How to Pick a DTS Surround Sound Receiver

By eHow Electronics Editor

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A receiver is the command central of a home entertainment system. A surround sound receiver helps produce the effect of being completely enclosed in sound. The DTS format is typically geared for a 5.1-channel system: a subwoofer, the front right and left speakers, a center channel speaker and two surround sound speakers.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Audio and video input specifications

Pick a DTS Surround Sound Receiver

Step1

Decide how much you want to spend on a receiver. The price for a decent receiver can range between a couple hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Step2

Pick a receiver that has the adequate number of inputs. It is best to choose one with at least two inputs--one for the DVD player and another for the HDTV.

Step3

Figure out how many channels need to be connected to the receiver. For example, if you have five speakers and a subwoofer, then you have a 5.1-channel system.

Step4

Check the audio and video inputs of each component that will be connected to the receiver to ensure the specifications match.

Step5

Make sure some of the components have S-video inputs, as opposed to coaxial inputs, for better picture quality.

Step6

Pick a DVD player with built-in DTS capabilities. You can tell if a DVD player is set up for this type of format by the presence of the DTS logo on the front of the unit.

Tips & Warnings

There is also a DTS-ES format that has been developed. This format incorporates six channels, plus the subwoofer.
The receiver performs many functions, such as powering the AM/FM tuner, switching between the audio and video components, amplifying the audio signals and decoding surround sound.
To save time driving from one store to another, compare products and prices with stores online. This will give you a good idea about cost before you buy in the store or on the Internet.
You must have media, such as DVD movies, that have surround sound encoded data to warrant a receiver. Otherwise, your surround sound receiver will not process it.
Although DTS receivers can be used for home theater systems, they may not be as good as Dolby digital systems. DTS is preferred for high-quality music.
Make sure the unit you purchase comes with an adequate return policy. Some receivers may be incompatible with your surround sound system. While you should always check the packaging to ensure compatibility, you should also check the item's return policy just in case there are compatibility issues when you get the receiver home.