PlayStation 5 Dolby Atmos Support Tested!

[@TheRoadbots]

These clips are an awesome idea, mini tidbits of the newest etch and updates on existing tech. Great job guys, that's why i love your channel.

[@gregodfather6086]

+1 this was really a smart move

[@alyx4436]

Actually, slight correction for the last question. If you select Dolby Atmos on a 5.1 system it will automatically downmix to 5.1 Dolby DIgital Plus because it is embedded into the Atmos Mix. You will not be cut off from hearing certain things becasue you lack the speakers. This goes for any atmos receiver. In other words, Atmos is backwards compatible.

[@TGO2000]

Correction again, while this is what happens with Dolby Atmos normally that is not the case here. It still outputs in Dolby Atmos and you still get the object based surround even without the height speakers, yeah it's better if you have them but you still get the object based surround through your 5.1/7.1 setup which is better than your standard 5.1/7.1 It's not just the height speakers that output object based sound. You're just usually locked out of it with Dolby Atmos if you don't don't have the required setup. And no game is going to have Dolby Atmos as good as a movie unless it's a cutscene. Games don't even match early 5.1 stuff. A dynamic track will never be as good as a studio produced scripted track

[@royalblazen9598]

​@@TGO2000yup

[@dri_him]

​@@TGO2000not sure I get you, but should I have D.Atmos enabled for 5.1 setup or not?

[@TGO2000]

@@dri_him Yes Enable and listen for yourself. You should instantly notice the difference.

[@dri_him]

@@TGO2000 i found online that it has some issues, some games recognize it as 3D audio (stereo) and as such gives weaker dynamic range. I'll probably hold off from using Atmos and stick to Dolby Digital.

[@abo1199]

The ps5 not having audio delay with dolby atmos is such a breath of fresh air. I love how it sounds on xbox, but the delay just drives me crazy. I have to use DTS: X on xbox instead, but I don't like how it sounds compared to Atmos.

[@LostInDistance]

Are you using a high grade 4K audio Hdmi cable? Plugged into a arc port? If not, that’ll be the reason why you’re getting delay or even sound cutting out from time to time you need that high speed audio port for Dolby Atmos to work properly.

[@Bradz42092]

I use DTS-X on my Series X and it sounds better than Atmos through my home theatre system which ive got connected to eARC using a high speed HDMI 2.1 cable

[@wizzenberry]

tempest is done on simd so the cu pipeline is rapid, atmos uses cycles in other parts. so yeah slow. is dolby atmos any good i know how it works never tried it

[@TheLazyGamers]

It should work the exact same, even in terms of sound quality. Because of how audio works, all games that support Dolby Atmos support DTSX, as the internal audio bed is the same (7.1.4 LPCM).

[@abo1199]

@@TheLazyGamers In theory, but dts: x does this weird thing where sound that plays from the rear surround channels leak over into the side channels.

[@roadhouseguy]

@dfclips I have to strongly disagree with your response to the question posed by the viewer. To my best knowledge, Dolby Atmos is not only about height channels. It is a superior codec, and AV Receivers or sound equipment able to decode it should be able to take the the data and make better use of spacial audio. In my own understanding, it is not only about the level of certain effects on certain speaker channels, like traditional Dolby Digital, but the decoder is able to place effects and their travel more accurately in the listening space. Dolby refers to this as “object based audio” in many of their literature. So 5.1 or 7.1 setups without height speakers can certainly make use of the additional audio information and place object movement more accurately in the space. A lot of AVRs and Soundbars are already designed with this in mind especially at the mid tier where they don’t include all the extra channels. If they can decode the Atmos stream, then they will see that advantage in the soundstage. If the equipment is not Dolby Atmos capable, the codec is backward compatible, and they should still see Dolby Digital Plus or Dolby True HD as active on the sound equipment or receiver. The advantage then would be the much higher bitrate even if not the object based audio. Dolby Atmos is therefore backward compatible with a Dolby Digital/Plus/HD track at the core which older equipment can read. Dolby Atmos may be capable of higher bitrate audio than is the limitation of traditional Dolby Digital (lossy max bitrate about 500 kb/s). Not sure if PS5 implementation is Dolby Atmos with a lossless True HD container (as found on Blu-ray discs) or with a Dolby Digital Plus container (as found in streaming video apps). Regardless, both are exponentially higher than the older Dolby Digital used before. Remember to also consider some music albums are now also mastered in Dolby Atmos albeit with the intent of being played through stereo channels for the most part. The idea again is wider sound stage with EQ trickery etc. As seen on Apple Music on AirPods or single speaker HomePods, and some car audio for example.

[@SillentStriker]

This comment wins the trophy award

[@wizzenberry]

1. Object-Based Audio: Dolby Atmos is fundamentally an object-based audio technology. In traditional audio formats like 5.1 or 7.1, sounds are associated with specific channels (e.g., left, center, right, surround), limiting the sound's movement and positioning to those fixed channels. In Dolby Atmos, audio is treated as individual objects or sound "elements" that can move freely in a three-dimensional space, regardless of the number of speakers. Each sound object is defined with its own position, movement, and characteristics. 2. Height Channels and Spatial Accuracy: While height channels are a notable feature of Dolby Atmos, they are just one element of its spatial audio capabilities. Height channels introduce a sense of verticality and help create a more immersive soundstage. However, Dolby Atmos also focuses on precise localization of sound objects within a horizontal plane, delivering accurate placement and movement of audio elements around the listener. This is achieved through a combination of panning, cross-fading, and audio processing techniques. 3. Channel-Based vs. Object-Based Audio: In traditional channel-based audio, sounds are mixed into specific channels during production, and the playback system reproduces them through corresponding speakers. Object-based audio, as used in Dolby Atmos, separates the sound objects from the speaker layout. During playback, the system dynamically renders the audio objects to the available speakers based on their positions, ensuring an immersive and accurate audio experience regardless of the speaker configuration. 4. Backward Compatibility and Core Streams: Dolby Atmos content is often accompanied by a core audio stream, which can be a legacy format like Dolby TrueHD or Dolby Digital Plus. This core stream ensures compatibility with devices that don't support Dolby Atmos decoding. When played on such devices, the core stream is extracted and played back, providing a higher-quality audio experience compared to traditional formats. The Dolby Atmos decoder then utilizes the additional object-based information to enhance the audio on compatible systems. 5. Bitrate and Audio Quality: Dolby Atmos codecs can achieve higher bitrates compared to older formats like Dolby Digital. This increased bitrate allows for more detailed and dynamic audio encoding. The use of lossless codecs like Dolby TrueHD can further enhance audio fidelity by preserving the original studio master quality. Whether through lossless or lossy compression, Dolby Atmos delivers improved audio quality and spatial precision. 6. Music Applications: Dolby Atmos isn't limited to movies and home theater setups; it has found applications in music production as well. Music albums mastered in Dolby Atmos can provide a wider soundstage and enhanced spatial audio experience. This is particularly noticeable when listening through stereo channels or headphones, as the technology can create a more immersive and enveloping sound environment. In summary, Dolby Atmos is indeed much more than just height channels. It revolutionizes audio by introducing object-based audio, accurate spatial placement, backward compatibility, higher bitrates, and versatile applications in both movies and music. It offers a new dimension of audio immersion and fidelity, enhancing the way we experience sound in various contexts. just ai stuff man, so people can learn. but yeah you are bang on obviously a man of audio knowledge

[@jonathanmaillard7484]

Yeah but videogames are 3D scene computed in real time. The PS5 is already feeding the speakers a sound created from 3D objects location like an atmos decoder would. But the only way to use height channels on a soundbar or AVR is to send Dolby Atmos. So I suppose Atmos from the PS5 is not very useful on setup wihout height channels.

[@techsamurai11]

Atmos is for the higher channels - pain in the butt really. Installing those height channels and watering down your LCR or buying an extra amp is not worth it. We were perfectly fine with 5 speakers for living room theaters. If you have money then go get yourself some perlistens and call it a day.

[@mainsource8030]

@@techsamurai11 you have no idea what you're talking about. atmos , auro 3d, dts -x can n ow be used in theaters with over 30 channels supported. the immersion is untouchable and if the game doesnt support it, the reciever can upmix it. also you can just mount angled speakers higher on the wall and still be fine with auro 3d. every pc game i play works with atmos or dts x and my gaming pc has never sounded so good. i love people complaining about having more options /s

[@mrbobo86]

I tried Demon Souls with the atmos and when those flying mantaray monsters shoot crystals at you, you can really hear it coming from above you.

[@NINETY-97-SEVEN]

I have yet to try it. It's that good??

[@mrjotaro]

I love it honestly the sound is just so good I started watching my streaming apps on my ps5 because the sound is so much superior

[@DJordydj]

@@NINETY-97-SEVENAtmos can be a game changer in certain games despite of the evident immersive factor. In competitive fps it literally makes the sound a key factor to identify the position of your friends and your enemies around you, not only at the same level but also above and below your posotion in space.

[@mrchiledonut]

Yeah, I thought from the couple of hours I played Demon's Souls in Atmos, that Shrine of Storms was a standout. The Atmos helps with the rain-soaked atmosphere. It's more believable sounding. I am disappointed in some of the changes to the sound design in the remake, but Shrine of Storms sounds great.

[@HiveHivemind]

Enabling Atmos will use an object-based engine solution and consider the speaker setup that you use, also not simply downmixing but making it actually positional. Obviously the effect is greater the more speakers you have, but don't forget Atmos is capable of (and uses) up to 24 ground speakers and 10 overhead and won't cut content for a 7.1.2 system, for example. It will just not be as precise.

[@Palfy18]

I have the Sony HT-A9 speakers, its immersive AE feature already gives me height channel sound. Ghost of Tsushima being a great example when the thunder crackles across my ceiling, or when I'm stood underneath a canopy of trees.

[@blazinreviews2393]

Have one also and it sounds amazing!

[@Palfy18]

@@blazinreviews2393 I watched your vids before I bought mine 👍

[@fourlights]

I have the A9 but sold the ps5.. Maybe I'll get a pro model next year.

[@Palfy18]

@@fourlights I’m currently playing Mass Effect for the first time, some deep base in the sub, and convincing sound of an alien ship coming up behind you while driving the Mako. I too will get the pro model if it releases, anything to enhance my experience.

[@smashterpiece]

I just got the HT-A9 speakers and the SW-3 subwoofer, but I haven’t really found games that used the height channel yet. I’ll definitely check out ghost of tsushima!

[@EliasAnto]

Although the PS5 did not have Atmos support for games, it already had Atmos support for movies since day one. So Tom could try those Apple HomePod speakers from now.

[@terellkid1]

It never had Atmos support for movies it just passed the Atmos signal, unprocessed/untouched by the system, straight to the Atmos receiver or whatever Atmos capable audio device you’re using. It pretty much sends it to the Atmos device and says “here, your problem”. If you do that with a device that can’t process whatever signal you’re sending it then you simply get no sound. If the PS5 processed Atmos in anyway Sony would’ve had to pay licensing fees to dolby which they were trying to avoid, or include it and face a lawsuit that they’re guaranteed to lose😂

[@marklabonte2925]

I'm a casual gamer, and I use the HomePod 2's via eArc for my PS5/Switch---no noticeable lag for me (but I also don't play too many FPS). Curious if Atmos will work in my stereo pair.

[@NateSakana]

@@terellkid1 there is no point for the PS5 hardware to get involve to process Atmos data for movie anyway. All data are stored in the disc, and they just need to passthrough it to the actual Atmos decoding devices that actually matters. PS5 hardware decoding it and then reencoding it will be a waste of computational resources

[@flingymingy]

I’m glad you mentioned the Atmos delay. It’s such a disappointment after paying so much for them to find Atmos barely works because of that garbage delay.

[@grtcara8386]

It’s strange cos when the Series X came out the lag through my Sonos Arc system was terrible but over time through TV and Xbox updates the lag is minimal only really noticeable with lip sync but not with guns, it’s still there irs not perfect but not noticeable anymore

[@reyeslexus]

This is the first time someone mentioned RGB 444 on all modes. It's a big difference if you have a TV that has wide rec2020 coverage

[@Mr_Latte_UK]

PLEASE dear DF, we REALLY could do with a video that compares Dolby Atmos from the 3 major platforms (PC/PS5/XB) and as to what the issues/recommendations with each are. Has anyone tried a Sonos - Arc / Era 300 Atmos setup with PS5/XB/PC and using Ezcoo 120Hz compatible eARC adapter?

[@MTNRanger]

Awesome, my ATMOS AV system has been waiting for this for a long time now!

[@ClyptonimusPrime_n64]

I was hoping you all would cover this. Thank you!

[@BourneMiami]

Sounds like Digital Foundry should do a video specifically comparing the latency for Dolby Atmos between the PS5 and Xbox Series X. I wonder why more popular channels aren’t showcasing this issue with the Xbox.

[@Dooood89]

Theres a bid delay if i change to Dolby atmos and i dont know how to fix it

[@dodgykebaab]

Tom is an underrated member of the DF team. I want to see more Tom!

[@dwaynejohnson4727]

Two things: First, the previous Beta Tempest 3D Audio was setup to only output through either a binaural headphone or TV stereophonic speaker 5.1.2 upmix signal, not through Atmos/DTS-X capable (what I term Around Sound) soundbars/Amplifiers. But I learned how the PS5 audio settings already provided a 5.1.2(4)/7.1.2(4) signal for Around Sound capable audio devices. The only hitch was my arrangement couldn’t work if the soundbar/AV receiver didn’t have a generic decoder for non Atmos/DTS-X format Around Sound. Second, inexplicably in the previous Beta, when my PS5’s Audio Format (Priority) was set to Dolby, it began to output Atmos encoded content from PS5 Streamer applications like Disney+. Though as I attest and explain in my how-to, Tempest's realization of home media content's source Around soundtrack is much better than the Dolby Atmos format's realization. This Beta’s new Tempest 3D Audio capability is amazing, just as you informed, its new Dolby Atmos Audio Format (Priority) is actually Tempest 3D Audio translating its LPCM signal into Atmos encode language, so not only does my setup now work with any Dolby Atmos capable soundbar/AV receiver and its quality optimized, it’s still Tempest’s superior processing of the source Around soundtrack of the media content outputting to the Dolby Atmos capable soundbar/AV receiver. Noyce.

[@JKSmith-qs2ii]

Can we have an update on this? The update is now out for everyone and I am wondering about the delay. Also I have tried Returnal with it and it locks to tv speakers when I select Dolby atmos? There’s some weirdness I’m not understanding.

[@spyro440]

I'll never get why it is so difficult to just provide the final fix just as PCM, including the height channels. The PS5 can already render the final audio stream for the specific speaker setup configured in the audio settings. Its just that receivers just ignore the flags for height channels or do not support more than 7.1 via PCM - for no technical and bandwith reasons. It's just about software. I also don't get, why so many manufactures still f**** up eARC. Just pipe the bitstream through, no buffering, no nothing, like a LAN switch. Why do they add delay at all?

[@jacobwarner9710]

What is the problem behind the Dolby delay on Xbox? It's so annoying even having 5.1 Digital enabled and playing games with a Delay. But it's fine with headphones. I've opened up chats with Microsoft support but they don't recognise the issue, it's mental.

[@clanpsi]

If M$ hasn't been able to fix it by now, they're never going to. Hell, they haven't even figured out how to properly handle HDR.

[@edgarcmtz]

I avoided enabling atmos because I assumed it would be riddled with lag like the Xbox. Glad to hear it’s not problematic so far.

[@Kingtoby1981]

It's very bad on Xbox, and it's the reason I decided to turn it off. It's frustrating

[@NiKE-2002]

I also had audio delay on PS5 with Dolby Atmos, using a soundbar. Not as much as on XSX which had a terrifying delay of at least half of a second, but sound definitely had a delay. Bought a device that can solve this problem, now PS5 is perfectly fine. Xbox still has a slight delay. So i assume the Dolby Atmos problem on XBox lies in the XBox itself.

[@blackmy01]

​@@NiKE-2002Make sure you connect your PS5 directly to the sound bar and pass through the video to your TV. Using ARC/eARC is known to cause lag issues.

[@NiKE-2002]

@@blackmy01 I thought about this already, but then i would loose 120hz support, as my soundbar cannot handle 120hz, only 60 😉

[@blackmy01]

@@NiKE-2002 oh that is a bummer. I remember this being an issue with a lot of AV receivers and sound bars from the 2001ish era. Have you checked to see if the manufacturer has a software update that fixes it. Many receivers and sound bars had support patched in after release.

[@mrchiledonut]

I am contemplating whether I should keep using it. Initially, when it first came out, a few games, like God of War: Ragnarok, Ghost of Tsushima, and Days Gone for instance, sounded great, and still, some recent games like FFVII Rebirth do too, but far too many games use it awkwardly. Issues like bass being subdued (in Naughty Dog's games and Ratchet and Clank), and audio not performing as expected. In Stellar Blade it only has two channels and no surround, as well as Hogwarts Legacy where not every sound plays in the surrounds, such as voices, or a waterfall, but then the majority of other sounds play normally. And GTA 5 I very inaccurate for placement. I wish you could set it so it autodetects based on the game.

[@mrb3rt811]

Try turning off "Lipsync" or any audio delay setttings.

[@kamisamaxx]

LOL. Here is my Dolby Atmos setup with Xbox Series X and ABSOLUTLY NO LAG : - Xbox Series X plugged to LG OLDE65CX (HDMI 2.1). - SONOS ARC plugged to LG OLED65CX (HDMI 2.1) on E-ARC. - LG OLED65CX audio setting "passtrough mode" Boom. 0 lag.

[@joemamr710]

It’s been pretty much conclusively proven that atmos adds 100ms audio lag at minimum, absolute best case scenario, and can be as much as 400ms.

[@colinkirkby9140]

Another thing worth mentioning is running Dolby atmos breaks audio in some non 3d audio compatible games since the output is being detected as tv with 3d audio

[@ianwood6438]

I’m pretty sure only 3d audio supported titles output Atmos all my ps4 titles revert to Dolby digital then when I boot PS5 title it switched to Atmos, using Yamaha receiver

[@colinkirkby9140]

Interesting I haven’t tried any ps4 titles. Destiny and nhl 2023 still output atmos according to my system but the surround channels are completely dead

[@BFArch0n]

I've really missed atmos support on ps5. This is amazing news. I hope the new spiderman 2 has full atmos support.

[@madbrute6204]

Delay might be caused by the tv's audio settings. Just like tv's picture settings can ruin the image.

[@ogrenator]

Great info guys! For what it’s worth, I have a denon 7.2 atmos receiver and have zero delay. This is with atmos output from the Xbox and the receiver recognizes atmos.

[@Fairness-Fighter]

I haven't had any more Dolby Atmos lag issues on Xbox Series X since I set the digital audio output on my TV (LG) to pass-through. Previously it was set to Automatic with an audible delay in the audio. If you leave it on "automatic", the TV will cause a delay. So the signal has to go straight from the console to the sound system (AV receiver/soundbar) - so you have to select "pass through" on the TV. The only reason there is no lag on the Playstation 5 is that it doesn't output native Dolby Atmos, but rather an upmix using the Tempest engine. This signal has a lot less bandwidth than true Dolby Atmos and doesn't introduce any lag when the TV is set incorrectly ('automatic' rather than 'cycle') which then just makes it seem like the PS5 has no lag, but the Xbox does wrong TV setting in the upmix either.

[@joemamr710]

If you look at John’s actual spreadsheet all of that is already accounted for and the lag is still 100ms, very best, when all settings are optimally configured.

[@theplaystationgamer100]

Hi all. I have a 7.1 soundbar so it’s worth using? Do I set output to soundbar or AV amplifier? So many different opinions on that.

[@trauma50disaster1]

have you tried the avr "lip sync delay" option???! That is a standard feature that has been used for decades...

[@StickyProductionstm]

Lip sync options give the video signal a delay to match the audio signal, because in 99% of setups audio is pushed out faster than video because of tvs' post processing. But in this case the audio is being pushed out later

[@trauma50disaster1]

@@StickyProductionstm dude the audio delay options can go positive or negative, cmon…

[@StickyProductionstm]

@@trauma50disaster1 not on all equipment. My receiver, TV, and 4k player lack that option

[@squared80]

Don't waste your money on 'bouncey' speakers. Those aren't really Atmos, even though they're marketed as such. If you can't do in/on-ceiling, don't waste the money.

[@victoralvarez9459]

Im pretty sure thats now how Atmos works. Dolby atmos can be enjoyed on 5.1 channel audio set ups. Not just 7.1. The Audio will downscale itself to come from 5 different locations instead of the 7.

[@mauriciosanchez9237]

Dolby Atmos lag is quite noticeable since Xbox One X. Battlefield V, Gears 5, Overwatch and Modern Warfare had the same issue. The most compelling experience is Call Of Duty, great mix.

[@denisgoria270]

Hi thanks for your video. But most important is to know if the update will allowed people watching a movie from PSVR2 and get also multichannels sound played from home theatre system. Because at the moment, while playing a movie with PLEX, NETFLIX and other VOD apps, the PSVR2 block the audio output (and video) from the HDMI output which makes no sound from our audio 5.1 (or more) speakers of the audio amp. Such miserable downgrade. We want to watch movies from the PSVR2 but with our expensive and super home audio system instead of boring headphone what ever it is capable of 3D sound.

[@dastiffmeisterman]

Can't you adjust the delay on the AMP? If I get a lip sync issue on my AV kit I play a time sync demo on youtube and adjust the delay using that.

[@SimonStewart75]

There's hardly any point in "real Atmos" if there's a visible latency. It'll be interesting to see how new games sound on PS5 should they come with an Atmos mix.

[@MarshallZPie]

REALLY hoping for Dolby Vision next, I want to take advantage of my LG C2 as much as I can.

[@JKSmith-qs2ii]

I heard Microsoft paid for some sort of exclusivity to Dolby Vision with the series consoles. I don’t know if that is true however.

[@MarshallZPie]

@@JKSmith-qs2ii From what I've heard, Sony just doesn't want to pay the license for it, but they have it on their TVs and the PS5 is getting Dolby Atmos, so I think there's some hope.

[@swami5073]

Hi fellow LG C2 owner. Yes Dolby vision would change experience of gaming but I'm not sure if PS5 is upto the task. Also Dolby Atmos experience sucks in LG C2 for me. What abt you?

[@MarshallZPie]

@@swami5073 I don't have a Dolby Atmos receiver quite yet unfortunately. I have a 4k player that has two HDMI outs, one to the T.V one directly to the receiver for the audio, if that's an option for you I would do that instead of letting the TV do anything with the audio.

[@adamsultana8380]

Personally I don't like Dolby Vision on gaming, I find for the time being HDR 10 looks better. Picture was too dark for me

[@neocitron]

John, what about Atmos virtualization? Many AVRs now support this neural upmix to create “phantom” height channels in 5.1/7.1 systems. If the latency issue is solved on PS5 then there’s no reason not to enable it for AVRs that support it with flat 5.1 and 7.1 setups.

[@catabolize]

Love John's reaction on the thumbnail lol

[@kNiV3Z]

I'm curious on your set ups for atmos, i have no delay on my atmos on Xbox, i just doubled checked. I have my xbox straight to my denon along with 4k 120hz. I also have auto lip sync enabled. Have you tried DtsX

[@alexthesaxman6219]

My main issue with ps5 dolby atmos is Dialogue that should be coming from the center Channel or bedlayer comes from the ceiling speakers, which is annoying.

[@lukastemberger]

Atmos is just positional metadata on top of the standard bitstream audio. So the PS5 implementation is doing the same thing as the Series consoles. It's possible there's no lag on the PS5 because the Tempest chip is faster...

[@Shooter_D6]

Absolutely loving these df clips 😁😁

[@leeparkinson5900]

Newer TV's / avr there is no delay for Atmos on Xbox or pc / for gaming you don't want it outputting in bit streaming mode on your tv/ avr you want it mat format uncompressed newer lg TV's and Samsung tvs work perfectly Earc no lag .

[@34sld]

Got to make sure you set the eArc port to passthrough, never had a lag issue thats from a C9,C1 & now ive got a A95K

[@nickduncan8171]

I'm skeptical if the Atmos setting will get rid of the lag issue on PS5. Currently PS5>TV> eARC>Atmos Soundbar + PS5 set to Dolby or DTS results in Lag. Atmos container should introduce more lag. Currently the only fix is to connect the PS5 to the soundbar then to TV, but I'm sure many of us already need to do this so they have PC surround sound, and Switch. I'm going to need a 2.1 switch as it appears eARC is useless and cannot transmit PCM, and unlike hte 360/PS3 gen, games with Dolby or DTS 5.1 encoded native are few and far between. I'm doubtful the Atmos setting will remove the lag in this case either.

[@snakebite2170]

I have never experienced sound delay with atmos on xbox.

[@snakebite2170]

@Packin-Heat if any, it is not noticeable. I have been using atmos since 2017 with the release of Xbox One X. Bought the setup just for games and 4k movies. I never experienced audio delay with it.

[@RemixerUltimate]

Where are you guys getting this lag for Dolby Atmos on Xbox? Is this a common issue? It hasn’t been a problem for me since launch at this point.

[@augustusx82]

I have a Sonos arc and have zero delay on my Xbox in atmos

[@rd4k04]

I have the PS5 with atmos enabled connected to the sonos beam gen 2, a sub mini, and two sonos one's sl as rears. It sounds good

[@rolandomendoza4274]

I'm really looking forward to the day they roll out this new update to all users. I already have a 5.1.2 speaker set up, which brings me to this question: Which way is the best to connect my PS5 to an AVR?: 1- Using the eARC HDMI Port on the TV (PS5 goes to TV and TV is connected through eARC to the AVR). 2- PS5 to AVR and AVR to TV (not using eARC HDMI Port). Kindly note that ALLM, VRR, etc., are not an issue since the AVR I have supports that. It has 2.1 HDMI Ports. Also, I have the proper HDMI cables. If you wanna get more into details: TV: Sony X90J 50 Inch TV AVR: Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH

[@arunadayananda3551]

Did he say Atmos is laggy so he switches to 5.1 Dolby Digital? I hope he means PCM because I find DD 5.1 to be very low quality at least on PS4/PS5 which anyway provides a PCM option.

[@kraenk12]

First time I think DF actually don’t really know what they’re talking about here.

[@tomgreen2058]

I'm surprised there's no room correction or anything for this using the microphone on the controller

[@Matthew7545107]

With Atmos the room correction is the responsibility of the sound system. Atmos audio sends essentially unprocessed 3D sound data, and the sound system maps the audio to best fit your room and speakers.

[@tomgreen2058]

@@Matthew7545107 Yeah that's true of course but since the audio processing is done by the Tempest engine it's essentially mixed on the fly and then converted to Atmos. This could give the PS5 the unique potential to mix the sound for the room before it even becomes an Atmos signal by altering levels and EQs of channels even if the user's sound hardware doesn't usually allow for it. So when I say I'm surprised, I probably mispoke because that all sounds like a nice-to-have rather than a day one feature now that I say it out loud. That said, the "surround" mode for stereo speakers requires using the PS5 controller for some kind of correction, so I just expected it to be present in this case as well.

[@Matthew7545107]

All of what you’re saying should work with a 5.1 or 7.1 signal, but levels adjustments and room corrections wouldn’t be possible with Atmos. Atmos doesn’t use channels, it transmits the sound as objects then the sound system determines the speaker and assigns the channel. Levels and room correction adjustments require per speaker tuning to make the corrections, but there is no way for the PS5 to request a sound to a specific speaker, only the general area a speaker may be. The lack of precision would skewer the results as the measurements would be contaminated if the calibration tone is played across multiple speakers (which is unavoidable). Sony may be planning a Tempest 5.1/7.1 3D sound mode later, that would work essentially as you described.

[@tomgreen2058]

@@Matthew7545107 ah ok thanks for clarifying. I'd assumed the objects were assigned to channels before they made it to the speakers or amp. That's a shame, hopefully the tempest system can be made to work natively with surround sound systems at some point... It seems a bit of a waste to have all that hardware for it to only work with headphones (I'm not counting the TV speaker mode... It's crap!). I'm only really interested in it because my sound bar has rear surrounds which are adjustable independently but no way of actually doing a calibration. It's quite frustrating!

[@supermanlift]

I don’t agree with when he said “don’t use atmos if you don’t have height speakers.” Atmos should give you higher quality and bitrate, as well as less latency. And if your receiver supports Atmos, then it most likely is smart enough to know what speakers are plugged into it. It will simulate those height speakers to the best of its abilities, but you won’t be missing any audio tracks if you don’t have the full atmos setup.

[@eleon007]

Atmos is object based, so technically it should work better than a Dolby Digital mix, even on a 2.0 system.

[@chilljoe5621]

I never noticed the lag on my Xbox sx with my theater setup when playing in atmos.

[@AFreeman8415]

I can say for me it worked at first during the beta via earc and a mini update broke you switch over to atmos and nothing comes out still being worked on it seems

[@harrygarrison8344]

The dolby lag issue on series x is unreal. I annoyingly have a big movie collection on Microsoft store, and because we don't have movies anywhere in the UK my only option to watch them on the TV is through xbox....with brutal lag unless I drop down to stereo uncompressed. I am seriously considering just building a second PC in a small form factor and selling the xbox...since I get all the games on PC via game pass now anyway...

[@mastadope397]

That's what I did kind of, literally built a PC at the tail end of 2019 right before COVID and the chip shortage hit and this machine has been awesome no need to buy an Xbox because pretty much all Xbox games now come too PC day and date throw in Gamepass too and its super nice. Than you have all the emulation options and Sony now releasing their first party games on the PC also, I have to say this was by far the best purchase as far as gaming goes.

[@richardfranklin6003]

yeah microsoft need to resolve this, its absolutely ridiculous

[@zachb4561]

Not sure how you watch these movies on Series X, but you should be able to enable passthrough on SX. Solved the issue for me (for video)!

[@Tr1gg3rHappy81]

@@zachb4561 Have my sound bar hooked up to LG C1 enabled PassThrough in Series X settings. By all accounts my sound matches up perfectly on games with Dolby Atmos enabled. No delay from soundbar or the rear speakers whatsoever. The audio delay drove me insane but, everything is sublime now!

[@harrygarrison8344]

Maybe it depends on the TV then...I'm on Samsung QN85 (2022) with the Samsung Q700B atmos soundbar. Tried pass through with no luck 😪

[@BlacklistBill]

I would like to know how the fidelity changes from Atmos bitstream to PCM 5.1

[@Magnum-Gaming]

This break up of the podcast is actually good

[@AnythingGoesJoJo]

Im confused...I see Dolby Atmos setting on my PS5 and XBox Series X for awhile now...whats new?

[@Mr_Battlefield]

I hope Sony will support Dolby Vision on the PlayStation 5 soon. 🙏

[@ygordreyer]

HDR10+ as well please.

[@mrbobo86]

wont happen lol

[@Mr_Battlefield]

@@mrbobo86 Negative Nancy are you? Try to stay positive. It could happen. We just don't know when.

[@TheNoobeleng]

I would already be glad of we get Dolby Vision at least for blu-ray movies

[@Mr_Battlefield]

@@TheNoobeleng Agreed, at the bare minimum I want Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for Blu-ray movies and Streaming Apps.

[@robinj6997]

I hoped there wouldn't be an DF clip of this discussion since there seem to be a lot of false assumptions about what Atmos actually is. Would be fun with a new deep dive in this subject though

[@avavii]

I agree.

[@BoZ-s2x]

Yeah, audio is not in their area or expertise.

[@Disciple_82]

Doesn’t take an audio engineer to recognize lag. No lag on PS5 is a good thing.

[@robinj6997]

In the video John mentioned that Sony is using a simulated version of Atmos (not the real thing), he also recommended not to use Atmos for 5.1 audio systems or lower (he claimed that would be worse than older formats). Which is both false. Atmos is object based, not channel based. It doesn't mater if you have 2.0 (stereo), 3.1, 7.1.2, 11.2.4 or even higher; all of them are true Atmos. It's not height speakers that defines Atmos, it's that its object based (sound gets rendered in 3d space). Sony doesn't have a lesser version of Atmos, Tempest 3D works in the same manner as Dolby Atmos. Tempest even does it to a higher precision.

[@uncharted3isthebest810]

I have a 7.1.4 system, and I noticed when playing Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves with Atmos enabled, the HDMI device type automatically goes to TV even if you have AV amplifier selected in the settings. This strips away the LFE channel and you get significantly less bass. Oddly enough, the uncharted 4 ps4 version doesn’t have this issue and actually has a 3D mode with full LFE support. So to get the best atmos, you have to play on the ps4 version

[@mrchiledonut]

I wouldn't call it an issue, not in one sense. It's just the way it's designed. God of War: Ragnarok also defaults and cannot be changed from "Television (3D Audio)", and The Last of Us: Part I auto-detects to "Narrow" when it was "Medium" with LPCM. It's just the way Atmos, through Tempest, was designed. It sounds great. I changed it back to "Studio Reference" in TLoU and turned the volume up because Studio Reference was already pretty quiet, but is even more so in Atmos. I would honestly stick with Legacy of Thieves as the sound engine was updated to better suit the Tempest engine.

[@uncharted3isthebest810]

@@mrchiledonutI would have to respectfully disagree. A huge loss in the bass department is a big issue for me. There’s pretty much none with Dolby atmos enabled on legacy of thieves. If I have to choose between great bass and height channels, I’m taking the bass. The Last of Us Part 2 doesn’t have this issue cause you can adjust audio settings in game and change it to studio reference. Uncharted 4 on the ps4 doesn’t have the issue either.

[@uncharted3isthebest810]

@@mrchiledonutI will agree though, that the height channel usage is rather impressive. I just wish the bass was there as well.

[@mrchiledonut]

@@uncharted3isthebest810 Understandable. It's subjective. I believe the PS5 version is taking advantage of the Tempest engine better than the last-gen version, however, if it doesn't sound as good to you then it's good you can choose to play the other version. Yes, I agree that the loss of bass is not great. I haven't tried the game for myself, but I believe TLoU: Part I is similar as I had to feel my sub to be sure it was outputting anything (which it is). I can hear it, but it felt less boomy than when in LPCM from what I remember, and that's fine. In testing a bunch of games, God of War: Ragnarok and Returnal are two other games that choose 3D Audio TV and won't allow you to change it either, but I think they sound great. My point about it not being an issue is that I mean it's the way it's designed, so it's intentional, but the lack of bass for you is an issue.

[@uncharted3isthebest810]

@@mrchiledonutAh I see. Yeah, to each their own. I hope they add an update or something that gives you the option to bring back the bass

[@otter25702]

I agree my SONOS system now sounds a lot better with the BETAT 5.1 and some games do sound a bit different on my PS 5.

[@a36538]

Can you guys please do a bit on Dolby Vision support, now that there's a new swath of 4k OLEDs with this tech? The general consensus seems to be DV support on PC is basically non-existent in otherwords a useless spec for a pc only monitor.

[@rickprod]

So this Dolby atmos lag is everywhere right now? Even in headphones like the artics nova pro? Thanks

[@tehgman2]

I do not believe I have noticed any latency issues. Mine is all atmos all the time and I specifically look for it in games for my xbox. Borderlands 3 in particular is also quite nice.

[@ldtatum8459]

It’s definitely there as I affects everyone, the delay is anywhere from .5 secs to 4 secs

[@afroditta6950]

@@ldtatum8459 no it's not, it doesn't affect everyone. I have 0 lag with Atmos activated.

[@ldtatum8459]

@@afroditta6950 stop the cap, it’s an EVERYONE issue. Don’t embarrass yourself further

[@afroditta6950]

​@@ldtatum8459 As you can see from the comments, it's not. If you would own an xbox, you would know.

[@TheLateral18]

Is chroma subsampling noticeable to the regular eye??

[@nicolagiampellegrini3411]

I use eARC on xbox with Samsung hw90 and i have audio delay. But if i connect the xbox directly to the soundbar i get video delay instead. What is the solution?

[@carbonm2]

I mean, the same day the update came out, a Sony audio engineer stated that games and apps can use native Dolby Atmos if developers choose to. Did you do any research into this before making this video??

[@livibam]

Tried RE4 with the Sonos Atmos system.. and thought it sounded decent, better than the reg Dolby and 7.1. I didn’t really get any noticeable delay, unlike on the SX, which is unplayable with Atmos.

[@gustavocastillo9954]

I really want to see RE2r in Dolby Atmos, just to hear Mr. X's thundering footsteps around you lol

[@mrchiledonut]

​@@gustavocastillo9954Actually, at least to me when I tested it on Series X (and anticipating Tyrant's lumbering around the police station) I found RE2 to be one of the most disappointing Atmos games available.

[@gustavocastillo9954]

@@mrchiledonut Yikes, that's a major bummer. Have you played RE4R and if so, have you tweaked with the speaker orientation settings? I imagine this would sound really good, especially with an awesome sound bar such as a Samsung 990C!

[@mrchiledonut]

@@gustavocastillo9954 Yeah, but also on Xbox (although I might get it on PS5 when the VR comes out). I love RE, and I'm glad they support Atmos, but none of the RE games are great Atmos to me and don't enhance the experience a whole lot in comparison to what Atmos does for other titles. I'd say the best I heard was probably from Village. I uninstalled RE Village off PS5, but I bought it on PS5 as well due to the VR so maybe I can compare between the two at some point. I do wonder if it'll sound different between PS5's Atmos and Xbox's Atmos. I have a 5.1.4 and the speaker orientation includes the surround backs, so I don't mess with it. It defaults (when off) to 30 for fronts and 110 for side surrounds, which is close enough to what I have my speakers set so I don't find the speaker orientation necessary. Do you have an Atmos setup? How do you think it sounds? I am playing Separate Ways right now and I think it sounds quite good with a few good Atmos moments. Edit - Update 12 days after that post. After having played it more between it and Separate Ways, I will say I am a bit more impressed by RE4, but it's mostly subtle details like chandeliers in the castle and chains. There are a few cutscenes in Separate Ways that make good use of height channels as well. Not sure what exactly changed. Perhaps the way I've slightly altered my speaker's position or a volume change, or maybe I just appreciate the subtler details more, but right now I like the mix more than before.

[@lambo2655]

My Bose 500 soundbar with a bass module doesn't support ATMOS so will I get some 3D audio benefit with this new firmware? I really don't like using headphones when I game but it's the only way to get true 3D audio. The other option to use TV speakers for 3D sound is very underwhelming and it literally sounds like crap coming from my Bravia A8H 55' OLED.

[@frostyone182]

I can’t get the PS5 to trigger Atmos on my sound system. I went into the console sound settings and switched the priority to Atmos, and tried two games that have 3D audio (Dead Space Remake and Days Gone). I made sure the games were set to 3D audio, but my sound system still didn’t switch to Atmos. I’ve tried 4K Blu-Rays on the PS5 and Atmos has always worked fine with that. I’m re-installing Demon’s Souls, since someone else mentioned it worked well with that. I’m wondering if maybe some games just don’t trigger it. I’m using a Vizio 5.1.2 soundbar surround system. The update said soundbars work with it, so Idk what’s up.

[@Wickedclownx33]

For the series x if you're using earc that's why you're getting the delay. I have mine directly to the receiver and don't get any delay. Also I have an onkyo system. When I had the Yamaha receiver I was getting very bad lag.

[@godspeedmaximus]

This is already addressed in the video. He states that lag is still present in this scenario. It just gets 3X worse when using earc

[@Technically_Techy]

I found my delay on windows 11 and Xbox series x kinda went away after a while but it only happens when I plugged things into my lg c9 never my Denon avr s750h or something like that.

[@ericcarlton87]

Wow Sony just came out with Dolby Atmos. My Series X has had that for 3 years now.

[@MichaelM28]

@@Packin-Heat Because it is. It's laggy af on trashbox 😂😂😂

[@MichaelM28]

Wow Microsoft just came out with games. My PS5 has had that for 3 years now.

[@14supersonic]

About the Dolby Atmos lag on Xbox, it seems that any mention of these audio problems falls on deaf ears with MS unfortunately. Many people have pleaded with them to fix this problem and add USB audio support for years, and yet they've still to provide any solution to it. Its likely that if neither of you guys can budget them to get it done, then its likely they won't every resolve this.

[@manuelg.5811]

The Xbox thing is weird. I had the same issue with Gears 5. But yesterday I tried it with Doom 2016 and there was no lag. The Series X goes through a FeinTech VSW04202 HDMI Switch to the Samsung HW-Q950T System and it was displayed as an Atmos signal. The difference to DD and DTS was significant, way more punch in the low end. I guess I will always have to test this with every game I play in the future. Quite annoying.

[@LostInDistance]

Think many people don’t realise you need to be using an arc port, it’s a higher speed audio port that’s needed for Dolby Atmos. Some people may not even have that option on their TV’s. Along with a high grade 4K audio hdmi cable. Otherwise Dolby Atmos just won’t work or you’ll get sound lag at least and even cuts out from time to time.

[@JKSmith-qs2ii]

Arc and earc are still slower than plugging a device directly into an avr though.

[@LostInDistance]

@@JKSmith-qs2ii I’m pointing out what you’d need to get it working at least properly. Seems to be a lot of confusion in the comments.

[@CrunchgTime]

That’s interesting about the atmos lag, my Xbox and my specific setup doesn’t has this issue and I’m super sensitive to Audio lag, I’m using the hdmi from the Xbox to my JBL 9.1 then to the tv

[@ramiyohay7286]

My question is does it give you the feeling of 3d like the 3d headphones. I mean do you actually hear like steps behind you or from the sides

[@ianwood6438]

I noticed I was getting dialogue through all the speakers on one title definitely didn’t sound but returnal ghost and horizon sounded great

[@nathanocegueda]

Same. FF16 I had the final battle dialogue coming in on rears

[@djvoodoo01]

Dont get upfiring speakers for atmos, you're better off having direct sound from speakers on/in the ceiling or high up on your walls

[@shugazi1]

Getting a sony atmos soundbar (ht-s2000) now that I got the PS5 update, im very new to this so didnt spend much and would sync nicely with my Bravia Tv. Looking forward to experience this new sound.

[@electrikoptik]

Xbox Series S is holding DF Clips behind!

[@Theodred127]

Hi, I have a question, I have 10-12 years receiver which doesn’t support dolby atmos, but it supports dolby digital plus, true hd and dts hd. I have set sound setting to Linear PCM to avoid lattency. Should I switch to dolby atmos (it will be dolby digital plus for me) or stay will linear pcm after the update? 🤔

[@XGamers]

If you have a proper setup and went through calibration there's a complete difference. Also just from my experience bipolar speakers work real good as surround and surround back. You definitely need height speakers. Don't bother with Dolby Atmose enable speakers because there's too many variables to get a good sound out of them. You would need to build a room specifically for them imo. I think what Playstation done is a good viable option as the keep on improving their own tech.

[@mrchiledonut]

I wouldn't say don't bother with them, they're better than nothing and not everyone can or wants to place speakers in their ceiling. Getting any type of sound system depends on your room, and in a room with ceilings that are between 7.5 and 10 feet and aren't vaulted, proper speaker placement for up-firing speakers can be effective. It's true that film and game creators probably don't create with "bouncy house" speakers in mind, but I still think they're worth it if you have the space for at least two surrounds for a .4 system. I wouldn't do a .2, however. People just need to be aware of several speakers and how they fit into a room. If you have a couch up against a wall, for example, don't get a 7.1 system. If you don't have high enough ceilings, don't try to get in-ceiling speakers. Everything depends on your room.

[@blackmy01]

Contrary to John's advice, after going hands on with Atmos on PS5, it is a vastly superior experience to XBOX (fyi not a fanboi here I own both consoles) but the lag and patchy support on XBOX is a bummer. On PS5 the experience in Demon's Souls remake, Horizon FW, Returnal etc is exceptional! The sense of presence and directionality is superb! I still prefer using my Momentum 4 as the sound quality is so bloody good, but now I am perfectly happy to play through the surround sound especially with the thundering bass that adds to the emersion. No slight against John, but I feel he should spend more time with these games especially as they really sold me on Sony's Atmos implementation. Oh almost forgot. Dead Space remake! The soundstage of that game is amazing!

[@blastu2fool]

What speakers are you using to get the Dolby atmos ?

[@bogroll1881]

You are quoting titles from mostly 1st party developers that paid attention to implemeting tempest 3d audio, I would guess that developers who make the effort to specially craft a tempest soundtrack will sound awesome. However 3rd party titles that don't specifically implement a good tempest mix may not be as good.

[@blackmy01]

@@bogroll1881 Very true. But that does not detract from how impressive Sony's Atmos implementation is. The same can be said of developers who poorly implement HDR. I'm still working through my library of games to more thoroughly test. Next I want to test PS4 games that supported spacial audio. Uncharted 4/Lost Legacy support Spacial Audio I believe, maybe Zero Dawn? Resident Evil Village is another that I remember had an excellent 3d audio mix. Personally, Returnal still stands as the single most impressive example of what the Tempest Engine can deliver. Cranked up loud with a good subwoofer, just wow. The first time I opened the portal to the second biome, with this new Atmos support, incredible use of the LF channel!

[@JKSmith-qs2ii]

I agree with most but leaving it on atmos might not be best. I found that FFXVI had muffled sound when outputting dolby atmos even though it supports 3D audio. I thought it sounded better in linear pcm. Returnal sounds phenomenal however.

[@ianwood6438]

I also thought final fantasy sounded a bit crap when set to Atmos, to be fair I think the audio in that game in general is pretty poor

[@Shannon-ul5re]

I have used dolly Atmos on the xbox x with no problems, my height speakers are in the ceiling. I'm hoping the ps5 version is just as good it is directly connected to the tv with eArc out to the pioneer receiver.

[@ldtatum8459]

Yeah that’s a bunch of cap… it’s an everybody issue on XSX for Atmos sound delay… gotta love when fanboys try to claim they’re the miracle that goes in affected

[@kraenk12]

You’re just ignoring the issue.

[@brandon_leeroy135]

I believe I had to pay $15 for my series X to support Atmos. Using a Sonos Arc/sub and LG CX

[@krissrock]

i find it funny that DF is doing all these PS5 videos lately...comparisons and reviews for games hitting PS5, that were already on xbox... Lookin at Dolby on PS5, but never bothered for it xbox whish already had it at launch...

[@Godzillagroom]

I have 7.2.4 . Let’s see how it works . Been waiting for ages to finally make use of atmos .

[@rljunggrenz]

What game sound setting did u use? Since the home theater setting is saying "gives not the 3d experience"

[@theconsolekiller7113]

Interesting about the Atmos lag on Series X. Never noticed it through my Marantz reciever, but I wasnt looking for it. I will have to test that. I wouldve through it would stand out to me. Spent 100s of hours on Atmos games on the console. Usually real perceptive about audio and visual issues. Is this Atmos lag also present through headphones? I just set up Atmos with Audeze Maxwell wireless headphones and noticed NO lag at all either.

[@Govermentavenue]

Yeah I’ve been using it since Xbox one x, there is no log. Most are just Sony fans. Just like DF

[@theconsolekiller7113]

While I wouldnt be surprised if some people are experiencing that with thier set ups, I just tested it after posting that message and saw ZERO lag in Atmos mode for both my AR Reciever and Audeze Maxwell Wireless headphones running through the wireless dongle attached to the USB on the console. @@Govermentavenue

[@autoscopy]

I have tried two gaming headsets wired and wireless and experience noticeable lag with Atmos. DTS X is less.

[@theconsolekiller7113]

Sounds really shitty. Luckily I have not noticed that at all. Maybe its the headsets youre using, since I dont think the console would vary. I can only confirm that I cant notice ANY lag with the Audeze Maxwell wireless headphones. I also dont notice any lag through my Marantz SR6014 reciever, both in Atmos mode. Theres so many ways to connect all this shit too. For the headphones Im using the wireless dongle hooked direct to the console. I didnt test running it through the controller again, but I dont remember noticing it there either. For the reciever Im running the series X into the back of the reciever via HDMI and then the reciever hooks into the TV, then I use the wireless dongle in the USB port in front of the series X.@@autoscopy

[@autoscopy]

@theconsolekiller7113 I used the certified astro a20 with wireless dongle in the front of the series x. I used Razer Blackshark Pro wired. Same issue. Tried every available audio option on xbox and my tv. Nothing fixes it except for not using Atmos.

[@JB_inks]

Can you please put the original upload date?

[@thekangaroo1880]

And why was this delayed by 3 years? It should've been released on launched alongside DTS and Dolby Digital etc.

[@iLveLean]

Is the update not officially out yet?

[@muehliism]

On the Xbox why don t you use DTS X it s usually the best option be it movies or games at least on my Setup Sadly DTS X will probably only be available on the PS 5 Pro i bet

[@mikejohnson8391]

Atmos maybe but no Dolby vision for those who use LG brand tv with 2.1 support for gaming or streaming.