Bringing great sound to home theaters is nothing new for DTS. For years, consumers have enjoyed cinema-quality sound on their favorite Blu-Ray discs, for example. But as more and more content becomes available to stream at home, the demand for better sound has increased, too.
DTS has answered the call with a new DTS:X codec developed specifically for streaming applications. The high efficiency, low bandwidth codec is a technological breakthrough that now means consumers can enjoy powerful cinema-like sound that matches the amazing UHD HDR images coming through their TVs while streaming at home. In other words, with DTS:X audio, sound has finally caught up to video.
We know that while consumers might be used to seeing the DTS:X logo on audio devices like soundbars, AVR and even televisions, there can be confusion about what exactly DTS:X does for streaming. So, we sat down with Sven Mevissen, director of product management for DTS, to answer critical questions pertaining to the streaming format.
What makes DTS:X for streaming different?
Sven Mevissen: Compared to other surround sound experiences, DTS:X literally goes above and beyond. Traditional surround sound delivers a two-dimensional experience, with audio seemingly projected from in front of and behind the viewer. DTS:X adds a third dimension with sound from above. The bespoke 3D audio technology adds a new level of audio immersion, creating a heightened experience that’s closer to how we hear sound in the real world, all done over a simple internet connection. DTS:X for streaming was specifically developed with streaming applications in mind to provide the best possible audio quality for a premium entertainment experience at home.
Does DTS:X work on different devices?
Sven Mevissen: DTS:X has long worked across a broad range of products to create a seamless ecosystem of sensational sound. That includes most AVRs and soundbars, game consoles, PCs and an increasing number of TVs. Sony, Hisense, LG, TCL, Philips, Vizio and Sharp are among the major OEMs capable of supporting DTS:X with more partners and products on the way.
Also important to note is that DTS:X is backwards compatible with legacy DTS enabled products. So, for example, both an older soundbar with only DTS and a new TV that is DTS:X compatible can and will work together to deliver incredible audio.
Additionally, that high level of audio scales to various device capabilities. While users with a large home theater setup featuring an AVR and multiple speakers will certainly benefit from the enhanced audio of DTS:X, even those just running sound through their DTS:X compatible television will enjoy a more immersive and powerful audio experience thanks to some of the speaker virtualization technologies DTS has developed like DTS Virtual:X.
Is DTS:X mobile?
Sven Mevissen: Great video, whether it be in the form of movies, television shows or games, is not limited to the home theater, so why should great audio? With DTS:X it’s not. Headphones or mobile devices enabled with DTS Headphone:X create an immersive binaural experience, which means users can take the full DTS:X surround sound experience wherever they go.
How does DTS:X fit into IMAX Enhanced?
Sven Mevissen: IMAX Enhanced is a content and device ecosystem that allows viewers to enjoy IMAX’s expanded aspect ratio and stunning visuals on certified devices at home. But the incredibly powerful sound people can experience in theaters was not previously available, until now. DTS:X is the exclusive audio format that is used in the IMAX Enhanced program, offering theatrical sound to anyone watching from the comfort of their own couch.
Is IMAX Enhanced sound by DTS offered on Disney+?
Sven Mevissen: Yes, we’ve officially announced that DTS:X is available on Disney+ with IMAX Enhanced compatible devices. On May 15, “Queen Rock Montreal” will make its global streaming premiere on Disney+ as the first concert film available with IMAX Enhanced with immersive sound from DTS. It will debut alongside the availability of IMAX Enhanced sound for 18 fan-favorite Marvel films that will immerse subscribers in the action like never before.
Having a DTS:X enabled TV is essential in order to unlock the DTS:X sound with IMAX Enhanced. Certified devices will support IMAX Enhanced sound, beginning with select DTS:X enabled Android/Google TV devices from Sony, Hisense, Xiaomi, and others. Additionally, owners of certified AV receivers from manufacturers like Denon, Marantz, and JBL will also be able to enjoy the experience.
With IMAX Enhanced, IMAX and DTS enable content that can be experienced in-home and beyond with the highest fidelity, ensuring that filmmakers’ creative intent is fully optimized for an IMAX-quality presentation. DTS:X, provided by DTS, delivers the full dynamic range of theatrical content and allows sound to move freely around the listener to make them feel more immersed. Disney+ is the first major streaming service to elevate the at-home viewing experience with IMAX Enhanced, giving its subscribers new ways to re-experience the Marvel Cinematic Universe and beyond.
How can users access the sound component of IMAX Enhanced on Disney+?
Sven Mevissen: Disney+ users with a compatible device will get a notification in the form of an audio control panel that will appear when selecting an IMAX Enhanced film for the first time, letting them turn on IMAX Enhanced sound if they choose to. Once opted in, every title available with IMAX Enhanced sound will play with IMAX Enhanced sound moving forward.
