Home Cinema & Audio Glossary Terms

What Do 2.1, 5.1 and 7.1 Mean for Soundbars?

The first number in a soundbar's channel configuration is how many discrete speaker channels it has (e.g. 2 for stereo left/right, 5 for front-left, centre, front-right plus surrounds), and the number after the dot indicates a dedicated subwoofer channel for bass. More channels generally give a wider, more directional sound field, closer to a true surround-sound setup, than a basic stereo soundbar.

What Does THX Certification Mean for Home Cinema?

THX certification is an independent standard testing how accurately an audio/video product reproduces sound and picture as the content creator intended, covering areas like distortion, frequency response and viewing/listening angles. A THX-certified soundbar or system has passed these standardised benchmarks, offering a point of comparison across brands beyond a manufacturer's own marketing claims.

What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows devices to connect and exchange data over short distances without needing cables. For home & garden products like fitness trackers or speakers, it means you can control them using your smartphone or tablet via a dedicated app, often for features like tracking activity or adjusting volume. It’s important to note that Bluetooth connections are susceptible to interference from other electronic devices and walls, potentially affecting range and reliability. Battery life is also influenced by continuous Bluetooth usage – heavier use will drain the device's power quicker. Consider this when assessing a product's overall usability and long-term operational needs.