Are you trying to stream movies and shows with Atmos sound without any luck? Worry not! If your devices are Atmos-enabled and adequately connected with the correct settings, we're confident you can make it work. So, how do you do it?
Check the connection between devices to rule out any possibility of damaged wire. Set the Digital Output Audio format to Dolby Atmos and HDMI eARC to Auto on your TV. Also, enable the audio device settings to process Atmos sound. Finally, confirm that the content streamed is Atmos-enabled.
Let's look at the various reasons that might prevent a device from streaming Atmos sound and the possible fixes. At the same time, we'll also look at the ways to confirm if the sound produced is actually surround sound.
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Why Can't I Get Dolby Atmos to Work?
There could be many reasons. Here are some of the most common issues that might prevent you from getting the Atmos sound you seek.
- Your systems are outdated and don't support Dolby Atmos
- Devices support Atmos, but the sound settings aren’t configured properly to enable the Atmos effect
- Breaks in the wires (if you're using a soundbar)
- Streaming services or devices don't support Dolby Atmos
- The content isn’t created to work with the Atmos signal
How Can I Get Dolby Atmos to Work?
First, make sure the setting on your Dolby Atmos-compatible media device is configured correctly to stream Dolby Atmos content. These settings are crucial whether you're using a BluRay Player, Nvidia Shield TV, Apple TV (all on Amazon), or any other device.
The same goes for your audio devices. They must be compatible with Atmos, whether it’s a soundbar, home theatre system, or anything else. On top of that, you must work through the settings of these audio devices to enable Atmos sound.
For instance, when using Dolby Digital Plus codecs to access Atmos, you can use HDMI ARC or HDMI eARC. On the contrary, for Dolby True HD, you must use HDMI eARC. If you don't, you won’t get the Atmos sound.
Note: Not all HDMI ARC ports support Dolby Atmos. Some older TV's HDMI ARC ports only support Dolby Digital audio, not Dolby Digital Plus (lossy Dolby Atmos).
After you've connected and configured the devices, use a media source that can be streamed using Dolby Atmos. This could be a movie or TV show streamed from Netflix, Disney+, or other compatible streaming services.
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Alternatively, you can also make use of a BlueRay Player (on Amazon) to watch Atmos content. Again, not all Blu-ray players support Dolby Atmos.
Note: Not all content available on streaming services is created to work with Atmos. Those that are will specifically mention Atmos in the description.
How Can I Get Dolby Atmos to Work on My TV?
Typically, it'll take a few clicks of a remote to perfect the settings on your TV for access to Dolby Atmos sound. If you have your TV remote handy, let’s jump to the grounds!
Step 1: Turn on Your Device
Let’s start with an obvious first step. Connect your TV to the power socket and turn it on.
Step 2: Go to Settings
Once your TV comes to life, grab the remote, press the home button, and scroll to settings.
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Step 3: Turn HDMI e-ARC to ‘AUTO’
Under settings, choose Expert Settings under Sound. Under Expert settings, locate the HDMI e-ARC Mode and set it to ‘AUTO.’ To do so, click on HDMI e-ARC Mode a few times to scroll through the options.
Step 4: Set the Digital Output Audio Format to Dolby Atmos
Just as you did with the HDMI e-ARC mode, turn the Digital Output Audio format to Dolby Atmos.
Finally, under the expert settings, activate Dolby Atmos Compatibility. Make sure the option is selected.
Note: The settings navigation might differ for brands other than Samsung. However, the gist remains the same. You must enable Dolby Atmos sound on your device under Audio/Sound Settings. In case of any trouble, refer to the TV manual.
How Can I Tell If Dolby Atmos Is Working?
For those using the AV receiver, figuring out whether the device is playing Atmos sound is simple. Just check the AV display panel to see if it’s showing “Dolby” or “Atmos.”
And if you're using a soundbar instead, you can still check that information on the on-screen display. The majority of the soundbars display the audio signal they're processing at any given time.
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Then there are audio devices that come paired with mobile apps. If you happen to work with one of these, open the app while the audio is active from the device. And look for the audio signal that the audio device is working with currently. That would be your cue.
If the soundbar doesn't display Atmos or Dolby, your device probably isn't accessing Atmos sound.
So, how about getting your ears at work? You can figure out whether Atmos sound is activated all by yourself.
Stay within the audible range of the audio field and try listening closely. In case you feel the sound moving from one direction to another inside the room, the odds are you are getting Atmos. For instance, rainfall falling on the floor, an airplane whirling above your head, etc.
