Optional: let your computer tune your system Depending on what kind of 5.1 configuration you’ve purchased and your pre-existing peripherals, only some of these connections may be used. If you want a quick rundown of the most prevalent inputs and outputs for surround sound receivers, read on. You can learn all about audio connections here. Select cables for specific inputs and outputsĪV receivers have a myriad of connectors. If you’re arranging a 7.1 setup, lookout for a receiver which supports Dolby Digital Plus. These certified receivers include inputs and amps for additional channels and ensure the inclusion of a Dolby Digital decoder. A good starting point is to look for a Dolby Digital-ready receiver: every DVD and all United States HD broadcasts use Dolby Digital. AV receivers typically have more than one decoder. You also need to look out for decoder compatibility.
Otherwise, you’ll be buying a whole new TV to go with your luxury surround sound system. While it’s a way to futureproof your investment, you must check that your TV is HDMI ARC-compatible. The downside to buying such a system is that not all devices support it. This consolidates your audio-visual cables, requiring one instead of multiple. If you’ve decided on a system that doesn’t require a receiver, it’s likely because that system is more like recent and supports HDMI ARC. It’s the standard for DVD and Blu-ray media: Dolby Digital and Dolby DTS operate on the 5.1 format.
There are three front channels, two rear (surround) channels, and one subwoofer channel. This arrangement gives a pretty comprehensive surround sound experience without overcomplicating setup. Five of them are standard full-range speakers while one is a dedicated subwoofer for low-frequency reproduction. The most popular home theater setup is a 5.1 configuration, which consists of six channels. A 5.1 configuration is the home theater standard
Nevertheless, if you want to take full advantage of Dolby Atmos technology, overhead speakers facilitate more accurate audio reproduction by adding height information. The third number indicates the use of aerial speakers or, in the Ambeo’s case, an upward-firing speakers. the Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar is a 5.1.4 system). Sometimes you’ll see an option with three numbers (e.g. It’s treated with a low-pass filter and attenuates frequencies higher than 120Hz. The second number (after the decimal point) specifies how many low-frequency channels exist.