Dolby’s 100 Hz Atmos crossover risks localizing subwoofers but is accepted for simplicity

Evidence

The recommended loudspeaker layout dimensions can easily be accommodated within typical domestic listening rooms and home theaters. The sound level expectation is a peak of 105 dB, but it seems to be for the entire system, not individual channels as in cinemas, and reduced levels are permitted for smaller installations, or more casual use. LFE is included, and bass management permitted where subwoofers are necessary to supplement small loudspeakers. Bass extension is to 31.5 Hz and the crossover frequency is 100 Hz, which is a curious choice, because of the risk of localizing the subwoofers. However, that risk is minimized by the assumption that they will be located on the front wall with the L, C and R. They don’t plan on any front-back multi-subwoofer room-mode manipulation, relying on equalization averaged around the mix position. A missed opportunity. — Toole, Floyd E, Sound reproduction- the acoustics and…, 791

Categorization

• QUESTION: Worth chasing: does a 100 Hz crossover actually produce audible subwoofer localization given front-wall placement, or is the risk mainly in theory?
• XREF: Connects to earlier chapters on bass management, subwoofer placement, and room-mode equalization tradeoffs.
• SEED: Potential article angle: the tension between engineering best practice (multi-subwoofer room-mode manipulation) and industry-standard one-size-fits-all bass management specifications.