DPL with the Theatre – Beosound Balance instead of Beolab 8 as Surround or Backs

[SimonWeir]

Over the last few months I have been exploring setup calibration with my Dealer.  Last Friday for their primary in-store setup we calibrated all distances using the supplied Theatre mic, and then adjusted for preciseness all distances using a laser measure and SPL meter to 65 db as per latest published guidance… remember the Theatre uses all speakers to assist with the room compensation, therefore it is important all speakers even those not assigned are adjusted to the listening position to 65 db, otherwise the compensation will not be as effective.  If you do not have a SPL meter, please spend c£15 and check your system… I will not be surprised if the Up Firing drivers are about 6 db too low.

All that as context… the DPL setup was no different to using the connected speakers menu for WiSA or wired.  We added 3 pairs of Beolab 8s (Fronts, Surround, Back).

We then decided to use more connections to test the system. Also adding in Beolab 28, and 50 so for a Stereo demo a customer could hear the Theatre FL + FR, step up to Beolab 8 then step up to Beolab 28 and finally Beolab 50.  Remember each added set of speakers was calibrated as per above technique to 65 db at the listening position (usually volume on the Theatre is at 45 when setting first the Front Centre as the reference volume level).

Finally added 2 pairs of in ceiling wired Celestial speakers for Front & Surround Heights… it is true more speakers just is more and with ever extra set the Theatre steps up.

However the real surprise was when we decided to swap out at the Surround or Back positions Beosound Balances for Beolab 8s.  The sound was more enveloping.  The output was a closer match to the sound of a Beolab 28 than the precision of the Beolab 8.  Interestingly a pair of Balances are cheaper than the 8s and the ability to place in a home I suspect easier.  For the look close to the Theatre, go with Beolab 8 but to your side or behind please consider the Beosound Balances, again I will not be surprised if you think this gives you much more feeling.

Once added by DPL, you can add or remove very quickly via the connected speakers menu, and the app / listening position remembers the calibration settings.

A long post to stay you may have a Balance or a Level and you could add another and now build this in to your Theatre setup to enhance your surround experience.  DPL capability has stepped up the Theatre again.

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