I searched the through the forum but did not find a definitive answer if my XBox 360 Arcade version will let me use the HDMI port and the optical output at the same time. I only have the standard composite cable that has no optical out. I am planning to order the component cable that includes the optical port. I understand I will have to remove the large plastic cover that prevents having this cable plus the HDMI plugged in at the same time. What I am wondering is, will the HDMI port and the modified optical cable work at the same time?

Yes.

Edit: Unless you mean HDMI audio and optical audio at the same time, then I don't know, I've never tried it.

I just wanted to run the HDMI video and the optical audio, not the HDMI audio also. Thanks for your reply. Have you known anyone to do this with the modded component cable?

I've done it with the HDMI audio dongle.

Electrically the modded component cable isn't much different.

You can use hdmi and optical at the same time.

You can use hdmi and optical at the same time.

Yeah, this is how mine is set up. HDMI runs from Xbox to tv. Optical runs from AV receiver to tv. Sounds great BTW. ;)

Yeah, this is how mine is set up. HDMI runs from Xbox to tv. Optical runs from AV receiver to tv. Sounds great BTW. ;)

well..sound will be the exact same. Optical = HDMI for audio.

I searched the through the forum but did not find a definitive answer if my XBox 360 Arcade version will let me use the HDMI port and the optical output at the same time. I only have the standard composite cable that has no optical out. I am planning to order the component cable that includes the optical port. I understand I will have to remove the large plastic cover that prevents having this cable plus the HDMI plugged in at the same time. What I am wondering is, will the HDMI port and the modified optical cable work at the same time?

Unless you need a component HDTV cable connection, don't buy a component HDTV cable. Just get the HDMI audio dongle:

http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=66794

Gamestop is not the cheapest place to get that, but for some reason when I posted a link to a less expensive place, the post didn't go through. The HDMI audio dongle will coexist with the HDMI cable, without any need to cut/remove the connector housing and no need to cut the jumper inside to eliminate the dreaded HDMI reboot issue. You do get a medium grade HDMI cable, when you buy the HDMI audio dongle and that makes it a slightly better value, though it's still a bit pricey compared to a third party component HDTV cable.

P.J.

"don't buy a component HDTV cable. Just get the HDMI audio dongle:"

Really? You're trying to say that spending $50 on an optical dongle is a better option than spending $7 on a component cable that will serve the same function? Hell, even in retail you can find 360 component/optical cables for $30 less than that HDMI?audio-dongle kit.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10830&cs_id=1083005&p_id=4011&seq=1&format=2

Buy a component cable for $10, then spend the other $40 to get a game to play on the system. :)

agreed, don't buy the hdmi dongle. Huge waste of money

I don't use the component for my projector, I use a HDMI to DVI-D adapter. If I bought the component cable and removed the large plastic cover, would that work to get the optical audio out and the HDMI video? Thanks so much, I never thought I would get this many replies.

If I bought the component cable and removed the large plastic cover, would that work to get the optical audio out and the HDMI video?

Yes, its just a physical obstruction.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=990180&highlight=component+hack

Yes, its just a physical obstruction.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=990180&highlight=component+hack

Directly connecting HDMI and the modified X360 component cable will cause the X360 console to reboot if the TV input is switched. Look further into the thread listed above to do further modification to the wiring to prevent the reboot. If you don't want having to modify the X360 component cable, the easier method is buying the X360 optical dongle that is more expensive.

"don't buy a component HDTV cable. Just get the HDMI audio dongle:"

Really? You're trying to say that spending $50 on an optical dongle is a better option than spending $7 on a component cable that will serve the same function? Hell, even in retail you can find 360 component/optical cables for $30 less than that HDMI?audio-dongle kit.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10830&cs_id=1083005&p_id=4011&seq=1&format=2

Buy a component cable for $10, then spend the other $40 to get a game to play on the system. :)

HDMI audio dongle can be had on ebay for 10-15 dollars and you get an hdmi cable with it. No screwing around with hacking off plastic covers and cutting wires. It just works. Leave the component cable moding to hacker wannabes.

P.J.

HDMI audio dongle can be had on ebay for 10-15 dollars and you get an hdmi cable with it. No screwing around with hacking off plastic covers and cutting wires. It just works. Leave the component cable moding to hacker wannabes.

P.J.

Really all you have to do is just pop off the plastic. The wire cutting is only needed if you switch inputs while the 360 is on (so it won't reboot). Other than that, it's not necessary.

Really all you have to do is just pop off the plastic. The wire cutting is only needed if you switch inputs while the 360 is on (so it won't reboot). Other than that, it's not necessary.

Everyone that's already mod'd a component cable, fine, you're so cool. It won't be long 'til you graduate to full hacker. For those that do not already own a component cable and want to output optical audio with HDMI, just get the HDMI audio dongle. You don't save enough money buying a $7 component cable Vs. a $10 ebay HDMI audio dongle, to make it worthwhile to hack up a component cable. And you do get an HDMI cable with the dongle.

P.J.

or save money and dont buy an hdmi audio dongle and bust open the component audio connector (that has the optical audio out) there is no wire cutting to be done. are you scared of a little microsoft plastic?
heres the step by step with easy to read instructions (as long as you read english) and pictures!
http://www.chadledford.com/?p=50


behold! thine enemy and mine!
http://www.chadledford.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/xbox-005.jpg

Everyone that's already mod'd a component cable, fine, you're so cool. It won't be long 'til you graduate to full hacker. For those that do not already own a component cable and want to output optical audio with HDMI, just get the HDMI audio dongle. You don't save enough money buying a $7 component cable Vs. a $10 ebay HDMI audio dongle, to make it worthwhile to hack up a component cable. And you do get an HDMI cable with the dongle.

P.J.

You may wanna check out Bowtrol.

I see some posters are talking about a $10 HDMI dongle, but all of the searching I've done on fleabay and elsewhere has the dongle about $25 or so. If that is the case then I may take my chances with the component cable and remove the plastic cover over the connector. Thanks again for all of the replies. We just got hooked up with Netflix, so I think we may use the 360 additionally to stream some of their content that is available with the subscription.

I was in the same boat, people TALKED about the cheap dongle on ebay, but I never found it that cheap. Took 1 minute of my time and I popped the plastic cover off, and now I have HDMI and optical out.

Everyone that's already mod'd a component cable, fine, you're so cool. It won't be long 'til you graduate to full hacker.

P.J.

are you aware that it's just a piece of plastic?

are you aware that it's just a piece of plastic?

Yes, I know full well exactly what is entailed. I even pioneered a simpler method to eliminate the rebooting issue when switching HDMI, using a piece of tape. Still, unless you already have a component cable to mod, I'd go with the a real HDMI audio dongle. Removing the plastic connector housing and living with the reboot issue, is so trailer park....

If folks insist on the cheap thrill of screwing over Microsoft by not purchasing the HDMI audio dongle, then at least get the Madcatz component cable, as that one doesn't require removing the connector housing. It coexists just fine with the HDMI cable. If you already have a component cable, then have at it. If you don't and can't bring yourself to buy the HDMI audio dongle, get the Madcatz component cable and apply a piece of tape over pin 28 to eliminate the reboot issue.

P.J.

I see some posters are talking about a $10 HDMI dongle, but all of the searching I've done on fleabay and elsewhere has the dongle about $25 or so. If that is the case then I may take my chances with the component cable and remove the plastic cover over the connector. Thanks again for all of the replies. We just got hooked up with Netflix, so I think we may use the 360 additionally to stream some of their content that is available with the subscription.

I just typed this:

xbox 360 hdmi audio adapter

into the search box on ebay and came up with a dozen auctions where bidding was $10 or less. There was one "buy it now" for $15.

P.J.

the original posters problem is fixed to his liking. he is aware of more than one option.
there is always more than one way to skin a cat, so to say.
let us rejoice! lol

Yes, I know full well exactly what is entailed. I even pioneered a simpler method to eliminate the rebooting issue when switching HDMI, using a piece of tape. Still, unless you already have a component cable to mod, I'd go with the a real HDMI audio dongle. Removing the plastic connector housing and living with the reboot issue, is so trailer park....

Seriously, this takes about a minute. Two if you want to apply a little heat shrink. What's the beef over bro?

If folks insist on the cheap thrill of screwing over Microsoft by not purchasing the HDMI audio dongle, then at least get the Madcatz component cable, as that one doesn't require removing the connector housing. It coexists just fine with the HDMI cable. If you already have a component cable, then have at it. If you don't and can't bring yourself to buy the HDMI audio dongle, get the Madcatz component cable and apply a piece of tape over pin 28 to eliminate the reboot issue.

P.J.

There isn't any reason to buy anything. This is no different than adjusting a shelf because your receiver won't fit. It's a very minor thing.:confused::confused::confused:

I can't believe people are soooooo cheap to spend $25 to get the dongle. I paid $35 for mine and never thought about it. If it's too expensive get a JOB!!!

Keep in mind that the way the hdmi dongle is designed it is to rip off the consumer. Simple fact. Plastic where plastic don't need to be. So enjoy your dongle

hmmm, i have something that i paid for that already provides all the functionality i need.... why would i spend money on something else?

I can't believe people are soooooo cheap to spend $25 to get the dongle. I paid $35 for mine and never thought about it. If it's too expensive get a JOB!!!

I have a (good) job but I would rather apply the $10 difference towards upgrading my dinner from a sirloin to a porterhouse than to give to Microsoft.

I have a job but just like not spending money when I don't have to. And also steak I enjoy too

Keep in mind that the way the hdmi dongle is designed it is to rip off the consumer. Simple fact. Plastic where plastic don't need to be. So enjoy your dongle

I think this man has it figured out. I already paid Microsoft $250 for the console, why would they cripple it out-of-the-box so I can't use the wonderful technology they sold me? I'll remove the plastic "Give me fifty dollars" plastic part and enjoy my XBox. Who knows, I may buy the next model from Microsoft when they come out with one.

hmmm, i have something that i paid for that already provides all the functionality i need.... why would i spend money on something else?

Yeah but the OP clearly stated that he bought an Arcade. You know, the one that does NOT come with a component cable. It does come with a composite cable that does not have an optical connection at all. So, the OP does have to buy something, since he has no way to get optical audio. Now, given that he HAS to buy something to get optical audio, I still claim that unless you need to make a lame moral statement by not giving Microsoft money, the OP should buy the $10 ebay HDMI audio dongle. Barring that, buy the Madcatz component cable that does not require any ghetto/trailer park-esque removal of the connector housing.

P.J.

show me where it's $10 and I'll buy one myself. And not some knockoff either, I want the official one. Not interested in bidding either thanks

Barring that, buy the Madcatz component cable that does not require any ghetto/trailer park-esque removal of the connector housing.
i have no clue as to how removing plastic to access a port is considered "ghetto/trailer park-esque."

I just wanted to run the HDMI video and the optical audio, not the HDMI audio also. Thanks for your reply. Have you known anyone to do this with the modded component cable?

iv done this because my tv only has a dvi which doesent support audio. i took the grey box off my component cable (this does not affect your xbox warranty!!) then connected the hdmi and component to the xbox, its a squeeze but it works. optical to my dav-dz260 and the hdmi to my hdmi female to dvi male

i have no clue as to how removing plastic to access a port is considered "ghetto/trailer park-esque."

haha seriously wtf is that guy talking about

I've had an old non-HDMI 360 since lanuch. Now I've got a nice new Falcon Arcade and I want to try using it with HDMI to my plasma. Since I've been out of the HDMI loop until now, can you guys confirm for me if the "best" setup when using HDMI video is to go with the optical audio to my receiver? What's wrong with HDMI audio? Is it inferior to optical?

I've had an old non-HDMI 360 since lanuch. Now I've got a nice new Falcon Arcade and I want to try using it with HDMI to my plasma. Since I've been out of the HDMI loop until now, can you guys confirm for me if the "best" setup when using HDMI video is to go with the optical audio to my receiver? What's wrong with HDMI audio? Is it inferior to optical?

Not inferior....just a lot of the 'budget' receivers don't pass audio through HDMI cables.

I hear the hdmi through audio has issues

Not inferior....just a lot of the 'budget' receivers don't pass audio through HDMI cables.

Thanks! This was very useful info actually. I have a Pioneer VSX-818-VK. I just looked up the specs and it does not pass through HDMI audio. So, looks like I'll be crackin' open the casing on my component cables to plug in an optical cable.

I hear the hdmi through audio has issues

Too much whiskey today? ;)

I purchased this cable http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10830&cs_id=1083005&p_id=4011&seq=1&format=2 from monoprice.com It shuts off the HDMI output on the Xbox as soon as you plug it in. If you unplug it then the HDMI start outputting again. I do not need any of the video outputs of the cable, only the optical audio out. Is there any way that I can disable or mod the cable to get it to work? Sorry to post to this thread again, but thanks for any suggestions.

I purchased this cable http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10830&cs_id=1083005&p_id=4011&seq=1&format=2 from monoprice.com It shuts off the HDMI output on the Xbox as soon as you plug it in. If you unplug it then the HDMI start outputting again. I do not need any of the video outputs of the cable, only the optical audio out. Is there any way that I can disable or mod the cable to get it to work? Sorry to post to this thread again, but thanks for any suggestions.

Weird...My son just bought a 360 20 Gig HD and came with a component A/V cable and optical out and I just took ovv the bottom piece of plastic of the connector and using the RCA audio and HDMI to DVI adapter to a DVI to DVI cable to his TV and all works well...I wonder why the monoprice one would make the HDMI stop working???:confused:

I can't get 5.1 surround sound from the 360 using HDMI, so I decided to use the optical output from the component A/V cable and the HDMI output at the same time. Both go to the receiver (Onkyo TX-SR805). Now, I have set up the receiver (at least I think I have) to use the HDMI input for just video and the optical input for audio. However, I am getting no sound at all now. Does anybody know what I'm doing wrong?

Make sure you have the optical plugged in good. Mine was kind of hard to plug in to both the receiver and the xbox. Also make sure you have the receiver set up correctly. Check the owners guide again if the optical is indeed plugged in fine. I think the xbox may have a setting to tell it to use the optical. The Xbox guys here may know more about that.

Make sure you have the optical plugged in good. Mine was kind of hard to plug in to both the receiver and the xbox. Also make sure you have the receiver set up correctly. Check the owners guide again if the optical is indeed plugged in fine. I think the xbox may have a setting to tell it to use the optical. The Xbox guys here may know more about that.

So you know for sure that having HDMI and optical plugged into the receiver at the same time can work?

def will work. I have HDMI for vidio and optical for audio running to an Onky 506. Works perfectly.

def will work. I have HDMI for vidio and optical for audio running to an Onky 506. Works perfectly.

Okay, so on my receiver I go into the setup menu and select 1. Input/Output Assign. Once there, there are 5 options:

1. Monitor Out
2. HDMI Input
3. Component Video Input
4. Digital Input
5. Analog Input

I select HDMI Input and assign HDMI input 2 to Game/TV. Then, I select Digital Input and assign OPT input 1 to Game/TV. When I do this, I get no sound. If I select HDMI input 2 for Game/TV in the Digital Input menu, I get sound but not surround sound, which is why I'm trying to use optical. Is your model at all similar to mine? How do you have it set up?