Multichannel Audio Encoder & Decoder for DVD, DVB, Multimedia
Encoder:DP569
Decoder:DP562
The Dolby DP569 is the reference Dolby Digital multichannel audio encoder. It supports encoded bit rates from 56 to 640 kbps and channel configurations from mono to 5.1-channel surround sound. The DP569 is intended for digital TV, cable, and disc authoring applications, including automated broadcast installations and mastering for DVD and other recorded media. The DP569 provides three pairs of AES3 digital audio inputs and a single AES3 output. A separate AES3 input may be used for a clock reference signal or for multiplexed AES3 bitstreams containing multiple Dolby Digital signals. Previously-encoded Dolby Digital audio bitstreams pass through unchanged-automatically, if the DP569's bitstream detection feature is activated. Matrix encoding on Dolby Surround input signals is also unaffected. EBU/SMPTE LTC and VITC time-code inputs make it possible to start and stop the encoder accurately to create separate program segments and soundtrack files for disc authoring. For on-air and other broadcast applications, time code can be used to trigger encoder configuration changes automatically for smooth program transitions. In some systems, the DP569 can also derive the time stamps required for A/V synchronization. Two connectors are provided for general-purpose I/O signals, including status and control signals. Fault-monitoring circuits warn of actual or potential system failure, and bypass connections enable a hot-standby mode for broadcast installations. The DP569's front panel features an alphanumeric LCD showing status parameters and tri-color LEDs indicating channel activity. Controls include push buttons for setting the front-panel display, configuration parameters, and default and preset modes. Front- and rear-panel serial interfaces, along with supplied application software, make it possible to configure and control the DP569 from Windows 95/NT-equipped PCs or other remote devices. For decoding Dolby Digital material, the Dolby DP562 reference Dolby Digital multichannel decoder is an ideal companion to the DP569. As well as 5.1-channel Dolby Digital decoding, it provides four-channel Dolby Pro Logic decoding. A two-channel Dolby Digital encoder unit, the Dolby DP567, is also available for applications not requiring multichannel capability.
The Dolby DP562 is a reference decoder enabling production, mastering, and broadcast facilities to monitor audio, video, and multimedia programs with multichannel sound. With features tailored to the needs of the professional user, the DP562 is an essential production tool for both Dolby Surround formats and those with Dolby Digital audio, such as DVD and DTV. The DP562 decodes Dolby Digital program material with up to 5.1 channels. It also provides four-channel Dolby Surround Pro Logic decoding for matrix-encoded surround material. The Pro Logic decoder has been implemented digitally, making it possible to monitor Dolby Surround encoded PCM soundtracks in a studio setting without converting them to analog for surround decoding. The 1-U high DP562 allows manual selection from four decoding modes: Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Digital + Pro Logic, and PCM Pass-through. It can also be configured to switch automatically to the Dolby Digital mode when a Dolby Digital bitstream is detected; bitstream parameters are displayed on a two-line, 16-character LCD. Front-panel controls allow selection of the various compression modes for Dolby Digital's dynamic range control and dialogue level normalization features. A rear-panel interface provides remote control permitting integration of the DP562 into automated facilities. It can also be remotely controlled by a PC with application software. The DP562 also makes it possible to monitor Dolby Digital's unique "downmixing" capabilities. For example, in the Dolby Digital + Pro Logic mode, a 5.1-channel Dolby Digital input signal is automatically mixed down to a two-channel (Lt/Rt) Dolby Surround encoded signal, then processed through the Pro Logic decoder. This permits producers to verify what a home listener would hear from material transmitted with 5.1 channels, but received by a two-channel Dolby Digital decoder connected to a playback system with Pro Logic decoding. Other modes make it possible to monitor what multichannel program material will sound like when played on multichannel systems, mono or two-channel stereo systems, surround systems without a center channel, and systems with a center speaker but no surrounds. To set up the correct monitoring environment, the DP562 offers full bandwidth and band-limited pink noise, individual channel level trims, and center and surround channel delays. The DP562 also has comprehensive bass redirection capabilites. For encoding Dolby Digital material, the Dolby DP569 reference Dolby Digital multichannel encoder is an ideal companion to the DP562. A two-channel Dolby Digital encoder unit, the DP567, is also available for applications not requiring multichannel capability.
