NEWS: Sony PS3 to get firmware upgrade for DTS-HD audio from April 15

The world's most successful Blu-ray disc player is just about to become even more desirable. As of April 15th, PlayStation3 owners will be able to download the latest Version 2.30 Firmware – and with it, gain access to high-definition audio from the console's PS3 output.

The free update will enable the PS3 to decode internally DTS-HD and DTS-HD Master Audio content from Blu-ray discs. Previously, the console had only been able to downgrade this soundtrack to DTS Core at 1.5Mbps and then output via PCM.

DTS-HD MA support means you'll soon be able to listen to up to 7.1 channels of 24.5Mbps audio (6.1Mbps for DTS-HD).

Teji Yukata, Senior Vice President of Software Platform Development at Sony Computer Entertainment, says: "The PS3 was designed to enable delivery of new and improved technologies like DTS-HD Master Audio, so we are delighted to be able offer this capability to PS3 users."

However, there's no mention of the PS3 being able to output any of the HD audio formats in bitstream form. Sony's argument is that the PS3's decoding for said formats is so powerful, it's better to crack them on board the player and send audio out as Linear PCM.

Technorati Tags: 1080p, Blu-ray, DTS Master Audio, DTS-HD, HDMI 1.3a, PCM audio, PlayStation3Store, Sony

Andy Clough

Andy is Global Brand Director of What Hi-Fi? and has been a technology journalist for 30 years. During that time he has covered everything from VHS and Betamax, MiniDisc and DCC to CDi, Laserdisc and 3D TV, and any number of other formats that have come and gone. He loves nothing better than a good old format war. Andy edited several hi-fi and home cinema magazines before relaunching whathifi.com in 2008 and helping turn it into the global success it is today. When not listening to music or watching TV, he spends far too much of his time reading about cars he can't afford to buy.