The '.1' in these designations is for a subwoofer (sometimes called the low-frequency effects, or LFE, speaker) for the lowest bass. A 5.1 system has left, right, and center speakers in front, with left and right surround speakers.Ī 7.1 system adds left and right rear surround speakers. Typical surround sound setups have either 5.1 or 7.1 channels. Note that some advanced soundbars are enabled with Dolby Atmos and offer an alternative to the traditional setups. Dolby Atmos® is a revolutionary new technology that creates an immersive soundscape with audio that can be placed anywhere in the room and even move around you. Conventional 5.1- and 7.1-channel surround sound can involve you more deeply in the onscreen action. Good two-channel stereo can create a holographic space - but with all the sound in front of you. That's why your sound system and room acoustics are every bit as important as your TV. Audio accounts for 50 percent of the cinema experience.
