Dolby are probably best known for their amazing audio experiences at the cinema. But over the past few years, we’ve seen quite a few soundbars and home cinema systems using the same sort of tech too.
We’re talking about Dolby Atmos – a sound system which takes that edge-of-your-seat, big theatre audio, and delivers it straight to your living room. If you really want to turn things up to 11 and (feel like you’re right there at the heart of games, music and films), Atmos will easily do the job and then some. Sounds good right?
Understanding Dolby Atmos tech
First off, what is Dolby Atmos? Well, it’s a surround sound technology developed by the team over at Dolby Laboratories. But, unlike your standard surround sound – which is limited to regular channels like 5.1 or 7.1 – Atmos adds way more height and width to your audio.
By placing (and moving) sound in a three-dimensional space, sounds can come at you from every angle. Above. Below. Behind. To the sides. You’ll literally be sat right in the middle of the action.
How Dolby Atmos works
Dolby Atmos works by using ‘object-based’ audio. In a nutshell, it takes these ‘objects’ (or sound effects, if we’re being straightforward), like footsteps, or a car honking, and treats each one as their own individual thing. These separate sounds can then be popped anywhere in a 3D space by the sound mixer.
When you play any Atmos content, the tech then decodes these sound effects and places them accurately in your room, surrounding you with 360 degrees of sound. It’s really clever stuff.
Compatibility and devices
Good news! You don’t need to shell out tons on a top of the line setup to get to grips with Dolby Atmos. A lot of tech nowadays comes with it built right in. And there’s plenty to watch and play that uses it too…
TVs – Some high-end models come with Dolby Atmos support already.
Home theatre systems & soundbars – A step up from TV speakers. For the best Atmos experience, this is what we’d go for.
Headphones – If you want to really get lost in that game or film, get yourself a set of Atmos-enabled headphones.
Streaming services – Platforms like Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime now offer content in Dolby Atmos.
If you’re not sure whether you’ve got access to Atmos already, just check the specs to see if your device is compatible. If it isn’t, it might be time for an upgrade. It’s 100% worth it.
Benefits of Dolby Atmos
Why bother with Atmos though? Well, there are plenty of good reasons…
Immersive audio – Hearing sound from every direction makes whatever you watch and play far more realistic and engaging. Once you’ve played through a few levels with it, you won’t go back to your old speakers.
Better clarity – You’ll pick up on subtle details that you might miss with a regular audio setup - making horror films an even spookier watch. Wait, what’s that sound?!
New content – Whether you’re a big gamer or a film buff, there are loads of titles that make the most of the tech. Oh, and music gets a look in as well. So, your favourite albums are going to sound way better than you remember.
Flexible setup – You can create an Atmos setup to suit the size of your space. Whether that’s a fully fledged home theatre, or a lone soundbar.
Dolby Atmos for movies
Movie lover? You owe it to yourself to at least try Atmos. Let’s take something like Top Gun: Maverick. During the deadly dogfights, it’ll seem like the jets of Mav and co. are flying right overhead. And the rumble from danger-close explosions will feel, well, danger-close! It’s probably the closest you’ll get to flying an F-15. Just without the gut churning g-force and risk to life and limb.
Dolby Atmos for gaming
Atmos can be a literal game changer. Because the audio is super accurate, you can hear exactly where gunshots, footsteps and other sounds are coming from. So, your enemies aren’t going to get the drop on you in those tense multiplayer battles. Who needs cheat codes, eh?
Plus, it adds a whole other layer of immersion. Fire up that fantasy RPG and the world will feel a lot more alive. Spells explode and crackle around you. Arrows whizz past your ears. And that soundtrack is going to really boom. It’ll seem like the orchestra is sat right there on the sofa with you. Luckily, you won’t have to budge up to make room for the brass section though…
What about DTS:X?
If you’re researching all-things Atmos, there’s a good chance you’ll have stumbled across DTS:X. It’s another type of surround sound that also uses object-based audio in a 3D space.
There are a few differences though. DTS:X lets you customise more of your audio settings. Plus, it doesn’t need overhead speakers (and is less bothered about where you place them). So, it’s easy to get started. And you won’t have to spend as long nudging your speakers around the lounge.
On the other hand, Atmos is more widely available in movies and streaming at the moment. Meaning you’ll always have some content to watch that takes full advantage of that Hollywood sound.
Not sure what to go for? Like anything, both have their pros and cons. The choice really comes down to your personal preferences, and what’s compatible with your existing set of gadgets.
What you need to use Dolby Atmos
To get the most out of Dolby Atmos at home, here’s what you’ll need:
Compatible tech – Make sure your TV, headphones or soundbar can use Atmos. If not, you’ll be stuck with regular old audio.
Content – Look for movies, games and music that support Atmos. Streaming services will label this up in their audio settings. While you’ll need to head to the audio options in your favourite games to see if there’s a toggle for it.
Setup – A well placed 5.1.2 speaker setup (five speakers, one subwoofer and two height speakers) will give you proper blockbuster sound. But if you’re on a tighter budget, even a single soundbar can make a big difference.
Proper calibration – You’re actually going to need to read the instructions here (groan). But trust us, having a properly calibrated soundbar or set of speakers means you’ll have the best sound possible.
Serious about your sound? Same here! Here’s a few sound features to consider when buying a new TV. And if you’re struggling to hook up that new soundbar, we’ve highlighted 4 ways to connect your soundbar to your TV. You can thank us later.
