DVD Player: Bulit in DTS & DD decoder vs. No built in DTS & DD. Differences?
I am currently without a digital receiver for at least another 6 months, but I do have an older Pro-Logic receiver. My DVD player just bit the dust so I am looking for a new one. My questions is this: Would a DVD player with built-in DTS and Dolby Digital decoders allow me to have digital sound in my 5.1 setup even though I do not have a digital receiver? And if so, how?
I am currently looking at the Panasonic DVD F65 and F85. The F85 has the built in decoders, the F65 does not.
Thanks,
JSE
Depends, and I ain't talking underwear either.
Some later higher end DPL receivers anticipated the impending 5.1 market and offered "direct" inputs on the back whereby they could take 5 or 6 channels (and the LFE output) from a DVD player.
If your receiver has these (RTOM), then you could avail yourself of the unit with built in DD/DTS decoders.
If your receiver does not have these, then you'll only be able to take a two channel output (like a CD) and still have DPL. Hey, it's better than nothing.
IMHO, unless your receiver allows a direct 5.1 input, I would not bother getting a DVD platyer with the built in decoders. You'll just be duplicating these circuits when you get a receiver.
Thanks for the responses!
Markw,
I am not sure if my receiver is able to receive 5 or 6 channels direct from the DVD player, but I will check. The receiver was a higher end Onkyo Integra TX-SV909 PRO. It does have a sub out, but no real sub control.
What exactly should I look for to see if this will work. Sorry, anything beyond basic hookup is still fairly new to me.
Thanks again for everyone's replies. I think I will get the F85 as FAIELLO suggested for the DVD-Audio. It's only $20 bucks more.
JSE
RTOM - Read the Owners Manual.
If your receiver is "Dolby Digital Ready", it will have 6 or 7 RVA jacks on the back and they will be marked for an input signal from an external decoder. Again, the best advice I can offer is to RTOM.
IMHO, unless your receiver DOES have these inputs, the receiver with DD/DTS built in will be worthless to you. Both now AND when you buy the newer receiver.