Just curious if anyone has tested the new Dolby Atmos Music content on TIDAL via the A16 ? May need an Apple TV for the HDMI input...
I have the same question. I recently ordered a Roku Streaming+ to answer that question and I'll report back after I've had a chance to give the device a try.
I think it is likely that many Realizer owners, like me, are getting the A-16 because they don't have a multi-channel speaker system. I could measure my two channel system, but my speakers are 180 pounds each, so there is no way I can move them around like you did with the Dutch & Dutch speakers. Frankly, it all seems like way too much work for a questionable result (since my room is in no way optimized for multi-channel). I'd much prefer to get a custom measurement created for myself in a room with properly setup Atmos speakers and room treatments.
My primary focus has always been creating the most convincing two-channel audio listening experience within my means. I've always preferred the 3-dimensional open and natural, image presentation of stereo speakers over the in-your-head sound of headphones. While I will watch an occasional movie on my modest HT setup, a multi-channel Dolby system was never the driving factor for my A16 purchase. When I first heard of the A8 capabilities, I jumped at the chance to experience the sound of speakers via headphones. Now, I look forward to listening to any highend two-channel setup with the Realiser, and as
@audiohobbit mentioned, employing the manLOUD HPEQ process can improve your listening experience with PRIR measurements that are not your own.
Making 5.1/7.1 measurements with two speakers is a simple process that doesn't require moving speakers, only positioning yourself properly relative to the speakers themselves, which I did for my A16 measurements. The challenge was to create overhead channels. But even mow, I've not had a chance to experience an Atmos movie due to a lack of Atmos capable hardware. Regardless, the Dolby Surround results I was able to achieve with my D&D 8C were satisfactory even with a less than acoustically optimal shared HT/living room.
Of course, custom measurements would be ideal, but not everyone has access to a good studio or an ideal HT setup for measurements. In those cases, having the ability to sample PRIRs taken by others is a benefit that heretofore was not possible before the advent of the Realiser. If you're fortunate enough to find a PRIR that is a reasonably close match, the Realiser makes it possible to have a transformative headphone audio experience.
Speaking for myself, I think I'd rather have an A16 virtual 5.1 Dolby Surround system made from measurements of a pair of
Wilson Audio Chronosonic XVX ($330k/pr.) speakers, rather than limiting myself to measurements of a professionally built Dolby Atmos home theater system. However, I'd be equally satisfied with two-channel measurements of a pair of Chronosonics. This speaks to the true beauty of the Reaslier system, whether it be with two-channel or multi-channel listening. With the Realiser, an optimal experience is limited only by your ability to take personal measurements of good speakers in a good room (or if you are fortunate, by using someone else's PRIR).
