Distribute 5.1 surround sound from multiple sources

[R33BOOT]

If I have let's say 3 sources (apple tv, hd dvr, blu-ray) that I want to distribute the toslink cable to 3 surround receivers how do you do that?

I'm getting a 4x4 HDMI matrix switch to distribute the Video, but I can't figure out the audio end.

All the equipment will be in a central rack, and using Control 4.

 

[drvnbysound]

If I have let's say 3 sources (apple tv, hd dvr, blu-ray) that I want to distribute the toslink cable to 3 surround receivers how do you do that?

I'm getting a 4x4 HDMI matrix switch to distribute the Video, but I can't figure out the audio end.

All the equipment will be in a central rack, and using Control 4.

Does the HDMI switch in quesiton not also pass audio through the HDMI connection(s)?

 

[R33BOOT]

It does pass the audio through. But I've read that not all receivers can decode surround sound from an HDMI cable depending on the source? Like an Xbox 360 or PS3 its my understanding you have to use the toslink optical out to get surround sound. Unless I'm wrong?

 

[drvnbysound]

It does pass the audio through. But I've read that not all receivers can decode surround sound from an HDMI cable depending on the source? Like an Xbox 360 or PS3 its my understanding you have to use the toslink optical out to get surround sound. Unless I'm wrong?

I have a PS3 connected directly to my Pioneer receiver. I believe, the question should be at the receiver itself, and whether it will actualy decode the audio, or if it is simply a pass-through (e.g. pass audio data to a TV). I believe when HDMI was first introduced, most of the HDMI compatible receivers were just pass-through. However, I believe most all of the current ones (if not ALL) of them will decode. Also, depending on the receiver, it can decode the HD codecs from Blu-Ray - mine does

 

[justinm001]

As long as you have a reciever that accepts HDMI it'll decode surround sound. Actually HDMI audio is better than TOSLINK as it supports DTS-HD and dolby HD

 

[R33BOOT]

Sweet, thanks guys! All my equipment will be new, I'm looking to get Integra Receivers so I think I should be all set! This Control 4 integrator wants to do all component video distribution around the house, but I'm like screw that! I think straight HDMI or via Baluns is the way to go, and easier/cheaper to run a bunch of cat 6 to the locations.

 

[Ranger Digital]

r33, your installer wants to do component because HDMI is a major hassle, doesnt always work and actually cost a fortune more than component. Component works and its solid. That why he wants to use it. As an installer, I am putting component in my own home under construction plus TWO cat 4's to each tv location for future HDMI when we get to the day when component will not work, but thats YEARS down the road (as you buy new equipment that doesnt have component, but there will always be a work around there as well).

Just my two cents.

HDMI actually really really really really really SUCKS. You will see. Especially if you go the budget route. It will bite you in the end. Mark my words.

 

[R33BOOT]

Running mini coax to each tv location is expensive isn't it? Compared to cat 6 w balun for HDMI?

 

[drvnbysound]

r33, your installer wants to do component because HDMI is a major hassle, doesnt always work and actually cost a fortune more than component. Component works and its solid. That why he wants to use it. As an installer, I am putting component in my own home under construction plus TWO cat 4's to each tv location for future HDMI when we get to the day when component will not work, but thats YEARS down the road (as you buy new equipment that doesnt have component, but there will always be a work around there as well).

Just my two cents.

HDMI actually really really really really really SUCKS. You will see. Especially if you go the budget route. It will bite you in the end. Mark my words.

True, but you also dont get 1080p with HD Audio codecs over component either

Wiring is always a battle that you can never win!!

 

[R33BOOT]

Man so what's the best solution? Component matrix w Cat 6 output to balun? That way could switch to hdmi later?

 

[R33BOOT]

Man so what's the best solution? Component matrix w Cat 6 output to balun? That way could switch to hdmi later?

 

[drvnbysound]

Man so what's the best solution? Component matrix w Cat 6 output to balun? That way could switch to hdmi later?

I definitely cant answer what is best for A/V distribution as I currently do none of it with my current setup. However, the simple facts are that component video does not do 1080p, and nothing other than HDMI does HD Audio codecs (such as DTS-MA, and Dolby True-HD). That said, it is much easier to distribute component video - it's analog and does no "hand-shaking" between devices.

 

[signal15]

Run at least 2 Cat-6 to each location. There's a new standard coming out as a replacement for HDMI called HDbaseT, and it uses standard Cat-6 with RJ-45 connectors. You can do HDMI baluns using 2 cat-6 now, and then reuse one of them when HDbaseT is out.

 

[WayneW]

Run at least 2 Cat-6 to each location. There's a new standard coming out as a replacement for HDMI called HDbaseT, and it uses standard Cat-6 with RJ-45 connectors. You can do HDMI baluns using 2 cat-6 now, and then reuse one of them when HDbaseT is out.

Only time will tell how HDbaseT does in the market, but it still is basically HDMI under the skin.
http://www.cepro.com/article/hdbaset_cat_5...no_hdmi_killer/

 

[R33BOOT]

HDbaseT is very interesting.

Man this is a tough choice! Component Video doesn't to 1080p really? As I'm looking into things I guess it is cheaper to do a full component video setup. Looking at $799 for a 4x4 Video Storm Matrix, and then I'd just run Component + R/L Audio to each location, but actually hook up the Toslink audio right to the receivers that need surround sound. The Video Storm matrix does audio switching as well.

I found some 50ft component cables on Monoprice for like $30. I just like the idea of running 1 HDMI cable vs 5 mini-coax, or sending 2 Cat 6 to the balun to convert to HDMI. Ugh... can't decide!!!