DVD-Video has eight sound streams, which means that there are eight routes for digital signals. A sound stream and a channel are not the same thing, and 5.1-channel Dolby Digital or a 7.1-channel MPEG2 Audio is different.

For example, each of the eight streams can carry Dolby Digital 5.1-channel or MPEG2 Audio 7.1-channel sound. The first stream could be 5.1-channel English, the second 7.1-channel French, the third non- compressed linear PCM, and so on.

Because each sound stream requires a large amount of data and the amount of audio data per second increases if 5.1 or PCM digital sound technology is utilized, the storage capacity available for visuals decreases.

To increase the storage capacity available for visuals, it is possible to use fewer sound streams or use Dolby Digital Audio 2- channel sound instead of non-compressed linear PCM.

Efficient utilization of sound streams is the key to making the best use of the DVD-Video disc's capacity. Furthermore, the 8-stream capability makes various applications possible, such as dubbing in multiple languages, excellent audio performance, visuals accompanied by the producer's commentary, and storage of soundtracks.

You can switch instantly from stream to stream via the remote control. With eight sound streams at their disposal, producers can bring their creativity into full play.

The sound available with DVD-Video has a depth and presence comparable to that experienced at a movie theater. That's one big reason why Hollywood is embracing DVD technology. DVD-Video's audio functions are as follows.