For 11x18 room size, what RMS is required for 5.1 system?

by Dr. Prasad Joshi
(Nanded, Mahrashtra, India)

Sir, I've newly joined this forum and I'm quite enthusiastic about sound. I have Philips DVP 5106k 5.1 channel DVD player previously connected with Creative 5.1 speakers. But I want to know as I have very little space i.e. 12x18 in my cinema hall, what exactly RMS required and which 5.1 speaker system can give THE BEST AUDIO, please mention some company name for my convenience.

---

Firstly, I wouldn't worry too much about the exact RMS power required. Most modern AV receivers will provide around 50 - 100 watts per channel RMS, and that will allow plenty of volume for most home installations. Go nearer the top end if you know you want to listen to movies or music at particularly high volumes.

I wouldn't think you would need anything more than 100 to 120 watts per channel maximum.

Only unless you have a very large room, and you will have your speakers widely spaced around it , will you need to think about a more powerful amplifier (and bigger speakers). In most cases, the extra power of an amplifier is for allowing more headroom for sudden loud effects in a movie, rather than for making the whole system louder.

You might want to check out our guide to power specifications for a bit more detail on this.

It's also hard to give you an idea of a speaker system without knowing your budget.

However, you will generally get a better sound by buying a separate AV receiver and speaker package - rather than an all-in-one home theater in-a-box system. But HTiB systems are generally cheaper and slightly easier to setup - so you need to decide on your budget first as this may dictate what you buy.

If you are looking for an AV receiver, you could start looking at Yamaha, Pioneer, Onkyo and Sony receivers.

For a 5.1 speaker package, there are many good choices. Some good entry level to mid-range packages are made by KEF, Definitive Technology, Polk Audio, Boston Acoustics, Jamo....I could go on to be honest.

First thing, set your budget and then you will narrow your choices down!

All the best.

Paul (Site Editor)

Feel free to join in this discussion by adding your own comments below...