Audio Setup - Home Theater

[sep]

I setup my tv to be the main hub for the HDMI devices and output digtial audio to my reciever to only find out my TV doesn't support digital out...only 2.1. I now have my main three devices audio (digital) plugged in to my Pioneer reciever, but don't like switching the sources on TV and Reciever. My HTPC doesn't push everything digital so some video doesn't have sound. I only have 3 digital audio ports so anything else like my Xbox is only playing through TV speakers. : (

My goal is to have audio through HDMI. Am I only going to get this by replacing my reciever? Are there other solutions I can try or purchase?

I tried searching for the option to flash my TV to support 5.1 out. Anyone know if this is possible?

Home Theatre
TV - Samsung LN46A650A v.SS04
Bluray - Samsung BD-1600
A/V Reciever - Pioneer VSX-815
HTPC - Acer Reno r3610
Cable - Comcast DVR HD Reciever DHC3416
Console - Xbox 360 HDMI/5.1 output HD-Player

 

[sep]

I was thinking of replacing my reciever with this one...VSX-820

 

[s44]

TVs only output SPDIF surround for signals from its own tuner. Sets that do otherwise are very, very rare.

Cheap Onkyo > cheap Pioneer. Newegg has a new SR308 (3 HDMI inputs) for $200 shipped, but at that price point I'd look at the refurb SR507 and 508 from A4Less. These have a 4th HDMI input and the Audyssey features that will make listening much more enjoyable.

 

[sep]

Hi guys, I'm going to revive this old thread because I am now ready to purchase a new Onkyo and I can't make up my mind and need your advise. Price wise I'd like to keep it under $300 (TX-SR508), but can go higher if needed. It will take away from PC pgrades.

Required
_My main goal would be to use the reciever for switching input devices through HDMI (Audio & Video, see existing hardware, 4 inputs).
_OSD
_Audyssey feature that keeps output at the same when commercials come on or switching channels.

Not sure options
_I only have a 5.1 setup now, but don't want to cut myself short so 7.x THX is a huge plus. I'm ignorant to THX vs DD-HD/TRueHD so if I'm missing the quality please help educate me to determine this a need or optional.
_Upscaling 1080p over HDMI. So worst case I watch a DVD on my HTPC/Xbox and it's going to be 480p vs upscaled 1080p? If so, i'm okay with that. What about if the Bluray upscales it?
_

 

[NutBucket]

Audyssey doesn't equalize volume on sources; it's an automatic equalizer used for initial setup (room acoustics, speaker placement, speaker performance, etc.)

And really, if you spend more on the receiver, it'll be more useful over a longer period than any PC upgrade.

http://www.dakmart.com/Audio-Home-A...LTI-ZONE-HDMI-1.3A-RECEIVER/product_info.html

 

[s44]

Audyssey doesn't equalize volume on sources

Actually, Audyssey Dynamic Volume does.

508 has all the features OP wanted, and he can get it as refurb for just over $200...

 

[NutBucket]

Oh, I guess my Denon doesn't have that particular feature. Eh.

 

[vshah]

Oh, I guess my Denon doesn't have that particular feature. Eh.

most of them do now...i think every xx10/x90 model and up has it

 

[NutBucket]

I believe I have a 790. Don't recall offhand.

 

[RKS]

I believe I have a 790. Don't recall offhand.

I have the 790 as well. Look on the back side of the remote. There is a button on the lower right for Dynamic Volume.

 

[NutBucket]

I'll have to try it. I must have turned it off for some reason or other.

 

[vshah]

I'll have to try it. I must have turned it off for some reason or other.

i only use it at night so as not to disturb others in the building. it works way, way better than the dolby "night mode" of the past.

 

[sep]

Thanks guys for going on and on about the Dynamic Volume, but no recommendation for a model. Can someone review my hardware and requirements to see if you know of a model that's a good fit?

When I was reading some reviews on these models I seen a couple people talking about video issues over HDMI. Anyone experiencing these issue?

 

[The-Noid]

Doesn't dynamic volume compress audio? I have never used it because that was the original hypothesis on avsforum when it came out.

 

[vshah]

Doesn't dynamic volume compress audio? I have never used it because that was the original hypothesis on avsforum when it came out.

it does, however combined with dynamic equalizer, it takes the eq etc into account as well. really useful for late night watching when you don't want to disturb neighbor's a family member.

OP, i've got a denon 1610 that i'm very happy with. i'm sure you can find one for under $300, perhaps even the newer 1611 which adds 3d support.

 

[Number1]

Audyssey Dynamic Volume
Check to make sure your receiver also has Audyssey MultEq such as the denon 1610.
This feature adds much better room correction for your sub.


Onkyo/Denon are favorites in here.