Today's HDTVs can produce stunning pictures, with lifelike color and detail. But when it comes to big, convincing sound, not so much. That's why you need a separate sound system to provide realistic, engaging audio effects that can match the quality of those pretty pictures.
Your home theater doesn't have to be fancy, complicated, or hideously expensive. You've got plenty of options for getting good sound, from simple one-speaker systems to more channels than first generation TVs had. You'll be looking for something that fits your room, your budget, and your taste.