Sky in 5.1 and Sony decoder

[cande]

I understand that some Sky Movies are going to start being broadcast in Dolby Digital 5.1, Problem is to take full advantage of this an optical link from the Sky decoder to My AV amplifier is required which my currant decoder does not have. I understand though that the SONY decoder has one , anyone know how to get a Sony Decoder without shelling out £300-£400, can you blag one from SKY???

Many Thanks

:cool:

[Ridcully]

Unfortuneately although the Sony box does have an optical output it does appear to have the software for decoding DD. The only box that does support DD is the PACE Sky +.

For more info and a link to the petiton trying to get mods for Sonys to work with DD go to http://forum.digitalspy.co.uk/board/forumdisplay.php?forumid=14

[cande]

IT'S ALL A CONSPIRACY I TELL YOU!!!! :(

[cheekster]

I am told that ALL movies on Sky from Xmas onwards will be broadcast in Dolby Digital 5.1 (useful for the few subscribers out there with Sky +).

Cheekster.

[john316]

There is no basis for the Sony box having DD capabilities. Just because it has an optical out doesn't equal a DD out. If you want DD on Sky then just get Sky+ instead!!

[Cable Monkey]

Actually, thats not entirely correct. It was always envisaged that DD would be used at some stage in the future: It was written in as part of spec for digital terrestrial in Australia right from the beginning. That is why some companies designed a digital out on their boxes. Sky have gone with Pace so they can control the use of Sky+ features and get paid. They control their assets better than the terrestrial competition.
Suggestion! combine your Sony set top with a DPLII capable amp. The results may be quite good!