What is the goal of surround sound?
To get sound 360o. We hear sound naturally from ALL directions. The goal of surround sound is to make it sound as if it is coming from all directions.
To achieve surround sound, audio is distributed and played from multiple speakers strategically placed around the listener. This creates a more immersive auditory experience, where sounds appear to originate from different directions, enhancing the sense of depth, realism, and spatialization.
To set up a surround sound system, there are a few key elements to consider:
1. Speaker Configuration: Surround sound systems typically consist of a central speaker (usually placed below the TV), front left and right speakers, rear left and right speakers, and a subwoofer for low-frequency effects. The exact configuration may vary depending on the specific system you're using.
2. Amplification: Each speaker in the system needs its own dedicated amplifier or receiver channel. A home theater receiver or an audio-video receiver (AVR) is commonly used to handle the amplification and routing of audio signals to the different speakers.
3. Audio Source: The sound for surround sound systems usually comes from a source such as a Blu-ray/DVD player, streaming device, cable/satellite box, or gaming console. These devices need to be connected to the receiver using HDMI or digital audio connections for optimal sound quality.
4. Speaker Placement: Proper speaker placement is crucial for achieving an immersive surround sound experience. Front left and right speakers should be placed at ear level on either side of the television, while the central speaker should be positioned below or above the TV. Rear speakers are typically placed behind the listener, slightly above ear level. The subwoofer can be placed anywhere in the room to spread low-frequency sounds evenly.
5. Calibration and Configuration: Once the speakers are positioned correctly, the surround sound system may need to be calibrated and configured. This can involve running an automatic speaker setup process, adjusting individual speaker levels, setting up distance and delay settings, and optimizing audio settings on the receiver.
By following these steps and considering the specific requirements of your surround sound system, you can achieve the goal of enveloping listeners in a rich, immersive audio experience.