ESS Introduces Crescendo VII Audio Processing SoC for Soundbars and Wireless Speakers

ESS Technology announced today it’s 7th-generation of audio processors for soundbars and wireless speakers. The Crescendo VII is a highly integrated solution for consumer audio products that provides a multicore platform for system control and signal processing with a range of inputs and interfaces. Combining audio processing and signal routing with DTS Virtual:X certification, the Crescendo VII enables compact, power-efficient, and cost-effective designs for soundbars, wireless speakers, and active subwoofers.

Denon announced its first full-range low-profile soundbar with DTS Virtual:X, the DHT-S216 ($249). The slender and powerful soundbar leverages advanced psychoacoustic algorithms developed by DTS to realistically simulate a multi-channel soundtrack played on a home theater surround sound system. The DHT-S216 is easily connected to any TV and media player via 4K UHD HDMI with Audio Return Channel or Optical/Auxiliary inputs for exceptional sound clarity.

DTS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Xperi Corporation, announced that its DTS Virtual:X post-processing technology is now available in several popular Analog Devices DSP chips. The fully-certified DTS Virtual:X SDKs are ready for integration into AVRs and soundbars, with the first Analog Devices-enabled DTS Virtual:X firmware updates scheduled for Summer 2018. The DTS Virtual:X solution is now available on the following Analog Devices DSP products: ADSP-2148x, ADSP-2157x, ADSP-SC57x, ADSP-2158x.

DTS announced the integration of DTS Virtual:X technology in A/V receivers for the first time. Select Denon and Marantz A/V receivers are now able to receive a firmware update to offer immersive sound in home theaters without the need for height or rear speakers. DTS Virtual:X technology in an A/V receiver offers immersive audio - virtual surround and virtual height - from simple soundbars, or traditional stereo and surround configurations (5.1/7.1 channel).

DTS has announced the integration of its Virtual:X immersive sound technology into a new series of soundbars that are set to hit the market this summer, followed by receivers and possibly TVs. The first release will be the Yamaha YAS-207 soundbar in early July 2017, with the DTS Virtual:X firmware update coming in August. DTS says its Virtual:X technology can be implemented to provide an immersive sound experience without the need for additional height and/or rear surround speakers.