Blu-ray audio question

[Got2LoveGadgets]

Hi im getting a bit confused with all the different audio types available on Blu Ray. Im using a PS3 as my weapon of choice linked buy optical to a Denon 7.1 amp. What is the best audio format available for my system? Is it really worth making the leap to a HDMI capable amp as I do have some reasonably decent speakers?

[crackinhedz]

well, the best you'll get using optical is 2.0 PCM or basic 5.1 dolby digital and dts.

If youre looking for full 7.1 Lossless audio, you would need a new HDMI capable receiver....

or, get a standalone bluray player and connect it via multichannel analog to your current receiver.

[Got2LoveGadgets]

When you say full 7.1 does that mean with Blu-Ray the rear centres are sent seperate information and not mono as the are with dvd's aka 6.1

[crackinhedz]

Originally Posted by Got2LoveGadgets

When you say full 7.1 does that mean with Blu-Ray the rear centres are sent seperate information and not mono as the are with dvd's aka 6.1

yes, full 7.1 is "discrete" 8 channels. (granted 7.1 is the limitation of today, but could be much higher in the future... )

[JadedRaverLA]

Keep in mind though, most Blu-ray discs have 5,1 audio. Only a few have full 7.1 audio. The bigger difference would be that you would get full lossless audio from PCM and Dolby TrueHD tracks (and possible DTS HD-MA, if Sony ever puts that capability into the PS3). There is definitely a difference in sound quality, but as to how important that is to you... well, I can't answer that.

[Once_Forsaken]

The quality of the audio is going to also depend on your surround sound set-up (what speakers, what receivers?) and the acoustics of the room you are listening in. For example, I have a surround sound set-up in my tiny 13'x15' bedroom. The difference between 7.1 or 5.1 is lost on me because all the speakers are so close to each other already.

You're really getting into a gray area where there is a LOT of opinion and subjectivity, and few verifiable 'facts' as to what is better.

Trust your own ears. If you start relying on other people's opinions then be prepared to spend a lot of money and time trying to chasing white whales ('perfect' set ups)

[Got2LoveGadgets]

Originally Posted by crackinhedz

well, the best you'll get using optical is 2.0 PCM or basic 5.1 dolby digital and dts.

If youre looking for full 7.1 Lossless audio, you would need a new HDMI capable receiver....

or, get a standalone bluray player and connect it via multichannel analog to your current receiver.

Think im swaying towards upgrading my amp. Im a big Denon fan currently on my third AV amp (I've had Sony's, Yamaha's and Pioneer's over the years) have been looking online at the Denon 2808 has anyone heard this if so what do you think?
Also does it look future proof as blu ray is a bit confusing with all the different audio options DTS-MA DTS-HD