The technology behind 5.1-channel Dolby Digital provides two surround channels, instead of the one from Dolby Surround, for more precise localization of sounds and a more convincing, realistic ambience. Also, Dolby Digital's surround channels cover the entire audible range (20 Hz-20,000 Hz), whereas the range of Dolby Surround's single surround channel is limited (100 Hz-7,000 Hz). The increased range of Dolby Digital further heightens realism and gives sound mixers more creative freedom.

In addition, Dolby Digital's multiple discrete channels enable more sharply-delineated spatial effects, and the ".1" LFE track makes it possible to reproduce low bass effects with stunning impact (twice as loud as the other channels)