What Is an AC3 Filter?
AC3 is a universal surround sound audio codec, based on Dolby’s AC-3 encoding format. Dolby designed the AC3 format to take full advantage of the way your ears work. It splits each audio channel into narrow frequencies to match the frequency selectivity of your ears. Dolby’s AC-3 codec is standard in cinema, HDTV, and DVD. It supports and optimizes sample rates up to 48 kHz. AC3Filter is a computer-based codec so that you can play higher-quality, surround sound on your home computer.
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History
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Dolby is recognized at the forefront of audio technology globally. In 1982, Dolby first began researching digital audio technology. In 1986 it developed Dolby SR as a major step from analog towards digital. Dolby’s first digital audio coding system was AC-1, released in 1984, and a year later used by satellite and cable broadcasting. AC-2 was released in 1989, and was surpassed three years later by AC-3, or Dolby Digital, the industry-defining multichannel audio format.
AC3 Technology
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AC3 is optimized for six audio channels: five standard range (20 Hz -20,000 Hz) speakers and one bass range (20 Hz – 120 Hz) speaker. This 5.1 surround system is the industry standard for home and theater. AC3 is the standard audio format on Blu-Ray and HD DVDs but they also have optional further audio capabilities. You can easily make your home computer capable of surround sound using the AC3filter.
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The AC3 Filter
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The AC3 Filter is a computer codec to decode audio and be a processor filter. Once installed (See Resources) your computer will be able to playback AC3 and DTS audio. You can play multi-channel video files, or multi-channel audio tracks. Using the filter, you can also upmix standard two channel stereo sound into multi-channel surround sound. Also you can downmix full six channel sound to any combination of channels to suit your speakers.
AC3 Filter Capabilities
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With the AC3 Filter installed, you can use your standard media playback software to hear any surround sound audio across all channels of your surround sound system. The AC3 filter also features dynamic range control, which optimizes sound for environment and condition, such as poor quality speakers, or quieter playback at night. Each channel is fully customizable, and can be time-delayed and gain-controlled individually.
Future of Digital Sound
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Since the mid-1990s Dolby has continued to advance Dolby Digital technology. Dolby Digital Plus (E-AC-3) further develops the AC-3 legacy, offering up to 13.1 channels and additional technological improvements. Dolby TrueHD is a lossless surround audio codec supporting 24-bit, 96 kHz across 14 channels. Both these audio formats were standard in HD DVD, but are optional in Blu-ray, though both discs are limited to eight channel outputs.
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