If the poor sound from your television's wimpy built-in speakers is ruining your DVD movie and console video game experience--but you're unwilling to pony up the cash, space, and effort to install a true 5.1 surround-sound setup--check out the Soundaround audio processor from Xitel. The $100 device literally tricks your brain into hearing audio from speakers that aren't really there.
I tested a shipping version of the paperback-book-size silver unit using a Microsoft Xbox and a stereo television. Installation was straightforward, as the product has only one set of coaxial audio inputs and outputs. I ran the Xbox cables to the device, used the included cable to connect it to the television, plugged in the AC adapter, and selected my TV's real speaker size.
Xitel recommends listening for a bit before passing judgment, to let your brain warm up to the technology, which uses principles of psychoacoustics (the study of sound). I tested it by playing a game and then watching several DVD clips. The Soundaround improved the sound stage and offered greater detail, but I never experienced the sensation of sounds behind me.
The remote control offers access to additional features such as enhanced dialogue clarity (which worked pretty well) and additional bass response (which seemed less effective). The device itself includes a headphone jack, which will make the product worth the purchase price for many.
I enjoyed using the Soundaround, but I wouldn't swap it for my actual 5.1-stereo system. Still, if you're looking to spruce up your audio experience without spending much cash, the device is a worthy investment.
Tom Mainelli
