Essential Install Home Cinema Insight | Page 27

Home Cinema Insight | New Sound Formats
arrange their system the best way to fit their space . This also means that DTS : X supports other immersive formats ’ speaker layouts , giving consumers freedom to choose their favourite layout . It ’ s also backward compatible , so Blu-rays with DTS-HD Master Audio sound incredible .
How to properly set up DTS : X for the home
DTS works with our AVR partners to provide detailed set up instructions . The most relevant information provided is around valid speaker layouts , which is already built-in to the setup process for all products . In essence , DTS : X is so flexible that it allows the freedom to choose from a plethora of layout options , a subset of which are currently supported by product manufacturers . For the complete DTS : X experience , we recommend a speaker layout that includes height to experience a whole new level of immersion .
What set-ups are possible with DTS : X ?
For the full DTS : X immersive experience , height speakers are needed , so you can start with 5.1.2 to a maximum of 7.1.4 at this time , based on our assessment of mainstream consumer platform capabilities . wall diffusers and bass absorbers . Although most are not visually attractive , they can work wonders for your sound .
You can choose from four basic types of home theatre audio systems :
• Home-theatre-in-a-box system : Usually comprised of five surround sound speakers , a subwoofer and a disc player / amplifier . Sold as a unit in one box ( hence the name ), it includes all wiring .
• Soundbar : A long , thin bar containing several loudspeaker drivers . Many models include a separate , usually wireless , subwoofer .
• Component system : An audio / video receiver , speakers and any source components ( such as a disc player ).
• Component separates : Component systems that replace the receiver with a separate preamplifier / processor and power amplifiers .
How should installers and consumers make the most out of a Dolby Atmos system ?
We recommend using four Dolby Atmos enabled speakers , modules or overhead speakers if possible . This will deliver more precisely located and realistic overhead sounds . Dolby Atmos and Dolby Audio technologies elevate the overall performance of soundbars and add important features . Soundbars combine superior audio capabilities and ingenious design into a sleek and unobtrusive package . The benefits include : Plug-and-play setup , with minimal wires or a wireless connection , richer , clearer , more powerful sound than TV speakers and seamless integration with room aesthetics .
DTS : X
Joanna Skrdlant , general manager , Home Audio & Solutions Licensing , DTS , Inc explains this 3D audio offering .
How does DTS : X differ to other 3D sound formats ?
DTS : X is the next generation audio codec from DTS that leverages object-based audio to enable new audio experiences in immersion and interactivity . A key attribute of DTS : X technology is flexibility . As DTS : X doesn ’ t require a specific speaker layout , home theatre owners can
Top Install Tricks
To get the most of out DTS : X , height speakers are key . In addition , keep in mind the flexibility of DTS : X . While specific locations are considered ‘ nominal ’ for general listening / reproduction , most speaker positions have a range that will provide excellent performance . Most importantly , make sure that every component in the system is DTS : X-capable / compatible .
How should installers and consumers make the most out of a DTS : X system ?
For all legacy content , set up the product to engage DTS Neural : X as the upmixer / spatial renderer of choice . This will provide best-in-class immersive audio for any / all legacy content .
DTS : X has no specific requirements for special characteristics in speakers . As every room is different , we entrust the retailers and custom installers to specify the best solution to meet their customers ’ requirements and those of the acoustic space to create the best listening experience for their clients .
Common questions about setting up a DTS : X system ?
The most common question we receive is regarding speaker placement , direction and support :
• ‘ Will DTS be creating its own reflective speaker specification ?’ DTS is committed to bringing DTS : X to all price points and hardware configurations . While this method can be effective in some situations , in others it is not . It is not in our current plans to create a new reflective speaker specification , as the current one is already supported by DTS : X .
• ‘ Does DTS recommend on-axis or down firing placement of height speakers ?’ There is no single answer to this question . Seating arrangement , driver characteristics and personal preference all contribute to what ’ s right for each person ’ s home . Traditionally speaking , the standard for critical listening is to utilise an on-axis speaker arrangement , which generally provides the best sonic performance .
• ‘ What ’ s the best speaker layout for DTS : X ?’ 7.1.4 will definitely provide the best ‘ sonic spatial resolution ’. That said , 5.1.2 still sounds incredible !
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