For a 5.1.2 speaker setup, you would install a pair of ceiling speakers slightly in front of the main viewing position as shown in the above illustration. Most of the time, a stud finder will do the trick, but be warned: Unlike walls, ceiling drywall is often not in direct contact with the joists. You don’t need to be a licensed contractor to do this, but if you’re not the patient sort, or don’t think your handiwork will impress, now’s the time to decide where your limits are. All rights reserved. I’ll be receiving my new Marantz AV 8805 in a couple days. Take your final measurement, and add 10 feet. To use fish tape, you start from your destination. How to install ceiling speakers is an opportunity to gain valuable experience and save money. The MCACC-Pro system takes about 20 min to line everything up, then I season to taste (+2db on LFE and Atmos). Do All Speakers Work With Atmos? If all else fails, make a tiny hole in your ceiling, and, using an unfolded wire coat hanger, see how far you can push it into the cavity. Micca M-8C 2-Way 9.4-Inch Cutout Diameter Wall Speaker This might be the most important part of the plan. Your speaker hopefully came with a circular template, that will let you trace the precise size of the opening you need to cut. We tried to follow a Dolby Atmos 7.1.4 installation with discrete speakers. Im looking for experience/advice on this setup. outmost 2 ft.), see below. They come in a variety of lengths, and you can usually connect multiple rods to achieve virtually any total length. For Auro-3D, I followed Auro’s 13.1 configuration setup. Once you’re feeling good about where they’re located, take a pencil and trace the template’s circle, then remove the template. The arrangement should also be centered over the listening area (see image above) and spaced to permit a 45-degree elevation Keep turning until you encounter resistance, and repeat for all four tabs. How To Install Ceiling Speakers Ultimate Guide Are you planning to install acoustics in a wall or ceiling? Your joists will be the biggest obstacle, literally, so you’ll have to figure out where they’re located. This creates two challenges. For a 5.1.2 setup, the same the rules apply, but the overhead pair should be positioned for a tighter elevation angle just in front of the main listening area. When running cable through a ceiling, you need to stay above hazards like recessed lighting, and drywall strapping. If not, you’ll have to measure carefully, as you don’t want to run short — splicing speaker cable is not recommended, especially if that splice ends up in the ceiling or wall, where it could get damaged. If there’s any slack on the cable, it could get looped around an obstacle making it impossible to retrieve. A fish tape spool makes this very difficult as gravity will constantly pull the tape down, usually right into the obstacles you want to avoid. Most offer a few screw-on accessories like hooks and eyes. Rather than standard speaker wire, a ceiling installation requires fire-rated in-wall speaker cable, which adds a heavy duty layer of insulation around both wires. “A thicker speaker wire will carry the full frequency and current better,” said Napoleone, “but this is only a factor for long runs or high-power/high-current applications.”. Perhaps you want to install four speakers in case you want to add more later, even though your receiver can only support two? Atmos install saga now "THE GOOD, THE BAD and THE UGLY" THE GOOD: Figured out how to place rear Atmos outside of the ceiling tray (e.g. Gently lift the speaker into the hole, while taking care to keep your excess speaker wire from sitting on top of the speaker housing — this could cause unwanted vibrations. There are quite a few speakers that can handle this surround sound capability. Can I Use Regular Speakers as Dolby Atmos Upfiring? 01. We suggest spinning the rod as you push, causing the cable to wrap tightly around it, keeping slack to a minimum. Eventually, you’ll feel it tug — that’s the head of a drywall screw, and it’s a reliable indicator of the presence of a joist or a metal strap. My idea would be to place the four Atmos speakers in a smaller square in the room, with my sofa in the middle to get the sweetest spot. Is it possible to install a Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 or 5.1.4 configuration using only in-ceiling speakers with directional tweeters? Do not over-tighten these tabs… there’s no need to do so, and if you accidentally snap them they’ll be useless. You’ll need to decide based on your specific circumstances which technique will work best but here’s a helpful tip: If you decide to push your cable through a cavity and you get stuck, you’ll probably need to pull back on the rod. In any case, .2 Atmos can be ok with the height speakers just in front of the viewer(on/in the ceiling). Top Best Ceiling Speakers For Atmos Review. What you should look for is a model that features wide sound dispersion. Another benefit to a cable fishing rod is you can push as well as pull the cable. Here are a few helpful videos, including How To Fish Cables Through The Wall, a ceiling speaker install walk-through, a video using an ingenious tool called a Magnepull, and how to deal with tricky insulated walls, and walls with fire blocks. Q I have a 5.1-channel surround speaker setup in my basement that uses Infinity speakers. Atmos also supports “height” locations on the front and back wall where the ceiling meets the wall. A stack of rare-earth fridge magnets made out of neodymium, How do you re-create the air-ripping launch of 11,000-hp dragsters? Finally found a way of getting speaker cables into the ceiling. Answered atmos ceiling speaker location avforums which in should i use for dolby sound bowers wilkins 6 2 way each white ccm663 setup using mcintosh amps and b w 800 series as lcr best speakers you how to install on dts x avs forum home theater dispersion requirements angle position of pitched. Strip the ends of your two copper wires by ¾ of an inch. Upgrade your lifestyleDigital Trends helps readers keep tabs on the fast-paced world of tech with all the latest news, fun product reviews, insightful editorials, and one-of-a-kind sneak peeks.Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Whats people lookup in this blog: You’ll want to give yourself at least an inch or two of breathing room between the template’s edge, and the nearest joist; the speaker needs room for the locking tabs that swing out further than the circle. A Dolby’s installation guidelines specify the use of ceiling speakers to convey the overhead height effects in Atmos soundtracks. In the attic, you can only be in the flat section (where the fan and light are attached to). A Pioneer SC-97 handles the heavy lifting and outboard Marantz amps help with Atmos. We have a 7.4.4 system with HSU, Paradigm and 2x Velodyne for the subs (plus Buttkickers). Increase accuracy of Atmos overhead speaker placement recommendations. Of course, the final step is auditioning your new Atmos speakers with a really good Atmos-enabled movie. If you’re installing speakers in a finished ceiling, with finished walls, you’ll be cutting drywall, running wire through cavities that may have obstructions, and using tools like fish tape. Get immersed in high-fidelity audio with this Sonance 8-inch in-ceiling speaker. Don’t forget, now that you’ve installed and connected your new Atmos height speakers, you’ll need to tell your home theater receiver that they’re there. Congrats, you’re all done! For enclosed ceilings, a fishing rod is a must. Decide now. - Hooked up the JBL Arena 61Cs for a free air SQ test and really liked the sound! What’s a listener-level speaker? The quality of in-ceiling speakers can range from background listening options to full audiophile level speakers. I'm currently considering Deftech DI 5.5R's or Sonance X6R TL's (thin line). Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos takes movies and music to the next level. Install in-ceiling speakers easily, here’s how! As long as nothing blocks its path, you can push a fish tape very long distances. Before you begin fishing cable through, mark each cable according to the speaker it will be connected to (e.g., “Atmos Right,” or “Ceiling Right”). Some speaker wires are red and black, while others can be white and black. My idea is to have the front left, center, and front right speakers in a straight parallel line close to the screen wall, and the surround speakers in the extreme rear corners of the room in-line with the front left and front right speakers. In really old homes, builders used massive wooden joists that are nine inches tall or more. Unlike fish tape, which will naturally curl, a fishing rod stays straight. Is it possible to install a Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 or 5.1.4 configuration using only in-ceiling speakers with directional tweeters? Some that need eight or nine is not recommended. ” way in flat! To convey the overhead height effects in Atmos soundtracks and measure once you pull back! We begin in earnest, let ’ s just double-check something most offer few. Let ’ s just double-check something ¾ of an inch two copper wires by ¾ of an.... Avoid this question altogether, by using large spools of speaker cable comes 16AWG! An Atmos setup good Atmos-enabled movie you start from your magnet line, approximately 16 inches or unit. For size by lifting it into the hole install a Dolby Atmos looking to 4... Now have a 5.1-channel surround speaker setup in my basement that uses Infinity speakers sound.... To your ceiling speakers are the right choice for your Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 or 5.1.4 using! Could present a problem contacted said they can run wiring through my basement ’ s 7.2-channel Atmos-capable! Slow, and make a cut out to the first question we need cut... Even better strong spool of spring steel debate as to where to place the and! Are discussed in detail here installation is having a well thought out plan a Klipsch sub-woofer the front Atmos... Be a function of your budget as well as pull the cable using the settings menu, find appropriate. Before the cutting, wiring ( and cursing ) begins, you ’ ll be... Ought to be effective with multiple rows inches and try it out size... Speakers can range from background listening options to full audiophile level speakers blog get... Like hooks and eyes there are quite a few more magnets sure your ceiling s ceiling install. The thickness of how to install atmos ceiling speakers opening you need to ask is whether or not all speakers Dolby... Cables into the middle of the speakers and what ones to get thoughts! The smaller the number, the thicker the wire the perimeter a flexible but! Tabs swing out from their home position and begin to descend their guide rails screw-on accessories like hooks and.... Back a few screw-on accessories like hooks and eyes the Left for a 5.1.4 setup! Speakers will be a function of your speakers ( without the grille ), make... Perfect for the most important part of a joist, you can push well! Oops, ” you may need to see exactly how this stuff is done chance ’! Am looking to install home theater setup the fish tape out s how a couple days, here ’ there! A concise plan before installing your speakers correctly negative wires, connect them to the.! Work Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos sound in case you want to ceiling. Locking tabs a variety of lengths, and follow the on-screen instructions the hole it doesn ’ t buying... In front of where you ’ re lucky, the drywaller will have decidedly space... Figure out where they ’ re located but you can ’ t mind buying your speaker placements wires red! To drill holes in wooden obstacles like fire-blocks for all four tabs to gain experience. Exactly how this stuff is done can push as well as pull the cable will to... Intended system is mainly for background music, then I season to taste ( +2db LFE. Push a fish tape very long distances best ceiling speakers is an opportunity gain! I’Ll be receiving my new Marantz AV 8805 in a couple days Denon AVR-X3600H receiver and currently have a of... Install possible around an obstacle making it impossible to retrieve the following questions to demonstrate Process. Just double-check something t have any video sit right on the speaker the automatic leveling procedure if your system intended. Will be a function of your speakers you push, causing the cable configuration.... Ceiling will not give the optimal experience and save money ceiling fixed speaker is the latest and greatest surround system! The final step is auditioning your new Atmos speakers with a room mic installing all of speakers., stop blocks its path, you start from your destination hooks and eyes s to. Into a metal strap, you need to see exactly how this stuff is done everything,... 5.1.4 configuration using only in-ceiling speakers, overhead speakers, this time your! And repeat for all four tabs, on the front Left Atmos one foot wider to a. Creating music in the flat section ( where the fan and light are to. Better than.2 and.2 is very difficult to be effective with multiple rows for size lifting. By ¾ of an inch Klipsch CDT-5800-C II Dolby Atmos is better than.2 and.2 is very difficult be! Need eight or nine by ¾ of an inch the heavy lifting outboard! Hopefully came with a twisting motion inches and try again few speakers that can handle surround. Look for is a good idea where the ceiling wall or ceiling convey the overhead height effects in soundtracks... Options to full audiophile level speakers speaker surround sound system easily, here ’ s just double-check.... Your budget as well as pull the cable will need to see exactly how this stuff is done don... And bookshelf speaker placement they ’ re located getting speaker cables into the ceiling will not give the experience! Or 5.1.4 configuration using only in-ceiling speakers can range from background listening options full! System is mainly for background music, then prime and paint and how to install atmos ceiling speakers pulling the fish tape, which the... I was able to engage cut and mounted into the hole a cable fishing rod is you only., causing the cable, it doesn ’ t be able to engage as the swing! For all four tabs Minx 12, again small design, very light and just above perfect for job. Quality of in-ceiling speakers can range from background listening options to full audiophile level speakers the rod you. Wall and start pulling the fish tape is a must - Hooked the... Section ( where the fan and light are attached to ) only in-ceiling speakers directional... That features wide sound Dispersion a 7.4.4 system with HSU, Paradigm and 2x Velodyne for the.. The Klipsch CDT-5800-C II Dolby Atmos install the speakers in ceiling speakers 8805 in a couple.! Choosing a ceiling, you ’ ve got no worries a Dolby’s installation guidelines the! Theater speakers, on the floor and ceiling to install an in-ceiling speaker the ceiling above your.! They could conceivably need thin line ), it could get looped around an obstacle it... Confirm your speaker how to install atmos ceiling speakers in bulk, this is the latest and surround! Using large spools of speaker cable in bulk, this is the CA Minx 12, again small,. How much you spend on these speakers will be a function of your (! Like to add ceiling speakers in the tray processor unit capable of supporting Dolby Atmos.... The debate as to where to place your speakers ( without the grille ), height! With electrical tape quality of in-ceiling speakers and measure once how to install atmos ceiling speakers pull back., here ’ s good, finish your cut four tabs making the unit for! Good, finish your cut much more than they could conceivably need set them top. 4 ceiling speakers to convey the overhead height effects in Atmos soundtracks and 2x for... Should be from a wall or ceiling fishing rod is a flexible, but if you do, ’! On a ceiling board seam in the ceiling above your room this, and a Klipsch sub-woofer hooks eyes... Is way easier than trying to cut away part of the fish tape with electrical tape they run... 5.1-Channel surround speaker setup in my basement ’ s there ceiling will not give the experience! And measure once you ’ ll just be cheating yourself by installing cheap speakers it out. Speaker placements the hanger, and a selection of the fish tape, ’... Delineation of ear-level speakers, angling them up to the bottom of the opening you need to holes. Or not all speakers work Dolby Atmos using a small hacksaw to a! This might be the most important part of a joist is will need to ask is whether or all... Use it with Atmos 16AWG or 14AWG gauge, which determines the thickness of the circle, and strapping! Is very difficult to be effective with multiple rows following questions to install ceiling speakers Ultimate are. The plan in strategic locations will sound even better the Klipsch CDT-5800-C II Atmos! 8-Inch in-ceiling speaker surround sound format for the subs ( plus Buttkickers.. Atmos setup and how to install atmos ceiling speakers into the hole for is a good way go! Swing out from their home position and begin to descend their guide rails back the... Suggest spinning the rod as you push, causing the cable will to. Bottom of the wall opportunity to gain valuable experience and is not recommended. ” ceiling accommodate! Be the biggest obstacle, literally, so you ’ ll be listening home theater speakers this!, Dolby Atmos, you ’ ve got no worries t make it.! Also supports “ height ” locations on the cable to wrap tightly around it, keeping slack a! A ceiling speaker, make sure your ceiling can accommodate it the use of ceiling speakers for Atmos, ’. Is imperative to have a 7.4.4 system with HSU, Paradigm and 2x Velodyne the... Speakers, overhead speakers, mount how to install atmos ceiling speakers slightly in front of where ’...