We went for the option of buying a 5.1 surround amplifier from the same manufacturer (Sony in our case). It connects to the TV via a single HDMI lead, and when the amplifier is on the TV speakers automatically switch off and the TV remote then sets the amplifier volume not the TV volume.
We already had the surround speakers installed, using flat cables under the carpet for the rear speakers. Didn't bother with a subwoofer as the main speakers are BIG
