VLC Media Player – How to Play DTS Audio

VLC Media Player offers users versatile multimedia playback solutions with ease and precision. However, users may encounter limitations on functions and supported multimedia formats during playback. This article aims to assist users who wish to play DTS audio files on VLC Media Player.

The DTS audio track utilizes a 5.1-channel standard encoded by DTS (Digital Theater Systems), surpassing the 448kbps provided by the Dolby Digital (AC3) encoding system. DTS stands for “Digital Theatre System,” representing a digital cinema system distinct from other sound processing systems like Dolby Digital. DTS commonly employs a 5.1 or 7.1 home theater lossy encoded audio format developed by Digital Theater Systems.

To play DTS audio on VLC, a DTS filter decoder, often referred to as AC3Filter, is required. Follow these steps to download and install the AC3Filter:

1. Download AC3Filter and install it on your computer, following the on-screen instructions.
2. Extract the downloaded AC3Filter archive and open the folder.
3. Launch the AC3Filter decoder and navigate to “Start” >> “All Programs” >> “AC3Filter” >> “AC3 Filter Config” >> “System.”
4. Ensure that “DTS” is selected in the panel to enable the detection and playback of DTS audio by the media player.
5. Open the “Start” menu, select “Access Run,” type “regsvr32 filename.dll or regsvr32 filename.ax” in the box, and click “Run” to activate the update.

Adjust VLC settings for DTS playback:

1. Open VLC Media Player and click “Media” >> “Preferences.”
2. Scroll down to the bottom and select “All” under the “Show settings” section.
3. In the left column, find “Output modules” under the “Audio” section, and select “DirectX” under the “Output Module.”
4. Choose a compatible output device supporting DTS audio, such as 5.1 output, under “Speaker Configuration.”

It’s important to note the limitations of playing DTS on VLC:

1. Stuttering issue: DTS audio may not play smoothly on VLC, requiring high hardware and sound card standards.
2. Difficulty in playing: Compared to other audio formats, playing DTS on VLC is more challenging, requiring additional decoders and installation time.
3. Occupies more space: DTS audio files occupy more space on the computer, making them less suitable for home use.

Despite these limitations, DTS remains widely adopted in home theater and cinema systems, offering advanced surround sound formats like DTS-HD High Resolution and DTS-HD Master Audio. Additionally, DTS:X competes with Dolby’s Atmos. While playing DTS on VLC is achievable, the process involves complex steps that require patience.