The back of the unit features two RCA stereo inputs used for connecting
the audio source, just lower the RCA plugs you find two digital Inputs, the
coaxial RCA type and the Optical (TOSLINK) input. A little bit lower on the
left side you find the DIN output used for connecting the DigiTheatre Sub
built-in Amplifier. Around the center there are four mini out put jacks that
are designed to be used with speaker systems that are lacking of RCA inputs.
The remote control that comes with the decoder
is as small as it gets as it is a credit size remote. These types of remotes
are mostly used on camcorders and some portable VCRs. The unit operates on
a little CR2032 3v battery. The remote includes all the important controls
of the DigiTheatre system. You can practically operate the system completely
via remote without ever touching the DigiTheatre decoder, although it will
be somehow harder as you won’t see the LCD panel starting from about 4 feet
away. The Remote it self does a OK job, with its little IR lens it requires
to be pointed directly to the decoder. If for example you turn it 90 degrees
from the unit, it will stop working. We would personally prefer a full sized
remote control.
To AC-3 or to not AC-3
The
Dolby Pro Logic surround mode has been around for over 4 years now.
The Pro Logic mode is achieved thorough an analog signal using your stereo
VCR, TV set, DVD or any other audio equipment featuring the stereo technology.
The Pro Logic Mode is used four encoded channels to reproduce the special
effects as real as possible. The front left and front right channels provide
a normal stereo output. The center channel is the most used in the operation
as it’s the one keeping the dialogue and other effects firmly placed at the
center of the screen and the fourth channel is the surround speakers. The
surround channel is mono, this means both surround speaker produce the same
effects.
A newer and improved Home Theater standard has
appeared around the end of 1998. This newer standard is called Dolby Digital
(AC-3). This is currently the latest development in surround sound. Dolby
Digital is achieved through digital technology to provide full frequency range
channels for the effects. Because of this, every surround speaker will be
operating on its own and outputting different effects to create an even more
real theater experience. Dolby Digital enables precise location of spatial
audio effects, while an extra Low Frequency Effects (LFE) channel provides
spectacular explosions effects. Dolby Digital features six encoded channels.
As this mode requires a digital connection, DVD players, digital TV sets and
PC’s featuring digital outputs are the ones who can fully enjoy it.
If you currently own a Dvd player or a satellite
dish supporting an AC-3 output, we would highly recommend on using it as it’s
by far superior to Dolby Pro Logic on encoded AC-3 media. 
