Getting Started with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D

Immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos®, DTS:X® and Auro 3D® are pushing the boundaries of home theater and music beyond a single plane of surround sound into the realm of overhead height effects so sound emanates from speakers all around to create a 3D soundfield. This applies to ambient noise and for sound effects which we identify as being near or far away, or even zooming towards us based on the volume and directionality of the sound effect.

Commonly referred to as “object based surround sound”, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D use height effects to create the most convincing home audio experience possible for movies, TV, music and gaming lovers. The sound of rain falling all around you, an arrow or bullet whizzing by your head, or the panning effect of a jumbo jet flying over, these are the kind of head-spinning, duck-for-cover audio experiences that create a more convincing audio experience.

When choosing the best Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D home audio speakers, always look for full-range and direct radiating speakers that beam sound directly at the listening area for maximum sonic immersion and impact. In-ceiling loudspeakers and ceiling bounce speakers are also an option, but many find the performance compromised and the installation intrusive.

Each audio format has a unique approach, so here’s the official videos to help explain the technology further:

DOLBY ATMOS

DTS:X

AURO-3D

Helpful Articles

Intro to Dolby Atmos

Background on how Dolby Atmos was developed and tips for placement and mounting of height effect speakers.

What are Height Effects Speakers and Object Based Surround Sound?

General explanation of how Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D works and what to look for when researching options.

Direct Radiating vs. Ceiling Bounce for Height Effects

Comparison of different height effect speaker solutions and how SVS Prime Elevation takes an innovative approach.

Enhance your home theater with immersive Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D speakers.

Prime Elevation Speakers $199.99 each

  • Angled front baffle enables direct radiating of sound down towards the listening area with no unpredictable ceiling bounce.
  • No frequency response limiting, recessed tweeters, unpredictable ceiling bounce or other compromises of typical height effect speakers.
  • Refined acoustics and full range dynamics make it ideal for immersive Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D height effects.
  • Easily mounts on a front, side or back wall, or directly overhead on the ceiling for maximum placement versatility.
  • Installation-friendly Multi-Angle Wall Bracket (patent pending) included.
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Prime Satellite Speakers $134.99 each

  • Obliterates existing benchmarks for super compact height effects speaker performance.
  • Incredible dynamic impact, superb tonal balance and exquisite build quality not previously available in a satellite height effects speaker.
  • Versatile placement options with keyhole wall bracket (included) or SoundPath Pivoting Wall/Ceiling Bracket (not included).
  • Compact, décor-friendly design and premium finishes accentuate any room décor without taking over visually.
  • Most affordable, highly immersive heights effects speaker available.
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Interested in tower, bookshelf, center channel, surround, or satellite speakers?

SVS Ultra and Prime Series speakers and all SVS subwoofers are sonically matched to blend seamlessly so you can combine any of our products to create your perfect audio system. Learn about all models on our SVS speaker page.

Curious what the experts are saying about SVS speakers for height effects? Here’s some recent DTS:X, Auro-3D and Dolby Atmos speaker reviews. See all reviews on the SVS Press Reviews Page.

“The smartest and most practical speaker I’ve come across. Perfect for any Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, or Auro-3D.”

“No matter where we put them, or the kind of audio we pumped through, they handled everything brilliantly.”

“The Elevations are just too good to use only as height channels. A 10 out of 10 from me.”

Excellent choice as Atmos height speakers. I perceived a greater sense of height and an enhanced sense of space.”

These speakers pack a punch, especially when setup for down-firing with Atmos or DTS:X.”

Great option for Dolby Atmos, without the hassle of cutting into ceilings or walls.”

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Apr 28, 2020