Analog Devices' SHARC Processor Powers the World's First Standalone DTS Interactive Solution from Creative Labs

17-Nov-05

Analog Devices, Inc. announced that its SHARCÆ Processor has been designed into the Home Theater Connect DTS-610 from Creative. This standalone, self-powered hardware encoder product allows all audio from a media center or standard PC -- including multichannel and DRM-protected content -- to be encoded for playback on a surround-sound home theater system. As part of the Home Theater Connect DTS-610, the SHARC Processor powers the market's first implementation of DTS Interactive, a new real-time consumer audio encoder technology. ""Our Home Theater Connect DTS-610 removes the limitations in handling DRM-protected content that traditionally restrict media center PCs from blending seamlessly with other components,"" said Steven Erickson, vice president of audio for Creative. ""ADI's SHARC Processor provides the encoding performance we need to produce the first hardware encoding device that allows the PC to converge with the home entertainment center. ""We selected the SHARC Processor because it offered a complete solution -- including key software and system components -- that helped us reduce development time and keep costs low,"" Erickson added. ""Once again Analog Devices has brought to market the newest premium audio technology from DTS to enable leading technology companies like Creative to deliver products with an unmatched user experience. Today's announcement extends DTS's reach into the emerging market space where PC and consumer electronics devices converge,"" said Brian Towne, senior vice president of Consumer/Pro Division of DTS. Playing back DRM-protected content on a PC, such as purchased MP3 files and DVD audio disks, typically requires the PC's digital audio output connector be shut off in order to prevent the content from being copied. However, owners of the content who simply want to send the files to a multichannel receiver for enjoyment on a home theater system are prevented from doing so. Now with the Home Theater Connect DTS-610, users are able to send music, a movie, or PC game content through their Sound Blaster(R) sound card's analog outputs and have it encoded in real time with DTS Interactive. The content is then digitally distributed to a home theater system for playback. The Home Theater Connect DTS-610 is now available at http://us.creative.com for an estimated street price of US$99.99.

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