{
  "id": 14256269,
  "title": "There are better-sounding and cheaper options than four HomePods for surround sound",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/there-are-better-sounding-and-cheaper-options-than-four-homepods-for",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-13T17:20:34.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "AppleInsider",
    "slug": "appleinsider",
    "url": "https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/10/13/there-are-better-sounding-and-cheaper-options-than-four-homepods-for-surround-sound"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Surround sound for Apple TV has arrived in the form of a four-speaker HomePod system, but it comes with a hefty price tag. To set up this feature, which debuted alongside the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K on October 13, a consumer must invest at least $900 - that is, if they opt for four HomePods and a new Apple TV 4K. Even the cheaper option of four HomePod minis still costs $895 before taxes, making it still a considerable investment for many.\n\nThe system requires all speakers to be compatible with HomePods, with only second-generation HomePods and HomePod mini 2 models being supported. The front and rear pairs must match, adding another layer of complexity to the setup. While the idea of enhanced audio is enticing, there are potentially better-sounding and more cost-effective alternatives available for those seeking surround sound for their Apple TV.",
  "summary": "Apple's four- HomePod surround sound setup costs at a minimum $900 with a new Apple TV 4K. These five alternatives deliver dedicated wireless rear speakers and more features for considerably less money. Surround sound for Apple TV Apple introduced four-speaker HomePod surround sound alongside the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K on October 13. The feature allows compatible HomePods to operate as…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "MacRumors",
        "title": "New Apple TV 4K Supports Surround Sound via Four HomePods",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/new-apple-tv-4k-supports-surround-sound-via-four-homepods",
        "published": "2026-10-13T16:32:22.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}