Browser based Dolby Surround test?

[LaurasOtherHalf]

I’m on site tomorrow would like to test some speakers (a 5.1 set up) before I plaster in the cable runs. I have the speakers and an amp but no surround source.

Can I hook up a MacBook via hdmi to the amp and run a demo? YouTube only supplies 2 channel stereo I thought-any other free tests that aren’t just a bleep test?

[karma mechanic]

If you are simply making sure it is working then the amp itself should be able to do test tones. On a macbook you could sign in to Netflix or Amazon and play stuff that has surround sound, assuming the output can be configured that way.

[Zirconia]

Tried the Dolby site? Usually some helpful stuff there. Never used the downloads though.

Sure there must be a 5.1 GLITS floating around on the web, not via youtube.

Edit. Netflix has test patterns, not sure they have multi channel audio in the patterns as well, think it explains it on the descriptors. No longer using Netflix myself. Search on the obvious. They do have various formats.

Edited by Zirconia on Thursday 5th December 10:40

[karma mechanic]

Yes, the Netflix test patterns do have a rather robotic voice-over enumerating the various surround speakers. Search for 'Test Patterns' and choose one that the macbook can easily display, like a 1920x1080p one.

I assume that the setting-up of the surround sound will be done with the amp's Audyssey, YPAO (etc, depending on the brand) so at this stage the aim is to make sure the connections are complete and correct.

[LaurasOtherHalf]

Yes, the amp will have a basic bleep test to make sure everything is working ok after a mic test but I was more thinking of giving the customers a brief "sound demo" before the rest of the install happens next week. Usual stuff music, maybe an explosive scene etc.

I have a blu-ray demo disc but there won't be a blu ray player on site.

[InitialDave]

I'm not sure how well it would work for your needs, but I use Razer's software to give the "artificial" surround sound through my PC headset, and that has a demo built into it. Maybe give that a look?

[TonyRPH]

Here's some Dolby Atmos test files you can download.

https://www.dolby.com/us/en/guide/dolby-atmos-trai...

And even more here:

https://thedigitaltheater.com/dolby-trailers/