There are a lot of people out there pooh-poohing the quality of streaming video. Well, it's actually getting better -- at least from an audio standpoint.
Today, Dolby Laboratories made an announcement saying that Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 is now available via the VUDU on-demand movie service. VUDU, which is owned by the mega-retailer Walmart, kicked off the new audio option this week, with the release of Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
According to Dolby, about 30 films have been mixed in 7.1 for theatrical release. That list includes Toy Story 3, Cars 2, Thor, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, and more. However, there's no word on how many of those movies will get the 7.1 treatment through VUDU.
VUDU offers subscription-free movies, with many available in high definition or VUDU's own HDX high-def format. Other options include Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, as well as a selection of 3D content, which requires both a 3D TV and compatible 3D glasses. To use access the Dolby Digital Plus 7.1, you will need a 7.1 receiver, a 7.1 speaker setup, and a compatible Blu-ray player. For now, Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 is available on all Blu-ray players that support both the format and the VUDU service. Dolby expects more devices to support this feature over time.
"We're thrilled to announce that the first entertainment content for an over-the-top or broadcast environment has been released in 7.1-channel surround sound, the best possible audio experience available for this type of delivery. It's great to collaborate with a leader in HD streaming like VUDU to enable consumers to enjoy the latest 7.1 films," said John Couling, Dolby's VP of products and platforms. "Today is just the first step. We look forward to having the opportunity to work with additional content providers to deliver premium-quality 7.1 surround sound to more consumers."
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