Dolby Atmos unleashed
It’s time to upgrade to 3D audio, the next big thing in surround sound
It’s been called 4K for your ears, and, when it comes to sonic imaging, this description is a particularly good one. Dolby Atmos is fast becoming the best reason to revamp your sound system. Just as 2160p and HDR are fuelling a frantic race to replace yesterday’s 1080p tellies, Atmos offers a similar jump in performance.
Unlike traditional surround sound technology Dolby Atmos is an object-based system, which means content creators can mix soundtracks, music and live sports with more control than ever before. It enables audio engineers to steer and direct objects with enormous precision. A dedicated height channel enhances ambiance and realism, so sound is no longer locked to one plane.
Dolby Atmos systems typically start at 5.1.2 (the last number denoting how many height channels they can support) and go up to 7.1.4 (11 speakers plus a sub? We like the sound of that).
It’s become a standard fixture in top-flight cinemas and regularly appears on Blu-ray discs. It’s also making headway into the games market (Xbox One titles now support the format). It’s enlivening TV, too, from live footie to films and TV shows.
But while you’ll find Atmos on nearly all AV receivers, not everyone can cater for seven or more speakers (plus a subwoofer or two) in their living room. The good news is that you can also integrate Dolby Atmos into a soundbar and subwoofer, though there are compromises that come with convenience.
Here we’ve lined up three of the bestperforming Dolby Atmos soundbars you can buy, to see just how immersive they are...