Want to know what 2.1 audio stands for? The audio format found on Blu-rays, 4k Blu-rays, streaming movies and TV series, and other types of media represents a 2.1 channel audio speaker system. The “2” stands for the number of separate “full bandwidth” speakers that can be used (for example a center, two sides, and two rear/side speakers). The “1” stands for a subwoofer, a speaker that handles the low frequencies of an audio stream, often called the “bass” speaker.
Configuration
How is a 2.1-channel system configured? A simple 2.1-channel setup would be comprised of dual front speakers (also referred to as “stereo” sound) and one subwoofer. The two speakers are usually placed on each side of a screen and point straight outward or slightly angled inward toward the viewing location.
While a 2.1 channel setup can sound great depending on the audio equipment and content being watched, it is not generally considered to be “surround sound.” For a surround sound system you would need to move into a 5.1 system which would use additional channels as rear or side speakers. A 7.1 system would split those two L/R surround signals (while each still in full bandwidth) into 4 distinct channels.
How To Hear 2.1 Audio
To hear 2.1 audio you’ll need a receiver or soundbar that supports 2.1 channels such as the Sony HT-S350 2.1 Channel Soundbar (Amazon), Vizio V-Series 2.1 Channel Soundbar (Amazon), or Samsung HW-R450 2.1 Channel Soundbar (Amazon). All three of those soundbars include a wireless subwoofer (although, an AC cord is still required to power the subwoofer). Most new soundbars also support Bluetooth for connecting devices such as phones and tablets, as well as HDMI inputs for disc players, satellite and cable, streaming media players, gaming consoles, and older analog AV devices.
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