cable with the corresponding outlet. For instance, the HDMI cable connects to the “HDMI IN” slot. When you connect RCA cables, remember that the colors must always match. For example, the red cable goes into the red plug. Likewise, the white goes into the white plug and yellow cable plugs into the yellow outlet. Screw in your coax tight, so you avoid experiencing poor quality from loose connection.


4. Hook up the other end of the cable into the corresponding connection on the television. The same rules apply for the RCA cable color-coding and the coax connection.