What is the difference between DTS 6ch and Dobly Digital 5.1? If a disk has the ability to play both, which one is better?

DTS!!!! BTW, if you have a receiver that supports DTS, it'll likely do DD5.1 too. Let your ears be the judge. Fundamentally speaking DTS is superior. I have an Onkyo 575x which supports both but haven't tested with any DTS DVDs @ home yet. Only have had it for 4 days so far.

I do have the ability to play both types, but I wanted to find out which one is supposed to be better.

I do have the ability to play both types, but I wanted to find out which one is supposed to be better.

DTS! just watched the DTS release of Lethal Weapon 3 last night and was blown away by the fullness of the audio. to me, the sound seems much more envoloping than DD5.1. just my 2 cents worth.

Basset

twr, this has been an ongoing discussion in these forums.

In general, DTS is better.

DTS shines in the special effects area, but there really is no noticeable difference w/dialog.

So, it really depends on the movie you are getting. There is a HUGE difference with a film like Saving Private Ryan. But, there is essentially no difference with a film like Liar, Liar.

In general, if the extras are the same, I get DTS. If there are more extras with the DD version, I get the DTS if it's an effects films and the DD w/extras if there are few/no effects. Others have different opinions (including getting both versions, which to me is way too expensive).

DTS all the way!!!

I finaly upgraded to DTD/DD revcently and although Bowfinger did not impress me, Water World sounded great in DTS. I tried to start a list of films that have both DTS and DD 5.1
a while back but it did not catch on. Here are a few titles that have both: Twister SE, Bowfinger, the Leathal Weapon SeriesDirectors Cuts,
Bone Collector, Interview with the vampire SE

Red Violin has both DD5.1 and DTS on the same disc.

[This message has been edited by edclem (edited July 18, 2000).]

DTS is generally better, however some movies showcase it better than others. It is something you will have to try for yourself. Everyones ears are different. If I have an option I will usually go with DTS.

Is it just me, or does DTS simply sound "better" because it shifts more information (ergo volume) into the rear channels?

I remember reading somewhere that DTS is generally mixed 3db louder than DD or Pro-logic. Given two identical sonic alternatives, people will pick the one that is louder as sounding better (thus importance of matching sound levels in comparisons).

DTS and DD are mixed entirely seperately, so in most cases there is a diffrence depending on the film your looking at. As to which is mixed better is a matter of opinion. Most people either think DTS sounds better or at least equal to DD.

I personally am a big fan of DTS. The sound is EXCELLENT. It is a good audio option to have if you are an audiophile. I've heard some people say that they really can't tell the difference, but if you are a person that pays attention to sound quality, you will truly appreciate it!!!