In the world of audio technology, when we discuss high-quality surround sound for a home theater setup, two acronyms often pop into our minds: ASC and DTS. Most people are often confused about the difference between these two technical terms.
Both ASC “Auto Sound Calibration” and DTS “Digital Theater System” are digital audio encoding and calibration technologies, each with its own unique applications and features. These surround-sound technologies make your home theater experience more immersive and enjoyable.
In this blog post, we’ll clarify the differences between ASC vs DTS, their features, strengths, and weaknesses. We’ll also provide some tips on how to set up each technology to get the best possible sound quality.
By the end of this blog post, you’ll have a clear understanding of both technologies and be able to make an informed choice based on your specific needs.
ASC vs DTS: The Quick Difference
ASC and DTS are two different surround-sound technologies. These technologies are used in a variety of devices, including TVs, soundbars, and theaters, to make your TV shows, movies, and music more enjoyable.
Both audio encoding technologies have many differences, with the primary difference being in their compression methods and use cases. ASC employs lossless compression, while DTS utilizes lossy compression. ASC retains every detail of the original audio signal, while DTS sacrifices some audio data to achieve more efficient compression and smaller file sizes.
ASC is most commonly used for professional audio production and archiving, broadcast facilities, and recording studios where audio quality is necessary. However, ASC is less common on consumer devices because of the larger files it delivers.
while DTS is ideal for consumer settings such as home theater systems, streaming platforms, and Blu-ray discs. With DTS, you can enjoy excellent audio quality with significantly fewer storage and bandwidth requirements, making it accessible and useful for everyday entertainment needs.
You should choose between ASC and DTS based on your specific audio requirements, whether you prefer maximum audio quality “ASC” or efficiency and compatibility “DTS“.
Comparison Table between ASC and DTS
Let’s first examine the key differences between ASC and DTS before diving into the specifics.
| Factor | ASC | DTS |
| Technology | Analog | Digital |
| Compression Method | Lossless | Lossy |
| Soundstage | Narrower | Wider |
| Audio Quality | Exceptional | High |
| Setup | More complex | Simpler |
| Bitrate | High (typically 1.5 Mbps or more) | Variable (ranges from 384 kbps to 1.5 Mbps) |
| Device support | Less common | More common |
| Compatibility | Less common, primarily used in studios | Widely supported in consumer devices |
| Sound effects | Less realistic | More realistic |
| Applications | Professional audio production and archiving | Home theater systems, Blu-ray, streaming |
Now, let’s dive deep into each technology for a more detailed understanding.
What is ASC?
ASC stands for Auto Sound Calibration or Adaptive Sound Control. This audio encoding technology enables lossless sound encoding for professional audio production and archiving.
LG developed this proprietary technology in order to automatically optimize sound output to match the content being played on a device. To determine the appropriate sound settings, ASC considers a variety of factors, including the type of content, the volume level, and the environment.
Audio professionals often use this system for recording studios, broadcast facilities, and other professional audio applications.
How to Set Up ASC
You can set up ASC on a device by accessing its settings menu. In the settings menu, locate and enable the ASC option. To get the best results, you may also need to adjust the ASC settings.
If you use the ASC function, the device will automatically identify the distance between speaker channels or create higher levels while moving or installing the unit, resulting in a 5.1-channel sound field that matches your environment perfectly. It is necessary to press the ASC button. Each channel’s distance and level will be displayed on the display.
- To connect the ASC microphone, use the input jack on the ASC.
- Your ASC microphone should be placed in the area where you wish to listen.
- Click the ASC button to activate it.
- If you want to create the best 5.1-channel sound field, you should select the following settings: L ➞ C ➞ R ➞ SR ➞ SL ➞ SW.
- When you see the Remove MIC message appear in the display, unplug the ASC microphone.
- You can remove the ASC settings by clicking the ASC button. On the screen, the message Cancel ASC appears after the test tone output ceases.
- Press and hold the ASC button to listen within the Auto Sound Calibration option.
- You can toggle between ASC ON and ASC OFF on the display.
- You will hear music in the ASC model when you select “ASC ON.”.
- You will hear the audio in the sound setup mode if you turn off ASC.
What is DTS?
The Digital Theater System (DTS) is a surround sound technology that uses digital signals to encode and decode audio. With DTS, the soundstage is wider and the sound effects are more realistic than with ASC.
Devices that support DTS are more common than those that support ASC. Movie theaters can play movies with high-quality surround sound using this technology.
How to Set Up DTS
The setup of DTS is also a simple and easy process.
- Make sure that your Xbox is connected to a DTS:X soundbar or a multi-channel home theater system before you begin.
- Then, download the DTS sound controller app from the Microsoft Store on your Xbox.
- If you have DTS:X installed on your Xbox, select it as your bitstream codec in the Xbox system sound options.
- Now you’re ready to go.
You will need to follow different steps depending on the device you are using to set up DTS. However, the general process is the same.
Some Additional Tips
You may also find these tips helpful when setting up ASC and DTS:
- Make sure the speakers are positioned correctly. Using the instructions that come with your speakers is the best way to accomplish this.
- Adjust the volume of each speaker. By doing this, you will be able to create a balanced soundstage.
- Try different sound settings to find out which one suits your room best.
Important Note
Besides ASC and DTS, other surround sound technologies are also available, such as Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital. Dolby Atmos offers the most immersive listening experience available thanks to its highly advanced surround sound technology.
It is, however, the most expensive technology. You can still enjoy good sound quality with Dolby Digital at a more affordable price. The following factors must be considered when choosing a surround sound system:
- The type of content you’ll be listening to
- Your room’s size
- Your budget you’ve
These factors will help you narrow down your choices and find the best surround sound technology for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is ASC mode on a soundbar?
ASC stands for Auto Sound Calibration. This feature is available on most soundbars and automatically adjusts the sound output based on the content you’re playing. ASC determines the best sound settings through various factors such as content type, volume level, and the environment in which your soundbar is being used.
What is the DTS mode on a soundbar?
DTS (Digital Theater Systems) is a surround sound technology that uses digital signals to encode and decode audio. In contrast to ASC, DTS offers a wider soundstage and produces more realistic sound effects.
What does DRC mean on the LG sound bar?
DRC stands for Dynamic Range Compression. This feature is present on some LG soundbars to minimize the difference between quiet and loud sounds. The DRC feature is especially helpful for people who are sensitive to loud sounds or who want to watch movies at night without disturbing others.
What is an ASC in sound?
ASC stands for Adaptive Sound Control or Auto Sound Calibration. This feature is present in many sound systems. It automatically adjusts the sound output based on the content you’re playing. This technology improves the overall sound quality and makes your listening experience more enjoyable.
Is DTS the best audio?
DTS is the best surround sound technology, but it is not the only one. Other surround sound technologies, such as Dolby Digital and Dolby Atoms, are also present. The best audio technology for you depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Is DTS sound worth it?
The value of DTS sound depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you are seeking the best possible sound quality, then DTS may be worth it for you. However, if you are more on the budget side than sound quality, DTS may not be worth it for you.
What are the benefits of DTS sound?
DTS sound offers multiple benefits, including:
- A wider soundstage than other surround sound technologies to make you feel more surrounded by sound.
- It produces more realistic sound effects to make your TV shows and movies more immersive.
- Dialog clarity is also improved with DTS, which is very useful for people who are watching in a noisy environment.
- Improved sound quality and an immersive listening experience.
- Support for many devices.
- Wide range of content.
What is the difference between DTS, ASC, and bass blast?
ASC and DTS are two different types of surround sound technologies, while bass blast is a feature that enhances the bass output of a soundbar. With DTS, you get a wider soundstage and more realistic sound effects than with ASC, while with the bass blast, a soundbar sounds more powerful.
Is DTS better than Dolby Atmos?
Both Dolby Atoms and DTS are excellent surround sound technologies with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Dolby Atoms provide a more realistic sound experience, while DTS provides a wider soundstage. Which technology is better for you depends on your individual preferences and needs.
What is DTS bass enhancement?
DTS bass enhancement is a great feature that is used to enhance the bass output of a soundbar. With the DTS bass enhancement feature, you’ll be able to enjoy a more powerful and immersive sound experience with your soundbar.
What is DTS neural surround sound?
DTS neural surround sound is a feature that converts stereo audio into surround sound with the help of artificial intelligence. If you’re listening to music or watching movies on a soundbar that does not have a surround sound system, DTS neural surround sound will help you enjoy a surround sound experience.
Conclusion
In terms of audio quality, ASC and DTS are both popular. Using either of these formats is a good idea if you are seeking to improve the overall quality of your audio. If you wish to convert your existing audio files into ASC or DTS formats, you can do so.
Although ASC and DTS are both good surround sound technologies, they differ in a number of ways. DTS is the best choice for users who want the best sound quality, while ASC is the best choice for those who want a simple, easy-to-use system. In the end, what’s right for you depends on your unique needs and preferences.
I hope you found this blog post helpful. Please don’t hesitate to reach us if you have any further questions.