Quick Answer

Place the A5 Novus reflective modules on top of your front speakers, angled toward the ceiling, and run your receiver's calibration to get convincing Dolby Atmos height effects.

Why Reflective Modules Work (and Their Trade-offs)

Reflective modules like the A5 Novus bounce sound off the ceiling to create the illusion of height channels without mounting speakers in the ceiling. They work best when your ceiling is flat and between 7.5 and 12 feet high. If your ceiling is angled, textured, or very high, the effect may be less convincing, and in-ceiling speakers might be a better choice.

The A5 Novus is designed to sit on top of your existing front speakers, so you don't need to run wires to the ceiling. This makes them a practical upgrade for rooms where in-ceiling installation isn't possible or desired.

Step-by-Step Setup for Height Effects

  1. Position the Modules: Place each A5 Novus module on top of your left and right front speakers, aligned with the front edge. The module's reflective surface should face the ceiling at roughly a 45-degree angle, aimed toward the listening position. Check that the modules are stable and not overhanging the speaker edges.
  2. Connect and Assign Channels: Connect the modules to your receiver's height or surround back speaker terminals, following your receiver's manual for Atmos setup. In the receiver's speaker configuration menu, assign these channels as 'height' or 'front height' rather than 'surround back'. If your receiver doesn't support Atmos, the modules won't produce height effects—you need an Atmos-capable receiver.
  3. Run Room Calibration: Run your receiver's automatic room calibration (e.g., Audyssey, MCACC, or YPAO) with the modules in place. This sets the correct crossover, distance, and level for the height channels. After calibration, verify the levels with a test tone and adjust manually if the height effects sound too subtle or too loud.
  4. Optimize Listening Angle: Sit in the primary listening position and play a Dolby Atmos test clip. If the height effect is weak, slightly adjust the angle of the modules or move them closer to the ceiling. Avoid placing them where the reflected sound path is blocked by furniture or room objects. The ideal reflection point is about halfway between the module and your ears on the ceiling.

Product Facts

  • A5 Novus Atmos 5.25" Immersive Reflective/Height Module Speaker Pair (Open Box): The A5 Novus Immersive Reflective/Height Module is designed for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X height channels. It lets you add height effects without cutting into your ceiling, making it a flexible option for renters or rooms where you can't install in-ceiling speakers.

    A5 Novus Atmos 5.25" Immersive Reflective/Height Module Speaker Pair (Open Box)

    A5 Novus Atmos 5.25" Immersive Reflective/Height Module Speaker Pair (Open Box)