Monoprice 133832 Home Theater System Review
Our verdict
The Monoprice 133832 expands the 133831 layout to a full 5.1.4-channel array, adding two more height speakers for a more enveloping Atmos or DTS:X experience. At $320.99 and 200 W it is one of very few 5.1.4 speaker packages at this price, though the 3.9-star average from 50 reviews is the weakest in this group and warrants attention.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Home theater builders who want the most complete Atmos height configuration possible on a tight budget and have a 9-channel or higher AV receiver to drive it.
Skip if
You are sensitive to mixed buyer feedback, prefer a wireless setup, or do not already own a 9-channel Atmos-capable AV receiver.
- Channels 5.1.4
- Power 200 W
- Connectivity Wired
- Color Black
- Dimensions 4.3 X 4.3 X 10.2 In
- Weight 2.9 lb
- Priced 13% below the category median ($369.95 across 27 tracked models)
- Weight of 2.9 lb - lighter than 88% of the 28 models we track
Pros
- 5.1.4 channel layout is one of the most complete Atmos configurations available at this price
- Compact 4.3 x 4.3 x 10.2 in satellites fit in tight spaces and on small shelves
- Monoprice direct pricing undercuts retail brands at equivalent channel counts
- At 2.9 lb per speaker package, placement and adjustment are easy
Cons
- 3.9-star average from 50 reviews is lower than comparable systems in this roundup
- Requires a 9-channel AV receiver, which adds substantially to total system cost
- Wired-only connectivity means no wireless streaming at the speaker level
- Small review base makes it harder to assess long-term reliability
Our scorecard
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Owner rating3.9/5
3.9 average across 50 owner ratings
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Popularity2.0/5
50 owner reviews, fewer than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other AV receivers and amplifiers, soundbars, home theater speakers, subwoofers, surround sound systems and Blu-ray players we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The Monoprice 133832 is a 5.1.4-channel speaker package rated at 200 W, priced at $320.99. The 5.1.4 layout adds four height channels, providing both front and rear overhead audio for the fullest Atmos ceiling effect available short of a professional installation. At 2.9 lb the individual satellites are very compact, with the same 4.3 x 4.3 x 10.2 inch footprint as the 133831 model.
Connectivity is wired, meaning this system is designed to work with a separate AV receiver that handles amplification and decoding. A 9-channel receiver is the practical minimum to drive all channels simultaneously. That adds cost to the total system build but also means you can mix and match components as your budget allows.
The 3.9-star rating from 50 reviews is the lowest in the Monoprice home theater lineup reviewed here and the feedback pool is small. The gap between this model and the 133831 in terms of buyer satisfaction is worth noting. Potential buyers should read the recent reviews carefully to understand what concerns have been raised before committing at this price.
Specifications
| Channels | 5.1.4 |
|---|---|
| Power | 200 W |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 4.3 X 4.3 X 10.2 In |
| Weight | 2.9 lb |
Performance notes
Channels: 5.1.4. Power: 200 W. Connectivity: Wired. Dimensions: 4.3 x 4.3 x 10.2 in. Weight: 2.9 lb. Color: Black.
What buyers say
Fifty reviews at 3.9 stars is below average for this category and represents the most cautionary data point in the Monoprice home theater line reviewed here. While the sample is small, the rating suggests a meaningful portion of buyers encountered fit, finish, or performance issues. Reading individual reviews before buying is especially worthwhile here.
Similar AV receivers and amplifiers, soundbars, home theater speakers, subwoofers, surround sound systems and Blu-ray players to consider
Frequently asked questions
What AV receiver do I need to power all 5.1.4 channels?
You need a receiver with at least 9 amplifier channels and Dolby Atmos or DTS:X decoding to drive a 5.1.4 layout fully. Popular options in the mid-range include receivers from Denon, Yamaha, and Marantz with 9.2 channel ratings. Budget at least $500 to $700 for a receiver that can do justice to this speaker configuration.
What is the difference between the 133831 and the 133832?
The 133831 is a 5.1.2 package with two height channels. The 133832 is a 5.1.4 package with four height channels, providing both front-height and rear-height overhead audio. The 133832 costs about $50 more and requires a 9-channel receiver rather than 7-channel. The 133831 has a higher buyer rating as well, so the step-up is not universally recommended.
Can I install the height speakers as upward-firing, or do they need to go in the ceiling?
The spec data does not confirm the height speaker implementation for the 133832. Check the Monoprice product manual or listing for installation guidance. Ceiling mounting typically delivers better Atmos precision than upward-firing placement, but upward-firing can work in rooms where ceiling mounting is not practical. Monoprice customer support at their website can clarify the recommended installation method.