A few easy questions (1 Viewer)

[Ryan Leemhuis]

I was reading through my receiver manual for no purpose whatsoever and just happened to notice that it says that the discrete 6 ch. input is the best way to connect surround sound from a DVD player. Is this actually true?

Secondly, I am looking for the best pair of fronts I can get for about 300 dollars plus or minus 100 max. I was thinking some of those JBL 3 way 8",4", and tweeters. Anything that would be better for the price?

 

[Frank Zimkas]

I think it depends on the quality of the DAC's in the player vs. the one's in the receiver. Connecting a low-end player that cost $49 at the grocery store is not going to yield the same results as a better built (read-More $$$) player. Keep in mind that not all players have an on-board DD or DTS decoder, thses units will need to be connected via digital coax or toslink so that the receiver can decode the DD/DTS soundtrack.

 

[JamesCB]

As far as using the 6.1 inputs, it depends on the quality of digital surround processors in the dvd player and receiver. One may do a better job (or sound better) thsn the other. If you have a SACD or DVD-A player, the 6.1 inputs are mandatory.

As for speakers, I suggest you take a slection of your favorite DVDs/CDs and go out and listen. Speaker selection is very subjective. Only yoou know what sounds good to you.

Good luck,
James

 

[Ryan Leemhuis]

So does hooking up the 5.1 connection from the DVD player to the reveiver bypass the receivers decoding? I have a Panasonic RP-82 and a entry level Kenwood receiver.

 

[JamesCB]

Yes.

 

[Ryan Leemhuis]

so normally the decoder in the receiver is better?

 

[Vince Maskeeper]

There is no normally... every situation is different... some of the decoding circuitry in players is excellent- especially in higher end devices. Usually it's best to try both methods and see if you hear a difference, trust your ears above all else.

-vince