Have you ever wondered why a Dolby Atmos sign pops on the top left corner of the screen when you play one of the latest titles on streaming services like Netflix, Prime Videos, or Disney+ Hotstar? What is Dolby Atmos? What it means to you? What should you do to get a better Dolby Atmos experience at your home? Let me explain:
What is Dolby Atmos?
Dolby Laboratories created the surround sound technique known as Dolby Atmos. It is a new generation of audio formats that enhances classic surround sound configurations with height and overhead sound to create a more immersive and lifelike listening experience.
Dolby Atmos employs a grid-like structure of channels rather than the usual left-right-center channel configuration. This makes it possible for sound to be positioned and moved inside the three-dimensional space more precisely, resulting in a more immersive and exciting listening experience. In addition, filmmakers can use up to 128 sound objects, adding sounds overhead or off-camera or moving the sound with the camera.
Can I experience Dolby Atmos with TV Speakers?
TV, Laptop, and Smartphone brands often market their product as Dolby Atmos compatible or Dolby Atmos certified. This means they have the licensed technology to decode Dolby Atmos feed. However, to truly get a 360-degree Dolby Atmos experience, you must pair your device with a Dolby Atmos-certified Soundbar or AV receiver with minimum compulsory speakers. In addition, thanks to Dolby’s virtualization technology, you can also experience Dolby Atmos on headphones or Earphones.
How to set up Dolby Atmos system at home
To set up a Dolby Atmos system at home, you will need a compatible audio receiver and speakers and a source of Dolby Atmos content. Here are some steps you can follow to set up a Dolby Atmos system at home:
Step 1: Choose a Dolby Atmos-compatible audio receiver
To use Dolby Atmos, you will need an audio receiver capable of decoding and playing Dolby Atmos content. Many modern audio receivers support Dolby Atmos, so check the specifications and features of the receiver you are considering before making a purchase. Select models from Denon, Marantz, Onkyo, Pioneer, Integra, Sony, Yamaha, and others come with Dolby Atmos support.
Step 2: Choose Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers
In addition to a compatible audio receiver, you will also need speakers capable of reproducing a Dolby Atmos system’s height and overhead sound. Several options are available, including in-ceiling, up-firing, and on-wall speakers. Be sure to choose speakers compatible with your audio receiver and provide the type of surround sound experience you are looking for.
Step 3: Connect your audio receiver and speakers
Once you have chosen your audio receiver and speakers, you need to connect them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves using speaker wire to connect the speakers to the audio receiver and using HDMI cables to connect the audio receiver to your source of Dolby Atmos content.
Step 4: Configure your audio receiver and speakers
Once you have connected your audio receiver and speakers, you will need to configure them to work with Dolby Atmos. This typically involves setting the audio receiver to the “Dolby Atmos” mode and adjusting the speaker settings to match the type and number of speakers you are using. Again, refer to the user manual of your audio receiver and speakers for specific instructions for correct installation.
How many speakers are required for a proper Dolby atmos experience?
The number of speakers required for a proper Dolby Atmos experience will depend on the size and layout of your home theater and the type of speakers you are using. A Dolby Atmos system generally requires at least two front speakers, two rear speakers, one center speaker, and two height speakers. These speakers are typically arranged in a 5.1.2 or 5.1.4 configuration, where the numbers refer to the number of front, rear, and height speakers, respectively.
However, you can also use different speaker configurations and setups to create a Dolby Atmos system. For example, if you have a smaller home theater or limited space, you can use a 2.1.2 configuration with two front speakers, one subwoofer, and two height speakers. Alternatively, suppose you have a larger home theater and more space. Then, you can opt for a 7.1.4 configuration with four-height speakers delivering a more immersive and lifelike surround sound experience.
Ultimately, the number and type of speakers required for a proper Dolby Atmos experience will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to consider the size and layout of your home theater and the type of speakers you are using when determining the optimal speaker configuration for your Dolby Atmos system.
How to experince Dolby Atmos at home?
Best way to experince Dolby Atmos at home will be will be setting up a full fledged multi-channel speaker system with ceiling speakers and a dedicated AV receiver. Ofcouse, it will be a costly affair. You may also check out Dolby Atmos Sound Bars available in the market. One of the better Dolby Atmos Soundbar available in India includes Samsung HW-Q990b, Sony HT-A9, Sony HT A9000, Bose Smart Soundbar 900 and more.
How does Dolby Atmos work on Mobile Phones?
Dolby Atmos can be achieved in several ways on a mobile device. One method uses headphones with drivers (speakers) explicitly designed to produce the height channels. This enables the user to enjoy the Dolby Atmos experience when listening to Atmos-compatible content. Another way is to deploy Dolby’s virtualization technology to deliver Dolby Atmos surround effect. To simulate a surround sound experience, the app decodes the Atmos audio signal and outputs the additional height channels through the phone’s speakers or headphones.
You can experince Dolby Atmos with several Apple iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones. In 2022, OnePlus and Xiaomi are also offering Dolby Atmos support right of the box.
