DVD and THX

[Stellavision]

Do dvd player's need to be THX certified to reap the full benefits of THX audio decoding.
I'm using a Toshiba 520E and a Pioneer 2011 reciever.
I've been watching Attack of the clones in THX cinema mode seemingly with no problems, but I was wondering if I'm better just keeping my reciever in DD mode without THX certification on my dvd player.
Cheers

[Too Tall]

Hi,

There maybe guys on the forum that can explain this better but I'll give it a go.

There is a general confusion over THX. Because THX is in effect 3 different things with one name.

1: THX software standard.
A set of standards set by THX on the production of software (DVD, LD, Video).

2: THX Hardware standard.
A set of standards set by THX on the production of hardware. A product has to pass tests on sounds and vision and ease of use. This is what will apply to a THX approved DVD player.

3: THX Sound processing.
THX is not a format in it own right. It is a set of post decoding matrix's that are applied to a sound source. It can be applied to DPL, DD or DTS. It was first developed for DPL to give the mono rears a more stereo feel, the left and right more seperation and to give better bass management. Now with DD and DTS it is a more subjective thing as to whether sources sound better with or without THX on. I personnelly like the THX sound (I have a Denon 1SR).

So in answer to your question, you do not need a THX certified DVD player to take advantage of THX processing, they are completely seperate things.

Hope that makes some of sense,
Stuart.

[Reiner]

Do dvd player's need to be THX certified to reap the full benefits of THX audio decoding.

No, they don't. The THX audio processing (not decoding actually) is done in the amp only and the player itself should not affect the datastream.

[Gary Lightfoot]

Is there such a thing as a THX DVD player?

I don't think I've seen one...

Gary.

Onkyo released one.. also a couple of Pioneer Elite players I think recieved THX classification..

[Steve.EX]

The Tag DVD32r is THX certified.
To clear some confusion a dvd player/transport that is certified has this certification based on hardware alone, in much the same way that a power amp (or amp section of an integrated) is THX certified.
It's quality will be based on it's internal design/devices that MEET THX requirements , the THX badge will not "represent" a different "sound or picture".
As stated above only THX processing, be it THX, THX EX, THX2 will have any effect on the "sound".

Regards

STeve.

[BabylonP]

Denon's DVD-A1 is THX Ultra certified and very nice it is to.

[Reiner]

Is there such a thing as a THX DVD player?

I don't think I've seen one...

It get's worst: there are even THX certified cables ...

[Adam Barratt]

Not to mention car stereos, PC speakers, soundcards and games consoles.

Adam

[Craig Sowerby]

Hi,

These are a few DVD players that are THX certified,

Onkyo DV-SP800
Onkyo DV-S939
Integra Research RDV-1

Marantz DV- 8300 (THX Select)
Marantz DV-12S1
Denon DVD-A1

Try THX.com for more info

Hope this is of interest.