Huge Dolby Atmos News You May Have Missed | What Is Dolby Atmos Flex Connect?

TCL snuck potentially big Dolby Atmos news into a TV announcement and showed it off at IFA. You may have missed it, but Dolby Atmos Flex Connect is a new surround sound technology that we should be watching for. Is it possible sound bars are about to become obsolete?
Update: We spent some time with Dolby Atmos FlexConnect at CES, check out our impressions: • Dolby Atmos FlexConnec...
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VIDEO CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
01:02 What is Dolby Atmos Flex Connect?
03:58 Is Dolby Atmos a brand or a technology?
05:32 What worries me about Dolby Atmos Flex Connect
09:50 Why Dolby Atmos Flex Connect could end up being awesome
BEHIND THE SCENES
• Why We Don’t Buy the T...
• New Studio Reveal/Tour...
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#hometheater #technology #dolbyatmos #dolby #dolbyatmossoundbar #tech #technews #movies #homecinema #homeentertainment #homeaudio #surroundsound #digitaltrends @dolby

[@digitaltrends]

Update: We spent some time with Dolby Atmos FlexConnect at CES, check out our impressions: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIm5nqqqfLqZhJo

[@ediw4483]

I am not used to seeing this much honesty compressed into a single youtube video.

[@LeezahB]

I love the honesty!

[@GamerFarmand]

Now this is tech journalism. Levelheaded informed and critical aproach to cutting-edge tech really connecting with grand scale consumer needs. Luv it!

[@josephmartinez7363]

the voice issues of this devices continue, I use my 5.1 audio only for music no movies cause the voice is inaudible no matter how much audio adjustment I have done

[@rafars2246]

lol this is paid propaganda

[@ericmatthews8497]

"ATMOS is more of a brand .. than a technology". 100% Truth!

[@bartosullivan8050]

As a guy approaching my seventies and not the most audio or video tech savy person , I genuinely appreciate your candidness and humor you bring to youtube. I became a subscriber a few years ago and you're undoubtedly my go to source for information in this realm. Hope you reach 2m soon. Thank you!

[@ThunderStruckMTB]

As an enthusiast, I am still rocking a good ol' fashioned 5.1 system for my living room based HT. While it's not a cheap system for sure, it sounds freaking awesome and I won't be cutting holes in my home's ceiling anytime soon..... Heck, ever.

[@LeezahB]

I hear you!!!

[@techsamurai11]

Same here - I have 2 5 speaker systems in my home and in the basement I was smart to go with in-ceiling speakers (that I also painted white to match the ceiling) for surrounds. I'm trying DIRAC now in one and that's the extent of my upgrades 😀 I'm also curious to see if AVRs have evolved in any way - we shall see.

[@mikek5631]

Same here. Been through many speaker orientations throughout the years before finally 'settling' on 5.1. Was never impressed with height or back speakers and certainly not enough to start cutting holes in my ceiling for a true Atmos setup. Not many movies take full advantage of surrounds these days let alone Atmos so even 5.1 seems redundant at times. Streaming isn't helping matters. I would argue that a 3.1 of quality speakers would be enough for most situations and content. Especially in a multi use living room. I'm flirting with the idea of doing away with my surrounds all together and rocking my front LCR and adding a second subwoofer.

[@techsamurai11]

@@mikek5631 Yeah, I feel the same about the 3.1 vs the 5.1.

[@DavidMander-rs4uk]

Same!! Still using standard Dolby and DTS 5.1 even for Blu-ray and I'll never put holes in for Atmos. Good enough as it is! 👍

[@TheBeng88]

Isnt this what the Sony HT 9 does ?? In a nutshell

[@brealz]

Love mine !

[@godspeedmaximus]

Exactly what I was thinking

[@25zvillcb25]

Sony does it with a dedicated processing box and their own first party identical speakers. This sounds like it's supposed to use mixed 3rd party components and the TV is doing the processing which would be more challenging but quite interesting if that is indeed how it works and if it works well.

[@Minarreal]

The Sony HT 9 costs more than a kidney, though.

[@oblivion_007]

​@@Minarrealand what amount you think dolby will ask for? Probably both kidneys

[@gotti614]

This technology sounds like something that I hope Sonos implements into their lineup. Like a combination of Era 300 and Era 100 instead of the Sonos Arc. Maybe even add on to the system and add speakers in the middle or sides of the room.

[@BoondockSaintRyan]

This is the only reason I'd consider adopting the Sonos brand. Expansion and compatibility. Though, their stuff is seriously overpriced and they drop support quickly. I'm using the Samsung HWQ990B. It can't be beat for the price and works very well. But, I refuse to switch to a Samsung TV to unlock Q Symphony.

[@JamaicaSocial]

Hi Caleb.... Is it just me or the word ATMOS is spelled incorrectly in the opening graphic? 🤔

[@kerkiraz]

The Sonus Arc is relatively speaking of an embarrassment in comparison with the latest Era 300 offerings.

[@n.s.3812]

It sounds like it's just what Sony is already doing/has been doing with the HT-A9. I have one (and I'm the most anti-soundbar/theater-ina-box person imaginable, but needed something at least halfway decent in the living room that the wife would accept, so... that was it. Wireless speakers I could put anywhere, allegedly. And if I'm being perfectly honest, it sounds almost as good as my true Atmos home theater in the basement, 9.2.4 w/ in ceilings, separate pre and power amps, speakers that cost more than... well.... yea). In any case... this sounds like they're trying to achieve something that's already been achieved. edit - Only difference really is the scalability aspect, so it sounds like the easier solution would be for Sony, rather than what Dolby themselves are attempting, by just make their HT-A9 system into a more configurable one where you can buy speakers in pairs, and offer a center speaker (as opposed to the tv connect for center, which isn't good. HT-A9 sounds better just not using it/using the 4 speakers+sub); or at least using the same technology used w/ the A9, and implementing it in a system that works with any number of speakers. Since it's already designed to essentially be placed anywhere, then just configure the distances and equalization based on the room and speaker positioning, it sounds like they have everything needed already, and Dolby just had an improvement on their idea

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

@@n.s.3812 I think that's basically what will be happening here. Since Sony is one of the main launch partners for Dolby FlexConnect it wouldn't surprise me at all if there were at least some of the tech inside the HT-A9 that was adapted by Dolby to create the FlexConnect platform. It will be really nice to see as it will allow TV buyers to get into an immersive surround sound setup for FAR less than they otherwise would have by having to buy a high-end sound bar or ATMOS enabled receiver. I'm thinking all will be revealed on this in the next week or two here when Sony finally rolls out their new 2024 A/V product lineup. Stay tuned!

[@gb3496]

So this is kind of like Dolby's Atmos height virtualization and Sony's 360 sound mapping, etc...

[@davidj.7779]

Thanks for such an enlightening explanation of what Dolby Atmos actually is and is not. I've been really thinking I was missing some big part of the audio story. Nice to now know that I am not lost in the wilderness, all by myself The multitudes await the next chapter.

[@khobia2]

Nah you not missing anything. Regular Dolby Atmos isn’t even great yet. I have a 5.2.4 setup and without spatial reality sound effects turned on the overhead sound effects are just not there. Most of your immersive’ sound effects still being sent to the 5 base level speakers.

[@MaZEEZaM]

@@khobia2 thats interesting to hear. You are only supposed to hear the ceiling and back height speakers when some type of action is happening overhead or in the air in the movie or show such as a plane flying over the character or King Kong high above and or behind the character which isn't very often. Having said all that, when Dolby Atmos first came out, it was supposed to be about the overhead, ceiling height speaker channels. If physical speakers couldn't be used then upward firing angled wedge shaped speakers that sat on top of the front tower speakers to use your ceiling to bounce sound off towards your viewing position as a less quality alternative. However, since then every man and their dog has been listing Atmos on speakers that simply cannot hope to replicate any surround sound speaker system let alone the height effects Atmos originally represents. I noticed it first on two channel laptop speakers. At the time I thought, that can't possibly create an Atmos sound effect but now its listed on pretty much all new products with speakers.

[@MaZEEZaM]

I explain what Atmos is supposed to be in the previous reply to Khobia. Hopefully it gives you some clarification.

[@504cool]

Great video and shout out to the new studio. Looks like you all have gotten the audio tight like it was in the previous studio. 👍🏾

[@farren7254]

I think the Dolby Atmos sticker on a TV with 2 dinky speakers is to say that it is capable of it, and not necessarily it can do it as is. Like it can pass through the signal and assist in concert with a Atmos capable speaker system. So I don’t think it’s necessarily disingenuous.

[@heavenlyxtacy]

Forget tv speakers, some phones with one speaker the size which requires a micrometer to measure has a atmos certification.

[@JonnyFlash80]

It's still BS marketing. HDMI pass-through is still HDMI pass-through regardless of the data. This means data is "passed through" unmodified and uninterrupted. Period.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

Correct. It doesn't mean that the two stereo speakers in the TV will be producing Dolby Atomos sound themselves, it means that the TV has the ability to pass a Dolby Atmost signal through to a Atmos enabled sound bar or ARC/eARC enabled receiver. If the TV doesn't support Atmos, then it won't be passing that signal through to an Atmos enabled external audio setup. Now, it can still pass through 5.1 or 7.1 surround over ARC or fiber optic, it just won't pass Atmos which contains a height channel, of course.

[@ModeMan101]

Informative video as always, Caleb. I agree with your opinion that Atmos - when it comes to the non-cinema version at least - is used mostly as just a brand label. It's essentially taking the place of seeing "Dolby Digital" everywhere. As for Dolby Atmos Flex Connect (did it really have to be a four-word mouthful?), it sounds like your basic assessment is right - it's something akin to what Samsung has attempted with their Q-Symphony technology, coupled with room acoustic level measurement for each satellite speaker and virtualization to compensate for the placement. It does sound potentially a bit more gimmicky than groundbreaking. And I have a feeling the wireless technology will be Bluetooth based (like Q-Symphony). I can't see Dolby/TCL sinking major R&D into proprietary wireless interfacing unless they had overwhelming support for it from other manufacturers.

[@matthewweflen]

OMG, Dolby has invented the Sony HT-A9!

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

Well, they likely borrowed a lot of the technology there that Sony developed and then came up with a more simplified version of it where the transmitter box is essentially contained within a new TV instead of being an external device. And, it looks like they removed the 4-speaker limit (5 if you count the sub) on the HT-A9. This is great though as it will allow lower-end buyers that could never afford a Sony HT-A9 to have an "HT-A9-like" experience for a fraction of the price.

[@kellyjohnson4578]

5:46 looks like they’re using HomePods. 🎉I hope so cause I love my stereo pair. Now I just need to get 2 more and a software update for true surround instead of mimicking it!

[@randallwells5617]

Interesting video, thanks for sharing. By the way, was that a Bobby Sherman LP in the background?

[@ram64man]

I still can’t work out why companies still haven’t looked at allowing two sound bars, one for front and one for back and up . it would be the best of both worlds especially for busy families especially with Dolby announcing flex it’s entirely possible

[@tenzingmingmar1424]

That’s basically what exists right now with soundbars and satellite speakers like in Samsung soundbars. The satellites have gotten much larger and have separate surround sound and upfiring atmos tweeters.

[@Wistbacka]

It is refreshing to see and hear a reviewer be this critical towards a company and a new technology. I wish more reviewers had the balls to just tell their opinions like you do without any sort of care whether or not Dolby will get angry with you or not. This is how all journalism should be; tell the news, but also be critical about the material and ask questions. Opposed to all the one-dimensional, click-bait news that is produced everywhere.

[@Fighting-Egg]

Was super excited when I got my PX1-Pro UST that has WiSA. I thought I'd go and buy a few WiSA enabled speakers, place them around my room and would have a great and wireless setup. Turns out, there's barely any WiSA speakers out there. B&O has some at B&O prices, Klipsch Reference Wireless series seems to be discontinued... I quickly gave up on the idea and bought a Samsung Soundbar. I totally agree that we need a unified standard protocol for wireless audio connections instead of Dolby doing their thing, DTS having Play-Fi and Sonos their locked-up tech while the others are using some model specific WiFi-based stuff

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

That's sort of how tech works though. It starts off with a "Format War" until someone wins and then all brands focus in on the winner as the new standard.

[@Fighting-Egg]

@@michaelbeckerman7532 sure but in this case there is/was no war and no one has been focusing on anything but themselfs. All while WiSA was out there.. Maybe there will be "war" in the not so distant future with Dolby's FlexConnect but for the past years it's either been (the rare) Play-Fi, (the super rare) WiSA or (99%) proprietary.

[@user-ft4dg3hs8s]

Sony has already done this. See the Sony HT-A9

[@humoody]

Your point on virtual dolby atmos is a spot on. It should have its own branding to avoid it affecting the expected quality of Dolby atmos

[@Lordbyronq]

Reminds me of the Sony HT-A9. I am hoping we see a second-gen of these speakers or an Apple system that is similar.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

Don't be at all surprised if Sony comes to market with a new and improved, more advanced HT-A10 system that incorporates much of the FlexConnect technology and features. All will be revealed at the upcoming Sony 2024 product launch even here in the next week or two.

[@MatthijsVanDijck]

Very interesting topic. Please do a video on the difference between 5.1, 7.1, 7.1.2 and atmos. And especially whether there is an actual difference in a normal living room (not specifically built for watching TV).

[@ubacow7109]

I wish Google's Nest Audio could connect to TV w/ surround. Its an insanely good speaker for the price but wireless makes things really difficult to connect to

[@mateuszptaszynski5377]

I think DTS Play-Fi is the most promising "wireless home cinema" on the market, it also works with TV speakers (unlike WISA), there are already many devices that support it: Philips, Hisense, Vestel including Sharp and Loewe TVs and much more speaker brands. It works through WiFi and supports up to 7.1.2 channels. It even doubles as Multiroom system. It's awesome.

[@mickschnabel]

do the so called wireless speakers still need a power outlet? or do they need to be charged?

[@mateuszptaszynski5377]

@@mickschnabel depends on a speaker

[@BoondockSaintRyan]

I need to read up on this. Again, skeptical on any new tech that claims to be a cure-all for home theatre without a particular brand or a receiver to power it all.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

Sadly, Play-Fi never really took off in the marketplace which is sad as it had great potential. I think Dolby FlexConnect will achieve what Play-Fi tried to because it has much bigger/better partners behind it that will do a FAR better job of marketing and promoting it. At launch, FlexConnect will have Sony, Hisense and TCL behind it with many others to likely soon follow.

[@LeezahB]

Sorry I forgot to mention in my other comment that this is a really good and interesting topic for a video. Despite the fact that I am still in the dark ages with respect to home theatre audio, I really am interested in it all!! I just think that my 5 1/2.1 system is pretty darn good. Maybe they should develop Dolby Atmos Flex Connect for AVRs!!! In any event, I really do enjoy your videos very much!!!

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

I can almost assure you that we will see multiple companies coming to market with FlexConnect AVRs here very soon as well. Sony will probably be first with their new 2024 receiver offerings (at least some of which should be released at their 2024 launch even here in the next week or two) but just about every other AV receiver company will likely follow not long after as well. It's just too good of an idea for them not to - and consumers are SO likely to just completely eat it all up!

[@TheGreatTomDix]

I’d say that the biggest impact on the industry Atmos has is that it allows you to calibrate really good surround sound positioning even if you can’t put speakers in ideal spots!

[@roadrash2005]

I prefer dts:x

[@killeridentity]

Onkyo has been doing that for years on their thx, dts, dolby recievers. You put a microphone where you sit and the reciever sends sounds out to determine how far each speaker is and adjusts it accordingly

[@alexs825]

@@killeridentitymine does this. Bought in 2009 about. Dts

[@leighagnello7993]

I remember getting the Samsung Soundbar' sub with x2 satellite the 2nd edition that supported DTS-X. And was the first dolby atmos system I had and yeah the dome effect bubble is real. For $2000 AUD it was awesome. Also has x4 heights inbuilt.

[@RealLifeTech187]

So Dolby's version of DTS Play-Fi? At least it got the same level of attention: none. A better approach in my opinion would be for more devices to use the established wireless transmission protocols (Amazon's Echo, Google's Chromecast or Apple's AirPlay) and add features like Atmos & DTS:X to them as necessary.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

FlexConnect will succeed where Play-Fi failed. Bigger partners, better support at launch.

[@MaZEEZaM]

I like the idea of the system being flexible with placement though how it would work with odd numbers of speakers I don't know. For me, it would only work if you could adjust the individual speaker volumes enough to compensate for the location but if that's possible, then great.

[@Barbarapape]

In the quest for perfect wireless Dolby Atmos there is on major issue which i have a lot of experince of, i have installed a lot of A/V systems way back to the early days of Dolby surround, and that is the acoustics of the room you wish to install in. Dolby Atoms reliies on reflecting sound from the walls and ceiling, if the ceiling is a high one then the only solution for the height speakers is to install them in the ceiling problem is that if you don't own the property you can't do that. So i agree with the observations in the video, this is just another gimmick to sell new gear.

[@Danwork57]

A big thank you for the excellent reviews and technical analyses. If I'm not mistaken, the Sony HT-A9 system doesn't differ much from the idea of ​​Dolby Atoms Flex connect. I fear the Dolby Sony competition more because of the Sony 360 system. In any case, it is my opinion that classic sound bars are destined to transform into something similar to the Sony HT-A9 system. 

[@Fighting-Egg]

That would be awesome. It just needs to have a center too. And then if it was extendable I'd be in heaven

[@bardactic3302]

I’ve also heard that the centre channel was weak for the system. I was stuck between that and a Sonos surround setup and went with the Sonos for the bass from the sub too.

[@Danwork57]

@@bardactic3302 I completely agree, I also had the same doubts during the Sony - Sonos comparison. Without a doubt, the Sonos configuration with Era 300 is fantastic, even if I still don't like the centrality, like the "diva" of classic sound bars. As always, the choices are very subjective

[@bardactic3302]

@@Danwork57 how is the HT-A9? Does it do a good job of really creating a bubble of sound? If so, Do most Atmos Movies make good use of it?

[@Fighting-Egg]

@@bardactic3302 for me Sonos' closed and Apple like ecosystem is a dealbreaker. I've owned a few Play:1 back in the days then suddenly they decided to ditch any support for them or something. I said never again will I buy Sonos. I also don't own Apple products and Sonos to me is the Apple of audio products

[@marcusturner5291]

Nice video keep up the good work

[@jeromedejesus8348]

Samsungs Wireless rear satelllite speakers does this one. And it’s really good pairing up with your Samsung Soundbar.

[@Terrible_Peril]

Thanks for the great tech advice as always, Mac DeMarco!

[@khobia2]

Totally agree Caleb. Except you have Auro-3D or in my case Sony 360 Spatial sound to help you get some overhead effects it’s a joke. The creators aren’t even using Dolby Atmos well anyways. Immersive audio is still just a goal we haven’t arrived yet. Not impressed.

[@demonreturns4336]

You prefer the Auro 3D and the 360 spiral sound?

[@emiel333]

Great 👍 video, Caleb. I love ❤️ Dolby Atmos so I’m curious how Flex Connect will work out in the real world.

[@stevenshadrach3182]

Agree with you on this Caleb.. I personally don’t like it for music (spatial audio -Apple Music) it’s good for movies

[@LeezahB]

I kind of like the spatial audio for music. It’s so different. Kind of a trip!

[@glennfranco206]

Excellent video I agree with your thoughts Wonder how much of our bank account would be affected. Thanks

[@njshore2239]

Through that whole video I couldn't take my eyes off the jazz album on the shelf.... Barry Manilow, David Cassidy or astrophysicist Brian Cox? - OK just kidding, appreciate your work!

[@jaysix8032]

Caleb, I'm glad I've been checking out more of your videos this week, this one was great. Thanks for voicing your concerns with the direction Dolby Atmos is appearing to take and investigating this further. As a home cinema fan investing in the tech I'm disappointed Dolby is taking this meek mousy approach to its next gen flagship tech. If it's that good, shout it from the rooftops Dolby!

[@AlainDumasblogphoto]

You have a Dynaco Trio in the backgound? SCA-50, looks like a PAT-5 or 4, and a FM-5, maybe? On the right, maybe a Dynakit amplifier, ST-70? Below that a STA-150. Well if I am wrong, I'll change my contacts and glasses. Always informative videos, keep it up.

[@BoondockSaintRyan]

Excellent video. You have every right to be, and are justified in, your skepticism. I would add this tech feature to the growing list of marketing nonsense. We all know compatibility between brands/models/etc is becoming a nightmare as companies are all vying for complete proprietary systems. Then, every "standard" merely implies that features are "up to and including," as in the case of HDMI standards. Then....as you eluded to, how does everything connect? Bluetooth? WiFi? What about latency? And can the TV mic really pull off what Audyssey/Dirac can do? And will it permanently be on, listening and catering to the corporate marketing overlords!?!? There are way too many variables for this to work. I have the Samsung HWQ990B system. It works well, but isn't perfect. I can't connect any more wireless speakers to this to expand it. It doesn't play well with my Hisense U8G, either, and pairing it with a Samsung compatible TV would unlock Samsung Symphony, but that would mean buying a new TV. I, too, am incredibly skeptical on this matter and will be following it closely. Again.... excellent video.

[@dmo848]

Nothing plays right with Hisense. Older models were the same. Had to go to Sony to get my sound working the way it's supposed to. Damn Hisense.

[@slerched]

Gimme a TV that works all that magic, can use the speakers I already have in my AVR, and sounds amazing. Would gladly retire the AVR if they can get everything (music, movies, games, TV) to sound right. Until then, my AVR will be here, in my hands (OK, in my entertainment center) until they are cold and dead.

[@Kdude216]

Love the info. I think I’m going to go the Sonos route eventually

[@davidturner7101]

Hi, very interested video on Dolby Atmos new sound. Just have a few questions for you 1) if the TV is supplying the Dolby Atmos and you place these Wi-Fi speakers around the room. Then the Tv is connected via Ethernet ( not HDMI) . 2) So all the problems with HDMI I.e. dropping out or not connecting means that you don’t need HDMI 48Gbps? 3) Surely we can connect via Ethernet to say a AV receiver and have that process the Dolby Atmos information to the speakers? Would be nice if you can show this on your Q&A videos please.

[@Van-zf9iw]

I am holding out for Dolby Atmos OS/2 Warp 4 Flex Connect!

[@Chaybee12]

I'm super excited for this once it's perfected which might take a couple of years. Sony tried it (kinda) and it was "meh" and way too expensive. As I mentioned in a comment from a review of yours a couple of weeks ago, I won't be buying another TV until this tech is implemented and reasonable priced.

[@TheGreatTomDix]

Totally agree with it being a phasing trickery!

[@wapsheli]

Sounds like the Sony HT-A9. That system is pretty good but it does need the added benefit to add more speakers and another subwoofer.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

I don't know for sure at all here, but I wouldn't be surprised to see Sony launch a far more advanced and flexible version of the HT-A9 here in the next week or two when they launch their 2024 product lineup. There could be an HT-A10 that removes both the speaker limit and the subwoofer limit entirely. How cool would that be? Now, I'm not expecting Sony to move back-into multi-room audio again in 2024, but you can never rule anything with them. This have a history of coming to market with some big surprises!

[@wapsheli]

@@michaelbeckerman7532 hopefully we can add to the Sony ht-a9 as well.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

@@wapsheli It will be interesting to see if they offer any firmware updates that add new features going forward.

[@justinbyrne5736]

Get quite a few sound dropouts from wireless speakers, not sure be as good as a dedicated wired speakers connection to AV Receiver and Subwoofer setup

[@KASmonkeys]

Thanks! Sony has something similar in they new AVRs. And I love this flex idea in that my spare room can have surround without the proper installation headache.

[@glennlpowell]

Brilliant video. This sounds to me like a marketing tool rather than leading technology and the fact TCL were the first to be involved speaks volumes if you excuse the pun.

[@McKiwi2]

I've always wanted to use 4 Sony XB-23's as part of a decently cheap multi-speaker setup for movie watching. Saying decently cheap because it's definitely cheaper than going for an HT-A9, sans subwoofer.

[@ducatii360]

I’ll stick to conventional 7.2.4 hard-lined speakers into an AVR 💯👍🏽

[@demonreturns4336]

You’re not going to have 11 wireless speakers each plugged into their own 11 power outlets 🫠

[@Tony-rj2bm]

Looks too me as a HomePod x Dolby Atmos setup, how incredible would it be to be able to buy multiple HomePods regular and minis and work flawlessly as surround sound system?? Those animated speakers in the demo already look like the size and design of the HomePods huge possibility!! I already own two regular HomePods what is two more?? That would be such a smart marketing technique from apple!! Think about it if you already own two as a home stereo pair and they release this “software update” where you can add as many more speakers as you like most people who own them as already spent money on premium speakers would probably have no problem spending on two more like me!!!

[@TheTop40hub]

A Bobby Sherman Lp in the background. Awesome. My sisters favourite early 70s singer.

[@mtzl1930]

Hi Caleb -- I loved how you analyzed this news, thanks for the review. I believe Apple TV + multiple Home Pod speakers can/might be the ultimate and practical solution for this approach. In this scenario; the new silicon chips that Apple developed are incredibly powerful, and they may be the answer for your concerns..

[@overwilhelmed]

I have Apple TV + a pair of HomePods in my bedroom and it kind of works like magic. But then again it is Apple, not the Wild West of third party technology.

[@mtzl1930]

@@overwilhelmed Yes, true. Imagine Apple TV + 6 Home Pods (FR, FL, SR, SL, RR and RL) maybe more.. Would not that be great and amazing?

[@mcds54]

Does the Bose 900 Soundbar (Atmos capable) integrate into any of this?

[@sow4now]

I’m positively impressed with your candor, and accuracy. Takes street smarts and technical depth to say anything worth my time. Unfortunately on this one, ignorance will profit DA immensely.

[@carterleynes6380]

It’s takes more than just phase manipulation to trick us into perceiving 3 dimensional sound with few speakers. It also includes equalization and time/phase aligned signals that cancel sounds from one ear while increasing it in the other. It’s a sophisticated process that’s not easy to do for more than one listener in a room

[@sunshinecycling]

This sounds like the Sony HT-A9 system. And my guess is it's a future TV generation thing.

[@dieard1]

Good info thanks. Question though, here in the U.K. most people have their sofa against a wall. All these videos / diagrams always show a sofa in the middle of a room with tables behind them etc. I wonder if they ever take this into consideration

[@CDP135Z]

I'd sure hope something like a few Apple HomePods set around your living room could maybe pull this off? I was surprised by how decent those sounded.

[@everyday_life1991]

Should my surround speakers work I have my avr set to All Channel and set to Dolby atmos don’t really hear my rear speakers playing during movies . Is it the movies I’m watching ? Not sure

[@Pete.C]

I definitely didn't miss the typo in the video: Dolby Atomos at 0:28 😉

[@norsktube]

Calibration isn’t as complex as mentioned here. The calibration will adjust delay (phasing) and volume for each speaker. The phasing will not diminish the fidelity as mentioned here, quite the opposite. Let’s get real. Everyone in every position in a room will never have perfectly delivered sound. The flex should be a significant improvement.

[@Weebinem]

Hey, whats that soundbar with the sweet subwoofer?

[@Rifumo]

It’s clearly possible since (according to the reviews I’ve seen) Sony’s done it with the HT-A9 system. BUT that system comes with an entire box the size of an Apple TV 4K that handles all the processing. So I don’t believe adding a chip to a TV will cut it.

[@DerMuri]

Also all the speakers are aware of each other and their position since they all have microphones built in.

[@oliversmith7354]

MediaTek technologies play a role in enabling wireless multi-speaker systems for smart TVs. Key technologies include MediaTek Wireless Multi-Channel Audio Technology, Ultra-low Latency, Precise Time Sync, Packet Loss Concealment, and Easy Pairing.

[@Pallidus_Rider]

Apple homepod speakers are interesting. Car audio head units allow tuning of sound based on listener location (driver, center of car, etc)

[@25zvillcb25]

I wish WISA had taken off more. I like my WISA system, but i wish there were more mid-range options

[@Itsmy2cent]

It’s basically Alexa dots paired with fire tvs to have surround sound just may sound better. But let’s face it placement, enclosure, frequency response, etc make sound good. Give me ole school 3 way floor speakers any day. I also put polyfill in all my speakers. Slows the waves achieving sweet smooth lows. Still have my Sony STR DN1060. It’s a great beast for price point

[@LegendaryMaoMao20]

I actually saw the news 2 weeks ago but tbh I'm not sure if it's worth it but I'm glad you caught up so I can watch you lol

[@neil_down_south]

I hope it will eventually include AV receivers... i.e. I can use my own front speakers and sub. I don't mind buying a new AVR but don't want to have to change TV and all speakers.

[@totalplonker824]

You do realise the whole idea of going with an AVR, never mind a better stereo sound. The best thing about going with an AVR is being able to have the flexibility to place the speakers correctly. Therefore experiencing a true non-virtual an object-based audio experience.

[@kartikkaushik9811]

Another great video

[@lucasbrown7338]

The next level Dolby Atmos sound technology is the Flex Connect one that helps in coordinating with the wireless speakers in association with the mediatek technology

[@pierre68299]

How will the mics react to interference? I don't rust wireless yet, don't want to constantly change batteries , Bluetooth also doesn't represent a dedicated DAC for hi fidelity

[@bismarchiavelli]

0:27 Minor point but Atmos is misspelled here.

[@robertnatiello3814]

IMO Its what the average home theater person needs but doesn't know and perhaps shouldn't have to be burdened with - yet another system. I suspect - like most other Dolby pushes - it will be done at the board meeting level and branch out to manufacturer brands then to the layperson as an option on a device much like our current TV's (you will need to check the specs to see if it handles Atmos / Atmos Flex connect) then if it is device enabled or uses an external or the TV's built in mic to adjust /listen for your speaker placement? Or both.either Listen for non Flex enabled speakers and encoded flex connect (for better experience) encoded speakers. Flex seems to be an extension of what Atmos was intended to be minus the necessary expense of an Atmos amplifier to port to seperate speakers. So in essence its making Atmos accessible to all. i.e the TV will do the work of identifying and aligning your speaker placement - since we all have those outlet/speaker placement and $$ restrictions of different kinds.

[@roger1818]

My guess is the quality of the surround sound will be dependent on the number(and quality) of the speakers you buy. While the system may work with only two speakers, the surround effects won’t be very good. To get better surround you’ll need more speakers. I expect the real Magic will be that the speakers don’t need to be in precise locations. As for processing power, my guess is the TV will just be broadcasting a compressed version of the full Atmos signal and each speaker will do its own processing.

[@siriussam2301]

I have a Echo Studio PAIR (Dolby Atmos).. with a Fire TV 4k Max.. I connect it to my Sony TV.. What Flex Connect is kinda like Alexa setup.. AND.. those speakers look a lot like Echo Studio..

[@swingkat]

I've been looking for something like this. Buy a bunch of cheap speakers and set them up all over the room. If it works as advertised it could be really cool. I'm expecting you'll need direct and up firing speakers to get it to work properly so it could be pricey after all. Guess we all need more info to see how it will work in reality.

[@swipekonme]

I may have an interesting take on this (if i may say so myself). It is designed to fail in the sense that it would persuade folks to go for the whole shebang. Hence the faulty implementation. Here's my take: you need a sound projection cylinder, let's say one feet stand and two feet high. It has say 4 layers that can independently rotate. each layer has 4 speakers at 90 deg. the base has a battery and a power connection (for unattended use) and the crossover, amps etc (bear with me, i am a complete neophyte). Now what we need is that there is a base unit which connects to the sound source, decodes the output and provides moving projection of sound those those 16 speakers. if so inclined, one may install it from the ceiling upside down. such a setup does not try to drive heterogeneous speaker systems so it is not a replacement for flex, it is simply a far simpler alternative and can work with any source say a console, not just a particular tv. tvs should not waste money licensing it.

[@Faucet02]

Not that I have anything against sound bars but I do prefer a proper surround sound set up. I would love it if you guys did videos on the proper set-up placement best speakers etc. Love watching your reviews, thanks

[@ss3969]

I have to ask, because I am sure others here know much more than I. I am in the market for a surround system and thinking of going with the ARC, Gen 3 sub and ERA300s from Sonos. All the reviews say it’s great system…..so is it not doing the same as the flex connect but using the Sonos set up you do with the iPhone? My wife is much more agreeable to a Sonos system because it blends in more with the room.

[@cosmindraghici4985]

Hey everyone. I have a question: It would be good to buy a Samsung HW-Q990B soundbar and install it with an LG65 G3 TV knowing the feature Q-Symphony not working for the LG 65 G3 TV or for any TV other than Samsung TVs. But I would like to know if there are other not working issues with the Samsung HW-Q990B soundbar and the LG 65 G3 TV and if there are any issues what would those issues are? If this Q-Symphony feature is the only issue between the Samsung HW-Q990B soundbar and the LG 65 G3 TV, it is still worth buying the Samsung HW-Q990B soundbar even if you do not have the Q-Symphony feature for the LG 65 G3 TV.

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

Perhaps TCL will make wireless Atmos speakers under their Alta brand.

[@jon1913]

I'm not sure if it has been mentioned yet but in your intro card you misspelled Atmos as "Atomos". Check 0:27 .

[@akhilthota9262]

I have Sony A80K, is it best to buy Samsung q990c soundbar even q symphony and other features won't work for sony or to go with Ht A5000 + sw5+ rs5.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

The A5000 or A7000 from Sony are far better choices than the Samsung bars. However, we are only a week or two away now from Sony's 2024 new product roll-out and they will likely be announcing a whole new line of soundbars and AV receivers, with all new features and capabilities.

[@pippinjameshicks]

This could be incredible. Currently you can get a sound bar system, or diy your own traditional setup with an av receiver. This would allow diy wireless setups that won't require an av receiver, they can be uprgraded over time as well. Could be the future of premium av setups where only the most dedicated still utilize a wired av receiver.

[@Ajohnson5121]

You’re absolutely wrong. A dedicated setup with wired speakers to a high powered amp will beat this any day, and probably won’t even cost as much.

[@pippinjameshicks]

@Ajohnson5121 Oh I agree it would beat it. I am saying this could cover a gap between buying a sound bar and creating a wired av setup. If all tvs supported it in the future, someone living in an apartment could buy some nice compatibile speakers and plug em in wherever they could. Compared to a sound bar it COULD offer a wider sound stage(true front left chanel), ability to add speakers over time, and affordability .

[@heavenlyxtacy]

Really agree with you, like Dolby Atmos has become a joke, like some TVs with just 2 speakers are given Dolby Atmos certification. Dolby is like you pay us money and we will give you certificate of atmos to put on tv which has 2 down firing speakers. I think dolby for a long time has not innovated anything, they just fooling people with some fancy names like atmos. I had actually gone to a theater with Atmos system and I can tell you never felt anything great with the sound.

[@totalplonker824]

Totally agree! We need some regulation in this industry

[@v99rly]

On one of your splash screens you spelt atmos wrong. Just a heads up you’ve written atomos 0:29

[@KNT1K]

Similar to SONY HT-A9 , but a more unified standard under which many manufacturers can produce.

[@gabisan777]

Sony HT A9 is something similar to this?

[@ugurylmaz4106]

04:55 I would like to say that when you saw a "dolby atmos" logo on a TV you should not get the idea of "tv's own speakers gonna give me atmos sound. 2 speakers gonna fake it and it will be greate" No. you should get the idea of "this tv has the atmos chip. so i can connect my home theater system to it and get dolby atmos sound. this tv supports and can process dolby atmos"

[@xenomorph6665]

I enjoy my Klipsch atmos speakers. Mine are wired to my 7.1 Yamaha AVR.

[@paulreger6512]

If I am not mistaken the Sony HT-A9 already does this.

[@SeanBradford89]

It'll be a battle between this and DTS Play-Fi's system. Interesting times 😁

[@BobMerlinx]

Guess it's time to subscribe - I've watched a few videos over the last few weeks, so why not.. ^^