If you've recently bought a high-definition TV, you're probably enjoying an amazing picture — but odds are that its speakers can't do full justice to that gorgeous image. In this article, we outline four different routes you can take to greatly improve your TV's sound, ranging from very simple, space-efficient options to full-blown home theater systems. You'll learn about the unique advantages that each type of system offers, so you can decide for yourself which one makes the most sense for your room, your viewing habits, and your audio tastes.

"Sound bar" solutions

These sleek "sound bar "-style speakers perfectly complement a flat-panel TV, and require minimal space and wiring. Most models even offer built-in amplification, which means the only other gear you'll need is a DVD or Blu-ray Disc™ player and a subwoofer for deep bass roar and rumble. (Some of these models even include a subwoofer.)

Single-speaker sound bars can deliver room-filling sound without taking up much space.

This type of system works well when:

• You have very limited room for speakers or other equipment. The sound bar solution requires fewer pieces of gear than any of the other options discussed below, and you can easily wall-mount the main speaker right below your TV.
• Very simple setup is key. You only need a couple of cables to hook up these systems, and chances are they come in the box. You won't have to run wires from one side of your room to the other, either.
• You want the cinematic thrill of surround sound but your room can't accommodate a full-fledged surround system. Some of the more deluxe models feature advanced designs and special digital processing to create a convincing, three-dimensional sound field.

See our article on choosing a sound bar for more information.

Easy three-speaker systems

Easy three-speaker systems make it simple to add dynamic sound and DVD playback to any TV, especially in small rooms and tight spaces. They require relatively little wiring and offer easy speaker placement options. Three-speaker systems include a control center, two small speakers, and a subwoofer. Most have a DVD player built into the control center.

Easy three-speaker systems offer good sound and simple setup, plus DVD playback. (Subwoofer not pictured.)

An easy three-speaker system might be your best option if:

• You have a small room. These systems are ideal for a smaller living room, or spaces like a den, bedroom, or office. Their compact size makes them a good fit visually, and they can produce enough sound to fill such rooms. If shelf or table space is limited, you can even wall-mount the speakers.
• You want very simple setup, without running speaker wires across your room. These systems are designed for easy hookup and use. With only four pieces, they require relatively little wiring. And all of these speakers and components can sit fairly close together, so you won't have to run long stretches of cable.

Pre-matched surround sound systems

A pre-matched surround sound system can deliver genuine, multi-speaker surround sound without a lot of bulk. They include just five compact, room-friendly speakers, a control center (usually with a built-in DVD or Blu-ray Disc® player), and a subwoofer you can tuck in a corner. Some newer models also offer radio tuners, built-in iPod® docks, and wireless connectivity for rear speakers.

Surround sound systems typically offer the simplest and least expensive way to get true multi-speaker surround sound. (Not shown here: two rear speakers and a subwoofer.)

These systems make sense if:

Component surround sound systems

A system built from separate components gives you the best possible home theater sound, but also requires the most space. These systems typically involve between five and seven medium to large speakers, depending on the individual system. You'll also need a subwoofer, a home theater receiver, and a disc player (like a DVD or Blu-ray player). And keep in mind that you'll need to run wires across your room to hook up your surround speakers.

Component surround sound systems give you top-notch audio performance, and usually offer greater flexibility, too. (This system requires rear speakers, not pictured here.)

A component surround sound system is a smart way to go when:

• You have a large room. Nothing fills a big room with sound like a set of full-sized speakers driven by a dedicated receiver.
• You do a lot of music listening. Music presents any audio system with just as great a challenge as movie sound. Larger speakers and a good receiver let you experience your favorite recordings with especially powerful and nuanced sound.
• You want maximum flexibility. A lot of options open up when you go the component route. Many home theater receivers now allow multi-room music or PC networking possibilities. You can also make creative substitutions, like using in-wall speakers (this requires involved installation but saves lots of space). Down the road, you'll also enjoy more potential for system expansion.

For more information, see our article on the components you need for home theater.