Atlantic Technology 274T-SR

As already noted, Atlantic Technology, like THX, believes firmly in the axiom that dipoles are the only way to go for surround speakers. The philosophy is quite reasonable: Soundtracks are assembled, or I like to use the word crafted, for playback over the equipment configuration found in cinemas. For the surround channels, this means arrays of 8 to 12 speakers on each side, which produce quite a different sound than would be voiced by a single unit. The sound artist therefore mixes and weaves the sound elements to sound 'correct' over these arrays. Simply stated: Dipole speakers are the most practical way to emulate the 'sound' of a speaker array within the confines of a home theater environment. 'Nuf said.

The 274-SRs have slightly different (read smaller) drivers than the front three, arranged on two baffles which are at a 900 angle to each other. Like all the main speakers, they are relatively small, and the interior decorator in the family will not have too much trouble accepting them in their proper position: to the left and right of the seating area, about 2 feet from the ceiling. Key-hole sockets are provided to facilitate wall mounting.

2-way Frequency Enhanced Di-Pole. Two 4-1/2" IMG Woofers. Two 3/4" Silk Dome Tweeters, 80 Hz - 20 kHz ± 3 dB. 8 Ohm. $649 / pair USA