VIA and DTS Collaboration Brings Higher-Quality Audio to Headphones

Aside from working on its second generation of Nano processors, for energy-efficient x86 platforms, the Taipei, Taiwan-based VIA Technologies continues to develop its Vinyl VT Audio Codec solution. On that note, the chip maker has recently announced that the new DTS Surround Sensation Ultra PC plus Head Tracker headphone technology has been integrated in its Vinyl VT1610 Audio Codec. The solution is expected to provide the end-user with a high-quality 3D surround sound experience, the company claims.

“As more and more people opt to have their entertainment delivered via versatile mobile devices, there is a rising demand for more realistic audio playback,” said Richard Brown, vice president of marketing, VIA Technologies, Inc. “VIA is excited to work with DTS to develop a technology that will offer headphone users an improved and truly unique audio experience.”

The VIA VT1610 Audio Codec has been designed as an integrated chip for USB audio solutions, featuring a USB 2.0 full-speed interface, one stereo headphone output, four microphone input channels, all within an ultra-thin package that will enable a very compact PCB design.

As for the new TS Surround Sensation Ultra PC with Head Tracker, the technology has been designed to simulate a 5.1 channel audio experience, only using stereo headphones. Combined with VIA's VT1610 audio codec, the technology should deliver a more true-to-life experience for the end-user.

“DTS Surround Sensation Ultra PC plus Head Tracker headphones technology delivers an incredible simulated effect from headphones alone, bringing the surround sound experience to mobile platforms around the world,” said David Tan, VP, Product Management, North American Licensing, Dts, Inc. “Together with VIA, we are committed to delivering the ultimate entertainment experience to consumers.”

The Taiwanese chip maker has put up a video, available at the end of this article, designed to provide end-users with a deeper perspective on what the new technology and the VIA Vinyl Audio Codec can deliver.