Before you get ready to enjoy the visual fireworks on July 4, treat yourself to some audio fireworks on July 1.

That’s when the second annual “DTS 7.1 Day” will be celebrated, following California’s (where else but the state Hollywood studios call home) honoring of the holiday a year ago.

Of course, the only true way to celebrate would be by making it a Blu-ray movie night in your dedicated theater, so you can fully immerse yourself in DTS’ HD Master Audio 7.1 uncompressed audio soundtracks. We’ll let it go if you can only do 5.1-channel DTS-HD MA for now ... but may we recommend a good room-rattling concert, sports movie, horror flick or animated film on Blu-ray (or maybe a romance movie if you’re trying to twist your wife’s arm to join you)? Warning: not every title on those linked-to lists include DTS soundtracks.

DTS also lists “Grab some popcorn, nachos or chips and your favorite beverage” and “crank up the volume so you can enjoy the rich, sonic waves of DTS High Definition Surround Sound” on its priority schedule for partaking in the 7.1 Day festivities. We couldn’t agree more, except for perhaps adding pizza to the mix.

DTS is actually extending the festivities to celebrate 7.1 throughout the month. You can check out some messages from “celebrities and industry heavies from the movie and music world” on its website, plus go to DTS’ Facebook page to vote for favorite DTS-HD Master Audio titles and enter a drawing for daily prizes and a chance at two grand prizes.

Arlen Schweiger - Editor of Electronic House Magazine

Arlen writes about home technology installations and product news and reviews for electronichouse.com and Electronic House magazine.