DP571 Dolby E Encoder

The DP571 Dolby E Encoder eases the transition of DTV broadcasters and program producers to multichannel audio. It enables distribution of up to eight channels of high-quality audio plus Dolby Digital metadata via a single 20-bit AES3 pair on two tracks of digital video tape, digital audio tape, or video server. Up to six channels of high-quality audio plus Dolby Digital metadata can be carried via a single 16-bit AES pair.

The DP571 features Dolby E audio coding, developed for the production and distribution of discrete multichannel audio. Unlike audio encoded with Dolby Digital (ideal for transmitting multichannel audio to the home viewer), Dolby E audio withstands ten plus tandem encode/decode cycles without audible degradation.

With Dolby E, audio frames match video frames, assuring that audio-follow-video edits are free of mutes and other aberrations, enabling switching, routing, and editing directly on the digital bitstream without decoding and re-encoding. Dolby E audio also carries Dolby Digital metadata generated by the DP571, or by the program's producers during program creation, for final delivery to the viewer's Dolby Digital decoder.

Multiple program configurations are possible, ranging from "2+2" (two stereo programs) to "5.1+2" (one 5.1 channel program and a stereo- or matrix-encoded Lt/Rt). Other configurations are possible. The DP571 features inputs for SMPTE time code, and a standard video black reference signal to keep audio and video frame rates locked. Remote-control connectors, an alphanumeric display, channel-activity LEDs, and menu buttons facilitate operation.

Dolby Laboratories, Inc., 100 Potrero Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94103-4813. Tel: 415-558-0200; Fax: 415-863-1373.