I've been around HT for a few years now starting out with a Dolby Surround processor in 1987, (Kenwood SC-700).

Dolby Atmos to me (and I think some others) is my step-off point. I can't be bothered.

I don't have any interest in block buster films that seem to be the soundtrack styles that feature as the poster child for Atmos.

So while I am building a third and final HT system with a room that is a blank sheet, I keep wondering if Atmos is really needed.

Many years ago I wrote that few if any HT systems I had experienced (including my own) got the most out of mere 5.1 due to compromised room sizes and location related to the listening position.

So is Atmos a neat (niche) idea, but it is a step too far. It is mainly novelty and is the audio equivalent of 3D for the blockbuster crowd?

Thoughts?