5.1 Channel Codec

Most likely, this is a problem having to do with MPEG-2’s sound codec – AC3. This is the first (if not only option without searching the ends of the earth) result I came up with during a google search of the 5.1 Surround Sound codec. From my interpretation, it seems to be aimed at the use of 5.1 playback on your computer rather than an encoding method to be used with another application. I haven’t had any problems using Sony Vegas Pro in playing back sound through my 5.1 system.

Surround Sound codec download – http://www.free-codecs.com/download/Aud-X_surround_codec.htm

AC3 codec download – http://www.free-codecs.com/download/ac3_filter.htm

FilmS,

I took a look at the Platinum Pro Pack features on the Sony site and it looks like it only supports importing the source files and downmixing them into Stereo Channels. Before Vegas went Pro, you used to have to buy the Main Concepts AC3 encoder separately with ACID and Vegas. Now it comes as a part of both programs since they both utilize 5.1 workflows. You could buy the MC encoder separately or pick up one of the one’s XTR mentioned, but before doing that contact Sony Support and find out if Platinum will even support exporting AC3 audio to 5.1 and not just stereo. Because Platinum is a step down from Vegas Pro, I doubt that it will. You won’t know for sure until you ask.

Films,

Fair enough. My next question is: When you go to export your timeline as MPEG-2, does Platinum ask you whether you want to export your audio as an AC3 file or Wav?

Films,

I still say before you get any other codec’s, contact sony support and see if they can shed some light on this. It may just be a case of ‘Operator Error’. If not, they’ll have a better handle on what your software is capable of.