How well does Dolby Pro Logic II work?

Difference between Dolby Pro Logic II, and Dolby Digital 5.1?

• Hi! I have an old receiver that uses Dolby Pro Logic II technology. From what I've gather, Dolby Pro Logic II is a technology that converts stereo sound into 5 channels to "simulate" surround sound. It does this when I play back music. However, if I am playing a blu-ray that is on a Dolby Digital 5.1 track, then what is being played? Is it real surround sound? Obviously it's not a stereo source anymore, and it sounds like "real" surround sound to me.

• Answer:

  You are correct, but I'd need some more information to answer your question. I can't recall seeing a receiver with dolby pro logic II that didn't have a true 5.1 decoder. I've seen that for regular dolby pro logic, but not II. So to determine if you are getting true surround when a 5.1 track is present depends on your connection. If you are using just two RCA cables, then the answer is no 5.1. Your receiver should also have a display to tell you what's going on. only HDMI, coaxial digital, and optical connections can carry true 5.1 dolby and EX, and 5.1, 6.1 DTS tracks. And only HDMI can carry the HD versions like Dolby TruHD and DTS master sound tracks. A receiver will only give you dolby pro logic II if you are using an analog 2 channel connection or if you forced the receiver into dolby pro logic II mode. Feel free to contact me if you need more help.