DVDAudio

DVDAudio is a format for distributing high-fidelity audio on pre-recorded DVD discs. It was defined by the DVD Forum as part of the DVD-Audio specification, introduced in the late 1990s and widely marketed in the early 2000s. The format distinguishes itself from DVD-Video by prioritizing audio quality and multi-channel capability rather than video content.

DVDAudio supports stereo and multi-channel audio with high sampling rates and resolution. The principal options are uncompressed PCM audio up to 192 kHz sampling rate with 24-bit depth, and a multi-channel option. For efficiency, some discs employ Meridian Lossless Packing (MLP), a lossless compression that preserves quality while reducing data size. The standard allows up to six discrete channels (5.1) and a dedicated LFE channel.

Disc structure: DVD-Audio discs can be authored as standalone DVD-Audio or as hybrids that also include a DVD-Video portion to improve compatibility with players lacking DVD-Audio support. The format requires a DVD-Audio‑capable player or a universal player with a DVD-Audio decoder. Early on, widespread market uptake was limited due to inconsistent playback support across hardware and competing formats such as SACD.

Legacy: DVD-Audio contributed to the diversification of high‑fidelity digital audio in the late 1990s and early 2000s. While it never achieved mainstream adoption, it remains noted for its potential for high sample rates, multi-channel audio, and lossless compression on a disc format.