Page 1 of Dolby 5.1 decoder?

What is the benefit of having a dolby 5.1 decoder built into a machine as opposed to optical output if you are running it through a dolby/dts amp?

I cannot see the point of having both the optical and 5+sub coax outputs......or am i missing something?

Correct !

If you have a digital amplifier that can decode dts and DD for you, the 5.1 outputs on a player (and hence an on-board decoder) are superfluous.

However, they can be used in conjunction with 5.1 speaker packages, and suitable ProLogic amps with the matching 5.1 inputs that can`t decode DD or DTS, so they`re not a complete waste of time.

Always better to stick to the digital cable route to your amp if you can :-)