Digital Theatre Systems is an amazing new technology for surround-sound entertainment.  It is an encode/decode system that delivers six channels (5.1) of master-quality, 20-bit audio.  In the encoding process, the DTS algorithm encrypts 6 channels of 20-bit digital audio information in the space previously allotted for only two channels of 16-bit linear Pulse Code Modulation.  Then during playback, the DTS decoder reconstructs the original six channels of 20-bit digital audio.  Each of these six channels is audibly superior to the 16-bit linear PCM audio found on conventional compact discs.

The DTS "master-quality" mode for laser discs, compact discs and DVDs, uses less than one-quarter the data reduction of Dolby Digital (AC-3), resulting in audibly superior performance.  The DTS commitment is to deliver an uncompromised reproduction of the original multi-track masters.  For Laserdisc, however, this approach allocates all of the available digital-audio data space to the new six channels of audio, while Dolby Digital uses high data-reduction to fit their digital data onto an analogue stereo track, leaving the stereo PCM tracks intact.

A "discrete" 5.1 audio system is required to experience this state-of-the-art technology.  That means a system with six separate channels of electronics and speakers for left, centre, right, left surround, right surround and subwoofer (the ".1" channel).  The electronics can consist of any 5.1 surround processor with a built-in DTS decoding circuit or add-on DTS decoder, plus six channels of amplification (or five channels plus a powered subwoofer).   Since the introduction of an advanced Motorola chip that can be easily integrated into any multi-channel product, all new models (including all-in-one receivers) can now offer both DTS and Dolby Digital.