DD Ex 5.1 sounds better than TrueHD

[KASR]

I dunno what I'm doing wrong here...but on my last few disks (HD-DVD) the TrueHD audio isn't as loud as the other format available (DTS, ES, DD EX, etc.)

For example, I'm watching Perfect Storm HD-DVD right now - in Dolby TrueHD the dialogue is quieter and the entire soundstage sounds muffled. When I switch it to DD ES (the available format) the dialog pops back up in the way that you would expect. What could be the possible culprits? See sig for components.

 

[Nomo]

You've somewhat answered your own question.
Louder always sounds better.
That doesn't mean the SQ is better.

 

[gene]

DD EX is louder b/c it has much more compression. If you level matched both formats you would likely prefer the uncompressed sound of TrueHD.

 

[KASR]

DD EX is louder b/c it has much more compression. If you level matched both formats you would likely prefer the uncompressed sound of TrueHD.

OK, let's talk about level matching.....how do I do that???

 

[KASR]

Well, what do you know....I ran the Marantz auto EQ setup and the audio cleaned up considerably. Usually I auto-configure, but this time, the vendor knew best! Go figure!

 

[jinjuku]

Well, what do you know....I ran the Marantz auto EQ setup and the audio cleaned up considerably. Usually I auto-configure, but this time, the vendor knew best! Go figure!

I normally trust the manufacture auto eq to get me in the neighborhood. After that it is most likely tweaking out the sub's response curve.

 

[KASR]

I normally trust the manufacture auto eq to get me in the neighborhood. After that it is most likely tweaking out the sub's response curve.

I have to admit, that my first experience with auto EQ (H/K) was pretty much off the grid....so I was hesitant to do the Marantz's. For some reason, I decided to do it....glad i did!