DTSÆ Introduces The DTS-ES Extended Surround Decoder New Cinema Decoder Adds Dramatic Mid-Surround Meets With The Latest Technology
In a surprise announcement, DTSÆ (Digital Theater Systems) introduced at ShoWest a new cinema decoder, the DTS-ES, which adds a dramatic, third surround channel to digital feature film audio (for a 6.1-channel system). The announcement was made at the 1999 ShoWest convention in Las Vegas, on March 9. Based on the latest DSP technology and fully compatible with all current digital formats and systems, the DTS-ES also provides event closures to trigger dramatic trailer and feature effects, such as strobe lights, lasers, and more. The new unit is intended to compete with Dolby Laboratoriesí Surround EX in the on-going sound wars. As with the Dolby SA-10 unit and one from SMART Devices, the CS-EX Circle Surround Extended EX Adapter, whose launch is times to coincide with the release of the upcoming Star Wars prequel, the new DTS-ES uses a center rear speaker(s) to create smoother, more realistic surround effects, particularly ""fly-around"" and ""fly-over"" effects. This new audio tool affords filmmakers the opportunity to be even more creative with sound and how it is used in a film by literally extending the number of channels used for surround effects. Through the use of the left and right surround speakers, as well as center surround speakers, sound effects can literally sweep around the audience, even seeming to fly over them, as they provide a fully immersive and engrossing cinematic experience. ""This technology is currently available from the leading digital sound providers, making it an accessible, added-value component for any theatreís digital sound system,"" said Tom Sherak, Chairman of 20th Century Fox Domestic Film Group. ""Extended surround decoders are fully compatible with all digital, multichannel playback systems and processors on the market today."" Fox distribution of Star Wars: Episode 1 ñ The Phantom Menace is reported to be restricted to play only in auditoriums that meet a certain level of presentation quality. It now appears a center surround channel may be a requirement for booking the much-anticipated prequel in competitive markets. Designed for easy installation, the DTS-ES also includes digital four-channel octave equalization, and separate EQ settings for ES and non-ES modes, both features not found on similar products. As Fred Beiersdorf, DTS Cinema Group Vice President, observes ""The DTS-ES is a great, new opportunity for exhibitors to offer a more exciting motion picture experience, especially with action and adventure films which will be even more riveting with the expanded surround field."" Pricing on the DTS-ES unit is $1,875, while the SMART CS-EX is priced at $895. The Dolby SA-10 is prices at $2,500. Widescreen Review will present an in-depth and comprehensive look into Surround EX and its implications for home theatre in Issue 32, May/June 1999. DTS is a product of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. of Agoura Hills, California. DTS claims about 16,000 actual digital theater sound installations. For more information, visit the DTS website at http://www.dtsonline.com.