Best for: A fast one-off conversion to stereo.
Yes, the video player you already have can convert DTS audio.
| Problem | Solution |
| :--- | :--- |
| "Unsupported codec" in Audacity | Install FFmpeg library correctly (see Method 1 step 2). |
| Converted file is noise/static | The DTS file is padded (often from CDs). Use FFmpeg: ffmpeg -i input.dts -c:a copy -bsf:a dts2pts fixed.dts first. |
| Surround sound missing after conversion | Make sure you choose Original channels (XMedia) or omit -ac 2 (FFmpeg). |
| Need to convert TO DTS (not from it) | Free tools cannot legally encode full DTS. Use AC3 or E-AC3 instead, or try ffmpeg -i input.wav -c:a dts (experimental, poor quality). |
Finding free software to convert audio to can be tricky because DTS is a proprietary format often requiring paid licenses. However, several powerful free and open-source tools allow you to convert dts 51 audio converter software free
multichannel formats like DTS, or upmix stereo audio to a 5.1 surround sound experience. NCH Software Top Free Software for DTS 5.1 Conversion FFmpeg (Open Source)
: This is the industry standard for power users. It is a command-line tool that can decode almost any media and encode to DTS or alternative 5.1 formats like AC3. It is completely free but has a steep learning curve.
: Batch processing and advanced users who want full control over bitrates and channels. Visit the official FFmpeg site to download. Switch Audio Converter (Free Version) Best for: A fast one-off conversion to stereo
: A user-friendly desktop application that supports converting various audio files into the DTS format. Highlights
: Simple "Add File" interface and a direct "Output Format" dropdown for DTS. : Ensure you use the Switch Converter Free Version , which is intended for non-commercial use. TFM Audio Tool
: A dedicated tool designed to convert audio files specifically for surround sound formats like DTS, AC3, and AAC. Key Feature Warning: VLC is buggy with 5
: Includes a function to mix stereo audio into a 5.1 surround sound format. Available via community repositories like SourceForge XMedia Recode : Frequently recommended by communities like Reddit's Plex community for handling multichannel audio in video files.
: Ideal for extracting DTS audio from MKV files and converting it to other 5.1 formats for better compatibility with TVs. Multi-Channel Management & Players If your goal is to
audio rather than hard-convert files, these free tools are excellent:
fre:ac - free audio converter - Free download and install on Windows
Important Legal & Technical Note: Most free converters cannot encode new DTS files due to licensing costs. Instead, they excel at decoding DTS to standard formats (FLAC, WAV, AC3). If you need to create DTS files from scratch, you must buy commercial software (e.g., DTS-HD Master Audio Suite). This guide covers converting from DTS to other usable formats.