What Are the Differences Between 5.1 Sound And 7.1 Sound?- EKSA (2025)

A surround sound headset contains multiple channels or speakers. These speakers create wider sounds if you place them strategically. If you purchase a headset with a surround sound system, you can hear the depth and distance of the sound. That’s why many gamers prefer to use surround sound headsets over other options.

Today, gamers and sound engineers are talking about the 7.1 surround sound system, which is a bit different from than traditional 5.1 surround sound. In this post, we will compare 5.1 surround soundwith 7.1 surround sound headsetso you can make an informed decision and enhance your gaming experience.

What Is 5.1 Surround Sound?

A 5.1 surround soundheadset includes six speakers on each ear. Three speakers are in the front, two on the side, and one in the back. These speakers are strategically aligned to provide depth and wide sound. The main benefit of this technology is proper equability and localization for a center-positioned audience. Using these headsets you can enjoy a theatre-type sound. Here are some advantages of using best 5.1 surround sound system:

  • These headsets are available in different options
  • You receive stereo music reproduction with the help of left and right front channels
  • There is a separate speaker at the back for the subwoofer
  • It comes with a basic channel configuration.

What Is 7.1 Surround Sound?

A 7.1 surround sound headsetcontains two additional speakers than a 5.1 surround sound system. In total, 7.1 surround soundincludes eight channels or speakers. It contains three front speakers, two left and right speakers on each side, one subwoofer speaker at the back, and two additional speakers. Two additional speakers are located on the rear side and provide computer surround sound effects.

Many musicians and gamers are shifting from 5.1 surround soundheadsets to 7.1 surround soundbecause they receive more depth and wide sound. The surround sound system in these headsets generates well-directed, specific, and spread-out sound. Some advantages of 7.1 surround sound headsetare:

  • Detailed sound with additional channels
  • Maximum customization and configuration options
  • You receive control over the sound system
  • Deep sound experience with sound flexibility
  • Larger space with enhanced sound

Difference Between a 5.1 Surround Sound and a 7.1 Surround Sound Audio

The major difference between a 5.1 surround sound systemand a 7.1 surround sound systemis the number of channels. A 5.1 surround soundhas six channels for surround sound, while 7.1 surround soundcontain eight channels. The two additional speakers or channels offer enhanced sound quality.

Although the choice of technology between 5.1 surround soundand 7.1 surround soundtechnologies depends on your preferences, 7.1 surround soundoffers better quality. If you want an immersive experience, deeper sound, better audio quality, you should opt for headsets with 7.1 surround sound.

Factors to Consider While Choosing Headsets with 7.1 Surround Sound Audio

If you already made up your mind to purchase a 7.1 surround sound headset, here are some factors you should consider:

1.Comfort

If you purchase a 7.1 surround sound systemwith uncomfortable design and build quality, you won’t be able to enjoy the sound quality. Many gamers purchase bulky and heavy headsets. While purchasing they only consider surround sound system. But, since their headsets are uncomfortable, this would be a bad purchase. You cannot wear these headsets for an extended period. If you wear these headsets for long gaming sessions, you will hurt your neck and back. Furthermore, sweat or trapped heat can cause infection and other health problems.

2.Control Buttons

The best 7.1 surround sound headsetshould contain control buttons on one of the ears. So, you can easily control volume while playing a game with your friends. Furthermore, the 7.1 surround headset should have a button that allows you to switch between stereo sound and surround sound.

3.The Noise Cancelling Microphone

While purchasing a gaming headset make sure that it contains a noise-canceling microphone. A noise cancellation technology offers clear communication so you can plan your strategies and win games. Many gamers are tired of distorted connections and loud noise in the background while communicating with their teammates. If background noise irritates you as well, you should consider a headset with a noise canceling algorithm. A noise-canceling microphone filter sounds and eliminates background noise.

4.Wired or Wireless

A headset with 7.1 surround soundcomes in both wired and wireless connections. Although both these options are fine, you might notice a slight difference in sound quality. Some gamers think that wired headsets are a reliable option because the sound instantly reaches the headset’s output and wireless connection causes delay. But, if you will purchase wireless headsets with low latency, you won’t find any delay.

Conclusion

Are you a hardcore gamer and want to experience the gameplay with the high sound quality? If yes, then you should purchase true surround sound headsets. Using these headsets you will receive in-depth and wide sound. Furthermore, frequencies are beautifully spread across multiple channels for immersive sound. As a result, you can enhance your gaming performance and skills.

But, there are two major types of surround sound headsets based on the number of channels. A 5.1 surround soundheadset contains six channels, while a 7.1 surround sound headsetcomes with eight channels. Although both these technologies offer wider sound quality, the 7.1 surround sound systemis better. Hopefully, now you know what is 7.1 surround soundand how you can improve sound quality by purchasing this headset.

If you want to purchase high-quality surround sound headsets, you can check the EKSA product line. EKSA manufactures a wide range of headsets with different features and use. EKSA E3 Pro Air Joyheadsets and EKSA E900 Pro virtual surround soundheadsets are popular among gamers. These headsets enhance sound quality and offer an incredible gaming experience. EKSA also manufactures wireless 5.1 surround soundand environment noise cancellation headset, so buy them now.

READ MORE:How to Install 7.1 Surround Sound Driver?

What Are the Differences Between 5.1 Sound And 7.1 Sound?- EKSA (2025)

FAQs

What Are the Differences Between 5.1 Sound And 7.1 Sound?- EKSA? ›

The second number refers to the presence of a subwoofer. So, a 5.1 system includes three front channels (left, right, and center) and two rear channels (left surround and right surround). While a 7.1 system has an additional two channels (left side surround and right side surround).

What is the difference between 5.1 and 7.1 placement? ›

7.1 Channel Speaker Placement

The Left/Right Surround Speakers should be located in line to the left and right of the main seating spot. This is slightly different from the positioning suggested for a 5.1 channel system. These speakers can be elevated but should be angled slightly towards the main seating spot.

What is the difference between 7.1 surround sound and surround sound? ›

A 7.1 system has the same five main speakers as a 5.1 system, plus another two surround speakers added for side surround. These extra speakers are positioned between the front and rear speakers, facing inward toward the listening position to help create an even better sense of depth and detail.

Does EKSA E900 have 7.1 surround sound? ›

Virtual 7.1 surround sound - E900 Pro gaming headset is equipped with a 50mm audio driver, providing powerful and clear bass stereo surround sound. Virtual 7.1 surround sound can better hear the positioning audio and get a more immersive gaming experience.

Do you really need 7.1 surround sound? ›

If you have a tiny room, 5.1 may be the go. If the side and back speakers are super close together, they often perform like a single pair anyway. If you have a bigger room (or you want to go LOUD), 7.1 is the better option. It will give you that extra immersive effect and it will fill your room with more sound.

What happens to 5.1 audio on a 7.1 system? ›

Note that it's possible to power a 5.1 system with a 7.1 receiver. These outputs simply remain unused. Some receivers recognize automatically whether a 5.1 or a 7.1 system is connected. With others, this must be set in the menu.

Is 5.1 better than 7.1 for gaming? ›

Although the choice of technology between 5.1 surround sound and 7.1 surround sound technologies depends on your preferences, 7.1 surround sound offers better quality. If you want an immersive experience, deeper sound, better audio quality, you should opt for headsets with 7.1 surround sound.

How do I setup my 7.1 surround sound headset? ›

Go to Settings > System > Sound then select "Speakers (7.1 Surround Sound)" as the output device. Launch the 7.1 Surround Sound software and select the output device that you would like to apply 7.1 Surround Sound on.

What movies play 7.1 surround sound? ›

Movies with surround 7.1 audio
  • G.I. Joe: Retaliation. 20131h 50mPG-13. ...
  • The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. 20122h 49mPG-13. ...
  • Prometheus. 20122h 4mR. ...
  • Ice Age: Continental Drift. 20121h 28mPG. ...
  • Star Trek Into Darkness. 20132h 12mPG-13. ...
  • Oz the Great and Powerful. 20132h 10mPG. ...
  • Les Misérables. 20122h 38mPG-13. ...
  • Jack Reacher. 20122h 10mPG-13.

Does the Eksa E900 have Bluetooth? ›

EKSA E900 BT uses a stable and reliable Bluetooth 5.0 chip with low power consumption and stable connection. 3 connection modes with 4 connection methods (USB/Type C/3.5mm/Bluetooth), it can be easily connected to all devices such as PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Laptop, smartphone, Xbox, etc.

Is Dolby Atmos or 7.1 better? ›

While Dolby 7.1 speakers can still provide an immersive audio experience, Dolby Atmos offers more advanced and precise audio technology, especially when paired with compatible speakers and content.

Does Netflix support 7.1 surround sound? ›

Depending on your home surround sound setup, you will enable either 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound. This option is only available with an HDMI connection.

Which is better, 7.1 or 5.1 2? ›

Sure 7.1 is better than basic 5.1 and it sounds great, but if you can accommodate in-ceiling speakers… Go with 5.1. 2 for a better, more immersive and exciting experience. Read on to find out why that is and some critical tips on how you can get the most out of it.

What is the best placement for surround sound? ›

In a 5-channel system, the side surround speakers should be located 90-110 degrees off-axis. For the best sense of spaciousness, the tweeter height should be about 2 feet above ear level. In a 7.1 system, dedicated rear surround speakers are placed behind the primary seating position for enhanced rear panning effects.

Where should 7.1 surround sound speakers be placed in the wall? ›

The left and right surround speakers (shown as "A" in Fig. D below) must be placed equally to each side and slightly above and behind the viewing position. Left and right rear surround speakers (shown as "B") should also be about three feet above (and behind) the seated listeners' heads.

What sounds better, 7.1 or 5.1 2? ›

Sure 7.1 is better than basic 5.1 and it sounds great, but if you can accommodate in-ceiling speakers… Go with 5.1. 2 for a better, more immersive and exciting experience. Read on to find out why that is and some critical tips on how you can get the most out of it.

Why 7.1 surround sound is important? ›

1. Immersive Soundscapes: 7.1 surround sound creates a realistic and immersive audio environment. You'll feel like you're right in the middle of the action, with sounds coming from all directions. Whether you're exploring a lush jungle or engaging in a fierce firefight, the sound will transport you into the game world.

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