How will I be able to listen to the stream?

Your computer will need a modern web browser which supports multi-channel audio. The web browser will do all the decoding, so you shouldn’t need any other software. Unfortunately, this doesn’t work on smartphones or tablets.

What is needed for the best audio experience?

You need a means for playing audio over six speakers in a traditional 5.1 arrangement. The multi-channel audio is decoded in the browser so you need to get six discrete channels of audio from the computer. You can use a surround-sound sound card with at least six outputs, or if your surround sound amplifier and computer both have HDMI (such as what may be connected to a TV), that should work too.

How will I know if it is working?

We have a test stream at the bottom of this page, which will allow you to test your setup before the programme becomes available. We can’t offer advice to get any particular combination of equipment working as there are so many different combinations of computer, browser, sound card and audio system available. You should hear all six channels, Front Left, Front Right, Centre, LFE, Back Left, Back Right.

What should I do if I don’t hear any sound?

If you are connecting to a home cinema system then disconnecting and reconnecting the HDMI connection may cause the surround capabilities to be discovered. Also check that the correct input is selected. Check that the surround output is enabled, and that it is not muted, either on the computer, home cinema system or the speakers themselves. You may need to change your sound card preferences, so your operating system is aware that it is a multichannel output.

What if sound is coming from the wrong speakers?

If you are using speakers connected directly to a computer then check the options for the sound card are set up for the correct speaker configuration. Some sound cards pop up a dialogue asking which speakers have been connected when they detect them being plugged in. If you are using a home cinema system then check the speakers are working correctly with some other source. Next find the settings for the sound card. Ensure that it is configured to use multi-channel output and that the speaker locations are set correctly.

Can I use a stereo set up?

No, a stereo setup won’t provide the required six discrete channels of audio for the 5.1 surround sound. Listen in stereo here!