If you download a multichannel album, ensure the file is not simply ".mp3." MP3 does not support 5.1. Look for these extensions:

Use software like VLC Media Player, Foobar2000, or Kodi , which can pass the 5.1 signal through to your hardware [10].

: For most users, Dolby Digital 5.1 is the "sweet spot." DTS sounds slightly better but takes twice the hard drive space. Atmos is phenomenal if you have ceiling speakers; otherwise, stick to 5.1.