In a press release, LG announces that its new high-end Oled and LCD TVs will support the DTS:X codec. LG Korea later confirmed that all of its 2023 Oled models, as well as QNED85 and above TVs, will have the ability to decode DTS, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced audio codecs. LG nevertheless specifies that the built-in speakers of its televisions will not manage DTS: X sound, but that they will send the signal to a sound bar or a compatible home cinema amplifier.
DTS:X and lesser DTS codecs (DTS-HD, DTS-ES, etc.) are surround sound formats compatible with Blu-ray Discs and Disney’s IMAX Enhanced movies. This update is therefore interesting for those who have a collection of compatible Blu-rays or who are subscribers to Disney +. Of course, to take full advantage of it, you must have a compatible sound bar or amplifier. Most modern TVs don’t have speakers that can properly reproduce immersive sound, including the alternative Dolby Atmos format.
Like the latter, DTS:X attempts to create a more realistic and multi-dimensional soundstage, which makes sound seem to emanate from all around the viewer, creating a more immersive and realistic experience. If a helicopter is hovering over a movie, for example, the most capable DTS:X or Dolby Atmos speaker systems can make the sound seem like it’s actually coming from above. DTS:X is an object-based, not channel-based, 3D sound format. This means there is no need for a specific speaker setup. It works well with soundbars with three channels, up to high-end models with 15 channels.
The main difference between DTS:X and Dolby Atmos lies in the bit rates supported, with 25 Mb/s for DTS:X versus 15 Mb/s for Dolby TrueHD Atmos. The Dolby company claims that the TrueHD Atmos codec is more efficient and therefore requires a lower bitrate for equivalent quality.
It is important to note that different content supports different sound formats. While most Blu-ray discs work with DTS:X, streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video only support Dolby Atmos. Disney+ is the only major service that accepts both formats.
With DTS:X support in addition to Dolby Atmos, LG’s 2023 TVs are an ideal choice for those who want surround sound for both their Ultra HD Blu-ray disc library and streaming services. They will be able to enjoy a more immersive audio experience for all types of content.