Does HDMI produce true surround sound?

norcalty · 02-05-2008, 07:43 PM

We are setting up our home theater and have just bought a new Onkyo 705 and an Onkyo 605 for our Den. We are wondering if we will get the 5.1 sound if we run our sound through HDMI with the video or if we have to use the optical cables with it.

Which is better? What about the DTS and THX, does this affect it?

Jeff Gatie · 02-05-2008, 09:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by norcalty

We are setting up our home theater and have just bought a new Onkyo 705 and an Onkyo 605 for our Den. We are wondering if we will get the 5.1 sound if we run our sound through HDMI with the video or if we have to use the optical cables with it.

Which is better? What about the DTS and THX, does this affect it?

HDMI will not only pass everything that optical/coax will pass (DD/DTS), it is the only way to pass the new HD audio formats available on Blu-ray and HD DVD (TrueHD/DD+/DTS-HD), unless you count the 5/7.1 analog connection.

John Dirk · 02-05-2008, 10:03 PM

Short answer. HDMI is your best all-around choice. While optical will handle standard DD 5.1, it will not handle some of the new emerging formats such as True HD. HDMI will handle it all, and HD video too.

John

Jack Gilvey · 02-06-2008, 08:17 AM

I see HDMI (and the advanced codecs on HD media) as the main reason to invest in the 605/705. Lots of great and cheaper 5.1 optical receivers out there.



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