How to setup Dolby Atmos sound systems: speaker setup guide

Dolby Atmos has dramatically improved the cinematic experience. Through the use of immersive sounds, the technology places you right in the middle of the action. While Dolby Atmos was popularized in theaters, you can now experience it at home. The technology is more than just a sound system as it offers a multidimensional experience for you and the whole family. Below, you will find how to setup Dolby Atmos sound systems: speaker setup guide.

How to setup Dolby Atmos sound systems: speaker setup guide

Properly setting up your Dolby Atmos sound system is key. The right products and placement can help you get the immersive sound you experience in the theater. Consider the following steps to ensure the setup process is smooth.

Ceiling Speakers:

Ceiling speakers are a great way to get the overhead sound in your home theater. Ceiling speakers are strategically placed to achieve the overhead sound. This is great for those who enjoy action films or avid gamers. The sound coming from above is unparalleled as it provides a totally immersive experience.

Dolby Atmos-Enabled Speakers:

In addition to ceiling speakers, Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers can also provide overhead sound. This can maximize the surround sound experience from all angles. Similar to ceiling speakers, Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers offer equivalent sound in terms of overall performance. The technology directs the sound upward. This reflects off of your ceiling and provides a realistic overhead sound.

There are two types of Dolby-Atmos enabled speakers. The first type includes integrated units. These include traditional, forward-firing speakers. The second type includes add-on modules. These contain upward-firing elements that are placed on top of your current speakers. Both are beneficial options in terms of sound quality.

Dolby Atmos-Enabled Soundbar:

A Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar includes upward-firing speakers. This option supports and reproduces audio in the Dolby Atmos format to provide a totally immersive experience. The three-dimensional experience adds height and overhead sound. Object-based audio is what sets Dolby Atmos apart from other sound experiences. Object-based audio treats sound sources as individual objects that are precisely placed and moved in a three-dimensional space.

Best Practices for Dolby Atmos Sound

Your home theater system can operate with just two speakers. However, it is advisable to use four. This allows a compelling and immersive surround sound experience. Depending on the number of speakers you have, your Dolby Atmos speaker setup can change. The layouts for the speaker setup parallel the 5.1 and 7.1 setups for surround sound.

5.1.2 or 7.1.2:

This configuration includes two ceiling speakers traditionally. When setting up your Dolby Atmos speakers, this requires two Dolby-Atmos enabled speakers or modules.

5.1.4 or 7.1.4:

This configuration includes four ceiling speakers traditionally. When setting up your Dolby Atmos speakers, four Dolby-atmos enabled speakers or modules are necessary.

9.1.2:

This configuration is similar to a 7.1.2 layout. However, it also includes two front wide speakers.

Dolby Atmos Audio Extractor

A common add-on to your Dolby Atmos sound setup is an audio extractor. A Dolby Atmos audio extractor is a device that extracts the audio signals from a Dolby Atmos-encoded content source. This is necessary as the advanced technology provides a three-dimensional experience based on object-based audio. An audio extractor is necessary for a variety of reasons. This includes compatibility, flexibility, and custom audio installation. It can also upgrade your existing equipment so you don’t have to replace your entire home entertainment system.

The team at Kanex Pro is skilled in Dolby Atmos and home entertainment setups. They offer unparalleled service with a wide variety of products to meet your need. Contact Kanex Pro today for support with your sound system.