As someone who went from 5.1 to 5.1.2 and then to 5.1.4, I can say the added rear heights was more noticeable/impactful than adding just the front heights. But you know what ended up having the biggest difference? When I went from 5 mains to 7. I actually had an intermediate step while I waited for my rear heights to arrive, when I installed 2 more floor channels (going 7.1.2) and the added surrounds made a huge difference, more so than Atmos. Because while Atmos is more popular in UHD discs...many more discs make use of 7 floor channels. So for those looking to expand beyond 5.1, I now would always recommend going 7.1 first, and then 7.1.4 if you can mount them either on ceiling or high up your walls (don't bother with upward firing speakers). Another recent addition I made which resulted in a huge difference was a second sub...but let's not go there just yet. :)
@@giacintorenta7579 If the streaming app supports Atmos (and the program is in Atmos) it will benefit from 7.1.4. However not all Atmos mixes are active in the overheads, so it's really dependent on the movie's sound mix.
From everything I have heard the .4 compared to the .2 is better, however really depends on a lot of variables, most importantly your room. I would think adding two additional high channels to an existing .2 system is a small difference compared to going from zero hight 2:54 channels to going to.
Good work. I like that outdoor "thinking about". I appreciate that you shout out other creators big/small. You know what's up! We're all learning from one another.
I started my Atmos journey with a 5.1.2 setup. I took a pair of zone 2 outdoor speakers I wasn't using and put them up and upgraded my receiver to support at the time. I fell hard for the format and inside of eight months I upgraded again and then been upgrading little by little every year to my 7.3.4. I went 17 years with just a 5.1 setup and over the last 5 years been upgrading my setup.
Even with the static 7.1.2 bed mixes, 4 heights lets those static objects at top mid come equally from the 4 heights, which gives it a more generalized overhead sound that many mistake for discrete height usage (like in Ready Player One). The down side is... In a x.x.6 layout with those mixes, only the top mids will get used, barring any exotic processing in your pre-pro.
@@ealanosborne If you dig into Shane Lee's channel, you'll find that quite a few movies use two static height objects with no dynamic. The static height objects will always try to play at top mid... so with 4 heights, it will play between them to try to image at top mid. With 6, it will just play from top mid, and the other two pair will go unused. Ready Player One is one of the most obvious. All 4 Indiana Jones movies are static 7.1.2. Sadly, Top Gun Maverick is static for about 98% of the movie. So when you do your comparison, I would stick with movies known to have fully dynamic object mixes - Dune, Midway, etc. But it's something to be aware of for people wanting to go x.x.6. Studios are getting better about it... but still not consistently using it in a way that supports all the channels.
@@TheReverendSlim Exactly. Studios are slowly getting better, but not utilizing dynamic mixes as much as they should. Like I said, it’s unfortunate that not enough studios are allocating enough budget to the sound department to consistently do a proper dynamic mix. Just like not all Atmos mixes utilize front wides. I sure wish I had a Trinnov preamp like Shane so I could see the objects moving in real time. 😄
I’m trying to get my hands on one for review. I finally got in with Sony when I was able to review the HT-A3000, but of course I want to check out their flagship too! 😄
@@ealanosborne I have the HT-A9 and it’s totally awesome. Love the effects on Dolby Atmos and Spatial sound. It’s much more noticeable when playing video games whether on my Series X or PS5 but definitely hear it when watching movies too. Some movies Atmos are more noticeable then other movies with Atmos I guess it’s bc that’s what the director intended to sound or something buts it’s truly an awesome system. Expensive but for guys like me who are not too detailed in getting a real home theater experience like what you have it’s totally perfect. No wires too…That’s a huge Win for me.
I have been enjoying front heights for a couple of years and then recently added middle wides and rear heights but only consider it a slight improvement. There doesn’t seem to be enough good content out there (movies that I’m interested in) to take full advantage it seems. I’d rather watch a great old movie without Atmos/DTS/Auro than a new one that is lacking in story and production but has a great soundtrack.
Its not just content, surround and rear channels usually provide "fill" and not directional action. I actually have my 5.1.2 system with the surrounds behind both slightly off axis. I find in many mixes having the surrounds too directional towards my ears confuses the front stound stage instead of being immersive. ATMOS tells you not to do this. That all speakers should be as equidistant as possible to pass sound cues off to one another 360°. This is a reason these weird dipole and bipole multidirectional surrounds were popular because surrounds sound better not directed at the back of your head I find that two atmos directed at the listener between where they recommend front and side heights to work well, far enough to be distinct from the fronts but still part of the front wall of sound
I think it finishes the whole “dome” of sound thing. Although my room isn’t ideal, so unfortunately my front heights and rear heights are closer together than I’d like. But, it still sounds pretty awesome and I definitely get the “Atmos effect”.
Good video and nice you pointing out the jump in price on receivers from 5.1.2 to 5.1.4. I was going crazy trying to find a receiver with 4 height channels that was about the price of the 2 height channels. An extra 2 channels is like $500 added to the price (!). Hopefully new receivers come out at better price points.
It’s on the rise! But I agree - too many budgets aren’t allowing audio engineers to truly flex their Atmos mixing potential. I wish everything labeled with Atmos meant it was guaranteed to conform to any speaker configuration (6 height channels, front wides, etc). It’ll get there someday, though! 🤘
I've started watching these a couple of weeks ago since I decided to upgrade my home theater. damn, I love your videos! you explain it all so nicely and the sketches help a lot too. 🙃 I just bought monitor audio bronze 200 5.1 set today, originally planning to buy wharfedale dx-2 hcp. 😁 the deal was too good to pass, only 1391€ instead of around 2500€ in the whole europe. also orderd denon avc x4800h (at 1390€), instead of avr 2800 originally or almost sony ta an1000. so I set out to start at an entry level, but ended up at mid range. 😁yes, I spent way more money than I intended, but so hoping it will be worth it. now I only need to place them all correctly to get the best out of them, so I will keep on watching your videos for sure. thanks a lot and humble greetings from montenegro.
Oh, man, this is exciting to hear! So glad my videos could help! And I totally get the cost. We’ve all been there! 😄 That setup will last you a long time, for sure. 🎉
that is the main goal. hopefully a gradual upgrade over time (because this true audiophile world is so addictive) 😊 I'll come back with thoughts once I've installed and tested the new set up.
Yep, I notice this difference in a 2 vs 4 hight channel system. I agree that 4 gives a feeling of movement, especially overhead. War of the Worlds atmos hits you with overhead atmos at one moment, and it becomes very clear how undeniable how immersive good atmos can be. Its giving me great anticipation of Top Gun Maverick in atmos.
Everything we've seen of Maverick in the Trinnov viewer shows that it's mostly a 7.1.2 static bed mix with a few exceptions where dynamic objects are used.
I have 7.1.4 and I placed everything according to Dolby specs to begin with, then ended up using the helicopter audio demo on the Dolby Atmos demo disk to fine tune the placement in my room for imaging and seamless speaker to speaker transitions. Worked really well and I highly recommend using that if you can get your hands on one! I got mine for free from a Sony rep that I bumped into at a Jamba juice a few years ago and started talking too at the table next to me!
When you say you fine tuned your placement, I assume you're talking about your Atmos speakers right? I have the same demo and I'm about to start placing my svs elevation heights. I can't imagine how you got the placements done. I can't exactly drill a ton of holes into the walls and ceiling lol. I'd love to hear more about your setup.
@@thelonestranger777 yep, I made all the holes. Moved them in and moved them out, forward and back until they were just right in my opinion. It only took three positions, 1 foot forward and 1 foot outward and then I just moved the mounting brackets between them a few times. Spackling and re-texturing (if needed) a few screw holes is pretty easy. Ultimately ended up with sort of an equilateral geometric dome with all speakers, so the Atmos speakers are in a perfect square. (Edit) they are 1’ farther apart front to back than they are side to side.
Another thing to add to this is that heavy duty Velcro works great to temporarily place height speakers for testing. I did it with my Atmos Showdown video awhile back and it worked like a charm! Got it at Home Depot, but any hardware store should carry some 🤘
I'm 7.2.4 and completely agree with your final comments. When it's mixed right, SPINE TINGLING. The frustration is that is is done "right" in such a small percentage of movies. I'm super glad I have it, but don't know why they leave so much on the table....
Hey man my problem is that my couch is straight to the wall so i cant put them 50 cm or more behind me, does it still works or what is the situation about that ?
I don’t see why not, just to try it out! That’s what running room correction is for, so that no matter where the speakers happen to be located, it’ll be correctly time aligned to your main listening position.
I'm new to all this and I currently have a 5.1.2 setup. I'm using SVS Prime Elevation speakers for my heights (placed above the listening position) and I have to say that I'm really disappointed with Atmos as a whole. Do you think if I invested in a further two SVS speakers and placed them at the front and rear of the room my experience would be better?
4 height channels sound much better than 2. Had the Denon s760h then upgraded to Denon x3700h for the additional channels. Speaker placement is super important. Depends on your room size and ceiling height. Need to make sure speakers are at the correct angles from the main listening positioning. Properly placed, movies like John Wick sound amazing! However, most movies don't have good Atmos mixes so... You really want need to want to have the best experience watching John Wick, or hopefully , Top Gun Maverick at home to make it worth it
Hey great video. I noticed you have the same tv as me (LG C1 65"). How are you getting DTSX effects on it? I thought the new LG OLEDS dont support DTSX. Best I can do is pass through PCM
Ealan, I'm configuring a small bedroom measuring 12.5 x 12.5 x 9ft. With the tightness of this room, where would you recommend placement for 4 atmos channels?? My seating will be pretty much against back wall maybe coming 6-7 inches. Thoughts??
I’d put the front heights on the wall above the TV in the corner where the wall and ceiling meet. The rear heights I’d put right above you pointing down at you mounted on the ceiling (if possible).
I’ve recently upgraded to .6. What I like about it is it enables me to keep my front heights in a stereo pair, 30° over my FL and FR speakers. This allows vertical imaging to take place with objects on the screen. My top middles I have slightly forward of the MLP which was always recommended in a .2 set up. My back surrounds I raised up 10° above ear level which brings a slightly increased sense of height, then spit the difference between those and top middles with my rear heights. This maintains channel separation and produces I nice imaging for flyover effects when object based sounds pass through them.
I haven’t heard them in person, but it’s very possible! Joe N Tell has done many Monoprice-focused videos lately and they are making some quality products these days. 🤷♂️
For this test I wanted just straight Atmos or DTS:X. I did an Auro/Atmos comparison in a video awhile ago, but I am planning to revisit that topic within my new testing theater. 👍
This video had impeccable timing for me, as I just upgraded from a 5 channel Onkyo to a 9 channel Pioneer (RZ-50 clone). I setup and watched a few movies with the same 5.1 speakers, then added two heights, and still planned to connect the additional pair for the full effect. I have one question, do you prefer up mixing height effects on 5.1 mixes sometimes, always or never? Thanks for the interesting and informative video.
I almost always just let the receiver upmix any 5.1 or 7.1 mix, since it does it automatically anyway. It usually does a great job in separating what it thinks should be placed in the height channels. Pretty remarkable.
I think the rule of thumb for heights is Front Height Top Front Top Middle Top Rear Front rear If putting more than 2 you have to skip 1 from this layout, so you can have a top middle with either Height Front or Height Rear, but not a top middle with top front, unless you do all 6 top front, middle, rear
Great video Ealan! My current setup is 5.2.2 and i'm about to buy a nine channel amp to go to 7.2.2. Your video has made me think though, which is better 7.2.2 or 5.2.4? Could be an interesting video.
@@AlexGreig in that case, if your room can accommodate a 7 speaker bed layer (speakers around ear level), then definitely go for 7.2.4. You can very cheaply use an external amp to power your two top rear speakers. (E.g. Fosi amp)
I have a 5.1.4 Aperion system after starting with 5.1.2. The movement of sound is most apparent during Atmos games like Halo Infinite, it's really immersive.
Definitely! Video games are a huge reason to invest in Atmos since it's built on a 360 degree audio engine, rather than a Hollywood studio that has to manually place objects in and pan them around like with a movie. Such a cool effect
I have my bed layer 7.1 planned. I was planning to do a Auro-3D based heights, so two front heights and 2 surround heights in place of rear heights. I wonder if that's something you could test out too. How does Atmos and DTS:X sound with front and Surround heights? That's pretty much how Techno Dad has his living room set.
That’s exactly how mine is setup too - front heights and surround heights. I don’t have any in-ceiling or on-ceiling heights, except for the Voice of God speaker straight above my listening position. Although only my Marantz SR7015 does Auro 3D for Voice of God, which is not hooked up at the moment. 😄
@@ealanosborne from the video, I understood it as for your testing, you ran surround heights the .2 and then ran front and rear heights, the .4. Thanks though.
@ealanosborne hi my sofa is against the back wall I have my surrounds on the side walls facing mlp and im guna add 2 more height speakers as I've already got front heights, which is best for my situation on the side walls above my surrounds ceiling level or on the wall my sofa is against pointing down ??
Hi Ealan, great video. I have a 5.2.2 using in Polk in ceiling speakers. as height middle. You have talked about front-rear height speakers. It would the same effect if I add rear height speakers with these height middle positioned?
Eh, kind of. Ideally you’ll want front heights to be a bit forward of your listening position to truly get an immersive experience when certain audio objects are moving around 🤷♂️
Finally I changed my Onkyo and I bought a Marantz 6015 adding rear high speakers and the sound between both brands is very different and the speciality now is great!!!!!! 2 vs 4 channels is night and day!
@@ealanosborne oh yes......also, now with this receiver, I put my two SVS SB1000 in opossite sides, one in left rear corner and the other one in right front corner and the sound also improved a lot!!!!! before that I had both behind my couch and I didn't notice it how boomy was having them there. Still working on the fine tuning, but happy with the changes!!!!!
Just wanted to know if you have any plans on reviewing the heavily hyped Sony HT-A9 and sub which supposedly has the best Dolby Atmos/phantom 12 chanel from physical 4.1.4 configuration. I'm not convinced it could handle a 8 to 9.5-foot vaulted ceiling transition from a left to right TV position properly. Relying on physical sound bouncing off angled ceiling height is hard even with DSP 🤔
Currently running 5.2.2 with Yamaha receiver and Klipsch speakers. I want to upgrade. Would going to 5.2.6 be something worth doing? I don’t have room for 7 base layer speakers.
Hmmm, well if you don’t have room for 7 ear level speakers, does that mean your couch is against the back wall? Or do you have at least 4 feet behind you that you could put rear heights behind your listening position?
@@ealanosborne no couch is in the open about 5’ from back wall. The room is open floor plan with large windows on the left and dining room to the right. Wife won’t allow just random speaker on a stand in the middle of the room.
Hi Ealan! Does it have to be "ceiling speakers" to be used for the heights? Would bookshelf speakers have the same effect? I suppose one would have to custom-install those though...
My height speakers are located high on the front and back walls and it works great! It’s an Auro/Atmos hybrid system, so I purposely angled the heights to be 30 degrees up from my listening position. So yeah, if you had mounts that can support bookshelves on a wall, those can be used as heights too. Speakers are speakers, so it doesn’t have to be labeled as an “Atmos” speaker. 🤘
Dedicated height speakers within a small room tend to fire over ones head! It's as if they are designed for huge rooms. After working this out for myself, I went with bookshelves with a ball joint connected arm-mount! Now the speakers aiming right at my skull 🥳
With a 9 ch receiver If you have the option of two Atmos top channels and 2 front height (7.1.2) or four Atmos top channels (5.1.4) is there much of a difference? Does the receiver just adjust how it mixes the sound to give the most immersive sound.
If there are moving height objects in a particular scene, it’s more noticeable with 4 heights, since you have essentially created a cube of audio. If you have 2 heights, the movement of height objects tends to dip down in the ear-level speakers, when it would remain up high with 4 height speakers.
@@ealanosbornesince my Onkyo RZ50 only has two heights, that means I would need to use the two pre-out heights and an external amp to properly add the additional two heights, correct?
@@jeffcollins7311 Correct! The internal amps can help power 2 heights, but it needs additional external help to power a total of 4 heights, if you already have 7 ear-level speakers.
I was going to upgrade from 7.2.2 to 7.2.4 ---- eventually. but I guess it was yesterday, I noticed that Amazon had the Klipsch RP-500SAs on sale for 40% off, making them 1/2 the price of the 500SAiis, $299 vs $599. I re-checked today to see if they were sill available. Since my front heights were the original version and the sale ones were as well, I mashed down on the "Buy Now" button! Realistically, the room my home theater is in, my bedroom, is not appropriate at this time for the rears I'll probably put them in the basement for a while, unless I find an alternative. My single lounge chair is within inches of the rear wall, If I managed to put the new speakers up, would I even hear anything coming from them? I mean, the drivers would be pointing toward the middle/front of the room instead of towards me., but hey, even though Id've rather had the walnut finish to match my other Klipsch, save the sub,, I couldn't pass on the price! Next on the list will be replacing the old tiny tinny Polk satellites I use for my surrounds, but that will (probably?) be a while from now.
@@ealanosborne Unfortunately, I don't think there's a way to mount them that way, like there is with other brands of Atmos speakers, like the SVS(?) which has a special ceiling bracket. I forgot whose You-Tube channel it was I saw that on. I could look online, though. Thanks for answering.
Ok I've upgraded to 7.1.2 Yes I added 2 front height speakers to experience Atmos height FX. So no movement, but I think there's just not enough content to upgrade to 4 Atmos speakers (yet)
Typically Atmos is mixed with 7.1.4 in mind, but it’s getting better, with more people having even larger systems more commonly now. But either way, if a streaming show or movie shows the Atmos logo, it should conform to whichever configuration you have, since Atmos is panning metadata, not actual analog audio signals. 👍
@@ealanosborne I was asking as I upgraded my Sonos system from 5.1.2 to 7.1.4 but started thinking that given I use streaming 99% of the time (Netflix, Dinsey+, etc), I might have wasted my money … sometimes the channels at the back sound identical to the ones at the front (ie rarely back and forth effect when streaming)
@@giacintorenta7579 Well, unfortunately nothing is mixed the same, so no matter what system you have, there will be duds. But having a 7.1.4 system, you definitely should be blown away by the difference when a really good mix comes your way. Like Stranger Things 4, for example. :)
@@ealanosborne do you don’t think streaming apps only support 5.1.2 and not 7.1.4? It is not like 8k TV where 8k content is only on specialised discs most of the time?
I don’t see why not! 👍 A speaker is a speaker, so your AVR doesn’t care what you have up there, as long as the software is sending the correct Atmos information to it. 😁🤘
Great info you share…thanks. I have been installing a system at my brothers from scratch. Punching holes, drilling studs, running cables, etc. Because of the seating position, a sectional near back wall, we decided on a 7.1.2 not being able to get rear heights in proper or ideal spot as spec’d by Dolby. All base speakers are inwall except center. Heights are in ceiling just in front of listeners….pointed at kneecaps approximately. I can’t wait to hear it. What do you think ? I believe I did the best I could considering room and seating. Thanks again.
I have to say this is the best explanation of atmos height in my two weeks of research, I'm building a custom home and trying to work this concept out in my head. Thanks! I have the opportunity to have 4 height channels prewired and will go ahead and have that done. I was wondering as to the height of the rear surrounds? Are these supposed to be at ear level?
Correct! If you didn’t have any height speakers at all, you can get away with elevating the rear surrounds about a foot or two above ear level. But with heights, it’s best to keep all the other speakers at ear level. 🎉
Hi ealan, great clip. Thanks. What would you think about having a 5.1.3 for auro 3d with 2 front heights and 1 voice of God. Maybe above the listening position?
Hmmm…I’d have to check my Marantz SR7015 software to see if that still qualifies as Auro 3D. It might only support Auro setups if you have at least 4 height channels, but not 3. But I might be mistaken… 🤷♂️
@@ealanosborne after a demo download of techno dad I found out that my front hights won't form stereo pairs of not accompanied with rear hights. So I'll go for rears than....
Yes! Sure, the absolute best quality is going to still be 4K BD, but even with compressed Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus), the panning information/movement will still be present 🤘
Yes very informative as was Techno Dad’s video the other day, the both of you are breaking the Atmos configurations so we can enjoy the content the way it was intended. Still a lot of factors involved (room,content, the mix etc.)at least we can get the speaker placement right😀
Not especially. Mine are a few feet behind my surround backs. My rule of thumb is try and get the heights as close to 30 degrees up from your head as possible. 👍
My set up is currently 5.1.2, would it be better if I were to upgrade, to go 7.1.2 or 5.1.4? Obviously the end goal is 7.2.4 but I'll certainly seperate amp for that
I’d try both, depending on your listening space. A nice trick I’ve learned is to use heavy duty Velcro from your local hardware store for temporary placement of height speakers so you’re not drilling holes that would have to be immediately patched up. If 5.1.4 sounds better? Great! But if 7.2.2 works out better in your space, you haven’t drilled holes for nothing after testing out 5.1.4. 😀
Ayyy!!! Great video and thanks for the shoutout! I just took a clip from my livestream on this topic. My video is MUCH shorter, so I'll link yours in the description. Keep up the great work, man!
Hey Ealan, I remember one of your videos you showed that you installed in-ceiling speakers. I'm eying the Polk Audio VT60 6.5-inch 2-Way in-Ceiling Speakers. Any thoughts on these? Seems hard to beat for the price! Did you mount your in-ceiling speakers in speaker baffles?
Yeah, the in-ceiling speakers I’ve dealt with in the past were made to just be installed straight into the ceiling, no additional baffle or housing required. Worked out well! 🎉 And I agree with you regarding the Polk VT60 speakers! Impressive that their frequency response dips all the way down to 33 Hz. Great for the price, for sure!
@ealanosborne I physically placed 2 sets of speakers on the ceilings right above the surrounds. These are Bose 161s they have a forward facing FR driver, and another FR driver slightly angled. In my case, it shoots at about 45 degrees into the ceiling.
I just purchased the 5.1 klipsch reference theater pack what avr would you recommend I would like to have atleast have 2 ceiling speaker maybe 4 ? But on a budget maybe 600 bucks to spend on a avr
Not sure if you’re in the U.S., but Crutchfield has the Onkyo 6100 on sale for $599. Very solid. It’s a 7.2 channel AVR that would allow you to have 2 height speakers if you have 2 more not being used in your home somewhere. 🎉
Great video (just like all your videos). You explain so well, and so understandable. I love it. I learned so many things from you. I have Denon X3700h and 5.2 Klipsch setup. I ordered 2 in-ceiling speakers yesterday. I was thinking to install just 2 and making my home theater 5.2.2. But after this video, I will install 2 more later Thank you and keep up the good work
Just getting into the world of Dolby Atmos. Recently got a 7.2 Denon S750H. Can I use 2 of the 7 speakers as height speakers? Appreciate any reply or thoughts. Luv your vlog!
@@mikebass2700I had the same Denon using the Atmos speakers as top middle. I was happy and satisfied with the sound, I bought Sony str- an1000 with the same speaker set up and now it sounds amazing. It's like a whole new speaker system. At first I thought it sounded harsh, and with a lot of treble but after the calibration ... I was speechless The 360 sound mapping is at another level, Atmos movies sound much much much more detailed. If you can buy that Sony , do it you will be very happy as I am. I regret not saving more money and buy the Sony az3000.
If you can possibly mount height speakers straight up above your listening position for the most noticeable effect, yes. Otherwise, it might not be worth it, TBH.
I have a 7.2.6. Why? Because I could. Probably not much of a difference from 4 to 6 other than the room is filled more perhaps, leaving no gaps in overhead sound. If there is a preout jack I’m going to use it
Writing this to thank you Ealan. I was planning to upgrade from a Samsung soundbar with surrounds to an immersive Dolby Atmos experience through an AV receiver. Your channel helped me the most and I was able to build a budget 5.1.4 under CAD 3500 (approx 2500 USD) even though things are a bit expensive here in Canada. Quite happy with the result. Pioneer VSX-LX305 9.2 receiver (8k enabled) Klipsch R51M fronts Klipsch R41M rears Klipsch Reference 5.1 theater pack as center, front and rear heights, and subwoofer Pioneer's MCACC tuning has given a bit more warmth and mid-range to the bright Klipsch speakers. No complaints so far. Will be experimenting with DIRAC live soon as my learning curve increases. I saw you adding an SVS 12" as your second sub. I was planning to get another R8SW, but now am thinking of experimenting as you did. Keep posting the good stuff. And nice editing as always.
A center height or voice of god is supported with the Auro 3D codec, typically. Not Dolby Atmos. But I’m personally a fan of Auro, so if your AVR supports it, maybe experiment with it! 😁 Although center height in particular is only supported with a full 13.1 Auro setup.
Im looking to upgrade to a 9.2 channel receiver (from a 7.2) (currently having a 5.2, but i dont have space to pu 5.2.4) to be able to listen to content in auro3d (in future living room). From what I heard, auro3d upmixing is better than atmos.
Bro for a brief moment the first 18 seconds of your video made feel like I was watching a movie trailer. I love it. Very nice. You should do more cinematic scenes like this. You can star in the next sequel of A Quite Place (3).👏👏🏾
Hahaha! Thanks! I almost always have a an intro in mind like that with all my videos, but a lot of times they get cut due to time constraints. So I’m glad this one didn’t have to see the cutting room floor! 😄
@@ealanosborne Nice 👍. I have some questions please. So with the 4 Atmos speakers do you get similar joy with Dolby surround upmixer. Because we can’t always afford or get everything in blu ray and also as you know not everything is in Dolby Atmos or Dts x. And also how are you getting on with the IOTAVX Processor and do you know how it compares to some expensive Avr’s like Arcam and Anthem. Many thanks.
@@rayking507 Dolby Upmixer does a pretty good job, but obviously a true Atmos mix will be best. But I remember playing Mario Kart with my kids and noticing that my AVR (at the time it was the Marantz SR7015) somehow magically put isolated sounds just in the height speakers. It was cool! So yeah - Dolby Upmixer can do a good job, but it’s kind of hit and miss. One thing might be amazing, and another might sound terrible. 🤷♂️ As far as the IOTA AVX17, I haven’t yet gotten my hands on any Arcam or Anthem AVRs, but I really want to, since they’re in this little pocket of their own, being hybrid AVR/preamps. I’m also still trying desperately to have my Emotiva contact send me an MC-1 to compare to the IOTA AVX17, but supply chain issues are still making that difficult. 😩
Really like your short and precise videos!! I got my 5.1 setup and ready - but I still have the last two speakers to install. I'm thinking about installing them as middle heigh as you showed in the last video. When installing middle height - do I mount right above and pointing down at MLP or a little in front MLP? Or would you recommend to install them as FH? I'm so much in doubt!! :)
If you can, I’d mount them to the sides pointing down. But depending on the room layout, if that’s not possible, I’d mount them straight up above your MLP. Which speakers are you planning on putting up (make and model)?
I sure think so! You could have the rear heights straight above you, and the front heights above the TV, since you want to create that cube of audio, you know?
Hi, Ealan...I manage to upgrade my Onkyo receiver from 7.2 channels to 9.2 channels. I currently plan to set 5.1.2 atmos configuration, but after hearing from your video, the best is using 5.1.4 configuration to have more immersive 360 degree sound experience. I just buy a pair of B&W ceiling speaker and I want to add a pair ceiling speaker to make it 5.1.4 channels. If I buy the different ceiling speaker brand, is that effect the above sound experience? My current ceiling speaker is B&W CCM 664, and I want to pair them with Whardefale WCM 65.... Can I do that or should I buy the new pair of ceiling speaker from B&W also? I choose WCM 65 because it has 1/2 price cheaper than CCM 664. Thank you...
Ultimately you want to have the same brand of speaker, but I totally understand budgetary restrictions. Height speakers in particular you can get away with different brand speakers, though, since mostly what comes out of them are more subtle atmospheric effects. Not as noticeable as your main ear-level speakers.
@@ealanosborne ok. From your explanation, different brand couldn't give much different effect, right? as long as I pair them with similar specs from other atmos ceiling speaker brand....
I've currently got a 7.1.2, with height channel speakers above my head in the 11 o'clock position, and in my small acoustical space, it seems sufficient FOR NOW.
I’m trying to figure out if really worth the extra $700 get a .4 vs .2. I got the denon x1800h for $550, polk ES20 for L/R $330 and Klipsch theater pack 5.1 for $175. The cheapest 9 channels I can find is 1k and extra set of polk es10 is around $200. I’m planning later add ES30 or ES35
I think it's worth it, since you're creating a true cube of audio that objects can more freely move around in, as opposed to only 2 heights where audio objects are more limited with their movements. The Onkyo 7100 (which I highly recommend) is on sale through tomorrow for only $799. My affiliate link is below if that interests you. :) howl.me/ckSHESYv4lj
Great video. Have a 5.2.2 bit for my middle Atmos speakers I ended up putting 4 speaker's place unevenly. For me gave great results. Plus my front speakers also plug on same wire some smaller speakers like a feet back from them slightly place " wider" than my front ones. So for Mad Max and Harry Potter scene you speak sound is impressive. I'm curious to experiment what you explain. But a receiver with 9 channel is $$$ plus would need extra speakers. Would I gain front it???
If you get an AVR like the new Denon x3800h, you would gain not only better height effects, but the capability of expansion in the future. You wouldn’t have to rely on the amplifiers inside the AVR forever. You could expand into using external amplifiers, which can more easily power larger, more powerful speakers that you eventually upgrade to over time. 👍
I have a 5.1.4 system with, since I didn't want to punch holes in my living room ceiling, SVS Prime Elevations as standard front and rear heights. After an Audyssey calibration I set their levels 3-4 dbs hotter than than Audyssey did. I did watch TechnoDad's excellent study of height speaker placement and his demo clip basically placed the sounds where they should be, I also have one of the later Dolby Atmos demo discs with a bunch of different clips from pure demos to music, movies, just audio, games, etc. It has that opening sequence from Mad Max Fury road and his voice and the whispering voices all around him sound great. Same thing with the helicopter demo and Amaze. I also, as an experiment, did an Audyssey run with the Elevations set as front and rear tops. They had maybe slightly more immersive sound but at the expense of some volume. The bottom line for me is that front/rear heights, even as a compromise, sound very good with Atmos and DTS:X audio tracks.
@@ealanosborne You're welcome. I doubt that many people have large enclosed home theater rooms so many of us deal with living rooms, family rooms with one or two open sides so no matter what speaker setup you choose there's always going to be some compromises. I originally had two Prime Elevations set up as front heights. They were decent sounding but then I tried them as front tops and front top middles on the two Denon Presets. Both setups created a reasonable level of immersion with the middles sounding better. Sure it's against all of the standard orthodoxy but, ultimately, your ears decide what you like. Adding the second pair of Prime Elevations (and they are really very good speakers that can be effectively crossed over at 80 Hz) gave me a much better front to rear sound spread with some decent overhead effect. Compromise? Sure but, again, your ears, even if fooled into a perception, will tell you whatever works in your particular room
It's not a bad idea to double check levels after a calibration, ideally with a calibrated mic. A couple of my speakers were set a bit low after a Dirac calibration.
I've got 2 height but the dream is 6, still paying for my current receiver unfortunately though 😂 your mic sounds really good for being in a normal room 👍
Hmm, I may be on the outer fringe, but I have about a 5 or 7 .2.7 but I haven’t used all of those speakers, yet… I am still waiting to find a good 15 or 17 channel receiver to plug everything in, so I can use it all, without a problem. Which I am hoping to buy this next year, I’m looking at either the Denon a1h or the Marrantz…. I should also note, I will be coming from a sound bar, with the bouncing type atmos, which I don’t think I have actually herd a good demo of that, but I am still excited to try a good atmos song or movie in my home theater space…
I unfortunately won't have the room for a 4 channel Atmos but will still enjoy a 2 channel. Recently got a new Marantz SR5015. Hadn't installed speakers in my ceiling yet since well....Attics and Texas heat don't mix man LOL. Cooler weather be on the way though!
I noticed a major difference when I went from 5.1.2 to 7.1.4, in my room, I think that maxes out the configuration I can justify in my space. I never had the opportunity to have side heights, so I can't compare that to all 4, but I tried both fronts and rears in the 5.1.2 config and while there was more information to be heard, it was certainly not immersive (ATMOS or DTS:X). Nice video,
@@itzjustkris7964 Yeah it's a $$$ jump to go from 9 to 11, but there are now more options as the new AVR's have forced some the last generation 11 channel machines down in price. I got a very lightly used Denon X4700H about 18 months ago... price for a new one is less than I paid then (since X4800 was released). You do need an external AMP to power at least 2 channels since it processes 11 channels but power for just 9. But if its an issue. I would definitely do 5.x.4. Depending on room layout, rear surrounds might not be that big a del... IMHO
@@StephenAtt797 thanks im new to this so idk how to setup shop for or what needs to be considered when getting a two channel amp...does it need the same power thats going to the other speakers?
Wish I could upgrade to 4 height channels from 2. We live in an apartment with cement ceilings and hiding the speakers is impossible. I had to beg the wife for two speakers up there. She finally agreed and there is no way I could convince her that two more would be a good idea.
I’m using Aperion Audio A5 speakers for front and back heights. Side heights are SVS Prime Elevations. And yes! The x3800h can support up to a 7.4.4 configuration. Only catch is you need at least a 2 channel external amp to make that happen, since it only has 9 internal amps, and you need 11 to run 7.4.4. Aperion Audio A5 Height Module www.aperionaudio.com/collections/novus-speakers/products/aperion-a5-immersive-height-module?ref=xgnDvScPYS9H3
Thanks! Many of the brands reviewed by US reviewers are not available in Canada through dealers who normally provide service and warranty. How well do you regard Klipsch height or in-wall speakers generally such as its center speaker?
@@marvinabugov4579 Klipsch makes a great in-wall/in-ceiling speaker too! Although I personally had ELAC in wall speakers in my last home and they were so good for the price! Pretty sure ELAC products are still accessible to Canadian consumers? 🤞
@@ealanosborne Thanks Elan. Comment much appreciated! Followed your construction journey. Congrats! Appreciate your reviews. Hope your subs are increasing! All the best.
I’d also imagine the sound will be affected by the AV of choice - my AV allows me to not only tell it where my speakers are in terms of location / position it then measures it’s location by height and distance from the AV . My two height channels are in ceiling speakers with internal tweeters - these were specifically designed by Monitor Audio for Dolby Atmos - my av however only supports two height channels. Eventually il upgrade it. I’d also say use two subwoofer’s if possible- it makes another big difference
I'm running a pseudo 5.3.4 as i own a Marantz SR5015 7-channel reciever. I have pair of powered speakers connected to the height channel pre-outs along with a wired pair in the rear. I also setup the AVR atmso speakers assignment to middle so yeah not getting much in movement but more overall area coverage in height sound (you don't have to be only sitting in the MLP to hear sounds above). Also 3 subs rock
I currently have a pre-Atmos receiver with a 7.1 system. Due to room restrictions (rear window), the rear speakers are actually at the top of the rear wall. When I do my Atmos upgrade, should I go to 5.1.4 and use those as rear height? Just wondering if I’ll miss the rear channels with 7.1 source material (such as games from my Xbox Series X)…
I have the exact same dilemma. My rear surrounds are a few feet below ceiling (mounted 8' up) and if I add Height ATMOS (wall mounted) speakers, worried that the rear surrounds will be muddling the rear heights. On the fence about dropping to 5.1.4 to get full ATMOS or add rear heights to keep 7.1.4 and just live with the potential muddling.
Rocking 5.1.2 Sony STR-DH790 because it was all i could afford and all my local best buy had... i want to jump from 5.1.2 to 7.1.6 and skip 5.1.4 or 7.1.4 because ill eventually want top front, top middle, and top rear, that's what i want to eventually hear, the FULL effect.
@@ealanosborne I have three JBL Studio 590s for the front and 530's for the sides and rears. Two GSG mini Marty 18's for the front and two 12-in Polk for the rears. Going to attempt to do like Youth Man and put the 590s in the front wall behind the screen. Wanting to get the Formovie Theater UST
@@EverythingHomeTheater That’s my goal with my dream theater someday - to have an acoustically transparent projector screen with three kickass speakers behind it. 🤘
5.0.2 right now. My sub gave up the ghost. Fortunately powered towers so my bass is still quite good. Wife-wise I am at maximum right now. Receiver is a Yamaha RX-A2060 so good to go when I get the good to go....lol
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
As someone who went from 5.1 to 5.1.2 and then to 5.1.4, I can say the added rear heights was more noticeable/impactful than adding just the front heights. But you know what ended up having the biggest difference? When I went from 5 mains to 7. I actually had an intermediate step while I waited for my rear heights to arrive, when I installed 2 more floor channels (going 7.1.2) and the added surrounds made a huge difference, more so than Atmos. Because while Atmos is more popular in UHD discs...many more discs make use of 7 floor channels. So for those looking to expand beyond 5.1, I now would always recommend going 7.1 first, and then 7.1.4 if you can mount them either on ceiling or high up your walls (don't bother with upward firing speakers). Another recent addition I made which resulted in a huge difference was a second sub...but let's not go there just yet. :)
That’s great advice! Thanks for your insight. 😊🤘
All my experience has been the exact opposite, almost always 5.1.2 > 7.1.0
You must have a long room
Do you think that to enjoy 7.1.4 you need UHD Blue-Ray or you feel the extra channels also on streaming apps?
@@giacintorenta7579 If the streaming app supports Atmos (and the program is in Atmos) it will benefit from 7.1.4. However not all Atmos mixes are active in the overheads, so it's really dependent on the movie's sound mix.
From everything I have heard the .4 compared to the .2 is better, however really depends on a lot of variables, most importantly your room. I would think adding two additional high channels to an existing .2 system is a small difference compared to going from zero hight 2:54 channels to going to.
Good work. I like that outdoor "thinking about". I appreciate that you shout out other creators big/small. You know what's up! We're all learning from one another.
Exactly! Share the love! 😁
Thanks for explaining! Still rocking a 5.0 setup with Identical speakers and monoblock amps.
Monoblocks?! NICE! 🙌🎉
I started my Atmos journey with a 5.1.2 setup. I took a pair of zone 2 outdoor speakers I wasn't using and put them up and upgraded my receiver to support at the time. I fell hard for the format and inside of eight months I upgraded again and then been upgrading little by little every year to my 7.3.4. I went 17 years with just a 5.1 setup and over the last 5 years been upgrading my setup.
The Home Theater Upgrade bug bites hard, dude! I feel ya! 😁🤘
This is such an underrated channel.
Thanks for your kind words, Eliot! 🤘
Even with the static 7.1.2 bed mixes, 4 heights lets those static objects at top mid come equally from the 4 heights, which gives it a more generalized overhead sound that many mistake for discrete height usage (like in Ready Player One). The down side is... In a x.x.6 layout with those mixes, only the top mids will get used, barring any exotic processing in your pre-pro.
Huh…have you experienced this with any other movies? I’ll be doing a 4 vs 6 heights comparison soon, too…
@@ealanosborne If you dig into Shane Lee's channel, you'll find that quite a few movies use two static height objects with no dynamic. The static height objects will always try to play at top mid... so with 4 heights, it will play between them to try to image at top mid. With 6, it will just play from top mid, and the other two pair will go unused. Ready Player One is one of the most obvious. All 4 Indiana Jones movies are static 7.1.2. Sadly, Top Gun Maverick is static for about 98% of the movie. So when you do your comparison, I would stick with movies known to have fully dynamic object mixes - Dune, Midway, etc. But it's something to be aware of for people wanting to go x.x.6. Studios are getting better about it... but still not consistently using it in a way that supports all the channels.
@@TheReverendSlim Exactly. Studios are slowly getting better, but not utilizing dynamic mixes as much as they should. Like I said, it’s unfortunate that not enough studios are allocating enough budget to the sound department to consistently do a proper dynamic mix. Just like not all Atmos mixes utilize front wides. I sure wish I had a Trinnov preamp like Shane so I could see the objects moving in real time. 😄
What are your thoughts on the Sony HT-A9 soundbar system?
I’m trying to get my hands on one for review. I finally got in with Sony when I was able to review the HT-A3000, but of course I want to check out their flagship too! 😄
@@ealanosborne I have the HT-A9 and it’s totally awesome. Love the effects on Dolby Atmos and Spatial sound. It’s much more noticeable when playing video games whether on my Series X or PS5 but definitely hear it when watching movies too. Some movies Atmos are more noticeable then other movies with Atmos I guess it’s bc that’s what the director intended to sound or something buts it’s truly an awesome system. Expensive but for guys like me who are not too detailed in getting a real home theater experience like what you have it’s totally perfect. No wires too…That’s a huge Win for me.
I have been enjoying front heights for a couple of years and then recently added middle wides and rear heights but only consider it a slight improvement. There doesn’t seem to be enough good content out there (movies that I’m interested in) to take full advantage it seems. I’d rather watch a great old movie without Atmos/DTS/Auro than a new one that is lacking in story and production but has a great soundtrack.
Its not just content, surround and rear channels usually provide "fill" and not directional action.
I actually have my 5.1.2 system with the surrounds behind both slightly off axis. I find in many mixes having the surrounds too directional towards my ears confuses the front stound stage instead of being immersive.
ATMOS tells you not to do this. That all speakers should be as equidistant as possible to pass sound cues off to one another 360°. This is a reason these weird dipole and bipole multidirectional surrounds were popular because surrounds sound better not directed at the back of your head
I find that two atmos directed at the listener between where they recommend front and side heights to work well, far enough to be distinct from the fronts but still part of the front wall of sound
I think it finishes the whole “dome” of sound thing. Although my room isn’t ideal, so unfortunately my front heights and rear heights are closer together than I’d like. But, it still sounds pretty awesome and I definitely get the “Atmos effect”.
Good video and nice you pointing out the jump in price on receivers from 5.1.2 to 5.1.4. I was going crazy trying to find a receiver with 4 height channels that was about the price of the 2 height channels. An extra 2 channels is like $500 added to the price (!). Hopefully new receivers come out at better price points.
I sure hope they come down in price, since Atmos at home has already been around for about 5 years now. Come on retailers! 😁🤘
Your dolby atmos level unlocked crack me up 😂❤…great explanation. I just wish Hollywood would produce more high quality atmos/dtsx movies to enjoy.🤙🏻
It’s on the rise! But I agree - too many budgets aren’t allowing audio engineers to truly flex their Atmos mixing potential. I wish everything labeled with Atmos meant it was guaranteed to conform to any speaker configuration (6 height channels, front wides, etc). It’ll get there someday, though! 🤘
@@ealanosborne I agree anything labeled atmos or dtsx should meet a minimum standard for dynamic mix and sound presence.
I've started watching these a couple of weeks ago since I decided to upgrade my home theater. damn, I love your videos! you explain it all so nicely and the sketches help a lot too. 🙃
I just bought monitor audio bronze 200 5.1 set today, originally planning to buy wharfedale dx-2 hcp. 😁 the deal was too good to pass, only 1391€ instead of around 2500€ in the whole europe. also orderd denon avc x4800h (at 1390€), instead of avr 2800 originally or almost sony ta an1000. so I set out to start at an entry level, but ended up at mid range. 😁yes, I spent way more money than I intended, but so hoping it will be worth it. now I only need to place them all correctly to get the best out of them, so I will keep on watching your videos for sure.
thanks a lot and humble greetings from montenegro.
Oh, man, this is exciting to hear! So glad my videos could help! And I totally get the cost. We’ve all been there! 😄 That setup will last you a long time, for sure. 🎉
that is the main goal. hopefully a gradual upgrade over time (because this true audiophile world is so addictive) 😊
I'll come back with thoughts once I've installed and tested the new set up.
just one month ago I upgraded my denon 3400 to the 3700 just to add 2 more height channels and am loving it so far. Can't wait for Maverick 4k BRD
Yep, I notice this difference in a 2 vs 4 hight channel system. I agree that 4 gives a feeling of movement, especially overhead. War of the Worlds atmos hits you with overhead atmos at one moment, and it becomes very clear how undeniable how immersive good atmos can be. Its giving me great anticipation of Top Gun Maverick in atmos.
Everything we've seen of Maverick in the Trinnov viewer shows that it's mostly a 7.1.2 static bed mix with a few exceptions where dynamic objects are used.
@@TheReverendSlim thanks for the heads up. Slightly disappointing
@@Chris-hr2uj Agreed, but it still sounded pretty solid on my 7.1.4 setup. It's still a fun ride.
@@TheReverendSlim tour of your setup? post that up on youtube. would love to see it
I have 7.1.4 and I placed everything according to Dolby specs to begin with, then ended up using the helicopter audio demo on the Dolby Atmos demo disk to fine tune the placement in my room for imaging and seamless speaker to speaker transitions. Worked really well and I highly recommend using that if you can get your hands on one! I got mine for free from a Sony rep that I bumped into at a Jamba juice a few years ago and started talking too at the table next to me!
When you say you fine tuned your placement, I assume you're talking about your Atmos speakers right? I have the same demo and I'm about to start placing my svs elevation heights. I can't imagine how you got the placements done. I can't exactly drill a ton of holes into the walls and ceiling lol. I'd love to hear more about your setup.
@@thelonestranger777 yep, I made all the holes. Moved them in and moved them out, forward and back until they were just right in my opinion. It only took three positions, 1 foot forward and 1 foot outward and then I just moved the mounting brackets between them a few times. Spackling and re-texturing (if needed) a few screw holes is pretty easy. Ultimately ended up with sort of an equilateral geometric dome with all speakers, so the Atmos speakers are in a perfect square.
(Edit) they are 1’ farther apart front to back than they are side to side.
Another thing to add to this is that heavy duty Velcro works great to temporarily place height speakers for testing. I did it with my Atmos Showdown video awhile back and it worked like a charm! Got it at Home Depot, but any hardware store should carry some 🤘
@@ealanosborne Great tip! Definitely an easier solution👍 That 3M picture hanging stuff might work too!? Didn’t think of that🤔
I'm 7.2.4 and completely agree with your final comments. When it's mixed right, SPINE TINGLING. The frustration is that is is done "right" in such a small percentage of movies. I'm super glad I have it, but don't know why they leave so much on the table....
No kidding. 😭
Hey man my problem is that my couch is straight to the wall so i cant put them 50 cm or more behind me, does it still works or what is the situation about that ?
My unsymmetrical room, am I able to use rear 2 high ceiling speakers as a side surround?
I don’t see why not, just to try it out! That’s what running room correction is for, so that no matter where the speakers happen to be located, it’ll be correctly time aligned to your main listening position.
I'm new to all this and I currently have a 5.1.2 setup. I'm using SVS Prime Elevation speakers for my heights (placed above the listening position) and I have to say that I'm really disappointed with Atmos as a whole. Do you think if I invested in a further two SVS speakers and placed them at the front and rear of the room my experience would be better?
4 height channels sound much better than 2. Had the Denon s760h then upgraded to Denon x3700h for the additional channels. Speaker placement is super important. Depends on your room size and ceiling height. Need to make sure speakers are at the correct angles from the main listening positioning. Properly placed, movies like John Wick sound amazing! However, most movies don't have good Atmos mixes so... You really want need to want to have the best experience watching John Wick, or hopefully , Top Gun Maverick at home to make it worth it
@P T I have a Denon X3700H and the speakers were calibrated using Audyssey. Maybe I should turn the height channels up and see if that helps.
@P T Thanks, will do.
Hey great video. I noticed you have the same tv as me (LG C1 65"). How are you getting DTSX effects on it? I thought the new LG OLEDS dont support DTSX. Best I can do is pass through PCM
All my audio is processed by a preamp/AVR which then goes straight to my speakers. I basically only use the TV for visuals.
Ealan, I'm configuring a small bedroom measuring 12.5 x 12.5 x 9ft.
With the tightness of this room, where would you recommend placement for 4 atmos channels??
My seating will be pretty much against back wall maybe coming 6-7 inches.
Thoughts??
I’d put the front heights on the wall above the TV in the corner where the wall and ceiling meet. The rear heights I’d put right above you pointing down at you mounted on the ceiling (if possible).
Ealan, I'm going with all in-ceiling atmos spkrs. Does this change my front location positioning?
Love the video Ealan! Those little graphics you include really add to your storytelling. Great work 😊
Thanks, Josh! It’s those little things that take time more time, but worth it in the end! 😁
I’ve recently upgraded to .6. What I like about it is it enables me to keep my front heights in a stereo pair, 30° over my FL and FR speakers. This allows vertical imaging to take place with objects on the screen. My top middles I have slightly forward of the MLP which was always recommended in a .2 set up. My back surrounds I raised up 10° above ear level which brings a slightly increased sense of height, then spit the difference between those and top middles with my rear heights. This maintains channel separation and produces I nice imaging for flyover effects when object based sounds pass through them.
That’s some dedicated experimentation going on right there! Fantastic! 🙌🎉
Thank goodness you're talking about this I wish other RUclipsrs would do the exact same thing
I think Techno Dad talks about it, he’s really into Atmos . But this channel is excellent and very informative and entertaining. Subscribe & like!😊
@@michael-4k4000 I agree and I been subscribe for a while now actually but thanks for the reminder :)
What do you want and ceiling speakers directly above you
Hello Ealan...Are the Monoprice headphones able to compete with Yamaha, Sony and Polk Audio headphones...because their prices are low?
I haven’t heard them in person, but it’s very possible! Joe N Tell has done many Monoprice-focused videos lately and they are making some quality products these days. 🤷♂️
Hey, did you use the auro 3d upscaler for media consumption or just the standard Atmos?
For this test I wanted just straight Atmos or DTS:X. I did an Auro/Atmos comparison in a video awhile ago, but I am planning to revisit that topic within my new testing theater. 👍
This video had impeccable timing for me, as I just upgraded from a 5 channel Onkyo to a 9 channel Pioneer (RZ-50 clone). I setup and watched a few movies with the same 5.1 speakers, then added two heights, and still planned to connect the additional pair for the full effect.
I have one question, do you prefer up mixing height effects on 5.1 mixes sometimes, always or never?
Thanks for the interesting and informative video.
I almost always just let the receiver upmix any 5.1 or 7.1 mix, since it does it automatically anyway. It usually does a great job in separating what it thinks should be placed in the height channels. Pretty remarkable.
@@ealanosborne that's awesome to hear, thanks for the quick response!
I think the rule of thumb for heights is
Front Height
Top Front
Top Middle
Top Rear
Front rear
If putting more than 2 you have to skip 1 from this layout, so you can have a top middle with either Height Front or Height Rear, but not a top middle with top front, unless you do all 6 top front, middle, rear
why can't you go front height & rear height ?
Great video Ealan! My current setup is 5.2.2 and i'm about to buy a nine channel amp to go to 7.2.2. Your video has made me think though, which is better 7.2.2 or 5.2.4? Could be an interesting video.
I think you mean choosing between 7.2.2 or 5.2.4.
Could you not do 7.2.4? Which processor or receiver are you considering?
@@fotophotographer I was going to get the Denon 3800H
@@AlexGreig in that case, if your room can accommodate a 7 speaker bed layer (speakers around ear level), then definitely go for 7.2.4. You can very cheaply use an external amp to power your two top rear speakers. (E.g. Fosi amp)
I suppose it all comes down to room size
@@Totalplonker good point, I'm assuming since he's already contemplating 7.2.2 then 7.2.4 should be doable.
I have a 5.1.4 Aperion system after starting with 5.1.2. The movement of sound is most apparent during Atmos games like Halo Infinite, it's really immersive.
Definitely! Video games are a huge reason to invest in Atmos since it's built on a 360 degree audio engine, rather than a Hollywood studio that has to manually place objects in and pan them around like with a movie. Such a cool effect
I have my bed layer 7.1 planned. I was planning to do a Auro-3D based heights, so two front heights and 2 surround heights in place of rear heights. I wonder if that's something you could test out too. How does Atmos and DTS:X sound with front and Surround heights? That's pretty much how Techno Dad has his living room set.
That’s exactly how mine is setup too - front heights and surround heights. I don’t have any in-ceiling or on-ceiling heights, except for the Voice of God speaker straight above my listening position. Although only my Marantz SR7015 does Auro 3D for Voice of God, which is not hooked up at the moment. 😄
@@ealanosborne from the video, I understood it as for your testing, you ran surround heights the .2 and then ran front and rear heights, the .4. Thanks though.
@ealanosborne hi my sofa is against the back wall I have my surrounds on the side walls facing mlp and im guna add 2 more height speakers as I've already got front heights, which is best for my situation on the side walls above my surrounds ceiling level or on the wall my sofa is against pointing down ??
When you do these tests, are you using 4K disk or streaming?
Of course! I wanna make sure I’m getting the best baseline for these tests. 🤘
Hi Ealan, great video. I have a 5.2.2 using in Polk in ceiling speakers. as height middle. You have talked about front-rear height speakers. It would the same effect if I add rear height speakers with these height middle positioned?
Eh, kind of. Ideally you’ll want front heights to be a bit forward of your listening position to truly get an immersive experience when certain audio objects are moving around 🤷♂️
Finally I changed my Onkyo and I bought a Marantz 6015 adding rear high speakers and the sound between both brands is very different and the speciality now is great!!!!!! 2 vs 4 channels is night and day!
@@aapablaz WOOHOO! 🎉
@@ealanosborne oh yes......also, now with this receiver, I put my two SVS SB1000 in opossite sides, one in left rear corner and the other one in right front corner and the sound also improved a lot!!!!! before that I had both behind my couch and I didn't notice it how boomy was having them there. Still working on the fine tuning, but happy with the changes!!!!!
@@aapablaz Nice experimenting! That’s what it takes, baby! 😁🤘
Just wanted to know if you have any plans on reviewing the heavily hyped Sony HT-A9 and sub which supposedly has the best Dolby Atmos/phantom 12 chanel from physical 4.1.4 configuration. I'm not convinced it could handle a 8 to 9.5-foot vaulted ceiling transition from a left to right TV position properly. Relying on physical sound bouncing off angled ceiling height is hard even with DSP 🤔
I finally got an “in” with Sony reps when I reviewed the A3000 soundbar, so hopefully I’ll be getting my hands on the A9 in the near future… 🤞
Currently running 5.2.2 with Yamaha receiver and Klipsch speakers. I want to upgrade. Would going to 5.2.6 be something worth doing? I don’t have room for 7 base layer speakers.
Hmmm, well if you don’t have room for 7 ear level speakers, does that mean your couch is against the back wall? Or do you have at least 4 feet behind you that you could put rear heights behind your listening position?
@@ealanosborne no couch is in the open about 5’ from back wall. The room is open floor plan with large windows on the left and dining room to the right. Wife won’t allow just random speaker on a stand in the middle of the room.
Is the difference in going from .2 to .4 more significant than going from 5. to 7.?
With a well-mixed Atmos track, I think it’s a more significant upgrade, IMO. 👍
Hi Ealan! Does it have to be "ceiling speakers" to be used for the heights? Would bookshelf speakers have the same effect? I suppose one would have to custom-install those though...
My height speakers are located high on the front and back walls and it works great! It’s an Auro/Atmos hybrid system, so I purposely angled the heights to be 30 degrees up from my listening position.
So yeah, if you had mounts that can support bookshelves on a wall, those can be used as heights too. Speakers are speakers, so it doesn’t have to be labeled as an “Atmos” speaker. 🤘
Dedicated height speakers within a small room tend to fire over ones head! It's as if they are designed for huge rooms. After working this out for myself, I went with bookshelves with a ball joint connected arm-mount! Now the speakers aiming right at my skull 🥳
@@Totalplonker Whatever works! For science! 😁🤘
@@Totalplonker … so re-do the ceiling…?
@@HTadd1ct thank u!
With a 9 ch receiver If you have the option of two Atmos top channels and 2 front height (7.1.2) or four Atmos top channels (5.1.4) is there much of a difference? Does the receiver just adjust how it mixes the sound to give the most immersive sound.
If there are moving height objects in a particular scene, it’s more noticeable with 4 heights, since you have essentially created a cube of audio. If you have 2 heights, the movement of height objects tends to dip down in the ear-level speakers, when it would remain up high with 4 height speakers.
@@ealanosbornesince my Onkyo RZ50 only has two heights, that means I would need to use the two pre-out heights and an external amp to properly add the additional two heights, correct?
@@jeffcollins7311 Correct! The internal amps can help power 2 heights, but it needs additional external help to power a total of 4 heights, if you already have 7 ear-level speakers.
I was going to upgrade from 7.2.2 to 7.2.4 ---- eventually. but I guess it was yesterday, I noticed that Amazon had the Klipsch RP-500SAs on sale for 40% off, making them 1/2 the price of the 500SAiis, $299 vs $599. I re-checked today to see if they were sill available. Since my front heights were the original version and the sale ones were as well, I mashed down on the "Buy Now" button! Realistically, the room my home theater is in, my bedroom, is not appropriate at this time for the rears I'll probably put them in the basement for a while, unless I find an alternative. My single lounge chair is within inches of the rear wall, If I managed to put the new speakers up, would I even hear anything coming from them? I mean, the drivers would be pointing toward the middle/front of the room instead of towards me., but hey, even though Id've rather had the walnut finish to match my other Klipsch, save the sub,, I couldn't pass on the price! Next on the list will be replacing the old tiny tinny Polk satellites I use for my surrounds, but that will (probably?) be a while from now.
You can try mounting them above your listening position, shooting audio straight down at you. No shame in that. 🤷♂️
@@ealanosborne Unfortunately, I don't think there's a way to mount them that way, like there is with other brands of Atmos speakers, like the SVS(?) which has a special ceiling bracket. I forgot whose You-Tube channel it was I saw that on. I could look online, though. Thanks for answering.
Would love to see 4 vs 6 because when I upgrade my I would want to see if 6 is worth it
That’s coming soon! 🤘
I'm happy with 3.1.2 with rear ceiling speakers. Thinking about adding two more ceiling speakers in the front.
Nice!
Another great and informative video! Thanks for sharing
Thinking of upgrading to surround back speakers for 7.1 before upgrading to height speakers
That's a solid plan. I approve. 👍
Ok I've upgraded to 7.1.2 Yes I added 2 front height speakers to experience Atmos height FX. So no movement, but I think there's just not enough content to upgrade to 4 Atmos speakers (yet)
Do streaming apps use only 5.1.2 or often also 7.1.4? Or to get 7.1.4 you really need Blue-Ray / Atmos TrueHD?
Typically Atmos is mixed with 7.1.4 in mind, but it’s getting better, with more people having even larger systems more commonly now. But either way, if a streaming show or movie shows the Atmos logo, it should conform to whichever configuration you have, since Atmos is panning metadata, not actual analog audio signals. 👍
@@ealanosborne I was asking as I upgraded my Sonos system from 5.1.2 to 7.1.4 but started thinking that given I use streaming 99% of the time (Netflix, Dinsey+, etc), I might have wasted my money … sometimes the channels at the back sound identical to the ones at the front (ie rarely back and forth effect when streaming)
@@giacintorenta7579 Well, unfortunately nothing is mixed the same, so no matter what system you have, there will be duds. But having a 7.1.4 system, you definitely should be blown away by the difference when a really good mix comes your way. Like Stranger Things 4, for example. :)
@@ealanosborne do you don’t think streaming apps only support 5.1.2 and not 7.1.4? It is not like 8k TV where 8k content is only on specialised discs most of the time?
@@giacintorenta7579 Nope. If it says it’s streaming in Atmos, it should conform to whatever size system you have - 5.1.2, 7.2.4, 9.4.6, whatever. 🤷♂️
can I use Polk Audio Atrium 5 for the height channel? Polk Atrium speaker is very easy to angle MLP.
I don’t see why not! 👍 A speaker is a speaker, so your AVR doesn’t care what you have up there, as long as the software is sending the correct Atmos information to it. 😁🤘
@@ealanosborne Thank you for your reply... 👍
Great info you share…thanks. I have been installing a system at my brothers from scratch. Punching holes, drilling studs, running cables, etc. Because of the seating position, a sectional near back wall, we decided on a 7.1.2 not being able to get rear heights in proper or ideal spot as spec’d by Dolby. All base speakers are inwall except center. Heights are in ceiling just in front of listeners….pointed at kneecaps approximately. I can’t wait to hear it. What do you think ? I believe I did the best I could considering room and seating. Thanks again.
Your description sounds like you did the very best you could! Congrats on your new system, and for all the hard work you put in! 🤘😀
I have to say this is the best explanation of atmos height in my two weeks of research, I'm building a custom home and trying to work this concept out in my head. Thanks! I have the opportunity to have 4 height channels prewired and will go ahead and have that done. I was wondering as to the height of the rear surrounds? Are these supposed to be at ear level?
Correct! If you didn’t have any height speakers at all, you can get away with elevating the rear surrounds about a foot or two above ear level. But with heights, it’s best to keep all the other speakers at ear level. 🎉
Hi ealan, great clip. Thanks. What would you think about having a 5.1.3 for auro 3d with 2 front heights and 1 voice of God. Maybe above the listening position?
Hmmm…I’d have to check my Marantz SR7015 software to see if that still qualifies as Auro 3D. It might only support Auro setups if you have at least 4 height channels, but not 3. But I might be mistaken… 🤷♂️
@@ealanosborne after a demo download of techno dad I found out that my front hights won't form stereo pairs of not accompanied with rear hights. So I'll go for rears than....
SO if you have 4 heights, you recommend frong and back, and not on the side, front, or back?
Do you think that it is still worth upgrading from 2 to 4 height channels if your main source is streaming, such as Disney + ?
Yes! Sure, the absolute best quality is going to still be 4K BD, but even with compressed Atmos (Dolby Digital Plus), the panning information/movement will still be present 🤘
Yes very informative as was Techno Dad’s video the other day, the both of you are breaking the Atmos configurations so we can enjoy the content the way it was intended. Still a lot of factors involved (room,content, the mix etc.)at least we can get the speaker placement right😀
Does it matter how far back the rear Heights are from rear surrounds and listening position
Not especially. Mine are a few feet behind my surround backs. My rule of thumb is try and get the heights as close to 30 degrees up from your head as possible. 👍
@@ealanosborne thanks
My set up is currently 5.1.2, would it be better if I were to upgrade, to go 7.1.2 or 5.1.4? Obviously the end goal is 7.2.4 but I'll certainly seperate amp for that
I’d try both, depending on your listening space. A nice trick I’ve learned is to use heavy duty Velcro from your local hardware store for temporary placement of height speakers so you’re not drilling holes that would have to be immediately patched up. If 5.1.4 sounds better? Great! But if 7.2.2 works out better in your space, you haven’t drilled holes for nothing after testing out 5.1.4. 😀
Ayyy!!! Great video and thanks for the shoutout! I just took a clip from my livestream on this topic. My video is MUCH shorter, so I'll link yours in the description. Keep up the great work, man!
Of course! We've all got each others' backs! 😀
Hey Ealan, I remember one of your videos you showed that you installed in-ceiling speakers. I'm eying the Polk Audio VT60 6.5-inch 2-Way in-Ceiling Speakers. Any thoughts on these? Seems hard to beat for the price! Did you mount your in-ceiling speakers in speaker baffles?
Yeah, the in-ceiling speakers I’ve dealt with in the past were made to just be installed straight into the ceiling, no additional baffle or housing required. Worked out well! 🎉 And I agree with you regarding the Polk VT60 speakers! Impressive that their frequency response dips all the way down to 33 Hz. Great for the price, for sure!
What if we put the 2nd set of height channels on top of the surrounds?
To bounce the audio off the ceiling? 🤷♂️ Whatever’s necessary in your situations, really.
@ealanosborne I physically placed 2 sets of speakers on the ceilings right above the surrounds. These are Bose 161s they have a forward facing FR driver, and another FR driver slightly angled. In my case, it shoots at about 45 degrees into the ceiling.
I have a 5.1.2 setup and haven't heard a 5.1.4 yet but I like my setup however I want to upgrade...🤤👍🏼
I just purchased the 5.1 klipsch reference theater pack what avr would you recommend I would like to have atleast have 2 ceiling speaker maybe 4 ? But on a budget maybe 600 bucks to spend on a avr
Not sure if you’re in the U.S., but Crutchfield has the Onkyo 6100 on sale for $599. Very solid. It’s a 7.2 channel AVR that would allow you to have 2 height speakers if you have 2 more not being used in your home somewhere. 🎉
Thank you sooooo much . And yes I’m in the US 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾
Great video (just like all your videos). You explain so well, and so understandable. I love it. I learned so many things from you.
I have Denon X3700h and 5.2 Klipsch setup. I ordered 2 in-ceiling speakers yesterday.
I was thinking to install just 2 and making my home theater 5.2.2.
But after this video, I will install 2 more later
Thank you and keep up the good work
Thank you for your kind words!
Can you please share which Harry Potter movie is that and the minute of the scene? Testing night!
#2 Chamber of Secrets. Chapter 11: Gilderoy Lockhart 👍
@@ealanosborne thanks
Just getting into the world of Dolby Atmos. Recently got a 7.2 Denon S750H. Can I use 2 of the 7 speakers as height speakers? Appreciate any reply or thoughts. Luv your vlog!
Correct! You can have up to a 5.2.2 configuration- 5 ear level speaker, 2 subwoofers, and 2 height speakers. 🎉
@@ealanosborne So use the two side speakers as your height speakers? Also, would you use them as your front height or rear height?
@@mikebass2700I had the same Denon using the Atmos speakers as top middle. I was happy and satisfied with the sound, I bought Sony str- an1000 with the same speaker set up and now it sounds amazing. It's like a whole new speaker system. At first I thought it sounded harsh, and with a lot of treble but after the calibration ... I was speechless
The 360 sound mapping is at another level, Atmos movies sound much much much more detailed.
If you can buy that Sony , do it you will be very happy as I am. I regret not saving more money and buy the Sony az3000.
dude what a fun video to watch thanks for your feedback! i cant wait till i get my house im going with four channels and the avr 3800h
NICE! What a crazy upgrade the x3800h is compared to the x3700h. Good call. 🤘
Well i do have the bug that is why i have looked this up and you did hit all the points fast and simple , just 5.1 but the is 1 is an svs 1000pro,
I can do 5.1.2 or just stick with 5.1 adding more is not an option. Is it worth it or not?
If you can possibly mount height speakers straight up above your listening position for the most noticeable effect, yes. Otherwise, it might not be worth it, TBH.
I have a 7.2.6. Why? Because I could. Probably not much of a difference from 4 to 6 other than the room is filled more perhaps, leaving no gaps in overhead sound. If there is a preout jack I’m going to use it
Hell yeah! Might as well make the most of what you have! 😀🎉
A really sensible and clear explanation.
I have the pioneer 901 (11 channel receiver) but only running 7, I don’t even watch anything in atmos.. so idk yet if I’ll even bother. Maybe one day
Writing this to thank you Ealan. I was planning to upgrade from a Samsung soundbar with surrounds to an immersive Dolby Atmos experience through an AV receiver.
Your channel helped me the most and I was able to build a budget 5.1.4 under CAD 3500 (approx 2500 USD) even though things are a bit expensive here in Canada. Quite happy with the result.
Pioneer VSX-LX305 9.2 receiver (8k enabled)
Klipsch R51M fronts
Klipsch R41M rears
Klipsch Reference 5.1 theater pack as center, front and rear heights, and subwoofer
Pioneer's MCACC tuning has given a bit more warmth and mid-range to the bright Klipsch speakers. No complaints so far. Will be experimenting with DIRAC live soon as my learning curve increases.
I saw you adding an SVS 12" as your second sub. I was planning to get another R8SW, but now am thinking of experimenting as you did.
Keep posting the good stuff. And nice editing as always.
Wow! Thank you so much for sharing this! So excited for you. Happy experimenting! 😁🤘
Hi! That was a very informative video. But what is a 3D cube? A cube is already 3D, no one can grasp the additional dimensions, except many time.
What about a center height channel with a Dolby Atmos setup of 7.4.1
A center height or voice of god is supported with the Auro 3D codec, typically. Not Dolby Atmos. But I’m personally a fan of Auro, so if your AVR supports it, maybe experiment with it! 😁 Although center height in particular is only supported with a full 13.1 Auro setup.
Im looking to upgrade to a 9.2 channel receiver (from a 7.2) (currently having a 5.2, but i dont have space to pu 5.2.4) to be able to listen to content in auro3d (in future living room). From what I heard, auro3d upmixing is better than atmos.
Right now the best future-proof, scalable, bang-for-your-buck AVR that supports 2 subwoofers is the Onkyo RZ50. 👇
howl.me/cl1AKE01wc1
Bro for a brief moment the first 18 seconds of your video made feel like I was watching a movie trailer. I love it. Very nice. You should do more cinematic scenes like this. You can star in the next sequel of A Quite Place (3).👏👏🏾
Hahaha! Thanks! I almost always have a an intro in mind like that with all my videos, but a lot of times they get cut due to time constraints. So I’m glad this one didn’t have to see the cutting room floor! 😄
@@ealanosborne Nice 👍. I have some questions please. So with the 4 Atmos speakers do you get similar joy with Dolby surround upmixer. Because we can’t always afford or get everything in blu ray and also as you know not everything is in Dolby Atmos or Dts x. And also how are you getting on with the IOTAVX Processor and do you know how it compares to some expensive Avr’s like Arcam and Anthem. Many thanks.
@@rayking507 Dolby Upmixer does a pretty good job, but obviously a true Atmos mix will be best. But I remember playing Mario Kart with my kids and noticing that my AVR (at the time it was the Marantz SR7015) somehow magically put isolated sounds just in the height speakers. It was cool! So yeah - Dolby Upmixer can do a good job, but it’s kind of hit and miss. One thing might be amazing, and another might sound terrible. 🤷♂️
As far as the IOTA AVX17, I haven’t yet gotten my hands on any Arcam or Anthem AVRs, but I really want to, since they’re in this little pocket of their own, being hybrid AVR/preamps. I’m also still trying desperately to have my Emotiva contact send me an MC-1 to compare to the IOTA AVX17, but supply chain issues are still making that difficult. 😩
i am @ .2 moving to .4 within the year....I definitely notice a difference from 5.2 to 5.2.2!
Really like your short and precise videos!!
I got my 5.1 setup and ready - but I still have the last two speakers to install. I'm thinking about installing them as middle heigh as you showed in the last video. When installing middle height - do I mount right above and pointing down at MLP or a little in front MLP?
Or would you recommend to install them as FH? I'm so much in doubt!! :)
If you can, I’d mount them to the sides pointing down. But depending on the room layout, if that’s not possible, I’d mount them straight up above your MLP. Which speakers are you planning on putting up (make and model)?
@@HTadd1ct The ceiling is not an option at the moment :) I'm looking for a wall/height solution
@@mikkelrasmussen7306 How did it work for you?
@@ealanosborne : I ended up buying Mission LX-3D MKII which are now used as middle heights
@@reclaimer1178 : Hi - I I ended up buying Mission LX-3D MKII which are now used as middle heights. Im not an expert - but it works fine for me :)
Are 4 height channels still worth it in a medium sized room with seating up against a wall, where height channels can't be placed behind seating?
I sure think so! You could have the rear heights straight above you, and the front heights above the TV, since you want to create that cube of audio, you know?
Hi, Ealan...I manage to upgrade my Onkyo receiver from 7.2 channels to 9.2 channels. I currently plan to set 5.1.2 atmos configuration, but after hearing from your video, the best is using 5.1.4 configuration to have more immersive 360 degree sound experience. I just buy a pair of B&W ceiling speaker and I want to add a pair ceiling speaker to make it 5.1.4 channels.
If I buy the different ceiling speaker brand, is that effect the above sound experience?
My current ceiling speaker is B&W CCM 664, and I want to pair them with Whardefale WCM 65....
Can I do that or should I buy the new pair of ceiling speaker from B&W also? I choose WCM 65 because it has 1/2 price cheaper than CCM 664. Thank you...
Ultimately you want to have the same brand of speaker, but I totally understand budgetary restrictions. Height speakers in particular you can get away with different brand speakers, though, since mostly what comes out of them are more subtle atmospheric effects. Not as noticeable as your main ear-level speakers.
@@ealanosborne ok. From your explanation, different brand couldn't give much different effect, right? as long as I pair them with similar specs from other atmos ceiling speaker brand....
@ correct! ✅
I've currently got a 7.1.2, with height channel speakers above my head in the 11 o'clock position, and in my small acoustical space, it seems sufficient FOR NOW.
Excellent! 🙌
why can't we use a soundbar and hack it to remove the height speakers and run them up the wall?
I’m trying to figure out if really worth the extra $700 get a .4 vs .2. I got the denon x1800h for $550, polk ES20 for L/R $330 and Klipsch theater pack 5.1 for $175. The cheapest 9 channels I can find is 1k and extra set of polk es10 is around $200. I’m planning later add ES30 or ES35
I think it's worth it, since you're creating a true cube of audio that objects can more freely move around in, as opposed to only 2 heights where audio objects are more limited with their movements. The Onkyo 7100 (which I highly recommend) is on sale through tomorrow for only $799. My affiliate link is below if that interests you. :)
howl.me/ckSHESYv4lj
Great video. Have a 5.2.2 bit for my middle Atmos speakers I ended up putting 4 speaker's place unevenly. For me gave great results.
Plus my front speakers also plug on same wire some smaller speakers like a feet back from them slightly place " wider" than my front ones.
So for Mad Max and Harry Potter scene you speak sound is impressive.
I'm curious to experiment what you explain.
But a receiver with 9 channel is $$$ plus would need extra speakers.
Would I gain front it???
If you get an AVR like the new Denon x3800h, you would gain not only better height effects, but the capability of expansion in the future. You wouldn’t have to rely on the amplifiers inside the AVR forever. You could expand into using external amplifiers, which can more easily power larger, more powerful speakers that you eventually upgrade to over time. 👍
@@ealanosborne Thanks.
I have a 5.1.4 system with, since I didn't want to punch holes in my living room ceiling, SVS Prime Elevations as standard front and rear heights. After an Audyssey calibration I set their levels 3-4 dbs hotter than than Audyssey did. I did watch TechnoDad's excellent study of height speaker placement and his demo clip basically placed the sounds where they should be, I also have one of the later Dolby Atmos demo discs with a bunch of different clips from pure demos to music, movies, just audio, games, etc. It has that opening sequence from Mad Max Fury road and his voice and the whispering voices all around him sound great. Same thing with the helicopter demo and Amaze. I also, as an experiment, did an Audyssey run with the Elevations set as front and rear tops. They had maybe slightly more immersive sound but at the expense of some volume. The bottom line for me is that front/rear heights, even as a compromise, sound very good with Atmos and DTS:X audio tracks.
Wow! Thanks for your insight!
@@ealanosborne You're welcome. I doubt that many people have large enclosed home theater rooms so many of us deal with living rooms, family rooms with one or two open sides so no matter what speaker setup you choose there's always going to be some compromises. I originally had two Prime Elevations set up as front heights. They were decent sounding but then I tried them as front tops and front top middles on the two Denon Presets. Both setups created a reasonable level of immersion with the middles sounding better. Sure it's against all of the standard orthodoxy but, ultimately, your ears decide what you like. Adding the second pair of Prime Elevations (and they are really very good speakers that can be effectively crossed over at 80 Hz) gave me a much better front to rear sound spread with some decent overhead effect. Compromise? Sure but, again, your ears, even if fooled into a perception, will tell you whatever works in your particular room
It's not a bad idea to double check levels after a calibration, ideally with a calibrated mic. A couple of my speakers were set a bit low after a Dirac calibration.
Would you recommend in ceiling or heights on ceilings
I've got 2 height but the dream is 6, still paying for my current receiver unfortunately though 😂 your mic sounds really good for being in a normal room 👍
what about 4 vs 6?
Coming soon! 😁🤘
Hmm, I may be on the outer fringe, but I have about a 5 or 7 .2.7 but I haven’t used all of those speakers, yet… I am still waiting to find a good 15 or 17 channel receiver to plug everything in, so I can use it all, without a problem. Which I am hoping to buy this next year, I’m looking at either the Denon a1h or the Marrantz…. I should also note, I will be coming from a sound bar, with the bouncing type atmos, which I don’t think I have actually herd a good demo of that, but I am still excited to try a good atmos song or movie in my home theater space…
I unfortunately won't have the room for a 4 channel Atmos but will still enjoy a 2 channel. Recently got a new Marantz SR5015. Hadn't installed speakers in my ceiling yet since well....Attics and Texas heat don't mix man LOL. Cooler weather be on the way though!
fantastic video Ealan*. I need to make a quick vid of the mc1 7.2.4 setup i’ve been having for the most of this year.
I noticed a major difference when I went from 5.1.2 to 7.1.4, in my room, I think that maxes out the configuration I can justify in my space. I never had the opportunity to have side heights, so I can't compare that to all 4, but I tried both fronts and rears in the 5.1.2 config and while there was more information to be heard, it was certainly not immersive (ATMOS or DTS:X). Nice video,
what receiver do you use to use that many speakers im new and most somewhat afforable receivers are only 5.2.4 or 7.2.2
@@itzjustkris7964 Yeah it's a $$$ jump to go from 9 to 11, but there are now more options as the new AVR's have forced some the last generation 11 channel machines down in price. I got a very lightly used Denon X4700H about 18 months ago... price for a new one is less than I paid then (since X4800 was released). You do need an external AMP to power at least 2 channels since it processes 11 channels but power for just 9. But if its an issue. I would definitely do 5.x.4. Depending on room layout, rear surrounds might not be that big a del... IMHO
@@StephenAtt797 thanks im new to this so idk how to setup shop for or what needs to be considered when getting a two channel amp...does it need the same power thats going to the other speakers?
Wish I could upgrade to 4 height channels from 2. We live in an apartment with cement ceilings and hiding the speakers is impossible. I had to beg the wife for two speakers up there. She finally agreed and there is no way I could convince her that two more would be a good idea.
Wife Acceptance Factor is important, my friend. I completely understand. 😁
What height speakers are you using? They look like Klipsch? Plan upgrading from 7.1 to 7.1.4 soon. Would a Denon (soon to come) 4800h suffice?
I’m using Aperion Audio A5 speakers for front and back heights. Side heights are SVS Prime Elevations.
And yes! The x3800h can support up to a 7.4.4 configuration. Only catch is you need at least a 2 channel external amp to make that happen, since it only has 9 internal amps, and you need 11 to run 7.4.4.
Aperion Audio A5 Height Module
www.aperionaudio.com/collections/novus-speakers/products/aperion-a5-immersive-height-module?ref=xgnDvScPYS9H3
Thanks! Many of the brands reviewed by US reviewers are not available in Canada through dealers who normally provide service and warranty. How well do you regard Klipsch height or in-wall speakers generally such as its center speaker?
@@marvinabugov4579 Klipsch makes a great in-wall/in-ceiling speaker too! Although I personally had ELAC in wall speakers in my last home and they were so good for the price! Pretty sure ELAC products are still accessible to Canadian consumers? 🤞
@@ealanosborne Thanks Elan. Comment much appreciated! Followed your construction journey. Congrats! Appreciate your reviews. Hope your subs are increasing! All the best.
My system is 5.2.2, want to upgrade to 7.2.2
I’d also imagine the sound will be affected by the AV of choice - my AV allows me to not only tell it where my speakers are in terms of location / position it then measures it’s location by height and distance from the AV . My two height channels are in ceiling speakers with internal tweeters - these were specifically designed by Monitor Audio for Dolby Atmos - my av however only supports two height channels. Eventually il upgrade it.
I’d also say use two subwoofer’s if possible- it makes another big difference
Great video I just learn something today Static and Dynamic Atmos.
Never stop learning! 😄🤘
I'm running a pseudo 5.3.4 as i own a Marantz SR5015 7-channel reciever. I have pair of powered speakers connected to the height channel pre-outs along with a wired pair in the rear. I also setup the AVR atmso speakers assignment to middle so yeah not getting much in movement but more overall area coverage in height sound (you don't have to be only sitting in the MLP to hear sounds above). Also 3 subs rock
Whoa cool! Whatever works, you know? 😁🤘
which powered speaker is used for the height channel
I currently have a pre-Atmos receiver with a 7.1 system. Due to room restrictions (rear window), the rear speakers are actually at the top of the rear wall. When I do my Atmos upgrade, should I go to 5.1.4 and use those as rear height? Just wondering if I’ll miss the rear channels with 7.1 source material (such as games from my Xbox Series X)…
I have the exact same dilemma. My rear surrounds are a few feet below ceiling (mounted 8' up) and if I add Height ATMOS (wall mounted) speakers, worried that the rear surrounds will be muddling the rear heights. On the fence about dropping to 5.1.4 to get full ATMOS or add rear heights to keep 7.1.4 and just live with the potential muddling.
Rocking 5.1.2 Sony STR-DH790 because it was all i could afford and all my local best buy had... i want to jump from 5.1.2 to 7.1.6 and skip 5.1.4 or 7.1.4 because ill eventually want top front, top middle, and top rear, that's what i want to eventually hear, the FULL effect.
I just finished my 7.1.4 and it sounds amazing. 2 hight speakers shouldn't even be an option. 4 speakers is a complete experience.
I was looking for something new to watch! Go 4!
My room's not done yet but have bed-layer and subs for 7.4.4.
Whoa! I’m excited for you for when it’s done! 🤘
@@ealanosborne I have three JBL Studio 590s for the front and 530's for the sides and rears. Two GSG mini Marty 18's for the front and two 12-in Polk for the rears. Going to attempt to do like Youth Man and put the 590s in the front wall behind the screen. Wanting to get the Formovie Theater UST
@@EverythingHomeTheater That’s my goal with my dream theater someday - to have an acoustically transparent projector screen with three kickass speakers behind it. 🤘
5.0.2 right now. My sub gave up the ghost. Fortunately powered towers so my bass is still quite good. Wife-wise I am at maximum right now. Receiver is a Yamaha RX-A2060 so good to go when I get the good to go....lol
Haha! I get that, believe me! 😁🤘