What Does Surround Sound Mean and Why Should You Try It at Home?
All About Surround Sound: What It Is and Why It’s Awesome
Surround sound technology is an amazing way to create the illusion that sounds are coming from every direction you can imagine. It's the perfect 360 degree audio device for capturing your own soundtrack or concert. The with this technology, audio becomes more presentable and immersive.
What Is Surround Sound and How Can You Get It?
Surround sound comes in two main types: physical and virtual. You’ll find it in speakers and soundbars that deliver audio from multiple angles, creating an amazing atmosphere and sound quality. Let’s explore how to set up surround sound and the options available today.
Classic Surround Sound Systems
The early 2000s saw the widespread adoption of classic surround sound systems. those home theaters with 5 or 7 speakers and a subwoofer in close proximity. With the 5.1 or even 7.1 systems, you can enjoy a cinematic experience in your own residence.
These systems are versatile too. You can connect them to multiple devices like TVs, computers, tablets, Blu-Ray players, and even Bluetooth-enabled gadgets for a seamless audio experience.
Modern Surround Sound Processors
Nowadays, you don’t need a bulky setup for great surround sound. Compact options like soundbars and small speaker systems use advanced processors to decode audio and mimic surround effects. These systems support multiple inputs like HDMI, optical audio, and analog audio for easy connectivity.
Virtual Surround Sound
In times of restricted space, virtual surround sound is your go-to option. It creates an immersive effect by modifying sound waves through software that simulates surround audio. The absence of multiple speakers is a common issue with headphones. Virtual surround sound is a great option, but it's not as deep as physical setups. However, it still offers convenience and portability.
The Magic of Dolby Surround 5.1
Dolby Surround 5.1 is a highly sought-after and budget-friendly surround sound system. It has five speakers and one subwoofer, providing a full, clear experience. The evolution of sound technology from Dolby Digital to Doll Atmos has been a lasting achievement for the company, with examples like "Brave" being an example of this.
With each advancement in audio quality, Dolby Digital Plus and Dollby TrueHD are among the best known for their surround.
What’s the Best Sound System for Your TV?
The big players in the surround sound market are Dolby and DTS. Both offer incredible technologies, but choosing the best system depends on your TV and compatibility. Here's a quick comparison:
- Dolby Digital vs. DTS: Standard surround sound formats.
- Dolby TrueHD vs. DTS-HD: Higher-quality, lossless audio formats.
- Dolby Atmos vs. DTS:X: Advanced 3D audio formats for a fully immersive experience.
For streaming platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime, Dolby Atmos is often available, but you’ll need a compatible subscription and equipment to enjoy it. If you’re using services like Movistar+, a compatible decoder is required for the full experience.
Final Thoughts
For those who enjoy movies, music and games there is no better technology than surround sound. The selection includes both standard 5.1 systems and innovative soundbars and virtual surround options.