Digital Theater System

In cinemas, DTS (Digital Theater Systems) is a multi-channel audio source for synchronized film sound. A modified time code is optically imaged on the film itself, and the DTS processor uses this to synchronize the soundtrack audio which is recorded in a compressed form on standard CD-ROM media (1.5 megabits/second). The time-code modifications allow identifying data that ensures that a certain film's soundtrack will only run with that film. Release-current "trailer" soundtracks are also recorded on most film DTS disks and also on separate trailer-only disks. DTS processors can hold 2 or 3 CDs to allow for 2-disk soundtracks and/or trailer disks.

DTS's main competitors in multi-channel audio are Dolby Digital and SDDS. Only Dolby Digital and DTS are used on DVDs and implemented in home theater hardware. In home theater applications, DTS can use lower data rates of approximately 800 kilobits/second or less.

DTS was first shown in the cinema with the release of Jurassic Park in 1993.