5.1 Surround Sound
Simple Explanation
A sound system with six audio channels: five for speakers around the listener, and one for bass effects/subwoofer (the “.1”).
Concise Technical Definition
A digital audio format with five full-range (20 Hz–20 kHz) channels—left, right, center, left surround, right surround—and one low-frequency effects (LFE) channel (20 Hz–120 Hz).
Layman-Friendly Analogy
Like being in the middle of a movie theater, with sound coming from all directions—and a subwoofer for the deep rumbles.
Industry Usage Summary
A multichannel format developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group, commonly used in film, DVD, Blu-Ray, and HDTV. “5.1” stands for five full-range channels and one subwoofer (LFE) channel, often used for bass or effects.
Full Technical Explanation
The 5.1 surround sound format was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group for digital soundtracks in film, laserdiscs, DVD, Blu-Ray, and HDTV. The “5.1” name (coined by Tom Holman of THX fame) designates five discrete, full-bandwidth (20 Hz–20 kHz) channels—left, right, center, left surround, and right surround—plus one low-frequency effects (LFE) channel (20 Hz–120 Hz), typically handled by a subwoofer. This setup creates a more immersive, spatial listening experience.
Related Terms
Audio, Bandwidth, Bass, Channel, Digital Audio, Discrete, Frequency, Sound, Surround, Surround Sound, THX, 7.1 Surround Sound