PCM codec & decoding questions

[cravnsn]

OK, I looked through some of the other posts, but I still have some Q’s about PCM vs. bitstream.
I’m thinking of getting a receiver that does have HDMI, but does not decode the new codecs. I’m also looking at getting a Panny BD50 to do the decoding. I had a chance recently to dig out an old HK receiver, and really like how much more detailed & musical it is vs. my Onkyo 605.

Am I right in saying that the BD player will output all the new lossless goodies, but will it only do so in PCM? Also, is the signal still digital at this point, or analog?

Thanks

Craig

[RUR]

The BD50 will decode both lossless codecs and send them as MPCM via HDMI. If your AVR handles PCM via HDMI you're golden. Yes, PCM is still digital and the D/A will be done in the AVR.

[cravnsn]

Originally Posted by RUR

The BD50 will decode both lossless codecs and send them as MPCM via HDMI. If your AVR handles PCM via HDMI you're golden. Yes, PCM is still digital and the D/A will be done in the AVR.

And the end result would be the same sound as it would be if the BD output bitstream, and the receiver did the decoding, right?

[Driver_King]

Yeah.

[DBlackGT]

Originally Posted by cravnsn

And the end result would be the same sound as it would be if the BD output bitstream, and the receiver did the decoding, right?

The only difference in sound in bitstreaming vs. PCM will be if your using analog connections rather than HDMI. In this scenario your player is doing the decoding and using its DAC's and not the receivers (which are usually better). All depends if you got the ear for it though, you know?

[cravnsn]

Now I'm looking on Panasonics web site at the DMP-BD55K, and it says it decodes & outputs via bitstream - am I hosed?

[cravnsn]

Originally Posted by DBlackGT

The only difference in sound in bitstreaming vs. PCM will be if your using analog connections rather than HDMI. In this scenario your player is doing the decoding and using its DAC's and not the receivers (which are usually better). All depends if you got the ear for it though, you know?

I'd prefer to stick with the HDMI cable, if possible. I'm looking at the new HK AVR 354, if that helps.

[philwell]

Originally Posted by cravnsn

OK, I looked through some of the other posts, but I still have some Q’s about PCM vs. bitstream.
I’m thinking of getting a receiver that does have HDMI, but does not decode the new codecs. I’m also looking at getting a Panny BD50 to do the decoding. I had a chance recently to dig out an old HK receiver, and really like how much more detailed & musical it is vs. my Onkyo 605.

Am I right in saying that the BD player will output all the new lossless goodies, but will it only do so in PCM? Also, is the signal still digital at this point, or analog?

Thanks

Craig

Go with a good reciever that does it all and you'll never look back. Can always let the BD player decode the movies if you think they sound better. but what about Tv, music, etc. ?