DTS has announced the imminent release of Neural UpMix, a new VST and Pro Tools (RTAS/AS) plug-in designed to upmix content in up to 5.1 and 7.1 channels. DTS has also unveiled DTS–HD Master Audio Suite v2.5 (MAS 2.5), the latest version of the company's audio encoding suite. Both products will be showcased at NAB 2010 (April 12-15, Booth SU8506).

DTS says that Neural UpMix marks a first in 7.1 surround expansion for the Pro Tools community. Combining precision and creative flexibility, this plug-in can output 5.1 or 7.1 multi-channel audio tracks from stereo or 5.1 source material while preserving the spectral and timbral balance of the original mix. Mixing engineers will be able to upmix audio tracks on a scene-by-scene basis to create an immersive audio experience that can greatly enhance both standard 2D as well as 3D Blu-ray soundtracks. It will be available for Windows and Mac OS X (10.4.8+ / Intel only) and cost $449.

DTS–HD Master Audio Suite v2.5 makes one of the fastest Blu-ray disc audio encoders on the market even faster with the introduction of Folder-Based Batch Encoding for Blu-ray, DVD, and online digital delivery. This new functionality automates the encoding process, enabling hundreds of audio encodes to be processed with just a few mouse clicks.

"The announcement of these new DTS software products are solid examples of the company's commitment to providing innovative solutions that support the demands of content production and delivery industries," says Ronny Katz, Director of Professional Audio, DTS, Inc. "Through unique product introductions, DTS will continue to meet the evolving digital delivery, streaming and downloading market needs."

The Neural UpMix Plug-in for Pro Tools has a list price of $449, DTS-HD Master Audio Suite v2.5 is $1495. Both are scheduled to ship in April. The release date for the VST version is not yet announced.