This new adapter from JVC plugs right into the optical port of an audio device, adding a surround sound-like signal to any standard pair of headphones.

Japan Victor Corporation announced the "SU-DH1" headphone surround adapter, which will produce a pseudo 5.1ch surround signal through a connection with normal headphones. It will be released in mid-March. It is Open Price, and estimated to be around 10,000 yen.

This new product is an adapter that includes a Dolby Headphone function for producing a virtual 5.1ch surround signal to any standard pair of earphones. It supports Dolby Digital (Doly Surround EX), Dolby Pro Logic II, DTS (DTS-ES 6.1ch), MPEG-2 AAC, and PCM (Fs=44.1kHz, 48kHz). It also contains Doly Pro Logic II Auto/Movie/Music for extending any non-5.1ch stereo audio signal into a 5.1ch signal.

It features an optical digital mini-jack for input, and a stereo mini jack for output. With two AA batteries, it will last for about 10 hours. It also supports power from an AC adapter, which is not included.

The size is 82 x 86 x 26mm, and the weight 99g.

Inspired by:
http://plusd.itmedia.co.jp/lifestyle/articles/0602/27/news027.html

Press Release:
http://www.victor.co.jp/press/2006/su-dh1.html

Product Information:
http://www.victor.co.jp/accessory/headphone/surround/index.html#sudh1