Multichannel

Multi-channel capability (English multi-channel ) is in the audio range, the ability of an audio data format or audio system to store and process multiple channels, or sometimes known example in audio software, the ability to work with multiple audio tracks. In the field of wireless technology, it can denote systems that can operate on multiple frequencies or channels at the same time.

The most common multi-channel configurations in the former sense 5.1 ( five main channels: front center, front right, front left, rear right, rear left and a bass channel ) and 6.1 (the five channels from 5.1 rear center).

Whereas in the past only to be found in cinemas Mehrkanaltonsysteme, they have also been introduced in the private sphere since the introduction of the DVD. The two rivals for the succession of CD, DVD-Audio and SACD, as well as the potential successor to Rounded DVD HD-DVD and Blu- ray Disc also support multi-channel audio.

Some file formats, which offer multichannel audio: AAC, ( Ogg ) Vorbis, WMA Pro, AC3, DTS, FLAC and WavPack.

There is no uniform standard, such as the individual tracks are allocated to the loudspeakers, and each manufacturer (Microsoft, Dolby, MPEG, Xiph ... ) uses its own method or copy an existing.

Multi-channel recordings are often called " surround " means.

More meanings

A multi-channel CNC controller can simultaneously execute different programs.