A:Answer For optimal listening experiences, the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar should be connected to your TV system directly via an optial or HDMI connection. To support full use of Dolby Atmos, we recommend HDMI via the TV's eARC port, as this is the only port and connection method that supports full Dolby Atmos (Lossless) with Dolby TrueHD or Dolby MAT. Optical connections will only provide 5.1 surround sound via Dolby Digital. HDMI via non-eARC ports will provide Dolby Atmos (Lossy) through Dolby Digital Plus. Your corresponding TV sources (Apple TV, cable box, etc) may then be connected to your TV, which may output audio via HDMI to your Bose soundbar.
If an HDMI or HDMI eARC connection is not possible, do not fear. The Ultra Soundbar features TrueSpace™ technology, a propietary Bose audio processing technology, which analyzes non-Atmos audio signals (such as stereo or 5.1) and upmixes them to create an immersive experience with a sense of height. For a TV without an eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) HDMI connection, an HDMI ARC or optical connection can be used, and with TrueSpace processing, listeners will still experience the benefits of the up-firing speakers. Once the soundbar is set up, we recommend running ADAPTiQ so the soundbar can optimize its sound for the listening environment. The volume level of the height channel speakers can be adjusted in the Bose Music App in case the desired sound level in relation to the front-firing speakers needs to be increased or decreased.
