More Bloody Audio questions - Blu-ray Forum

BrendonR · 10-30-2008, 02:48 PM

Hi there folks,

I'm still rather new to the whole home theater situation, but I think I'm getting it (slowly).

I got my PS3 last christmas, and not too long after, moved in with the almost-inlaws (for 1 acceptable, and 7 unpleasant months due to selling our condo). I didn't really have a chance to play with my PS3/Receiver settings so now that we've got a house, I can finally tool around with it.

Currently I'm set up as follows:

PS3 - HDMI to 40" 1080i LCD/Digital Optical to JVC HTiB receiver/speakers
JVC HTiB receiver - can't remember the serial or anything, was purchased probably 5 years ago.

Now that I have my receiver back, (didn't set it up at the inlaws), I've noticed a HUGE improvement in sound quality already (vs. in the condo). I've changed my PS3 settings to output everything available (Linear pcm, and every other codec it can). My receiver's 'dts' light now shines bright (I've NEVER seen it on before).

I believe due to this I'm listening to the DTS audio track (true?) - but KNOW I can have a theater that sounds better!

My first step is to buy a new Receiver/Speaker setup - with a new display to come next (1080p plasma me-thinks). I know the onkyo's come highly recomended, but they're few and far between in Canada (and VERY expensive here too). What I'm wondering is: Everyone knows the PS3 can decode TrueHD/Master Audio, great, that's what I want to hear. So the receiver I buy doesn't necessarily have to support these codecs? For example, if I was to purchase: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...0086964&catid=(HarmonKardon AVR 146) which does not "support" DTS MA or True HD - would I still be listening to these codecs as the PS3 already decoded it?

Next up, is the speaker package - I'm looking at a 5.1 setup, and nothing HUGE as my room is somewhat limited (room's about 15'x20' with the couch/display on oposite walls 15' away). Does anybody know if the smaller POLK's are any good? An similar example of what I'm looking at: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...gon=&langid=EN or Klipsch: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...0105917&catid=. I know these are on two opposite ends of the spectrum here... but I'm trying to see where I should really spend my cash, and how much of a return I'll get out of them.

Thanks very much for all the help

Brendon.

Pelican170 · 10-30-2008, 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BrendonR

Hi there folks,

I'm still rather new to the whole home theater situation, but I think I'm getting it (slowly).

I got my PS3 last christmas, and not too long after, moved in with the almost-inlaws (for 1 acceptable, and 7 unpleasant months due to selling our condo). I didn't really have a chance to play with my PS3/Receiver settings so now that we've got a house, I can finally tool around with it.

Currently I'm set up as follows:

PS3 - HDMI to 40" 1080i LCD/Digital Optical to JVC HTiB receiver/speakers
JVC HTiB receiver - can't remember the serial or anything, was purchased probably 5 years ago.

Now that I have my receiver back, (didn't set it up at the inlaws), I've noticed a HUGE improvement in sound quality already (vs. in the condo). I've changed my PS3 settings to output everything available (Linear pcm, and every other codec it can). My receiver's 'dts' light now shines bright (I've NEVER seen it on before).

I believe due to this I'm listening to the DTS audio track (true?) - but KNOW I can have a theater that sounds better!

My first step is to buy a new Receiver/Speaker setup - with a new display to come next (1080p plasma me-thinks). I know the onkyo's come highly recomended, but they're few and far between in Canada (and VERY expensive here too). What I'm wondering is: Everyone knows the PS3 can decode TrueHD/Master Audio, great, that's what I want to hear. So the receiver I buy doesn't necessarily have to support these codecs? For example, if I was to purchase: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...0086964&catid=(HarmonKardon AVR 146) which does not "support" DTS MA or True HD - would I still be listening to these codecs as the PS3 already decoded it?

Next up, is the speaker package - I'm looking at a 5.1 setup, and nothing HUGE as my room is somewhat limited (room's about 15'x20' with the couch/display on oposite walls 15' away). Does anybody know if the smaller POLK's are any good? An similar example of what I'm looking at: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...gon=&langid=EN or Klipsch: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...0105917&catid=. I know these are on two opposite ends of the spectrum here... but I'm trying to see where I should really spend my cash, and how much of a return I'll get out of them.

Thanks very much for all the help

Brendon.

I can answer one of your questions, you are correct in saying you dont need a receiver that can decode the new audio formats, but be sure that the receiver you buy accepts a pcm signal and HDMI...

Lucy Diamond · 10-30-2008, 03:12 PM

I believe in Yamaha Receivers for their sound and build quality for the money.

As far as small speakers with a big sound, you cannot go wrong with Paradigm.

Now that all that is over, I just want to say that I am so glad for you that you are out of an unpleasant living situation. I hope you and your new wife have a wonderful and stress free life together with minimal visits from the inlaws.

Take care and enjoy building your new rig,

CptGreedle · 10-30-2008, 03:16 PM

I use a Yamaha receiver and I LOVE it. Whatever it lacks, my PS3 makes up for.

Zman2k2 · 10-30-2008, 03:41 PM

To be honest, I think that you'd be better off going with this Denon Receiver instead of the HK receiver you showed. First off the Denon is HDMI 1.3, so it will accept PCM from the PS3, and it's 75w/channel vs. the 30w/channel of the HK receiver you chose. Or you could go with this Yamaha receiver. It has 105w per channel, and it's on sale right now.

As for the speakers, the only consideration I have between the two is that the Polk speakers come with a sub, but the Klipsch do not. But I haven't heard either set in operation, so I can't make an educated decision on either.

dobyblue · 10-30-2008, 03:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zman2k2

To be honest, I think that you'd be better off going with this Denon Receiver instead of the HK receiver you showed. First off the Denon is HDMI 1.3, so it will accept PCM from the PS3, and it's 75w/channel vs. the 30w/channel of the HK receiver you chose. Or you could go with this Yamaha receiver. It has 105w per channel, and it's on sale right now.

As for the speakers, the only consideration I have between the two is that the Polk speakers come with a sub, but the Klipsch do not. But I haven't heard either set in operation, so I can't make an educated decision on either.

Dude, the Denon is HDMI 1.3a but it has switching only, it does not accept audio across HDMI.

The Yamaha 6140B that you're mentioning does accept PCM over HDMI and is definitely a good receiver and it's $100 cheaper than the HK.

dobyblue · 10-30-2008, 04:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BrendonR

My first step is to buy a new Receiver/Speaker setup - with a new display to come next (1080p plasma me-thinks).

You're TV choice sounds like you're on the right track.

I would look at the Yamaha 6140B for sure. It's $299 from Future Shop and I've looked in the manual and it does support PCM over HDMI, which is pretty fantastic for a reciever at that price in Canada.

Where abouts are you located?

BrendonR · 10-30-2008, 04:16 PM

Thanks to everyone for the help. And LucyDiamond, thanks very much - it's not that I don't like the inlaws - I do love them - just..... don't ever want to live with them again!

The minimal vists.... ehh... not so sure lol. Our new house is only about 800yards away from theirs.

I wasn't seriously considering the H/K receiver for that exact reason (30w/channel). just using it as an example of 'does not support TrueHD'. So in a nutshell - I can get away with a good receiver, that supports 1.3 HDMI (passthrough or switching?) will accept linear PCM, and puts out a decent power rating.

When looking at my speakers, I want to look for something that matches the impedance ratings, and is as close to the W/channel rating as possible correct?

dobyblue · 10-30-2008, 05:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BrendonR

Thanks to everyone for the help. And LucyDiamond, thanks very much - it's not that I don't like the inlaws - I do love them - just..... don't ever want to live with them again!

The minimal vists.... ehh... not so sure lol. Our new house is only about 800yards away from theirs.

I wasn't seriously considering the H/K receiver for that exact reason (30w/channel). just using it as an example of 'does not support TrueHD'. So in a nutshell - I can get away with a good receiver, that supports 1.3 HDMI (passthrough or switching?) will accept linear PCM, and puts out a decent power rating.

When looking at my speakers, I want to look for something that matches the impedance ratings, and is as close to the W/channel rating as possible correct?

Pass through and switching is the same thing - no audio, no PCM, no nothing where audio is concerned.

The HDMI needs to be labelled "repeater" in order to have audio capabilities.

That 6140B definitely accepts PCM 5.1 over HDMI.

Keep in mind it's a 5.1 receiver, not a 7.1. Probably not a big deal for a starter system given it's only $299. Upgrading your speakers sometime in the future to a good 5.1 system is better sonically than a 7.1 satellite system anyway.

From page 67 of the manual:

Zman2k2 · 10-30-2008, 06:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dobyblue

Dude, the Denon is HDMI 1.3a but it has switching only, it does not accept audio across HDMI.

The Yamaha 6140B that you're mentioning does accept PCM over HDMI and is definitely a good receiver and it's $100 cheaper than the HK.

Thanks for catching that dobyblue. I missed the switching part in the description. Yeah, in that case, stick with the Yamaha.

As for speakers, I try to find speakers that sound appealing to me. I tried all types of speakers, and just wasn't too happy. When I ordered my eD speakers, I knew that I could return them if I wasn't happy. The only thing to make sure of on speakers is that the impedence matches on the entire set, and the power you are sending them is within their rated capacity.

BrendonR · 10-30-2008, 07:04 PM

Well thanks for the advice folks - greatly appreciated.

Not sure what I'll end up with - but I think I convinced my Fiance this morning that I would GLADLY accept a boxing day shopping trip as my Christmas Present this year.

What're the price points on paradigm Cinemas? I'll definately try to check them Paradigms (apparently only two shops in Calgary are "authorized retailers") Probably the Cinema series for the whole size advantage.

Receiver, well... I'll just have to make sure it'll support HDMI Repeating audio, as well as video. And see what's available when it's time to spend some cash.

10-30-2008, 02:48 PM	#1
BrendonR Member Member since:May 2008 Home Theater Gallery:26 Blu-ray collection:44	More Bloody Audio questions Hi there folks, I'm still rather new to the whole home theater situation, but I think I'm getting it (slowly). I got my PS3 last christmas, and not too long after, moved in with the almost-inlaws (for 1 acceptable, and 7 unpleasant months due to selling our condo). I didn't really have a chance to play with my PS3/Receiver settings so now that we've got a house, I can finally tool around with it. Currently I'm set up as follows: PS3 - HDMI to 40" 1080i LCD/Digital Optical to JVC HTiB receiver/speakers JVC HTiB receiver - can't remember the serial or anything, was purchased probably 5 years ago. Now that I have my receiver back, (didn't set it up at the inlaws), I've noticed a HUGE improvement in sound quality already (vs. in the condo). I've changed my PS3 settings to output everything available (Linear pcm, and every other codec it can). My receiver's 'dts' light now shines bright (I've NEVER seen it on before). I believe due to this I'm listening to the DTS audio track (true?) - but KNOW I can have a theater that sounds better! My first step is to buy a new Receiver/Speaker setup - with a new display to come next (1080p plasma me-thinks). I know the onkyo's come highly recomended, but they're few and far between in Canada (and VERY expensive here too). What I'm wondering is: Everyone knows the PS3 can decode TrueHD/Master Audio, great, that's what I want to hear. So the receiver I buy doesn't necessarily have to support these codecs? For example, if I was to purchase: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...0086964&catid=(HarmonKardon AVR 146) which does not "support" DTS MA or True HD - would I still be listening to these codecs as the PS3 already decoded it? Next up, is the speaker package - I'm looking at a 5.1 setup, and nothing HUGE as my room is somewhat limited (room's about 15'x20' with the couch/display on oposite walls 15' away). Does anybody know if the smaller POLK's are any good? An similar example of what I'm looking at: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...gon=&langid=EN or Klipsch: http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...0105917&catid=. I know these are on two opposite ends of the spectrum here... but I'm trying to see where I should really spend my cash, and how much of a return I'll get out of them. Thanks very much for all the help Brendon.

10-30-2008, 03:41 PM	#5
Zman2k2 Blu-ray Guru Top contributor Member since:Jan 2008 Location:Calgary, Canada Home Theater Gallery:5 Blu-ray collection:136 Trading Score:54	To be honest, I think that you'd be better off going with this Denon Receiver instead of the HK receiver you showed. First off the Denon is HDMI 1.3, so it will accept PCM from the PS3, and it's 75w/channel vs. the 30w/channel of the HK receiver you chose. Or you could go with this Yamaha receiver. It has 105w per channel, and it's on sale right now. As for the speakers, the only consideration I have between the two is that the Polk speakers come with a sub, but the Klipsch do not. But I haven't heard either set in operation, so I can't make an educated decision on either. Last edited by Zman2k2; 10-30-2008 at 03:46 PM.

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10-30-2008, 03:12 PM	#3
Lucy Diamond Blu-ray Champion Top contributor Member since:Apr 2008 Location:The Tomb of Annihilation 4K collection:- Blu-ray collection:- DVD collection:- Digital collection:- Blu-ray reviews: 2 Trading Score:3	I believe in Yamaha Receivers for their sound and build quality for the money. As far as small speakers with a big sound, you cannot go wrong with Paradigm. Now that all that is over, I just want to say that I am so glad for you that you are out of an unpleasant living situation. I hope you and your new wife have a wonderful and stress free life together with minimal visits from the inlaws. Take care and enjoy building your new rig,

10-30-2008, 03:16 PM	#4
CptGreedle Blu-ray Ninja Member since:Jul 2007 Location:Sworn super-hero now services Atlanta (and suburbs). Blu-ray collection:128 Blu-ray reviews:5	I use a Yamaha receiver and I LOVE it. Whatever it lacks, my PS3 makes up for.

10-30-2008, 04:16 PM	#8
BrendonR Member Member since:May 2008 Home Theater Gallery:26 Blu-ray collection:44	Thanks to everyone for the help. And LucyDiamond, thanks very much - it's not that I don't like the inlaws - I do love them - just..... don't ever want to live with them again! The minimal vists.... ehh... not so sure lol. Our new house is only about 800yards away from theirs. I wasn't seriously considering the H/K receiver for that exact reason (30w/channel). just using it as an example of 'does not support TrueHD'. So in a nutshell - I can get away with a good receiver, that supports 1.3 HDMI (passthrough or switching?) will accept linear PCM, and puts out a decent power rating. When looking at my speakers, I want to look for something that matches the impedance ratings, and is as close to the W/channel rating as possible correct?

10-30-2008, 07:04 PM	#11
BrendonR Member Member since:May 2008 Home Theater Gallery:26 Blu-ray collection:44	Well thanks for the advice folks - greatly appreciated. Not sure what I'll end up with - but I think I convinced my Fiance this morning that I would GLADLY accept a boxing day shopping trip as my Christmas Present this year. What're the price points on paradigm Cinemas? I'll definately try to check them Paradigms (apparently only two shops in Calgary are "authorized retailers") Probably the Cinema series for the whole size advantage. Receiver, well... I'll just have to make sure it'll support HDMI Repeating audio, as well as video. And see what's available when it's time to spend some cash.

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