Mini review on the Pioneer Atmos speaker modules (SP-T22A-LR)

[desray]

The SP-T22A-LR is an add-on speakers for the Dolby Atmos setup in your home. And yes, it is designed by Andrew Jones. If my memory serves me right, this is the last Atmos speaker modules designed by Andrew Jones before he left for Elac.

 

 

 

Features

The main design features of this Atmos speaker modules comprise of a 4” structured surface woofer, a ½” high efficiency soft dome tweeter that sits right in the middle of the 4” woofer. It is very light compared to my hefty KEF R50 Atmos modules. Doing a side-by-side comparison tells you the difference in size. David vs Goliath literally. Now let’s get to the point. Is this any good when it comes to Dolby Atmos reproduction? Read on then...

 

What makes a good Atmos module?

Don’t let the small “footprint” fooled you, this new Atmos speaker modules with the concentric driver design does indeed crank out quite a “forceful” sound (at higher frequency). This is because there is an internal filter in the speaker design to crossover at 180hz. Any form of LFE below that will be channelled to the subwoofer to avoid “drowning” the higher frequency effect. For those uninitiated, the “height-layer” sensation for these Atmos modules, regardless of make and model have one thing in common – i.e. higher frequency sound emitting from the tweeter will be directed towards the ceiling and bounce the sound energy to the main listening position (MLP). That’s how the “sensation” of height is created using these Atmos speaker modules or those tower speaker with built-in module sitting atop (Pioneer also have another model that comes with both the main and Atmos module combined). What makes a good Atmos speaker module in my rule book? Well, actually there are 2 important characteristics (rules) of a good Atmos speaker module...

RULE #1: A “good” Atmos module should not be fussy over the placement at the first instance

So did the Pioneer Atmos modules achieve that? Yes, it is able to hit the right note when I placed it on top of a bookshelf speakers (with a proper stand of course) that are placed above your “ear level”. I have loaned 2 pairs of modules for both front and rear placement, the Pioneers speakers are able to reproduce some form elevated for of audio layer in the first instance without the need for me to fiddle too much with the actual placement.

 

RULE #2: The sound must be able to blend in with the rest of the speaker array (i.e. your 5.1/7.1 band channels)

This is the part where it falls short. Unfortunately the speaker’s very own unique “sonic” characteristics (I can’t say for certain since I never own a pair of Andrew Jones bookshelf or tower speakers or for that matter any Pioneer speakers before) didn’t blend well with the rest of the speaker array. I’m using all bookshelf speakers with a reasonable built that was able to reproduce a fair amount of bass (LFE) at a certain crossover point. For instance, my main LCR are more than capable to handle some level of bass at a certain frequency range before it crosses over to the subwoofer to handle the more omni-directional bass. The “small-footprint” of the Pioneer Atmos speaker module had an internal filter pass set at a crossover of 180Hz where literally “zero” LFE would ever reach the tiny woofer and that 1/2” tweeter. For instance, it did very well for the rain storm scene of the John Wick fight scene at the pier. The rain drops effect are very real and you can literally feel the rain coming from the ceiling. But when you look at scenes with some heavy bass sequences like in the Transformers Age of Extinction, that’s where the sonic characteristics coming from the Atmos modules became too “distinct”. What it mean is these Atmos modules wasn’t able to blend in seamlessly with other speakers. I believed the only solution here is to pair the Atmos modules with the same class model that of a Pioneer bookshelf speakers.

 

What I did not do which I think is important!

CAVEAT ALERT!!!

I admit I did not re-do the Audyssey calibration since I do not wish to "mess up" my calibration values. Imagine I have to go through the 8 positions all over again...Hence I opted for the “lazy man” method – i.e. simply replace my KEF R50 modules with the Pioneer Atmos modules. This is probably not a good idea…Why? Because Audyssey will do something amidst the calibration process to ensure proper timbre-matching will be achieved for the entire array of speakers regardless of the different types and makes of the speakers. This is highly possible. I suspect by omitting the Audyssey calibration may have a part affecting the “sound characteristics” of the Atmos modules.

 

Design of the baffle – It’s all about the angle…

 

 

This is not really an issue for some but it does for me. As my top and rear Atmos placement was at different height, the angle of the speakers does indeed have an “impact” to overall sound reproduction. First and foremost, let’s point out the obvious here. Looking at the picture, you can see that the Pioneer Atmos modules compared to the KEF R50 has a much shallower angle. The Pioneer has a tilted baffle of about 15 – 18 degree angle compared to the 20 – 22 degree angle. What this mean is that you would need to experiment with the placement at different distance from where there you seat relative to the speaker position. The shallower angle may actually work better for some room layout, especially for a smaller room. In my own experimentation on Dolby Atmos (the reflection route), I have gathered that a steeper angle (>20 degree on the baffle design) tends to be used for larger room where you can afford to have more space to move your MLP around. The design of KEF R50 will be suitable for a living room to a medium-room deployment. For the Pioneer Atmos modules, due to it diminutive enclosure design, it makes perfect sense to place it as close to the MLP as possible. I believed it will sound better in a cubic (square) room deployment where the front and rear placement would be at equidistant. During the 2hr trial testing, I find that the best placement is within 1.6 – 1.8m from where I sat. The “height” effect is more pronounced and realistic overall. For those with a bigger room, you may use a door wedge like the one in the picture to elevate the angle to >20 degree for sound to bounce at the right angle towards your MLP. Again, you will need to experiment it on your own to get the best results.

 

 

Conclusion

Many members asked me about the price range and frankly I did not ask from Alpha Audio. I believed it is priced at $360+ per pair based on what I heard from the sales chap during my visit to the ISSE 2015 at Park Royal hotel. I may be wrong here…but without a doubt, this is a pocket-friendly Atmos add-on speaker modules for anyone who wish to jump on to the Atmos bandwagon for now.

 

It is relatively inexpensive speakers and worked well out of the box. The ease of placement with these speakers allows minimal effort to get that Atmos effect. Of course, for optimum results, you will need to find the right seat position and the angle placement between the speakers to the MLP. This is true even for my KEF R50 Atmos modules.

 

So is it worth getting it? Sure, I think the built quality is decent and more importantly this is using concentric drivers which would deliver the max SPL at higher frequency and since it is designed by Andrew Jones, you can be assured that the durability and the quality of the speakers are assured. And one last thing, if you really want to get you’re a pair to try out, I urge you to get 2 pairs making it a 5.1.4 or 7.1.4 setup to ensure that the Atmos effect will be seamless.

Final Rating: 3.8/5 stars

 

 

Pricing: TBA

[desray]

If anything, this will be a prelude of what to expect from the upcoming Elac Atmos modules designed by Andrew Jones. When I look at the two design, I think Elac will sound "beefier" based on the enclosure and its exterior built. We'll see...

 

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[rage1624705821]

These ATMOS modules are now going for USD$139 at Amazon.  No free shipping. With shipping added in, its about SGD260.

[htng]

How is it compared to the Onkyo Atmos speaker?

[desray]

Some good experience by users in the AVSforum for AJ's Elac A4 Atmos module...In S'pore, we are still waiting for the 1st batch to arrive. Somehow it looked very similar to the Pioneer Atmos modules. I am rather skeptical at this point until I get my hands on one for review...

 

 

You can read his first impression here: http://www.avsforum.com/forum/89-speakers/1714010-dolby-atmos-upward-firing-module-speakers-39.html#post42366633

[desray]

How is it compared to the Onkyo Atmos speaker?

 

I believed you are referring to the 1st gen Atmos enabled spk modules - the SKH-410. This "newer" version beats the Onkyo HANDS DOWN! For small living room, the new Pioneer and Elac Atmos modules will easily provide you with plenty of "height" activity.

 

[htng]

Yes. Thanks. I wonder whether the Atmos speakers improve the listening experience? I didn't have a chance to audit but one of my friend said it is just louder

[wizardofoz]

Those ELAC boxes look like the speaker boxes for rear shelf car speakers can get at SLT shops for 6.5" drives...I have a pair under my TV as it has amps but no attached speakers - I use Coaxial Polk Audio car speakers in them...works well.

[2willow]

even NHT has gotten onto the bandwagon for ATMOS add-ons and ATMOS-enabled speakers...

[htng]

Not many disc have Atmos. Assuming if the disc doesn't have Atmos, what kind of effect will the speakers perform? Is it additional 2 surround?

[desray]

Not many disc have Atmos. Assuming if the disc doesn't have Atmos, what kind of effect will the speakers perform? Is it additional 2 surround?

 

If the disc doesn't have Atmos, then it depends on what sound mixes...if Dolby TrueHD, then it will be upmixed by Dolby's new DSU...and it will utilize the AE spks. If it is DTS-HD MSTR and you are using 1st gen Atmos AVR like X5200W, then you still can use DSU for upmixing...if you have the latest AVR that supports DTS:X, then it will use DTS Neural:X upmixing. In short, AE spks will be engaged at all times UNLESS you manually switch to its native HD lossless formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MSTR.

 

[badbad2000]

How is this pioneer compare to KEF? As the price is so much lower, any upside for having such higher price range of KEF? SQ?

[bluepill193]

The Elac going for 51980 yen at yodobashi, akibahara. Feels quite sturdy but cabinet had sharp edges n corners, doesnt look too nice. Didnt get yo hear them though

[kenshin07]

How is this pioneer compare to KEF? As the price is so much lower, any upside for having such higher price range of KEF? SQ?

 

Price wise will definitely have some factor. You pay for what you get.

[htng]

Is there a banana plug connector for the pioneer unit?

[htng]

Hi

 

I would like to check a few things

 

1. Is it a better to let this atmos speaker module sit on top of a bookshelf? or can it be sitting on the tv console beside the bookshelf speaker?

 

2. I wonder whether we will have to put rubber pads/ feet below the speakers? Ok to have wood to wood contact (This speaker sitting on top of bookshelf without any rubber pads?

 

3. Wonder how well the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR pairs with this guy?

[Norman_Chan]

Are these Atmos speakers really effective or mount on the ceiling speakers more effective if space allow.

[Guest CASH]

mount on ceiling is the best ever option u have...

reflection was introduced jus because they can't make money.

not everyone wants to see ugly speakers on ceiling..

they realised that n introduced these so called reflection series...

overhead sound is supposed to be overhead sound..

plain n simple..no two ways about it..

so, to make money,and to please the masses, they introduced this "Reflecting Series"

[htng]

If the disc doesn't have Atmos, then it depends on what sound mixes...if Dolby TrueHD, then it will be upmixed by Dolby's new DSU...and it will utilize the AE spks. If it is DTS-HD MSTR and you are using 1st gen Atmos AVR like X5200W, then you still can use DSU for upmixing...if you have the latest AVR that supports DTS:X, then it will use DTS Neural:X upmixing. In short, AE spks will be engaged at all times UNLESS you manually switch to its native HD lossless formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MSTR.

 

 

How do we make selection on AV receiver? Should we choose Atmos, Direct or DTS HD etc?

[desray]

How do we make selection on AV receiver? Should we choose Atmos, Direct or DTS HD etc?

In a way, yes.  But it can also be no depending which perspective u are looking at.

 

My advice, go get the receiver first then it will be easier for bros here to provide more meaningful discussion and assistance. No amount of answers to your queries will make much sense.

 

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

 

 

[htng]

I have both the Onkyo 646 and Denon X1200. So assuming if I were to play a disc with Atmos, I can just select direct and allow the AV receiver to do its own adjustment?

[desray]

I have both the Onkyo 646 and Denon X1200. So assuming if I were to play a disc with Atmos, I can just select direct and allow the AV receiver to do its own adjustment?

 

Just curious, if you have BOTH AVR and I assuming you have played with the both of them before? I dun quite understand what is your question? Unless of course, you don't OWN any Dolby Atmos disc right now hence you are uable to "test" it out...??? Am I right?

 

As I've mentioned, if the disc itself contains the Dolby Atmos track, usually it will be the default track. The meta-data on the bluray disc itself will have a flag and this is intercepted by your AVR (with Dolby Atmos capability) and the playback will be in Atmos track. Now if you decided to choose another sound mix (limited to Dolby TrueHD now - after the upgrade of DTS:X firmware in Feb/Mar) say Dolby TrueHD (w/o the use of height channels), you can just hit the "Green Button" (in the case of Denon X1200) to cycle to Dolby TrueHD sound format to enjoy. If you have an older disc 3with Dolby TrueHD, you can use the new upmixer called, "Dolby Surround" aka DSU to "activate" the height channels or AE spks to create that "height" effects.

 

For movies with DTS:X, you can hit the "Green button" to cycle through the various available sound formats as well...e.g. DTS-HD MSTR or DTS + Neural:X.

 

In both cases, it doesn't matter what "sound format input" you selected for that Input, it will "automatically" trigger the use of the "correct" sound format (DTS:X or Dolby Atmos) based on the default "flagged" track embedded in that bluray disc.

 

Your question is rather vague to start with hence I am throwing as much info as possible here...

[desray]

Are these Atmos speakers really effective or mount on the ceiling speakers more effective if space allow.

 

First choice should always be ceiling mount speakers...the AE speakers which utilize the "reflection method" also can yield very convincing "height effects" but it will require alot of experimentation to get it right. There are simply too many variable at play to make the "reflection route" work as intended.

 

So yes, ceiling first (to save all the guess work and hear immediate results right away)...but be aware of "localization of the sound" if the speakers you mounted on the ceiling does not have wide dispersion characteristics. The ceiling speakers also "limit" how far you can move your seating position...but overall ceiling speakers is STILL the preferred route to take for Atmos solely because "sound will ALWAYS and MOST CERTAINLY coming from ABOVE YOU even though the speaker location or the type of speakers used may not be ideal" and that is what Atmos want you to hear. Object-based sound mix is another feature which is another topic for another time.

 

 

[htng]

Just curious, if you have BOTH AVR and I assuming you have played with the both of them before? I dun quite understand what is your question? Unless of course, you don't OWN any Dolby Atmos disc right now hence you are uable to "test" it out...??? Am I right?

 

As I've mentioned, if the disc itself contains the Dolby Atmos track, usually it will be the default track. The meta-data on the bluray disc itself will have a flag and this is intercepted by your AVR (with Dolby Atmos capability) and the playback will be in Atmos track. Now if you decided to choose another sound mix (limited to Dolby TrueHD now - after the upgrade of DTS:X firmware in Feb/Mar) say Dolby TrueHD (w/o the use of height channels), you can just hit the "Green Button" (in the case of Denon X1200) to cycle to Dolby TrueHD sound format to enjoy. If you have an older disc 3with Dolby TrueHD, you can use the new upmixer called, "Dolby Surround" aka DSU to "activate" the height channels or AE spks to create that "height" effects.

 

For movies with DTS:X, you can hit the "Green button" to cycle through the various available sound formats as well...e.g. DTS-HD MSTR or DTS + Neural:X.

 

In both cases, it doesn't matter what "sound format input" you selected for that Input, it will "automatically" trigger the use of the "correct" sound format (DTS:X or Dolby Atmos) based on the default "flagged" track embedded in that bluray disc.

 

Your question is rather vague to start with hence I am throwing as much info as possible here...

 

Hi,

 

Yes. I don't have an Atmos disc. Will be getting one to try it out. Thanks

[rage1624705821]

These speakers are going for USD101.65 at Amazon (exlcuding shipping which is USD39). Almost half price.

Just placed my order for these.