Surround (rear) speakers

What Are Surround Speakers?

Surround speakers are the part of a home theater system that is responsible for the surround sound effect and the feeling of space. Unlike front or center speakers, they reproduce sounds coming from the sides and behind, creating a 360° sound field when watching movies. It is through the surround channels that you can hear raindrops, the hustle and bustle of crowds, planes flying by, or the details of action scenes that give movies a sense of realism.

Surround speakers are most often used in 5.1, 7.1 or Dolby Atmos home theater systems and are mounted to the sides or behind the listening position. Their purpose is not to produce high volume, but to accurately convey the atmosphere and fill the space. Properly tuned surround speakers help to combine the image and sound into a seamless experience, where the viewer feels at the center of the action.

Without surround speakers, a home theater system loses some of its potential - the sound becomes flatter, and movies no longer create a true cinema experience at home, just like without a center speaker.

Dipole vs Bipole vs Direct

When choosing surround speakers, it's important to understand the different types of speaker radiation - dipole, bipole, and direct (monopole). Each creates a different spatial sound experience and is suitable for different usage scenarios.

Direct (monopole) surround speakers project sound in one direction - directly towards the listener. They are the most versatile and popular choice today, especially when using Dolby Atmos or newer surround sound formats. They ensure precise sound localization and clear movement of effects in space.

Dipole speakers have two drivers that project sound in opposite directions. This creates a more diffuse, "invisible" sound field, so sounds don't seem to come from a specific point. This was a very popular choice for classic 5.1 cinema, where maximum atmosphere was desired.

Bipole speakers also have two drivers, but they emit sound in the same direction. This is a compromise between direct and dipole - the sound remains spatial, but at the same time is quite directional. A good choice when you want a softer, more even surround atmosphere.

Where to Install

Proper installation of surround speakers is essential to achieve a true surround sound effect. They are usually mounted to the sides or slightly behind the listening position so that the sound spreads around the viewer, rather than directly in their face. The optimal mounting height is about 30-60 cm above ear level, as this makes the sound more diffuse and natural.

If you are using direct (monopole) surround speakers, it is recommended to point them slightly towards the listening area. This improves the localization of effects and spatial accuracy. Dipole or bipole speakers are usually mounted directly on the sides to spread the sound both forward and backward and create a wider atmosphere.

It is important to consider the layout of the room. If your sofa is against a wall, the speakers can be mounted higher, using wall brackets. It is worth avoiding corners that can distort the sound. Properly installed surround speakers will immerse you in the movie and create a real cinema feeling at home.