The Soundbar Setup

If you’re on a budget or have a small movie room, you might start with a soundbar like the Sonos Arc. The Arc has 11 drivers and can replicate the sound field of a five-channel surround system on its own. The Arc also supports Dolby Atmos signals and features two up-firing drivers to create a sense of height.

We could go on about its features, but the point we want to drive home is that it’s possible to enjoy surround sound with just a soundbar—if you know which one to look for. Still, we’d recommend pairing it with at least a subwoofer for some punching bass and a more immersive audio experience.

The Standard 5.1 Setup

5.1 might be the most basic surround setup, but it’s a step up from any soundbar-based system. Unlike a soundbar, a 5.1 setup uses separate speakers that sit around you to envelop you in the action. This configuration includes three front speakers, two surround speakers, and one subwoofer.

While the Arc is already powered, a 5.1 setup will usually require a receiver or processor/amp combo to decode audio formats and power your speakers (we’ll talk more on that in the next blog). If you choose a 5.1 system, make sure your front left and right speakers are angled inward toward the listening position, your surrounds are on either side of the listening position, and all speakers are at ear level.

SEE ALSO: Home Theater FAQ: Choosing the Best Seating Type and Placement

The Dolby Atmos Setup

What’s better than a 5.1 system? A 5.1.2 system. That third digit makes a small difference on paper but an enormous difference in your home theater. It represents two height speakers, which are installed in your ceiling and fire downward from above to create a multidimensional soundstage.

While Dolby Atmos 3D audio can be enjoyed without physical in-ceiling speakers (you could also use floor speakers that feature up-firing drivers), in-ceiling speakers are the best way to go if you’re serious about surround sound. Of course, you might need professional help wiring and installing them.

Wait, There’s More!

The speaker layouts we’ve covered in this blog are just three of several configurations you can choose for your home theater. Depending on the size of your space and the receiver or processor you have, you could go as big as 9.2.6! But keep in mind that more speakers aren’t always better.

Speakers are just one piece of the puzzle when putting together your surround sound system. In our next blog, we’ll discuss the other components you’ll need to set up your surround sound system!

If you’re ready to upgrade the sound system in your Salt Lake City, UT home or want to learn more about our home theater solutions, get in touch with the audio-video experts at Show & Tell AV! Schedule a free consultation by contacting us here or messaging us in the chat box below.