A Guide to Audio for HDTV in Europe

Overview		Production		Distribution		Transmission		Set-Top Box Requirements

High-definition (HD) television with high-resolution images and surround sound—already on air in the US, Japan, and Australia—is beginning to make its mark in Europe. Several high-profile broadcasters, such as Sky and Premiere, have announced their plans to launch services.

European program makers are using HD tools for production, and experimental services are already on air. With the prices of plasma screens falling and more efficient video codecs on the way, bringing HD into European homes is considered by many to be more practical than ever before.

The engrossing and involving sound of 5.1 audio is an essential component of the HD viewing experience. With the superb detail of the high-resolution picture combined with the high-quality sound from all around, viewers can feel as though they are really at the center of the action.

The information here will help you determine how to get the most exciting audio to your viewers.