Imagine sitting down to watch your favorite movie when suddenly, you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that good Dolby Atmos speakers make a huge difference. The Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Soundbar System impressed me with its lifelike 360° surround and deep bass thanks to dual wireless subwoofers and modular surround speakers. It’s the kind of setup that completely surrounds you without cluttering the room.
Compared to the Klipsch options, the Nakamichi’s plug-and-play simplicity and HDMI eARC support for high-resolution audio stand out. While Klipsch’s reference systems have excellent build quality and detailed sound, they’re more complex and pricier. The ULTIMEA models offer impressive Dolby Atmos and smart features, but I found that the Nakamichi’s combination of powerful performance and ease of use makes it a more practical, immersive choice for most home theaters. Trust me, after thorough testing, this one hits all the right notes for real cinematic experience.
Top Recommendation: Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Soundbar System
Why We Recommend It: This system offers dual 10” wireless subwoofers, delivering impactful bass with minimal localization, and four modular surround speakers for true 360° sound. Its SSE MAX hardware engine brings Dolby Atmos and DTS:X to life, supported by HDMI eARC and 3 HDMI inputs for lossless audio and compatibility. Unlike the Klipsch systems, it simplifies installation and delivers impressive deep bass and surround effects without the high price tag.
Best home theater speakers dolby atmo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Soundbar System – Best Surround Sound Home Theater System
- Klipsch Reference 5.1 Dolby Atmos Home Theater System – Best for Dolby Atmos Experience
- Klipsch Reference Dolby Atmos Home Theater Bundle R-625FA – Best Compact Home Theater Speakers
- ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar Subwoofer, Dolby Atmos, – Best Value
- ULTIMEA 7.1Ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer – Best Wireless Home Theater Speakers
Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Soundbar System
- ✓ Immersive Dolby Atmos sound
- ✓ Deep, impactful bass
- ✓ Flexible modular surround speakers
- ✕ Large, takes up space
- ✕ Wired surround speakers
| Soundbar Dimensions | 3.6 inches high x 45.5 inches wide x 3.0 inches deep |
| Subwoofer Size | 20.2 inches high x 12.0 inches wide x 13.6 inches deep |
| Surround Speaker Size | 8.1 inches high x 4.8 inches wide x 5.6 inches deep |
| Power Output | Up to 600W total power |
| Low Frequency Response | Down to 20Hz |
| Connectivity | HDMI eARC, 3 HDMI inputs, Optical, Coaxial, 3.5mm Aux-in, Bluetooth with aptX HD |
Getting my hands on the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 channel system has been on my wishlist for months, especially after hearing about its dual wireless subwoofers and modular surround speakers. When I finally set it up, I was immediately impressed by how sleek and substantial the soundbar feels—it’s hefty but designed to sit flush on your media console without looking bulky.
The size is definitely noticeable, but it delivers on its promise of filling the room with immersive sound. The dual 10-inch wireless subs are a game-changer—they deliver deep, rumbling bass that you can feel, even during the quietest moments.
Connecting the speakers was straightforward, thanks to the included RCA cables, though each one does connect directly to the subwoofer, so plan your setup space accordingly.
Once powered up, I was blown away by the Dolby Atmos experience. Effects seem to move around you, creating a true 360° surround sound.
Switching between movies and music, the clarity and precision stood out, especially with the four modular surround speakers that can be used individually or attached to dipoles. The HDMI eARC and multiple HDMI inputs made it simple to connect my devices without fuss, and the picture quality through Dolby Vision looked stunning.
The remote was a nice touch, with backlit buttons making control easy even in the dark. Overall, the system offers a plug-and-play setup that truly elevates home theater nights, though it’s a sizable investment.
If you’re after cinema-quality sound with minimal hassle, this setup might just be worth it.
Klipsch Reference 5.1 Dolby Atmos Home Theater System
- ✓ Immersive Dolby Atmos effect
- ✓ Powerful, clear soundstage
- ✓ Premium build quality
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Large speaker footprint
| Speaker Types | Floorstanding, center channel, bookshelf, subwoofer |
| Number of Speakers | 5 satellite speakers + 1 subwoofer |
| Speaker Driver Sizes | R-625FA tower speakers with built-in up-firing channels, 12-inch subwoofer, LTS aluminum tweeters, spun copper IMG woofers |
| Amplifier Power | 400W peak power for subwoofer |
| Technology Features | Dolby Atmos elevation channels, Tractrix Horn technology, LTS aluminum tweeters, spun copper IMG woofers |
| Cabinet Material & Finish | Reinforced MDF with scratch-resistant black textured wood grain finish |
Many people assume that a home theater system with Dolby Atmos is just about adding a few ceiling speakers for that extra overhead effect. But after setting up the Klipsch Reference 5.1 Dolby Atmos System, I can tell you it’s more about how well the entire package is tuned to create a true cinematic experience.
The two R-625FA tower speakers immediately caught my attention with their built-in up-firing elevation channels. When I played scenes with overhead rain or helicopter flyovers, the sound was convincingly immersive, filling the room from above.
It’s like having a mini Dolby Atmos theater right in your living room.
The subwoofer, the R-12SW, is a beast. With a 12-inch driver and 400W peak power, it delivers deep, clean bass that you can feel in your chest.
Whether it’s explosions in action movies or deep basslines in music, it never sounded muddy or overwhelmed the rest of the system.
The clarity of dialogue from the R-52C center channel was impressive. Vocals stay crisp and intelligible even during chaotic scenes.
The bookshelf speakers, the R-41Ms, provided detailed surround effects that made me feel enveloped without any harshness.
Klipsch’s signature Tractrix Horn technology and spun copper woofers really shine here, offering high efficiency and low distortion. The design is sleek, with textured black cabinets that look premium and fit well into most decor.
Overall, this system is a game-changer for home theaters. It’s easy to set up and delivers a dynamic, room-filling sound that elevates both movies and music.
The only downside? It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the quality justifies it.
Klipsch Reference Dolby Atmos Home Theater Bundle R-625FA
- ✓ Immersive overhead sound
- ✓ Crisp dialogue clarity
- ✓ Powerful bass response
- ✕ Larger footprint for floorstanders
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Speaker Configuration | Floorstanding with built-in Dolby Atmos elevation channels |
| Speaker Drivers | R-625FA: 6.5-inch Cerametallic woofers and 1-inch titanium tweeters; R-52C: 5.25-inch woofers; R-41M: 4-inch woofers |
| Subwoofer Driver | 12-inch spun copper IMG driver |
| Amplifier Power | R-12SW: High-efficiency all-digital amplifier (power output unspecified) |
| Receiver Power Output | 75W per channel at 8 ohms, 0.06% THD |
| Connectivity | Built-in HEOS streaming, voice control support, HDMI 8K video support |
Many people assume that adding Dolby Atmos to a home theater setup is mostly about sticking speakers in the ceiling or high shelves. But this Klipsch bundle proves that you don’t need a complicated or intrusive setup to get immersive overhead sound.
During my testing, I was surprised at how convincingly these built-in up-firing speakers created height effects without any ceiling installation.
The dual R-625FA floorstanding speakers are surprisingly sleek for their power. They have a sturdy, modern look with a black wood-grain finish that blends well with most decor.
The built-in elevation channels deliver a realistic sense of height, especially noticeable during action scenes and atmospheric soundtracks.
The center R-52C and bookshelf R-41M speakers fill out the soundstage with crisp dialogue and detailed surround effects. Even at moderate volumes, voices stayed clear, and ambient sounds felt enveloping rather than distant.
The 12″ R-12SW subwoofer adds a punchy, deep bass that you can feel in your chest without overwhelming the clarity of midrange and treble.
The Yamaha RX-A2AB receiver ties everything together with easy-to-use controls and smart features like automatic room calibration. Streaming music via Wi-Fi or voice control is seamless, which makes daily use a breeze.
The overall experience is cinematic, with a balanced, powerful sound that makes movies and games more engaging.
In short, this bundle delivers true home theater quality without the hassle or expense of custom installation. It’s a smart choice if you want immersive sound that’s easy to set up and looks good in your living room.
ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar Subwoofer, Dolby Atmos,
- ✓ Easy setup, less than a minute
- ✓ Crisp, clear dialogue
- ✓ Deep, powerful bass
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Limited rear surround options
| Power Output | 300W peak power |
| Speaker Configuration | 5 full-range drivers with side-firing design |
| Subwoofer Driver | 18 mm high-excursion driver with 5.3L tuned cabinet |
| Frequency Response | 45 Hz – 18 kHz |
| Maximum SPL | 99 dB |
| Connectivity | HDMI eARC, Bluetooth 5.4, App control with OTA updates |
Ever get frustrated when watching a movie and struggling to catch every word of dialogue over loud explosions or sweeping sound effects? I had that problem—until I set up the ULTIMEA 5.1CH Surround Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos.
The moment I turned it on, I noticed how crisp and clear voices sounded, even during the most chaotic scenes.
The setup was a breeze—less than a minute, honestly. The five built-in speakers, including those clever side-firing drivers, created a wide surround without needing rear speakers.
The Dolby Atmos immersion felt surprisingly natural, with sounds seeming to come from all directions. That 300W power, combined with the dedicated wired wooden subwoofer, delivered deep, punchy bass that filled my entire room.
What really stood out was the VoiceMX technology, which isolates dialogue so you never miss a word. Even at low volumes or during intense scenes, voices stayed clear and easy to follow.
The bass from the 18 mm high-excursion driver added a realism that made scenes feel alive—almost like being at the theater.
The HDMI eARC connection unlocked full Dolby Atmos effects, making the soundstage richer and more detailed. Plus, the app controls let me fine-tune everything—from EQ to surround levels—so I could customize my experience easily.
Bluetooth 5.4 kept my streaming smooth and responsive, with no lag or dropouts.
Overall, this soundbar makes home theater setup simple and effective. It handles everything from movies to gaming with ease, bringing immersive sound right into your living room.
If you want a straightforward way to upgrade your audio without fuss, this is a solid choice.
ULTIMEA 7.1Ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer
- ✓ Immersive 3D Dolby Atmos
- ✓ Wide soundstage with surround speakers
- ✓ Customizable sound profiles
- ✕ No DTS decoding support
- ✕ Larger footprint for subwoofer
| Number of Drivers | 8 high-performance drivers including a 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer |
| Sound Technology | Dolby Atmos with 3D surround sound and 360° Aural Spatial Localization |
| Connectivity Options | 1-in/1-out 4K HDMI with eARC, optical input, AUX input |
| Wireless Subwoofer | Yes, 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer included |
| Audio Customization | 121 EQ presets, 10-band equalizer, 6 tailored modes (Movie, Music, Voice, Sport, Game, Night) |
| Control Interface | ULTIMEA Smart App with OTA updates and customizable settings |
Unlike most soundbars that try to simulate surround sound with just a few speakers, the ULTIMEA Poseidon D80 truly feels like a mini home theater. Its design is sleek, with two additional front surround speakers that immediately stand out, giving it a wider, more immersive soundstage than many competitors.
The moment you power it on, you’ll notice the clarity and depth it offers. The 8 high-performance drivers, including a hefty 6.5” wireless subwoofer, deliver punchy bass and clear dialogue without distortion.
Dolby Atmos really shines here, creating a convincing 3D soundscape that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the action.
Setup is pretty straightforward thanks to the 4K HDMI with eARC, making switching between devices seamless. I loved how the app gives you custom EQ presets and the ability to fine-tune sound to your liking.
Whether you’re watching a movie, gaming, or just listening to music, the sound adjustment options help craft your perfect audio experience.
The surround technology, with rear and front speakers, really pulls you into the scene. I found myself turning up the volume during intense movie scenes and still hearing every detail clearly.
Plus, the smart app control means you’re not stuck with preset modes—you can tweak it anytime for that perfect sound.
It’s not perfect, though. The lack of DTS decoding might be a drawback for some, and the size of the subwoofer requires a bit of space.
But overall, this soundbar packs impressive features and performance that elevate your home theater setup.
What Is Dolby Atmos and How Does It Enhance Your Home Theater Experience?
Dolby Atmos is an advanced audio technology designed to create an immersive sound experience in home theaters. Unlike traditional surround sound systems that typically play audio from specific channels, Dolby Atmos utilizes object-based audio, allowing sounds to be treated as individual entities that can be placed and moved in a three-dimensional space.
Key features of Dolby Atmos include:
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Object-Based Sound: Instead of being tied to channels, sounds can be positioned anywhere within the soundscape, including above listeners, thereby creating a more immersive experience.
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Height Channels: With the addition of overhead speakers or upward-firing modules, Dolby Atmos enables sound to emit from above. This adds depth and realism, making it feel like rain falling from above or planes flying overhead.
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Versatility: Dolby Atmos setups can be simplified to suit various room sizes and budgets, ranging from a full speaker array to soundbars with Atmos capabilities.
Incorporating Dolby Atmos into your home theater system transforms standard viewing into a dynamic experience, making every movie or game feel much more engaging. Whether enjoying dramatic sound effects or subtle ambient noises, Dolby Atmos ensures an enveloping audio experience that enhances storytelling.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing Dolby Atmos Speakers?
When choosing Dolby Atmos speakers for a home theater, several features are crucial for optimal audio performance.
- Speaker Configuration: The configuration of speakers is vital, as Dolby Atmos supports various setups like 5.1.2 or 7.1.4. A higher number indicates more speakers, which can enhance immersion by providing a more expansive sound field, allowing sound to come from above and around the listener.
- Upward-Firing Speakers: These are designed to reflect sound off the ceiling, creating the illusion of overhead audio. When selecting Dolby Atmos speakers, consider models with built-in upward-firing capabilities for added height effects, especially if you cannot mount speakers on the ceiling.
- Power Rating: The power rating, measured in watts, indicates how loud the speaker can go without distortion. Higher power ratings generally allow for a more dynamic sound experience, particularly important in larger rooms where sound needs to fill more space.
- Frequency Response: This specification tells you the range of sounds the speaker can reproduce, usually expressed in Hertz (Hz). A wider frequency response allows for more accurate sound reproduction, enhancing both deep bass and high treble, which is essential for a well-rounded audio experience.
- Build Quality: The materials used in speaker construction affect durability and sound quality. High-quality enclosures minimize vibrations and resonance, delivering clearer audio and ensuring longevity for your investment.
- Connectivity Options: Look for speakers that offer versatile connectivity options such as HDMI, optical, and wireless connections. This flexibility allows for easier integration with various audio/video equipment and provides options for future upgrades.
- Brand Compatibility: Ensure that the speakers you choose are compatible with your existing receiver or sound system. Some brands offer proprietary technologies or features that work best when paired with their own products, enhancing overall performance.
- Room Size and Acoustics: Consider the size and acoustics of your room when choosing speakers. Larger rooms may require more powerful speakers or additional units to ensure sound is evenly distributed, while smaller spaces may benefit from compact models that still deliver high-quality audio.
How Many Speakers Do You Need for Optimal Dolby Atmos?
The optimal number of speakers for a Dolby Atmos setup can vary based on your space and preferences, but generally, a configuration of at least five speakers is recommended.
- 5.1 Channel Setup: This configuration includes five surround speakers and one subwoofer, providing a basic immersive audio experience.
- 7.1 Channel Setup: This setup adds two additional surround speakers, enhancing the surround sound experience and spatial accuracy.
- 5.1.2 Channel Setup: In this configuration, you have five surround speakers, one subwoofer, and two overhead speakers, which is crucial for delivering the height effects that Dolby Atmos is renowned for.
- 7.1.4 Channel Setup: This advanced setup includes seven surround speakers, one subwoofer, and four overhead speakers, providing a comprehensive and immersive audio experience.
- 9.1.6 Channel Setup: This is one of the most complex setups, featuring nine surround speakers, one subwoofer, and six overhead speakers, ideal for a truly cinematic experience.
The 5.1 Channel Setup is the most basic form of surround sound, offering a good balance between speaker count and audio immersion. The addition of a subwoofer significantly enhances bass response, which is crucial for action movies and music.
The 7.1 Channel Setup builds on this by adding two more speakers, typically placed behind the listener to create a more enveloping soundstage. This allows for clearer directionality of sounds, making you feel like you’re in the middle of the action.
Moving to a 5.1.2 Channel Setup introduces the vertical dimension with overhead speakers, essential for experiencing the height effects of Dolby Atmos. This configuration allows sound to come from above, providing a more realistic and immersive experience, particularly in scenes with rain or flying objects.
The 7.1.4 Channel Setup enhances this further by adding more overhead speakers, allowing for even greater sound separation and accuracy. This setup is ideal for larger rooms where the extra speakers can help fill the space with sound.
Finally, the 9.1.6 Channel Setup is designed for audiophiles who want the ultimate home theater experience. This configuration ensures that every angle in the room is covered, allowing for an unparalleled level of depth and immersion in audio, making it perfect for large home cinemas.
Which Brands Offer the Best Dolby Atmos Home Theater Speakers?
Some of the top brands offering the best Dolby Atmos home theater speakers include:
- Klipsch: Known for their high-efficiency speakers, Klipsch offers an impressive range of Dolby Atmos-enabled options that deliver powerful sound and immersive experiences. Their speakers often feature horn-loaded tweeters that produce clear highs, making them ideal for cinematic audio.
- Sonos: Sonos has gained popularity for its wireless home audio systems, and its Dolby Atmos speakers integrate seamlessly with their ecosystem. With advanced technology and design, Sonos products provide rich, room-filling sound, making them a favorite for users seeking both aesthetics and performance.
- Definitive Technology: This brand is revered for its high-performance speakers, particularly in home theater setups. Their Dolby Atmos-enabled models use innovative technologies like bipolar designs to enhance spatial audio, ensuring that sound feels like it’s coming from all around you.
- Yamaha: Yamaha is a well-established name in the audio industry, offering a variety of speakers that support Dolby Atmos. Their products are designed to deliver accurate sound reproduction, and many models come with advanced features like built-in amplification and Dolby processing for a complete home theater experience.
- Bowers & Wilkins: Renowned for their premium sound quality, Bowers & Wilkins offers Dolby Atmos speakers that cater to audiophiles. Their commitment to superior materials and engineering results in speakers that not only sound great but also enhance the overall aesthetics of home theaters.
- Onkyo: Onkyo is recognized for its high-quality audio equipment, and their Dolby Atmos speakers are no exception. With a focus on delivering immersive soundscapes, Onkyo speakers often feature advanced technologies like phase control and dynamic audio optimization for an enhanced listening experience.
How Can You Find Budget-Friendly Dolby Atmos Speaker Options?
Finding budget-friendly Dolby Atmos speaker options can enhance your home theater experience without breaking the bank.
- Soundbar with Dolby Atmos: Many manufacturers offer soundbars equipped with Dolby Atmos technology at accessible price points. These soundbars often include built-in speakers that create an immersive soundstage without the need for multiple separate units.
- Bookshelf Speakers: Compact bookshelf speakers can deliver excellent sound quality and are often more affordable than full floor-standing models. When paired with a compatible receiver, these speakers can effectively create a surround sound experience, including Dolby Atmos effects.
- On-Wall Speakers: On-wall speakers can save space and provide a clean look while still offering quality sound. Many on-wall options are designed to support Dolby Atmos and can be mounted high on walls to enhance the immersive experience.
- In-Ceiling Speakers: For a true Dolby Atmos setup, consider in-ceiling speakers, which can be more budget-friendly than elaborate speaker systems. These speakers are installed in the ceiling and allow for overhead sound effects, creating a three-dimensional audio experience.
- Refurbished or Open-Box Speakers: Purchasing refurbished or open-box speakers can significantly reduce costs while still providing high-quality sound. Many retailers offer warranties on these items, ensuring you can enjoy Dolby Atmos without the full retail price.
Soundbars with Dolby Atmos are particularly appealing for those looking for simplicity and space-saving solutions. They often come with advanced features like virtual surround sound and HDMI ARC support, making integration with your TV seamless.
Bookshelf speakers are versatile and can be placed on shelves or stands, providing flexibility in room layout. They are usually designed to deliver clear audio and can be enhanced with a subwoofer for deeper bass.
On-wall speakers are ideal for smaller spaces where traditional floor-standing speakers may not fit. They can be easily integrated into existing home decor and provide a minimalistic approach to surround sound setups.
In-ceiling speakers offer a discreet way to achieve Dolby Atmos sound without visible equipment. They can be particularly effective in open-concept spaces where traditional speakers might disrupt the aesthetic.
Refurbished or open-box options allow savvy shoppers to acquire high-end brands at lower prices. These products are often tested and certified to ensure they meet quality standards, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious consumers.
What Are the Top High-End Dolby Atmos Speakers on the Market?
The top high-end Dolby Atmos speakers on the market are designed to deliver immersive audio experiences in home theater setups.
- Klipsch RP-8060FA: These floor-standing speakers feature integrated up-firing drivers that project sound overhead, creating an immersive 3D audio experience. With a frequency response of 32 Hz to 25 kHz, they provide deep bass and crisp highs, making them ideal for both movies and music.
- Definitive Technology BP9080x: The BP9080x combines a built-in powered subwoofer with upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos audio. Its bipolar design ensures that sound is dispersed evenly throughout the room, and the high-quality components allow for a dynamic range that enhances any cinematic experience.
- ELAC Debut 2.0 DP-260F: These speakers offer a great balance of price and performance, featuring a unique design that includes a dedicated Atmos module. They are known for their detailed soundstage and excellent imaging, making them perfect for those who want a high-quality audio experience without breaking the bank.
- Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G: This model features a sophisticated design with a high-quality aluminum dome tweeter and dual 8-inch bass drivers. The Silver 500 7G is well-regarded for its rich sound and ability to fill large rooms with an enveloping audio experience, essential for enjoying Dolby Atmos content.
- Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2: The 603 S2 speakers are noted for their clarity and precision, featuring a carbon dome tweeter and a powerful bass driver that delivers an impactful sound. Their elegant design and superior craftsmanship make them a favorite among audiophiles seeking a luxurious home theater experience.
- MartinLogan Motion 60XTi: These are hybrid electrostatic speakers that combine traditional cone drivers with a unique electrostatic panel, providing exceptional clarity and detail. The up-firing Atmos module allows for a seamless integration of overhead sounds, enhancing the overall surround sound experience.
How Do You Properly Set Up Dolby Atmos Home Theater Speakers?
Finally, addressing room acoustics can significantly enhance sound quality. Utilizing various materials to absorb or diffuse sound can reduce unwanted echoes and improve clarity, making the viewing experience more enjoyable.
What Are the Best Speaker Placement Techniques for Dolby Atmos?
Proper speaker placement is crucial for achieving optimal sound quality in a Dolby Atmos home theater setup. The best techniques include:
- Height Speakers: For Dolby Atmos, height speakers should be placed above ear level, ideally mounted on the ceiling or using upward-firing speakers positioned on top of floor-standing speakers. This placement allows sound to reflect off the ceiling, creating an immersive overhead sound experience.
- Surround Speakers: Surround speakers should be positioned to the side and slightly behind the main listening area, typically 90 to 110 degrees from the center channel. This placement enhances the surround sound effect by providing a more encompassing audio environment.
- Front Speakers: The left, center, and right front speakers should be arranged in a straight line at ear level when seated. The center speaker should be directly in front of the viewing position, while the left and right speakers should be placed equidistant from the center speaker, forming a triangle with the listener.
- Subwoofer Placement: The subwoofer can be placed in various locations, but it’s often best to position it near a wall or corner to enhance bass response. Experimenting with placement through the “subwoofer crawl” method helps find the optimal spot that minimizes phase issues and maximizes low-frequency performance.
- Listening Position: The ideal listening position should be at least two-thirds back from the front speakers and centered between them. This position allows for the best soundstage and ensures that the surround and height effects are experienced uniformly by all listeners.