I’ve just made a minor update to my list of equipment that can transcode surround sound for Freeview HD, adding information about the TVonics DTR-Z500HD, which I’m reviewing at the moment for Register Hardware.
I’ll also be posting a more general update about the topic in the next few days. Meanwhile, if you have already bought Freeview HD kit, and have it connected up to your surround sound system, please do let me know whether or not you are able to get surround sound from it. I’d like to try and build up a more comprehensive list of the 2010 kit – which is likely to be sold off cheaply as new models come out – so that those looking for a bargain can be sure what they’ll be getting.
How to check
The best way to check whether or not your kit can decode surround properly is either to watch the BBC test card, which is on during the daytime, or to catch one of the programmes that is always broadcast in 5.1 audio, such as Later with Jools Holland or A little Later. You should see your AV kit indicate that it’s receiving a Dolby Digital signal, rather than Pro Logic or simple PCM audio.
If you are able to check and let me know, please do – the email address is at the top of this page, or you can post in the comments. Remember to say exactly what model number your FreeviewHD receiver or TV is, and if possible which firmware version. It would also be helpful to know if you have connected it to your AV gear using an optical connection or an HDMI one.
If enough people supply information, then we can create a useful table for others to refer to when they are thinking of buying Freeview HD kit.
The Phillips DTR5520 now transcodes to DD5.1 with effect from firmware version 7.19. I am using the RCA digital output so can’t speak for HDMI but the release notes say that 5.1 is working full stop.