How to Set the Speaker Levels in a 5.1 System With a Sound Level Meter

5.1 systems are a great element of any home theater, but getting the most out of a 5.1 system means being able to adjust it for optimum performance. One of the most important elements that must be adjusted is the speaker levels. Each speaker must output the same volume for the optimal listening experience. Knowing how to set the speaker levels in a 5.1 sound system with a sound level meter is an essential skill for any home theater enthusiast.

Things You'll Need

• 5.1 surround sound system
• 5.1 surround sound system remote control
• Sound level meter

Instructions

1. Set your 5.1 system to "speaker level" mode. This mode will send a "noise" tone much like radio static to each speaker in sequence, or one-at-a-time.

2. Stand behind the center of the seating area in front of the 5.1 system.

3. Hold the sound level meter at the height where the listener's head will be.

4. Point the microphone of the sound level meter at the ceiling, allowing the sound to pass over it and not directly into it. This will simulate the way sound passes over the listener's ears.

5. Adjust each speaker using a remote control until the noise tone from each speaker is at the exact same level. This will ensure your speaker levels are correctly adjusted.

References

• Sound and Vision Magazine: The Setup: Speakers
• Audioholics: Setting Speaker Levels & Distance in a Surround Sound System
• Axiom Audio: How to Get Dolby Digital 5.1 Channel Surround Sound