Simple Explanation

Speakers placed above the listener to create a sense of sound coming from overhead.

Concise Technical Definition

Loudspeakers used in immersive audio systems (e.g., Dolby Atmos) to reproduce height channel information, adding vertical spatial cues to the soundstage.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like adding a skylight to your audio room—now the sound can come from above, not just around you.

Industry Usage Summary

Found in object-based surround systems like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D; can be ceiling-mounted or upward-firing modules that reflect sound off the ceiling.

Engineering Shortcut

Height channels = vertical immersion; ceiling or upward-firing speakers.

Full Technical Explanation

Height effect speakers are used in immersive audio formats to add a vertical dimension to the soundfield. They reproduce audio objects or channels intended to come from above the listener, enhancing realism in home theater and cinema environments. These speakers may be mounted directly overhead (ceiling speakers) or integrated into upward-firing modules that use ceiling reflections. Common in Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D systems, height channels dramatically improve spatial imaging by conveying elevation cues—such as rain falling above or aircraft flying overhead—resulting in a three-dimensional sound experience.