What is 7.1ch surround and 7.1 channel? An easy-to-understand explanation of the basic concepts of sound systems

Explanation of IT Terms

What is 7.1ch Surround and 7.1 Channel? An Easy-to-Understand Explanation of the Basic Concepts of Sound Systems

Sound systems play a crucial role in enhancing our audio experience, whether it’s watching a movie, listening to music, or playing video games. Two common terms that often come up in discussions about sound systems are 7.1ch surround and 7.1 channel. But what exactly do these terms mean? Let’s delve into a comprehensive explanation of these concepts.

7.1ch Surround:

7.1ch surround refers to a surround sound system configuration that consists of seven primary audio channels and one subwoofer channel. The “ch” stands for channel. In a 7.1ch surround sound system, the seven audio channels are distributed as follows:

1. Front Left (FL): This channel provides audio from the left front speaker, typically positioned to the left of the screen or listener.

2. Front Center (FC): The front center channel delivers audio that enhances dialogue and other important sound elements from the center speaker, usually positioned below or above the screen.

3. Front Right (FR): Similar to the Front Left, the Front Right channel delivers audio from the right front speaker, positioned to the right of the screen or listener.

4. Surround Left (SL): The surround left channel provides ambient sounds and effects from the left side of the listener or viewing area.

5. Surround Right (SR): Similar to the Surround Left, the Surround Right channel delivers ambient sounds and effects from the right side of the listener or viewing area.

6. Back Surround Left (SBL): Positioned behind the listener, the back surround left channel enhances the audio experience by providing sounds and effects from the left rear.

7. Back Surround Right (SBR): Similar to the Back Surround Left, the Back Surround Right channel adds sounds and effects from the right rear.

8. Subwoofer (SW): The subwoofer channel focuses on low-frequency audio, providing deep and powerful bass sounds.

With 7.1ch surround, the sound system creates an immersive audio experience that envelops the listener and enhances the overall realism and depth of the content.

7.1 Channel:

While 7.1ch surround focuses on the specific speaker setup, 7.1 channel refers to the audio format itself. It is a discrete audio channel configuration that includes seven primary audio channels and one low-frequency effect (LFE) channel. The LFE channel is the subwoofer channel mentioned earlier, responsible for delivering powerful bass sounds.

In 7.1 channel audio, the seven primary audio channels (FL, FC, FR, SL, SR, SBL, SBR) work together to provide spatial audio positioning, while the subwoofer channel enhances the low-frequency effects, adding depth and impact to the overall sound.

7.1 channel audio is commonly used in various entertainment formats, including Blu-ray movies, video games, and surround sound music, enriching the audio experience by delivering detailed soundscapes and a more realistic audio environment.

In conclusion, both 7.1ch surround and 7.1 channel play vital roles in creating an immersive audio experience. The former refers to the speaker setup configuration, consisting of seven primary channels and one subwoofer, while the latter represents the audio format itself. Understanding these concepts helps us appreciate the intricacies of sound systems and enjoy audio content to the fullest.

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