DVD Players

What Is DTS Format?

Dolby Digital Sound is the industry standard for DVDs. But some DVDs are now recorded in a format called DTS (Digital Theater System) which does offers some advantages. Both Dolby Digital and DTS are capable of dividing a signal into six channels, and directing one channel to each one of six speakers. But not all Dolby Digital DVDs are actually recorded in six-channel (5.1 Surround) sound. Some are recorded in only 2 channels.

All DVDs recorded in DTS are recorded in six-channel (5.1 surround) sound. And DTS boasts higher fidelity than Dolby Digital, offering 20-bit audio rather than Dolby Digital's 16-bit audio. This translates into a higher sampling rate and overall better sound. This higher fidelity has its price, however. A DTS soundtrack takes up more space on a disc. DTS encoded DVDs are typically are very Spartan when it comes to bonus features commonly offered on Dolby Digital DVDs, such as subtitles and directors' comments. But, most importantly, there are very few DTS movies available.

To play a DTS DVD in 5.1 channel surround, you'll need a DVD player with a DTS digital output. These are the same outputs as those used for Dolby Digital, but a DVD player needs to be equipped to direct the DTS bitstream through those outputs. All newer DVD players have this capability. Older players and computer decoder boards do not. You also need a surround system with a receiver that has a DTS decoder built-in. If you have a Dolby Digital ready system or a receiver that has a 6-channel direct input, an external DTS decoder or a DVD player with a DTS decoder built in would suffice.

What Are My DVD Player Options?
How Much Should I Spend On A DVD Player?
What Main Criteria Should Influence My DVD Player Choice?
Can I Listen To DVD Audio Discs on My DVD Player?
What Other Features Should I Look For In a DVD Player?



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