There are a couple "off-brand" units that do DTS and DD, but they are so
off-brand, I can't even remember the names of them ;-)

What don't you like about the AC500D? From what I've heard, it's a decent
unit for the price. I've only heard 2 major complaints about it:

1. The output may not be high enough to function well as a standalone AV
pre-amp. This is obviously not a problem if you are using it in conjunction
with a receiver with 6 channel inputs.

2. No FM demodulated Dolby Digital input for use with laserdisc players.
Again, obviously not a problem if you have no laserdisc player.


Another option you may want to consider, if you're dead-set on not having to
buy a receiver or AV pre/pro and amps is to get one of the several outboard
Dolby Digital processors (where you'll have a few more choices) and combine
it with one of the Millenium 2.4.6 DTS decoders (less than 200 bucks used).
I believe Denon also makes a standalone DTS decoder, although I've never
seen or heard the thing. The 2 units can be "daisy-chained" to work
together with no problems. You'll have more to choose from, but the price
will obviously be pretty outrageous.


"Matt Distefano" wrote in message
news:%RjVa.1920$uu5.551@sccrnsc04...
So I'm looking for an inexpensive, external DTS and Dolby Digital surround
decoder. Something along the lines of the Technics SH-AC500D. In fact,
that
SH-AC500D is about the only thing I've been able to find that fits the
bill,
which is basically why I'm here. Anybody know of similarly-priced
alternatives?

Thanks in advance,
Matt