VideoLogic DigiTheatre DTS: The Ferrari of Sound is here

Final Words

In order to achieve DTS sound for a computer system prior to the DigiTheatre DTS, the only option would have been to connect to a full size consumer level sound system with the necessary decoding capabilities.  Oftentimes, this sort of package could easily exceed $1000 between the cost of a decoder, surround speakers, and subwoofer.  The DTS level of quality seemed somewhat above the level of a computer sound system.

The Sirocco speaker line was well received from VideoLogic, and their original DigiTheatre made a strong entry into the surround sound market.  From this point, they seized upon the opportunity to combine the best parts of each system.  The high quality Sirocco satellites combined with a surround sound decoder is an extremely powerful combination.

The quality that went into the speakers and the amplifier seems to deserve the highest quality in the decoder as well.  Enter DTS technology - the opportunity to really exhibit what the speakers could do playing back a wider dynamic range.  The low noise level in the system and consistent frequency response made it a natural candidate for introducing the DTS technology.

Surround sound quality was not the only result of this combination.  The standards that went into making the cinematic qualities of the system extremely strong were also backwards compatible with gaming and music playback.  The key to the system is accuracy - what the composer wanted to be heard is there, in a form extremely close to what they listened to while mixing the piece.  This applies to a producer watching over a record, to the sound effects mixer creating stunning surround sound environments.

The system is clean sounding, with low noise levels and accurate amplification.  It is scaled for small group listening; keep in mind that it is marketed as a computer sound system for smaller listening environments.  However, in a smaller room, it can serve as an extremely effective stereo system.  The system total of 220 W RMS is reasonable, though this is spread out over 6 channels, so it won’t quite knock the plaster off of the walls.

The subwoofer in the system is there more in the true surround sound role of low frequency effects (LFE) channel than it is for extending the frequency response of the system.  It complements the system well by effectively providing bass energy to the room.  The crossover point is low enough that it works to complement the surrounds by providing the omnidirectional bass frequencies, instead of producing low midrange frequencies that other system’s satellites can’t handle, and drawing the ear to wherever the sub is placed.

The value of the system is it’s only down side.  With a street price of just under $600, the system is a sizable investment.  Its price is good reason to evaluate the needs of a computer sound system.  Is the computer your primary entertainment system for playing back DVDs and music?  Or is this a secondary function after gaming?  The DTS system is specifically targeted to a smaller audience that is demanding quality for music and DVD playback especially.  The system is well suited to a computer based home theatre system, though if this is not your primary set of speakers, its value must be weighed.

The cost of the unit is less than a full home theatre system with similar capabilities.  However, choosing a full sized home theatre system would offer more power and larger speakers that could play to a large room.  However, with the sonic quality this system offers, comparable consumer level system will most likely be at least twice the cost, though they will carry more power.

In conclusion, the system is a joy to listen to - a very clean sound that is incredibly accurate.  The downside to the system is its price; were it a little less expensive, say $100 less, it would be an extremely attractive system.  For DVD and music enthusiasts that want a near field listening environment of the highest quality at their computer, the system is a natural choice.  Others must weigh the cost of the unit versus the benefits of the system; however, those that do choose this system will never be disappointed in its quality.