What is the new DTS-ES discrete format?
DTS-ES Discrete 6.1 is the name of the new encoding/decoding scheme by DTS to enable the delivery of a discrete back surround channel (unlike Surround EX where the back surround information is derived via matrix processing.) DTS-ES Discrete 6.1 software (DVD) contains information for 7 discrete channels. The l/r surround channels still contain the back surround information matrixed in. This allows for backwards compatibility for Surround EX gear. The digital data frame however also contains the discrete data for the back surround channel. Only new DTS-ES Discrete 6.1 decoders will recognize this frame. The discrete back surround data is extracted; and also added out of phase with the information in the l/r surrounds by the decoders processor. This essentially subtracts any of the back surround information from the surround channels leaving us with 3 discrete surround outputs. The major advantages of this scheme over Surround EX is better channel separation and avoids some of the issues
