Audyssey Labs introduces 10-channel surround

Yesterday, Audyssey Labs announced DSX, a new technology designed to add extra channels to a 5.1 or 7.1 surround-sound system. DSX, or Dynamic Surround Expansion, adds two front height-channel speakers, just as Dolby’s new Pro Logic IIz technology does, but it also adds two width speakers, each positioned 60 degrees to the side of the listener. The scheme also supports a center surround channel. The goal is greater listener envelopment and a more seamless listening experience.

You’re counting in your head, right? Yep, that’s a total of 10 speakers, plus a subwoofer. However, DSX is an a la carte proposition. According to Audyssey Labs chief science officer Tom Holman, of all the additional speakers you can add with DSX, the width speakers are the most important, because human hearing is most attuned to hearing differences in horizontal placement of sounds toward the front. You can use the height speakers instead of or in combination with the width speaker. And you can add one or two rear surround speakers in addition to the side surrounds.