Why do digital TV converter boxes list "dolby digital" capability and what value is that with an analog TV?

Question

Digital TV converter boxes have RF and analog audio/video outputs but of what use is the Dolby Digital capability, unless it passes the DTS signal somehow to another device for processing? Or is it just marketing hype...

Answer 1

Why do you think some other device needs to do the processing?  The converter does the processing and produces the result on the audio out.

Answer 2

Dolby Digital AC-3 is part of the HTDV signal, so it's a natural feature of the converter box. While that allows programs to include 5.1 surround sound, it's only of use if you have a sound system that can take advantage of it.

Answer 3

Dolby Digital boxes cannot pass DTS at all.  Since HD channels are broadcast using DD 5.1 this is so people can get surround sound using a 5.1 reciever.  On regular TV it doesn't matter at all, because all you will get is stereo no matter what.

This is why most people hook up a surround sound system to their TV's to get higher quality audio for regular TV.  Also with a reciever, you can use Dolby Prologic IIx to get 5.1, 6.1 or even 7.1 sound from stereo sources.