Streaming services are quickly overtaking traditional cable companies for their no-fuss installation and cheaper prices. One of the most popular streaming service options is YouTube TV, a cost-efficient live TV streaming service that carries the majority of your most-watched channels for a fraction of the price of other TV services. 

But if you’re looking to bring that spine-tingling, high-quality audio from the theaters to your home TV, you’ll also need a streaming service that has surround sound. Does YouTube TV fit the bill? 

What Is YouTube TV? 

YouTube TV is a TV streaming service owned by the video streaming giant YouTube. 

Unlike other popular streaming services like Netflix and Apple TV, Youtube TV allows you to watch live TV channels. It’s offered as a competitively-priced option instead of traditional cable and dish TV services that require installation and higher fees. 

YouTube TV allows you to stream more than 85 popular TV channels including ESPN, MSNBC, FOX, CNN, ABC, CBS, and more. It’s also particularly popular among sports enthusiasts for its wide array of included sports networks like NFL, NBA, and MLB. You can also add on premium channels like HBO Max and Showtime for even more entertainment options. 

Its closest competitors are SlingTV and Hulu With Live TV.

Does YouTube TV Have Surround Sound? 

If you’re looking for a premium audio experience to compliment your TV time, you’re in luck: as of the summer of 2021, YouTube TV finished rolling out its Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound audio. The surround sound audio is included in all YouTube TV memberships. 

Screenshot from YouTube TV Twitter Account

How Do You Use Surround Sound On YouTube TV? 

You’ll automatically get 5.1 surround sound if your devices with your membership and if your devices are compatible. To enjoy Dolby Digital 5.1 on YouTube TV, you’ll need:

• The YouTube TV app version Cobalt 2.0 or higher 
• A compatible TV: Samsung, LG, Vizio, traditional Chromecasts
• A compatible speaker system 

You can check whether 5.1 is available for your program of choice by checking the audio details in “Stats For Nerds” under the bug icon. If it’s available, you’ll find ac-3 (381) listed under the Codecs section.

Tech enthusiasts looking for the highest quality streaming will also be pleased to know that YouTube TV offers a 4K Plus Add-On to view many of your favorite programs in premium video quality.

Conclusion

YouTube TV comes with Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound if you have compatible devices.