How to Enjoy DTS Audio on a Non-DTS TV

Do you own a non-DTS television but wish to enjoy the rich and immersive audio of DTS? There are several practical solutions that can help you achieve this goal. This article explores various methods to bring DTS audio to your non-DTS setup, making it accessible and enjoyable.

Using an External DTS Decoder/Receiver

One of the most straightforward methods is to use an external DTS decoder or receiver. This involves connecting your TV to an AV receiver that supports the DTS audio format. The receiver acts as a middleman, decoding the DTS signal and outputting the audio to your speakers.

Option 1: AV Receiver

An AV receiver is a great choice if you already own one. Simply connect your media source (such as a Blu-ray player or streaming device) to the receiver. The receiver will handle the DTS decoding, ensuring that your speakers deliver the high-quality DTS audio.

Option 2: Standalone DTS Decoder

If you don’t have an AV receiver, you can use a standalone DTS decoder. This device is designed to connect directly between your media player and your TV or sound system. It performs the same function as an AV receiver, decoding the DTS signal and outputting the audio.

Using Streaming Devices

Streaming devices such as Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire TV can also be used to decode DTS audio. These devices are equipped with the necessary software to support DTS, and they can send the decoded audio to your TV or external audio system.

Using a Media Player with DTS Support

Another option is to use a media player software like VLC or Kodi on a PC, or a compatible media player with built-in DTS support. Connect this media player to your TV via HDMI or optical audio. This setup ensures that the DTS audio is properly decoded before reaching your speakers.

Using HDMI ARC or eARC

If your TV supports HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), you can take advantage of this feature. Connect an AV receiver or soundbar that supports DTS to your TV. You can then use the ARC or eARC to send the audio signal from your TV to the receiver, where it will be decoded and output through your speakers.

Using Optical or Coaxial Outputs

Your TV may also have an optical or coaxial audio output. You can connect these outputs to an external DTS decoder or an AV receiver that can handle DTS signals. This method provides a direct and reliable way to enjoy DTS audio without compromising the quality of the experience.

Considerations

Audio Format Support: Ensure that the device you are using (receiver, decoder, or streaming device) explicitly supports DTS. Not all devices do, and it's important to check the specifications to avoid any disappointment.

Cables: Using high-quality HDMI cables or optical cables can significantly enhance the audio quality. Invest in reliable cables to ensure the best possible sound.

By implementing one of these methods, you can effectively enjoy DTS audio on your non-DTS TV setup and enhance your home entertainment experience. It's a convenient and cost-effective solution that doesn't require extensive modifications to your TV, ensuring that you can continue to use it as per the manufacturer's warranty.

While the process may require some setup, the results are well worth it for those who desire the best possible audio experience. Remember, the use of DTS audio is primarily limited to Blu-ray and UHD Blu-ray disks. High-end streamers typically favor Dolby Digital Plus, which is simpler and more accessible.