On the Side or Bottom

• TVs normally have their speaker built into the bottom of the casing around the screen. Sometimes you will find a model where the speakers are on the side, but these models are becoming less common due to manufactures trying to make the slimmest and sleekest unit. If you can get the speakers on the side then it benefits the stereo sound quality. Also, ask the salesman to demonstrate the sound for you and have the other TVs in the area muted so that you can hear the one you are testing. Keep in mind that your shopping place may be a large building and does not provide a good environment for listening. The TV will sound better in your home because quality sound is also dependent on the acoustics of the room.
  
  

Power

• Speakers are rated in wattage and this determines their output strength. Some of the smaller model units only offer a 2-watt speaker but the better ones offer 5 and 8 watts of power. Sony has some of the best speakers on the market, with even their smaller units reaching 8 watts. Sharp is one of the TV manufacturers that is lagging behind the competition with 2 watts on their models, including bigger screen TVs.
  
  

Home Theatre Alternative

• If you want external speakers you can consider purchasing a home theater surround system which offers 5, 6 or 7 speakers plus a subwoofer. When choosing a TV you may want one with an audio output so that you can connect directly to a receiver. If you cannot get this in the TV model that you prefer then you can connect to the surround system though your cable or satellite box. If you do not have cable or satellite, then you will want to select a TV with an audio output because there is no way to get surround with a coaxial connection.