sony str-de345 and connections

[Nommag]

Ok I need some help optimizing my setup. Here is what I have:

Receiver: sony str-de345 (No optical or HDMI input/output)
Blu Ray: PS3
HDTV: Sony kdl 50ex500
DVD player: Pioneer upscaling with HDMI output.

Here is my dilemma I currently have the DVD player and PS3 connected to the TV with HDMI inputs and the receiver connected to the TV with the yellow and red AV cables. Right now I currently get sound from my center and 2 fronts as well as the subwoofer however no surround from the rears. What is the best way to set this up and is there a way I can get the surround sound without sacrificing the HD picture I enjoy/crave so much or do I just have to save and get an hdmi capable receiver. Any help would be appreciated

[HAMP]

Your gonna have to save and get a HDMI receiver

[Nommag]

Was kind of expecting that was just hoping there might be a way to satisfy my needs until I have the money aside to make the purchase.

[HAMP]

Originally Posted by Nommag

Was kind of expecting that was just hoping there might be a way to satisfy my needs until I have the money aside to make the purchase.

I looked it up and from what I can tell, it's a no go.

[BIslander]

You have a stereo receiver with ProLogic and other similar surround modes that expand stereo to 5.1. So, connect each device to the TV for video as you have done. For audio, you can connect each device to the receiver. Then simply select the ProLogic surround mode per the instructions in the manual. It won't be discrete 5.1, but it's the best you can do with your current receiver.

[Nommag]

The only device I really use is the ps3 and it doesn't connect to the receiver and the television at the same time because of its outputs.

So to move on the current speakers and sub woofer I have are:

- 2 x Sony SS-MF415 Floor standing speakers (200W)
- 2 x Sony SS-SR195 Surround bookshelf speakers (100W)
- 1 x Sony SS-CN195 Centre speaker (100W)
- Sony SA-WM40 Subwoofer (90W)

I have to decide what sort of receiver I want to get to replace my current one and drive these speakers. At the moment I cannot afford new speakers and am happy with the ones I have and am looking for a low end receiver that is available in NZ so far the best options are from JBHIFI who have the best prices. The ones under $600 are the for consideration http://www.jbhifi.co.nz/jb-hi-fi-home-audio/receiver/

any help is appreciated.

[BIslander]

Originally Posted by Nommag

The only device I really use is the ps3 and it doesn't connect to the receiver and the television at the same time because of its outputs.

Sure it can. PS3's can output video to a TV and audio to a receiver.

[Nommag]

Ok sorry I'm new to all.

So I have the hdmi cable plugged from the PS3 to the tv for video. The ps3 has a cable that plugs into the ps3 that and then splits into the 3 coloured av cables which coloured cables do I plug in the receiver and where do I put them (theres a picture of the back of the receiver here http://picasaweb.google.com/kenneth....86839229508690)

Thanks.

[BIslander]

That sounds like a component video cable, which doesn't carry audio. Use a simple analog stereo cable (the red/white one) to connect the PS3's stereo output to any stereo input on your receiver.