Deciding whether to invest in a lavish 5.1 audio setup or opt for a sleek 2.1 music speaker is a dilemma that many users face when looking to equip their room with a suitable and high-quality sound system. Let's analyze with Mytour Superstore to see which is the better choice!
Pros and cons of a 2.1 soundbar

Exploring the advantages and disadvantages of a 2.1 soundbar
Understanding the concept of a 2.1 soundbar: A 2.1 speaker, also known as a 2.1 sound bar, consists of a long bar-shaped speaker and a subwoofer. Inside the 2.1 speaker, there are typically 2-3 small speakers to produce the main sounds from the playback device. The 2.1 soundbar often features multidirectional virtual surround sound effects, creating an immersive experience where the audio seems to come from various directions, even though it originates from just three channels.
Advantages:
- Compact, simple, and easy to move around the house.
- Affordable price ranging from 3.5 million to 7.5 million VND.
- Suitable for any space in your home.
- Meets your simple needs, perfect for those buying speakers primarily for music listening.
Drawbacks:
- Limited to playing music smoothly through only 2 channels.
- Sound lacks clarity and reproduction is not optimal.
- Limited power, typically ranging from 500 W and below.
- Sound effects not as impressive as a 5.1 speaker system.
- Usually lacks network connectivity and does not support Karaoke singing (lacks a microphone jack).
Pros and cons of a 5.1 audio system, what are they?

5.1 audio system
What is a 5.1 audio system?
A 5.1 audio system is an audio setup comprising a main unit and 6 speakers, capable of delivering a maximum of 6 channels of sound.
- 1 center speaker (Center): emits the primary sounds of the song or character dialogues in movies.
- 2 front speakers (Front): 2 speakers deliver left and right audio, along with the sound from the center speaker, forming the fundamental and crucial part of the audio content you're watching.
- 2 surround speakers (Surround): surround speakers, also known as surround sound speakers, produce accompanying effects. For example, the roar of an engine in action movies or the applause in music concerts.
- Subwoofer (Subwoofer): emits extremely low-frequency sounds.
Advantages:
- High power, commonly ranging from 500 W to 2000 W.
- Proper installation and standard 5.1 audio sources provide a diverse range of effects, delivering a rich audio experience.
- Capability to play high-quality music: lossless, Hi-res music.
Drawbacks:
- Numerous components, somewhat bulky and take up considerable space in the house.
- If only listening to regular MP3 music, it's not much different from a 2.1 soundbar.
- Priced high, ranging from 3 million to 9 million VND.
Comparing a 2.1 soundbar to a 5.1 audio system
In terms of design, it's evident that the 2.1 soundbar is more compact, whereas the 5.1 audio system is larger and more 'grandiose.' If your home isn't too spacious, opting for a single soundbar will be much more flexible as it can be easily moved around, while a full system would occupy a significant amount of space.

Comparing a 2.1 soundbar to a 5.1 audio system
In terms of power, the audio system will naturally have higher wattage than the soundbar, hence consuming more electrical energy.
In terms of audio quality, it's evident that an audio system delivers more authentic and richer sound quality.
Regarding pricing, audio systems usually range from 2-9 million VND, while soundbars fall in the price range of 3.5-7.5 million VND.
In general, if your family has diverse music needs with various devices and a spacious area, opting for an audio system might be the better choice. However, if your needs are simple, focusing on music listening, and the living space is limited, then a 2.1 soundbar would be more suitable.