Decode the soundtrack
Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro-3D and conventional channel-based formats are turned into speaker feeds appropriate to the configured room.
Route the system
The processor decides which speaker or subwoofer receives each signal and how digital, analog or network outputs are used.
Manage bass
Crossovers, LFE routing, subwoofer levels, delays and increasingly sophisticated multi-subwoofer optimisation sit inside the processor architecture.
Correct the room
Systems such as Trinnov Optimizer, Dirac, ARC Genesis and RoomPerfect measure and modify the system to improve time, frequency and spatial behaviour.
Control the signal chain
HDMI switching, volume, triggers, automation control and sometimes streaming are part of the same device.