Multi-channel source modes, Decoding modes

Multi-channel source modes

Digital multi-channel source material is normally provided as ‘5.1 audio’. The ‘5.1 channels’ comprise of: left, centre and right front speakers, two surround speakers and a low frequency effects (LFE) channel. Since the LFE channel is not a full range channel, it is referred to as ‘.1’.

Surround systems decode and reproduce the 5.1 channels directly. Dolby Digital EX and DTS-ES matrix enhanced decoding systems create one extra rear channel from information buried in the two surround signals of the 5.1 source. These EX and ES enhanced systems are sometimes referred to as ‘6.1’ systems. This extra surround back channel is normally reproduced through two separate loudspeakers, creating a ‘7.1’ system.

DTS-ES discrete is a true ‘6.1’ source, with six discretely encoded channels, plus the ‘.1’ LFE channel.

Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD are high-resolution surround formats found on Blu-Ray discs

Decoding modes

The modes given in the following table are available for multi-channel digital sources.

Special modes such as DTS-ES 6.1 discrete, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD are only available from the correct source material.

High resolution audio sources

Dolby TrueHD	Provides up to 7.1 full channel at 96kHz, 24bit resolution, with potentially no
	losses in the compression process. Data rates can be up to 18Mbps.
Dolby Digital Plus	Provides up to 7.1 discrete channels of audio with less compression than
	traditional Dolby Digital encoding. Data rates can be up to 6Mbps.
DTS-HD Master Audio	Provides up to 7.1 full channel at 96kHz, 24bit resolution, with potentially no
	losses in the compression process. Data rates can be up to 24.5Mbps.
For Dolby Digital sources
Dolby Digital 5.1	The most commonly used sound format for DVD video, and is also the
	standard for US television. Dolby Digital 5.1 sources deliver sound with five
	discrete full-range channels; left, centre, right, surround left, surround right,
	plus a low frequency effects (LFE) channel.
Dolby Digital 5.1 Stereo	Provides a stereo downmix of the source material for use with headphones.
Downmix
Dolby Digital EX	This is an extension to Dolby Digital decoding that provides a 6-channel output
	from a 5-channel input. The extra channel is the centre-surround channel (for
	which the two surround back speakers are used), and is derived from the left
	and right surround channel information. This decode mode should be used
	only when the source material is ‘Surround EX’ encoded (which is normally
	indicated on the disc packaging and should be detected automatically by the
	AVR400), but may be used at other times if desired.
Dolby Digital 5.1 + Pro Logic	This mode is used to derive information for the individual surround back
IIx Movie	channels from the surround channels, using the Pro Logic IIx Movie decoder.
Dolby Digital 5.1 + Pro Logic	This mode is used to derive information for the individual surround back
IIx Music	channels from the surround channels, using the Pro Logic IIx Music decoder.
	The controls for adjusting Pro Logic IIx Music in ‘General Setup’ can be used in
	this mode.
For DTs sources
DTS 5.1	Less common than the Dolby Digital format, but generally recognised within
	the audio industry as being of superior sound quality. DTS 5.1 delivers
	surround sound with five full range channels plus an LFE channel.
DTS 5.1 Stereo Downmix	Provides a stereo downmix of the source material for use with headphones.
DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix	This is a 6.1 channel format based on DTS 5.1. It has the sixth channel matrix
	encoded into the surround left and surround right channels. The sixth channel
	is a surround centre channel and is directed to the surround back left and
	surround back right speakers.
DTS-ES 6.1 Discrete	This is a true discrete 6.1 channel sound format (unlike DTS-ES Matrix).
	DTS-ES discrete mode operates only on sources with DTS-ES 6.1 discrete
	audio encoding.
DTS96/24	Provides up to 5.1 channels of audio at 96kHz, 24bit resolution for superior
	sound quality compared to standard DTS 5.1

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AVR400 specifications

The Arcam AVR400 is a high-performance AV receiver designed to provide an immersive home theater experience. As part of Arcam’s esteemed lineup, the AVR400 combines advanced technology with exceptional sound quality, catering to audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike.

At the heart of the AVR400 is its impressive power amplification, providing 100 watts per channel across 7 channels, ensuring a robust performance capable of driving a wide range of speakers. This power output is complemented by a high-current design, which means the receiver can handle dynamic audio passages without distortion, offering clarity in both subtle and explosive soundtracks.

One of the standout features of the AVR400 is its support for various surround sound formats, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. This allows for an unparalleled audio experience, transporting users right into the heart of the action. Additionally, the AVR400 is equipped with the latest HDMI inputs, ensuring compatibility with a multitude of high-definition sources, including Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices.

The AVR400 also boasts advanced video processing capabilities, supporting 4K pass-through as well as upscaling of lower-resolution content to 4K. This makes it an ideal choice for users looking to future-proof their home theater setup, as it can seamlessly integrate with modern 4K televisions while enhancing the quality of older content.

User-friendliness is another essential characteristic of the Arcam AVR400. It comes equipped with an intuitive on-screen menu system that simplifies the setup process. The inclusion of an automatic calibration system helps optimize speaker settings in accordance with the room acoustics, ensuring users achieve the best sound possible from their setup.

Furthermore, the network features of the AVR400 allow for streaming audio from various online services and wireless devices. Built-in support for DLNA enables users to access their media library wirelessly, while the USB input allows for direct playback from flash drives or external hard drives.

In terms of build quality, the Arcam AVR400 embodies the brand’s commitment to excellence. With a sleek design, high-quality materials, and an engineered chassis that minimizes vibration and interference, the AVR400 is not only visually appealing but also built to deliver performance over time.

In summary, the Arcam AVR400 is a feature-rich AV receiver offering a perfect blend of power, precision, and versatility. Whether for movie nights or music listening, it stands out as a reliable choice for those seeking high-quality audio and video reproduction in their home entertainment systems.