he is talking about TV, over the air stations have to convert to digital in 2009, as they are giving all the old TV frequencies to first responders.

I surmised that, but it was irrelevant to a discussion about HD DVD, therefore my post. We gotta keep that flags guy focused, so he keeps on rockin :)

So, what all do you have now. I might like to do the same.

Sorry for the slow response. I have been away for a few days. My previous posts detail the upgrades, but I will summarize here.

First, I bought a pair of R50s from Fry's outpost ($69 each). I did this primarily to improve my stereo music listening. About ten days later, I ran across a CSi25 center speaker at a nearby Fry's marked down to $42.15, still in a sealed box. Having replaced the front sound stage (except for the sub), I decided to buy the R150s that Fry's outpost has on sale for $49.95 a pair to use as surrounds (I'm just running 5.1). I've been very happy with the results.

ok, thanks.

It'll play the same thing set a plays at the moment (CD player, DVD soundtrack, radio). It's for a different "zone." So you can have your main speakers in the room with the TV, and a second set in a bedroom, or outdoors, or whatever.
DOH, so apparently speaker set B only works with analog sources (at least for the SR800)... stupid me for asking before looking in the back of the manual

I just purchased the onkyo ht-s790 and got it set up, but when I program a remote, something gets screwed up and the reciever does not output any sound. This is the 2nd time its happened, and the first time I was able to fix it by resetting the remote, but when it happened again with a different remote, I reset the remote but it didn't fix the problem. Has anyone had this problem or know how to fix it? Is there any way to simply reset the receiver?

I'm going to assume you are using the type of remote where you put in a 4 digit or so code. Have you used all the Onk codes in the list? Don't stop at the first one that works, try different ones. I put the Onk codes into my Comcast remote and I recollect that the first code set turned on the TV but was erratic on different functions. I went through a couple of others and it worked fine. If your remote is a One for All, they have very good CS and will help you through it. A programmable remote like the harmony should work great.

My 790's been great for 2 months now... Until today. The sound from my tv, which is connected via optical cable, skips. It won't go more than 10 seconds before it temporarily mutes and then starts back up again. Any other 790 owners encounter this problem?

I should also note the skipping problem ONLY occurs in tv mode and that I'm using those thick grey toslink cables from monoprice.

Did one of the cables get bent? Opticals are susceptible to damage at times.

have you tried using a different input, or swapping cables... or both.

have you tried using a different input, or swapping cables... or both.

I did, I moved it from OPT1 to OPT3 and it worked briefly... and then got choppy again. I'm starting to think it's my Sony Wega. And yet, I took Tulpa's advice and got another one from monoprice, so we'll see how it goes. Thanks though

Could be the station you are receiving's problem.

I searched the thread but couldn't find an answer to this question...

What's the surround mode for watching Blu-Ray discs on the PS3 (especially those encoded in Dolby Digital 5.1)? I used to use Direct for DVDs and that sounded great. But with BDs I don't get any surround sound via Direct. PLIIx works all 7.1 but seems kinda weak for surround.

Any suggestions or education is appreciated. Thanks.

[edit] My PS3 is connected to my TV via HDMI and to my S790 via optical.

I am to the finishing stage on my new sub and very happy with it, allthough I'm not getting good voltage from my sub output to drive my QSC amp, anyone know the output on the subout??

What's the surround mode for watching Blu-Ray discs on the PS3 (especially those encoded in Dolby Digital 5.1)? I used to use Direct for DVDs and that sounded great. But with BDs I don't get any surround sound via Direct. PLIIx works all 7.1 but seems kinda weak for surround.


What do you define as weak for surround? The rears really don't see much action unless the scenes call for it (huge battles, explosions, etc.) You might hear a car going by, or some ambient sounds of a restaurant, or creepy sounds in a horror film, but for the most part, they'll stay silent.

Direct puts out all sound out of all the speakers roughly the same. While it seems like it's "more surround", it's really not surround sound, as none of the sounds are directional. Unless I'm offbase on interpreting your post.

Does anyone know a good way to mount the center channel speaker right above a 42" plasma tv (Panasonic TH42PX77U)? The tv is in the corner of a room so I cant attach it to the wall, and all of the speaker mounts for center channels I have seen are for rear projections. Any suggestions?

make an adapter to fit between your VESA mount and the TV (basically a plate with the same holes as your TV) and have it go up to a shelf, where you can set the center channel. you could use it without a mount, and just use it to support the speaker.
its a thought.

Hi,
I search through the forum,please forgive me if it has been posted.
I have Onkyo 790 system but I am using Polk speakers. I have Philips DVP 5982 DVD player and a magnavox 26"LCD TV. The DVD player has one HDMI out and my TV has one HDMI input. I also have a cable box which only has a Digital coaxial out.
So for best results how should i connect?
1.DVD>>HDMI to TV and DVD>>coaxial>>>receiver for audio?
If I do that The receiver has only one coaxial input and my Satelite box has no optical out, so what is my solution? Shall I use any analog audio cable from my DVD player to the receiver and connect the satellite box with coaxial audio cable to the receiver?

So for best results how should i connect?
1.DVD>>HDMI to TV and DVD>>coaxial>>>receiver for audio?
If I do that The receiver has only one coaxial input and my Satelite box has no optical out, so what is my solution? Shall I use any analog audio cable from my DVD player to the receiver and connect the satellite box with coaxial audio cable to the receiver?

Monoprice has coaxial to optical digital audio converters (and vice versa, optical to coaxial.)

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042302&p_id=2947&seq=1&format=2&style=

Get that and an optical cable, and then connect either the DVD player or the cable box to the receiver using coaxial > adapter > optical > receiver. I'd go that than settle for analog+processing.

Your cable company also might let you swap for a box that does have optical out, too, if you ask. (I don't know your provider, though.)

What do you define as weak for surround? The rears really don't see much action unless the scenes call for it (huge battles, explosions, etc.) You might hear a car going by, or some ambient sounds of a restaurant, or creepy sounds in a horror film, but for the most part, they'll stay silent.

Direct puts out all sound out of all the speakers roughly the same. While it seems like it's "more surround", it's really not surround sound, as none of the sounds are directional. Unless I'm offbase on interpreting your post.

I appreciate the response. I looked into this a bit and it seems my issues were more PS3 related. I checked the forums for some advice and found a setup I'm happy with. I changed the PS3 audio output to Bitstream and now the uncompressed PCM tracks on Blu-Rays sound fantastic via PLIIx. I was watching Black Hawk Down and the sound was unreal.

Monoprice has coaxial to optical digital audio converters (and vice versa, optical to coaxial.)

Get that and an optical cable, and then connect either the DVD player or the cable box to the receiver using coaxial > adapter > optical > receiver. I'd go that than settle for analog+processing.

Your cable company also might let you swap for a box that does have optical out, too, if you ask. (I don't know your provider, though.)

The converter is OOS...is there any other place to buy?

I didn't see it was out of stock. Sorry.

Ebay has them for just a bit more. They don't allow eBay links, but I found it through googling the item.

Does anyone know where to get one besides eBay? I know they had it on the shop Onkyo site a long time ago, but it is no longer there.

I got mine from parts express.

Yeah, here you go:

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&Partnumber=180-960

They have them for the other route (optical to coax), too.

I searched the thread but couldn't find an answer to this question...

What's the surround mode for watching Blu-Ray discs on the PS3 (especially those encoded in Dolby Digital 5.1)? I used to use Direct for DVDs and that sounded great. But with BDs I don't get any surround sound via Direct. PLIIx works all 7.1 but seems kinda weak for surround.

Any suggestions or education is appreciated. Thanks.

[edit] My PS3 is connected to my TV via HDMI and to my S790 via optical.


I have the same question....will I get better sound if I switch to analog wires? I have my PS3 HDMI to TV and optical to this receiver...

Last night I was watching 300 on Blu-Ray, my first Blu-Ray experience and I saw that I had lost all of my DD and DD+ options...the best sound came if I set the receiver to Neo 6...

Any advice from anyone? Please, and thanks..

Check the PS3's audio menu and see if it's outputting "Bitstream". That was the other poster's problem, and it's something that often comes up on all types of disc players using optical/digital coaxial connections.

I have the option of bitstream and Linear I believe...

I should put it on bitstream?

I apologize for posting my S780/TX-503 question here... I can't seem to find my own 'official' thread.

Anyway - has anyone had any issues getting stereo or surround sound out of their S780 / S790 receiver (I guess mine's a clone of the TX-503) when inputting a RCA Y-cable?

Meaning, a 1/8" stereo mini-plug coming from a laptop (ipod, other split, whatever) and going into an RCA Y-adapter and then going into any open RCA stereo inputs on the reciever. No matter where I hook up to (front or back inputs) I only get sound out of ONE front speaker (the right one).

It's really frustrating. I thought it was a laptop issue at first, but basically any source that goes the 1/8" mini plug-RCA Y-cable route into the Onkyo comes out of 1 speaker. It doesn't matter matter what listening mode I am in either.

In the meantime, I can hook up my laptop or other devices to an ancient Sony stereo receiver no problem

Any tips/advice greatly appreciated! :)

I apologize for posting my S780/TX-503 question here... I can't seem to find my own 'official' thread.

Anyway - has anyone had any issues getting stereo or surround sound out of their S780 / S790 receiver (I guess mine's a clone of the TX-503) when inputting a RCA Y-cable?

Meaning, a 1/8" stereo mini-plug coming from a laptop (ipod, other split, whatever) and going into an RCA Y-adapter and then going into any open RCA stereo inputs on the reciever. No matter where I hook up to (front or back inputs) I only get sound out of ONE front speaker (the right one).

It's really frustrating. I thought it was a laptop issue at first, but basically any source that goes the 1/8" mini plug-RCA Y-cable route into the Onkyo comes out of 1 speaker. It doesn't matter matter what listening mode I am in either.

In the meantime, I can hook up my laptop or other devices to an ancient Sony stereo receiver no problem

Any tips/advice greatly appreciated! :)

Make sure you're using the right type mini plug on the Y adapter. I've seen both mono and stereo on these. Mono will only give you sound on side as your describing. The way to tell is the stereo will have 2 rings around the plug and the mono will have 1. That's the best way I know to explain it and you can see examples of each in the link below.

http://www.audiogear.com/Audio-Adapters-Miniplug.html

did you try switching the L and R plugs? and did the sound come from different speakers? have you tried driving those inputs with different sources?

OK - thanks for the initial tips... I am in better shape now - I am currently getting sound out of all 7 speakers with a stereo mini-plug Y-RCA cable.

I don't know WHAT was going on before, but I somehow 'graduated' from just one speaker on to getting on the whole left channel (ctr spkr and 3 left ones). In the end, what seemed to finally fix things was an audio device 'configuration' in windows Vista. The Vista sound settings are not as straightforward as XP's used to be (you could just pull-down whatever speaker config you had, from earbuds to full home theater).

My new task is to figure out the SPDIF settings in Vista. I have a 'digital output device' (SPDIF) that can be activated in the control panel, but of course my laptop physically has no optical/coax output. I've read now a couple places that the 3.5mm headphone jack on some laptops doubles as a digital out. I've read that using a mono 3.5mm--single RCA connection may send digital single to a receivers coax-in.

I don't have the right connections now, but am eager to try this out...would love to get a clean signal out of the laptop if possible (HP dv6113us). Of course I can't find a manual on it anywhere verifying my headphone jack will magically send out a digital signal!! (Not sure why Vista would show a working SPDIF device then though).... Compusa just lists the laptop as having "Digital Audio (16-bit)"

:confused:

OK - thanks for the initial tips... I am in better shape now - I am currently getting sound out of all 7 speakers with a stereo mini-plug Y-RCA cable.

I don't know WHAT was going on before, but I somehow 'graduated' from just one speaker on to getting on the whole left channel (ctr spkr and 3 left ones). In the end, what seemed to finally fix things was an audio device 'configuration' in windows Vista. The Vista sound settings are not as straightforward as XP's used to be (you could just pull-down whatever speaker config you had, from earbuds to full home theater).

My new task is to figure out the SPDIF settings in Vista. I have a 'digital output device' (SPDIF) that can be activated in the control panel, but of course my laptop physically has no optical/coax output. I've read now a couple places that the 3.5mm headphone jack on some laptops doubles as a digital out. I've read that using a mono 3.5mm--single RCA connection may send digital single to a receivers coax-in.

I don't have the right connections now, but am eager to try this out...would love to get a clean signal out of the laptop if possible (HP dv6113us). Of course I can't find a manual on it anywhere verifying my headphone jack will magically send out a digital signal!! (Not sure why Vista would show a working SPDIF device then though).... Compusa just lists the laptop as having "Digital Audio (16-bit)"

:confused:
I use a external USB sound card/device which has a digital/spdif out.

I recently moved. When I reconnected my HTIB and turned it on, it sparked and shut down. Tulpa or somebody here recommended I disconnect the speakers and reconnect one at a time to find out which one was causing the problem.

Unfortunately, when I disconnect ALL of the speakers (and my CD player and DVD player, and cable to TV) and try to turn it on, it comes on, then goes to protect/shutdown mode.

Something is seriously wrong. Any ideas?

EEEP...

All signs point to crap, in my book...I'll sell you the receiver for cheap if you want the same one....

I recently moved. When I reconnected my HTIB and turned it on, it sparked and shut down. Tulpa or somebody here recommended I disconnect the speakers and reconnect one at a time to find out which one was causing the problem.

Unfortunately, when I disconnect ALL of the speakers (and my CD player and DVD player, and cable to TV) and try to turn it on, it comes on, then goes to protect/shutdown mode.

Something is seriously wrong. Any ideas?

From the user manual

The AV receiver turns off as soon as it’s turned
on
• The amp protection circuit has been activated.
Remove the power cord from the wall outlet immediately.
Disconnect all speaker cables and input sources,
and leave the AV receiver with its power cord disconnected
for 1 hour. After that, reconnect the power cord
and set the volume to maximum. If the AV receiver
stays on, set the volume to minimum, disconnect the
power cord, and reconnect your speakers and input
sources. If the AV receiver turns off when you set the
volume to maximum, disconnect the power cord, and
contact your Onkyo dealer.

I have the HT-S790 hooked up as follows.

Scientific Atlantic 8300HD HDMI into a Vizio 37"
Scientific Atlantic 8300HD Optical out into the HT-R-540
Tosh DVD SD-K860 HDMI into the Vizio 37"
Tosh DVD SD-K860 optical out into the HT-R-540

My question has to do with the sound. When the DVD is being used I get on the 'display' mode Dolby Digital Ex then 3/2/1 or what ever is called for.

When the DVR is being used I get on the display mode just PCM fs : 48 kHz & PCM is shown as the input signal. The 3/2/1 does not appear.

On my TR SX-674 I get the same display DD 3/2/1 regardless of which input source I am using (both are the same as the smaller unit.)

My question is am I getting Dolby Digital on the 540 or something else when watching cable?

I was messing with the wires a bit & found if I used a regular cable box cable from the SA to the TV & the optical link from the cable box to the reciever I can get the full sound options.

Once I had the sound configured to DD I hooked the HDMI cable back up & disconnected the Cable TV type cable. The sound setting configuration stayed on DD so now the unit is doing what I want.

It seems weird that I had to disconnect the HDMI SA to TV cable & replace it with a standard cable to get the sound set up since its on optical from the SA directly into the receiver.

Anyone have any thoughts on this?

Hey guys, question. I lost the remote to my zenith dvd player. Can someone fine me a remote code for my onkyo remote to power my zenith dvd player. Everyone I have tried doesn't work.

A few Q's?

Anyone know if we can lie the sub on its side?
Is there a right way and wrong way?
Where's the amp located?

and your answer is in the form of.... a screwdriver :)

sorry, I have the SR800, and I know the sub is completely different, so any observations I have made about my own system would be useless to you.

and your answer is in the form of.... a screwdriver :)

sorry, I have the SR800, and I know the sub is completely different, so any observations I have made about my own system would be useless to you.

I thought I was getting crickets.... I would really hate to crack her open. I'm still exploring placement options since we've upgraded our TV (Panasonic TH-50PZ700U) and thus the entire layout. Forgot how big the sub was, hiding behind my big fat CRT, it didn't seem so large.

Phew! I made it. Today was a quiet day at work and it's taken me about 6hours to get through all of this thread. It's a good thread that's pretty much answered all of my audio questions, let alone those I had about the HT-SR800 (which I just picked up). Also there were just some classic posts from flags that kept me going :)

Anyway to the question - It looks like the PS3 does not allow the 790 or 800 to process 7.1 audio, because it doesn't have analog outputs, and the 800 only passes through the HDMI. And if I understand correctly, optical does not support 7.1 (or at least the 790/800 won't accept 7.1 down an optical cable).

The problem is I really like the PS3 and it's a Blu-ray player as well for a one-shot deal. Is there any third party gadget out there that could take an HDMI output and split it into 7.1 component audio? Any other solutions that are cleverer than mine?

Also there were just some classic posts from flags that kept me going :)
BAD!! dont you go encouraging him :p

Anyway to the question - It looks like the PS3 does not allow the 790 or 800 to process 7.1 audio, because it doesn't have analog outputs, and the 800 only passes through the HDMI. And if I understand correctly, optical does not support 7.1 (or at least the 790/800 won't accept 7.1 down an optical cable).

The problem is I really like the PS3 and it's a Blu-ray player as well for a one-shot deal. Is there any third party gadget out there that could take an HDMI output and split it into 7.1 component audio? Any other solutions that are cleverer than mine?

sorry, not sure about that, I thought that it would accept 7.1 over a SPDIF interface, it mught be a limitation of the PS3.

Hello I'm a noob and glad to have found this thread. I have very little time to have separate set ups so HTIB sounds like a plan. Thank you for all your informative posts.

But Im a little confused as to where to connect the rca's from in the back of my TV

do I connect from rear out put to my receiver
and DVD out to reveiver in ...correct

sorry Im a newb w/ this stuff

hopefully it fires up when im done

I need to go get some Rca's from best buy

any suggestions ?


this is what my tv has in the back



Connectors:

Rear Input Connectors S-Video x 1 • Component x 2 • Composite x 2 • Audio (RCA) x 5 • RF x 2 • 1 x D-Sub (RGB PC)


Front Input Connectors S-Video x 1 • Composite x 1 • Audio (RCA) x 1


Rear Output Connectors S-Video x 1 • Composite x 1 • Audio (RCA) x 2 • RF x 1

Headphone Jack With Headphone Jack

ok, you can either use the AV system to switch both audio and video signals, or just the audio signals.

for video, all components get plugged into the receiver, using the highest quality connector possible (component > svideo > composite) and then for each connection type you use, you will have to connect the output of the receiver to the corresponding input on the TV.

for audio, all components get plugged into the receiver, using the best connection possible so for a dvd player you could use multichannel audio, or a digital connection. you want to connect things with the largest number of channels possible, so if you have an HD STB, you will want to use a digital connection to connect that. also, if you are using your TV's HDTV tuner, you will want to connect it to the receiver using a digital connection, so you can get 5.1 sound.


if you want explicit instructions, then list all of your components, and their connections. also, model numbers would help. :)

thanks I got the DVD and Radio to work

I thought the Tv would work automatically so I guess I need to now hook up the cable box to the receiver and then the receiver to the Tv ???

is this correct ?

Erick:

I would try and avoid buying cables from your local store, they are normally overpriced by a mile. Take a look at http://www.monoprice.com.
Try an go with optical/digital as your first choice for any connections. That's the toslink for audio stuff (and also coaxial if that's the only choice, but this Rx has 3 Toslink inputs and only one coaxial). Next choice should be Component cables (if hooking up through your reciver as the switching system, otherwise use HDMI, if avaiable, directly from settop box or DVD player to TV). But in any setup, go with Component & HDMI/DVI over S-video and composite connections.

yeah cable box to receiver, hopefully you are using component for both your cable box and DVD player, so you should already have a connection to the TV

Thanks Echo Tony
and thansk Ted

Im not going expensive route when buying cables I just want to get this thing set up w/ rca's

My tv doesnt have HDMI

so when i upgrade im going to try to upgrade everything w/ S-video

1 more question

how do I get all seven speakers to stay on

I had them all working the other day but know the 2 back speakers are not on
I cant fiqure out how to get them on again

I was listening to my onyko today and I heard a loud pop. Now the only sound I get is if I put the listening mode on direct and sound only comes out of the front 2 speakers. Has this happened to anyone else and if so what do I do?

Thanks Echo Tony
and thansk Ted

Im not going expensive route when buying cables I just want to get this thing set up w/ rca's

My tv doesnt have HDMI

so when i upgrade im going to try to upgrade everything w/ S-video

1 more question

how do I get all seven speakers to stay on

I had them all working the other day but know the 2 back speakers are not on
I cant fiqure out how to get them on again

I hope the S-video choice is due to your A/V components' limitations, and not cost. Component Video cables are vastly superior to S-Video cables, and purchased from one of the forum sponsors, like blue jeans cable or monoprice, are cheaper than an S-video cable in a big box store. Your pictue quality will be so much better with component cables (that's the 3 cable setup FYI) If you can go that route, do it.

As far as all seven speakers, I have my setup for 5.1, so I went into the setup menu and tured off the rear speakers. For your setup, check to be sure all speakers are turned on (yes?). This is down in the setup menu, and I'm at work and can't give you the steps right now.

Thanks Tony

I'll look into that today


Your pictue quality will be so much better with component cables (that's the 3 cable setup FYI) If you can go that route, do it.

when I go look at cables there are so many that I dont know which to get

do you have a link for the Component Video cables at monoprice ?


Digital Coaxial Audio ....do you need to buy 3 cables to hook up one device?

I was listening to my onyko today and I heard a loud pop. Now the only sound I get is if I put the listening mode on direct and sound only comes out of the front 2 speakers. Has this happened to anyone else and if so what do I do?

Sorry to hear this. The same thing happened to me. People here at the message board suggested disconnecting all speakers, then reconnecting one at at time. Unfortunately, it went into shutdown/protect mode (when I tried to start it up) even with no speakers attached.

I contacted Onkyo and they told me to send the receiver to a service center. I am getting ready to do that.

Here are two numbers you may wish to try (in case your situation is different, somehow):

800 229-1687

201 785-2600

I need a little info...

I have this receiver hooked up to my PS3 via optical and I am getting really bad sound quality when I play CD's. Movies sound great, and so do games. It's just when I play a CD.

Has anyone hooked up a PS3 to this system and had this problem...it makes the music sound really "tinny" if that makes any sense.

I can only get the PS3 to output the audio quality at either 44.1 KHz or 48 KHz...any other settings and it will not get a signal.

Any help...

Thanks!

Is there a way to turn off and on all the components programmed into the remote (tv, dvd, sat...) quickly? Thanks!

Has anyone had an optical input die on them? For some reason on my HT-S790 receiver my first and third optical inputs work, but the second one refuses to transfer any sound. Any suggestions?

Upgrade bug has bitten and I have been given a preliminary ok from he boss to make some changes.

Room size is roughly 15x15, apartment building first floor. Want to stick with bookshelves up front since the stands/shelves I purchased work well as storage for games, movies, etc.

Wanting to do this incrementally, what would people say is the best improvement made to begin with? I was thinking either sub or going for the l/c/r (Athena's, Polk r150s, ?)

Sure upgrading either would make a large improvement but have to impress the boss to ensure the upgraditis doesn't get vaccinated right out the gate.

Upgrade bug has bitten and I have been given a preliminary ok from he boss to make some changes.

Room size is roughly 15x15, apartment building first floor. Want to stick with bookshelves up front since the stands/shelves I purchased work well as storage for games, movies, etc.

Wanting to do this incrementally, what would people say is the best improvement made to begin with? I was thinking either sub or going for the l/c/r (Athena's, Polk r150s, ?)

Sure upgrading either would make a large improvement but have to impress the boss to ensure the upgraditis doesn't get vaccinated right out the gate.

You may want to consider the neighbors as well. Having surround sound in an apartment building can lead to problems.

Upgrade bug has bitten and I have been given a preliminary ok from he boss to make some changes.

Room size is roughly 15x15, apartment building first floor. Want to stick with bookshelves up front since the stands/shelves I purchased work well as storage for games, movies, etc.

Wanting to do this incrementally, what would people say is the best improvement made to begin with? I was thinking either sub or going for the l/c/r (Athena's, Polk r150s, ?)

Sure upgrading either would make a large improvement but have to impress the boss to ensure the upgraditis doesn't get vaccinated right out the gate.

Sub or Speakers should be first, receivers are always changing, new models coming out and price dropping, put the receiver off till last and you can get more for your money.

I personally think Athena is is the best sounding budget speaker out there and I've put them up against quite a few when I was building my system, but that's me, everyone has different taste. If you do decide to go the Athena route I'd do it pretty quick, they are discontinuing their lines and audioadvisor has some good prices on remaining stock. For a sub on an on a budget look at the Bic H-100 or the Av123 Xsub. If your budget permits you to go higher look at subs from ED, HSU and SVS. Good luck and have fun.

"You may want to consider the neighbors as well. Having surround sound in an apartment building can lead to problems."

Room Layout....

http://img33.picoodle.com/img/img33/9/9/18/mosavea/f_livingroomm_73158fb.jpg

Not too worried about neighbors given the way the room is designed but I don't go over board anyhow later on in the evenning. Cant wait to open it up in the near future when its house time.

Problem with not enough spdif input. Only 1 spdif input for ht-s790.

I have a dvd player and a computer hookup to the receiver as spdif, since the receiver only has one spdif input I found myself having plug and unplug every I want to change audio sources.

Through some research and thinking I found a way to doing this atomically with buy additional equipment only one additional coaxial audio cable.

Method and background:
this will only work if you do not use any composite video input from your receiver.

Since this receiver only passthrough the video signal we can take advantage of this as any signal passthrough.

This receiver only has 4 video/audio combination inputs, the rest or audio only. For example if you press video 1 from the front button the unit will switch all video1 a/v signal as output. This will switch video1 of the component video 1 input, composite video 1 input and s-video 1 input all at the same time.

Problem, say you have a dvd player that is connected to component video 1 input and the pc connected to component video 2 input. But since the receiver only has on spdif input you can only connect one spdif at a time dvd player or the pc. (I was doing this manually)

Solution, instead doing this manually you can plug the spdif out of the dvd player to composite video 1 of the receiver and the pc's spdif out the composite video 2 of the receiver. Then, have the composite video out of the receiver connected to the spidf input of the receiver. Since the video signal is not touched at all by the receiver in theory you can send any signal into the composite video slot and it would out put it without any changes.

When you press video1 or video2 on the front panel the receiver will switch accordingly and you will get video and sound. I've tested on DD and DTS signals and it seems to work.


One thing I don't know however is would this hurt the receiver?

I don't think it'll hurt the receiver, but it sounds like a convoluted way of routing signals.

If you have two spdif (I'm assuming you mean coaxial) type of sources and only one coaxial input, you can get a coaxial-to-optical converter box ($12 at monoprice if in stock, maybe slightly more elsewhere) and a couple more cables and not have to route it every which way. You just run coaxial out from one of the sources, into the box, and then out with an optical cable to one of the receiver's three optical inputs.

The new SR800 has two optical and two coaxial, so you get more balance in input selection.

Has anyone had an optical input die on them? For some reason on my HT-S790 receiver my first and third optical inputs work, but the second one refuses to transfer any sound. Any suggestions?

The same thing happened to my receiver. It turned out that moving the receiver in and out of my stand (re-wiring and such) caused the little "door" covering the second optical to break, causing the optical cable to just fall out and therefore the input was useless. Unable to fix it, I picked up a new Onkyo TX-SR504 receiver (identical to the one in the S790) for my home theater and moved my old receiver to the family room, where I don't need all three optical inputs. Might be worth checking.

Anyone know where the IR sensor is on the receiver? My remote has become rather inconsistant in function since moving to a new AV cabinet.
It's either that or my 18 month old's playing with the remote.... :(

Yes this is true. I paid exactly $304.10 :):) It's refurbished model, but I see no any cosmetically damages etc. Shipping is free.Ordered it yesterday and since I live in NYC i took a day to get here. Amazingly fast order processing and shipping. Everything looks fine, there are no wires or battery included in the package as was stated on-line so need to buy them. And the BOX is really HUGE. Looks like a refrigerator or something;)
You guys think 16 gauge wire will be ok for it?

You wouldn't happen to be the very same mistrz23 that is trying to sell an Onkyo HT-S790 on Am@zon for a mere $699 + s/h, would you??? When trying to find out if anyone was still offering this system, I was shocked to see what this price was.

Really, though, who could blame you? A refurb unit, highly desirable, no longer being produced... $394.90 sounds like a fair markup (plus s&h, of course). $293 more than the newer model with HDMI pass through? Sure thing!

I am think of a 4ohm speaker (Polk Audio - CSi25) into hts790. Currently I have Polk R50 on front and Polk R150 as surround (5.1). My lisening distance is at most 12 ft from the main speaker. I usually don't crank up the volume. Since the speaker efficiency is between 89db to 90db I don't think it will cosume more then 1 watt at most times. But will the 4ohm center hurt the receiver in the long run? I found a good deal for this center for only $52.

You wouldn't happen to be the very same mistrz23 that is trying to sell an Onkyo HT-S790 on Am@zon for a mere $699 + s/h, would you??? When trying to find out if anyone was still offering this system, I was shocked to see what this price was.

Really, though, who could blame you? A refurb unit, highly desirable, no longer being produced... $394.90 sounds like a fair markup (plus s&h, of course). $293 more than the newer model with HDMI pass through? Sure thing!
Wow, you must have a great memory. That post was back in May, good catch. I paid $450 at CC for my HT-SR800 with HDMI pass through a few months ago. I could have had the old model for only $249 more? I should have waited I guess.;)

Finally got everything set up. My front stands came in the other day. All that is left is better wire management. I'm only using it currently as a 5.1 system. So far this is what it's looking like

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/7510/dsc03311kx2.jpg
http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/8306/dsc03276zs3.jpg

Right surround
http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/1193/dsc03315vz1.jpg

Left Surround
http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/279/dsc03316au9.jpg

May I ask where you got your Front surround stands, and the which wall mounts you are using for the rear surrounds. I am moving into a house next week and need to find stands now for my surround speakers.

Hi,

wondered if anyone had a similar problem with their onkyo 790.
I've had it for 5 months, and this month it just started acting up with the digital SPDIF coaxial input. I use it solely for sound from my PC, for listening to music in PCM mode or watching DD or DTS movies.

Unfortunately, lately it is unable to detect the digital signal, randomly switching out, with the PCM signal or DD signal flashing, the receiver switches a few times and goes silent. I than plug in some inputs to the front of the receiver or unplug some and it'll pick up the digital signal and start decoding again. I will get an optical cable to see if its solely limited to the coaxial.

I reset the receiver, but that only worked for a few minutes, not sure if this is a common problem?

Hi,

wondered if anyone had a similar problem with their onkyo 790.
I've had it for 5 months, and this month it just started acting up with the digital SPDIF coaxial input. I use it solely for sound from my PC, for listening to music in PCM mode or watching DD or DTS movies.

Unfortunately, lately it is unable to detect the digital signal, randomly switching out, with the PCM signal or DD signal flashing, the receiver switches a few times and goes silent. I than plug in some inputs to the front of the receiver or unplug some and it'll pick up the digital signal and start decoding again. I will get an optical cable to see if its solely limited to the coaxial.

I reset the receiver, but that only worked for a few minutes, not sure if this is a common problem?

No problems here (so far).

I used to get dolby fine. It would spell right out on the display in large letters when something in digital dolby was on. Now it doesn't do that even though I have it set to auto. I have an optical connection to my SA 8300 cable box. I'm sure I screwed a setting up somewhere, but nothing I've tried works. Any ideas? Thanks

Hi,

wondered if anyone had a similar problem with their onkyo 790.
I've had it for 5 months, and this month it just started acting up with the digital SPDIF coaxial input. I use it solely for sound from my PC, for listening to music in PCM mode or watching DD or DTS movies.

Unfortunately, lately it is unable to detect the digital signal, randomly switching out, with the PCM signal or DD signal flashing, the receiver switches a few times and goes silent. I than plug in some inputs to the front of the receiver or unplug some and it'll pick up the digital signal and start decoding again. I will get an optical cable to see if its solely limited to the coaxial.

I reset the receiver, but that only worked for a few minutes, not sure if this is a common problem?

i bought an optical cable (monster thx :P) and it seems fine now, maybe my coaxial had a wire loose or something.

Additionally, I find reducing the crossover from 100 to 80Hz gives me deeper bass oddly enough (I replaced the front speakers with SONY SSMF750H floorstanding ones), since the subwoofer is powered 140W I found this to be surprising.

I used to get dolby fine. It would spell right out on the display in large letters when something in digital dolby was on. Now it doesn't do that even though I have it set to auto. I have an optical connection to my SA 8300 cable box. I'm sure I screwed a setting up somewhere, but nothing I've tried works. Any ideas? Thanks

do a reset, i think u just hold down the standby button for 3 seconds or something.

Howdy all

Its been a looooong time since I posted in this thread after picking up the refurb S790 for $270 shipped last Nov;).

Fast forward to now and its almost been a year with ZERO issues with my system. Well actually, more like the AV/sub since my first upgrade after getting the system was to replace the fronts with Polk Audio R50's and the center with PA Csi3.

Anyway, I luv the sound on my system BUT find the stock Onkyo sub not so great with lows so I'm thinking of doing the final upgrade.

Any S790 who have replaced the stock sub with something better? Any recommendations? Budget is around $200 so I'm not expecting something earth-shattering but just a little better than the stock.
How does this one look form Polk Audio?

http://www.polkaudio.com/homeaudio/specs/individual/subwoofers/psw12/


Thanks
Frag

Howdy all

Its been a looooong time since I posted in this thread after picking up the refurb S790 for $270 shipped last Nov;).

Fast forward to now and its almost been a year with ZERO issues with my system. Well actually, more like the AV/sub since my first upgrade after getting the system was to replace the fronts with Polk Audio R50's and the center with PA Csi3.

Anyway, I luv the sound on my system BUT find the stock Onkyo sub not so great with lows so I'm thinking of doing the final upgrade.

Any S790 who have replaced the stock sub with something better? Any recommendations? Budget is around $200 so I'm not expecting something earth-shattering but just a little better than the stock.
How does this one look form Polk Audio?

http://www.polkaudio.com/homeaudio/specs/individual/subwoofers/psw12/


Thanks
Frag

The one you linked will be much better than the included 790 sub. I would give a look at the Bic H-100 or the AV123 Xsub though. Both of those are considered to be the best money can buy at the $200 price point.

Don't really have the time to sift through 70 pages of stuff. Is there a place that I can find out what exactly all the symbols on the front of the player mean? For instance, if it says DTS - Direct, does that mean that I am taking the DTS input and directly outputting it without any additional processing? I just discovered that my HD-DVD player and 360 have been using ProLogic 2 for the last year and now I want to make sure that they are sounding as good as they can.

Don't really have the time to sift through 70 pages of stuff. Is there a place that I can find out what exactly all the symbols on the front of the player mean? For instance, if it says DTS - Direct, does that mean that I am taking the DTS input and directly outputting it without any additional processing? I just discovered that my HD-DVD player and 360 have been using ProLogic 2 for the last year and now I want to make sure that they are sounding as good as they can.

The direct mode does exactly that, outputs the sound as it as received with as little processing as possible....

Are you using the 360 HD DVD add on or a stand alone player? I have the add on and have found good results setting the player to DTS instead of DD, and using NEO 6 on the receiver.....

I had the 360AO until Friday. Just bought an A2. Neo 6 is simply a stereo source which is interpreted and sort of converted into a surround source. I'm surprised you prefer that because I thought it sounded terrible. If you are running an optical cable from your 360 you really should be using something that utilizes the 5.1 source (eg: the direct feeds). Any of the other things (Prologic, Neo 6, etc) are all processing of a, usually, stereo source to create a surround source.
I just wasn't sure about the direct thing being a reference to the DTS or Dolby. I definitely do know that you should be running direct though. If you have Transformers, play one of the city scenes (I recommend 21) with the different formats/settings and see which you like best. I guarantee you that Neo 6 will be at the bottom of that list ;) Admittedly, Prologic 2 (PLX2) sounds pretty good to me though.

So I have encountered my first problem with my system. For some reason all of a sudden, the sub isn't "turning off" when I power off the receiver. Before when I would power off the receiver with the remote, the sub would make a thump noise, and the LED on the front would change from green to red. Now it makes that noise, albeit not as loud, but the LED on the front stays green. Sometimes the sub makes some noises that sound like clipping, but the receiver isn't powered on when it is making those noises.

Any ideas what is going on?

I had the 360AO until Friday. Just bought an A2. Neo 6 is simply a stereo source which is interpreted and sort of converted into a surround source. I'm surprised you prefer that because I thought it sounded terrible. If you are running an optical cable from your 360 you really should be using something that utilizes the 5.1 source (eg: the direct feeds). Any of the other things (Prologic, Neo 6, etc) are all processing of a, usually, stereo source to create a surround source.
I just wasn't sure about the direct thing being a reference to the DTS or Dolby. I definitely do know that you should be running direct though. If you have Transformers, play one of the city scenes (I recommend 21) with the different formats/settings and see which you like best. I guarantee you that Neo 6 will be at the bottom of that list ;) Admittedly, Prologic 2 (PLX2) sounds pretty good to me though.

I realize that NEO 6 is usually used for 2 ch sources. The Onkyo users manula says that it will also expand 5.1 into 7.1, thats why I used it. It seems to me that it uses the surround speakers more than PLIIx.......

Don't really have the time to sift through 70 pages of stuff. Is there a place that I can find out what exactly all the symbols on the front of the player mean? For instance, if it says DTS - Direct, does that mean that I am taking the DTS input and directly outputting it without any additional processing? I just discovered that my HD-DVD player and 360 have been using ProLogic 2 for the last year and now I want to make sure that they are sounding as good as they can.

Averhoeven,
Just noticed my setup is doing the same; PL2 only...
I have the dvd player set to bitstream & connected by optical3 but my 790 doesnt show any of the dd/dts options??? Have I got something configured wrong?

I guess I need a longer component speaker cable to move my sub further away from the receiver. Is there another way? Where is the best place to buy what I need? Thanks.

Do you mean a longer subwoofer cable? If so, monoprice.com is good place.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/subdepartment.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10236

May I ask where you got your Front surround stands, and the which wall mounts you are using for the rear surrounds. I am moving into a house next week and need to find stands now for my surround speakers.

Those stands look like the ones I have. They're made by omnimount, you can find them on the circuit city website.

Hi All

I was searching for answers to this question and i couldnt get ahead...

As you all may know this one doesnt come with a powered sub.. but when i play audio CDs or mp3 cds the output sucks big time. is there any settings that i need to change to make this sound like a real onkyo system...someone i knew said i could change the cross over setting to 120khz, but i dont know what this does...

If powered sub is the answer to this problem, is there a good front firing sub, as i stay in an appartment and i dont want down firing to bother my neighbors below.

I would love to hear one with something not involving a powered sub.. pls...

Thanks a lot
A

I got a little change left over from holidays to play around with upgrading the speakers. I've seen recommendations for the Polk CSi3 or CSi25 in this thread, which is what I'm looking at, but a friend's offering me a good deal on the BOSE VCS-10. Pull the trigger?

I got a little change left over from holidays to play around with upgrading the speakers. I've seen recommendations for the Polk CSi3 or CSi25 in this thread, which is what I'm looking at, but a friend's offering me a good deal on the BOSE VCS-10. Pull the trigger?

Yeah I am replacing my front two speakers with the jbl venue speakers with the dual 8" woofers, and moving my current front speakers to the rear.

Hi guys,
Bought this system about a year ago and loved it. First ht system ive owned, been more of a car audio guy. Looking to get some better speakers for this system more for music than anything. Frys has the rti8 on sale so i was looking to those, Or the AV123 x-mtm. Any thought on these or something that might be better? Really need help with this want to buy some good speakers for under $500. Def gonna buy a HSU sub. Love bass and i heard that this is the sub for it. Thanks guys

probally a stupid question!!!! but i have had this set up for a long time now and currently have my ps3,A3 and divx/sacd/dvda hooked up through my optical inputs and multi channle, I have a hitachi 1080i monitor set with 1 hdmi and 2 component inputs and have no room for more so my stupid question is........ will the component inputs on my reciever pass a 1080 i signal, allowing me to maximize my inputs for future growth? In the manual ther e is mention of hdtv support in one sentence on the first page but no other refrence to what signals can be passed. thanks for your time and patience!!! lol

anyone bueller bueller

Hi All

I was searching for answers to this question and i couldnt get ahead...

As you all may know this one doesnt come with a powered sub.. but when i play audio CDs or mp3 cds the output sucks big time. is there any settings that i need to change to make this sound like a real onkyo system...someone i knew said i could change the cross over setting to 120khz, but i dont know what this does...

If powered sub is the answer to this problem, is there a good front firing sub, as i stay in an appartment and i dont want down firing to bother my neighbors below.

I would love to hear one with something not involving a powered sub.. pls...

Thanks a lot
A

I don't know what you're talking about. The S-790 does come with a powered sub.

Do you put a cd in and get a comformtable volume, then with that level, set your test tones with the meter using th etest tones on the receiver or the Avia disc....I did this and some of my channels are at +10 and +11db...this doesn't seem right.....Any suggestions?? Thanks!

Do you put a cd in and get a comformtable volume, then with that level, set your test tones with the meter using th etest tones on the receiver or the Avia disc....I did this and some of my channels are at +10 and +11db...this doesn't seem right.....Any suggestions?? Thanks!

When calibrating use the main volume control to get a comfortable level, 85db on the meter is usually what's referred to as reference level but that's a bit to loud for most when using the test tones. A 75db meter reading is fine and what most use, it's a comfortable level.

Be sure you have your meter at the listening position, approx ear height.

Set all you individual speaker levels to 0 then use one for reference I usually use the front left but it doesn't matter. Your referenced speaker will stay at 0 and then you level match the other speakers to it.

Thank you!

Just finished reading all 70 pages. I have this receiver, just finished replacing all the stock dental floss. To my wife and I it seems to make the whole system sound more "spacious". Like you can no longer pinpoint exactly which speaker the sound is coming from. Still testing some of the settings that were recommend. Right now, have all speakers set to small, Sub at 3/4, and crossover at 80hz.

For those looking for codes for the Time Warner cable remote, while I don't know the specific codes, I did manage to get the AUD button to turn the receiver on by scanning and locking it. IT WILL NOT turn it off. Apparently the Onkyo remote must send two different singles at the same time. What I managed to do was program the DVD button by scanning and locking it (since I use a PS2 for a DVD and can not program it to this remote) to shut the receiver off. The means I have one button all power on, and when I hit the one button to all power off, I just have to hit the DVD button as an extra step to turn off the receiver. If anyone knows a better way, please advise.

Not sure if this receiver can handle this but I don't seem able to to output TRUE HD/HD MA outputs from my Bluray player Sony BDPS300. I'm using an optical out from my Bluray to the receiver. When I switch on TRUE HD the movies sound ridiculously low volume while some of my peers who uses a costlier/newer version of Onkyo receiver seems to go WOW when they turn it on..

-- Don't tell me my Receiver is out dates:(

-- Don't tell me my Receiver is out dates:(

It's not so much that, but that you're using the optical. That can't handle the bandwidth of TrueHD, et. al. You need to use the 7.1 channel analog inputs (and have a Blu-Ray player that has 5.1/7.1 channel analog outputs, which I don't think yours does.)

Or get a receiver that does HDMI audio, like the TX-SR605.

My worst fear!!! It is outdated :mad:

Speaker Upgrades
==============

I love my S790 HTB. Sounds fantastic. Had it for bout a year now , so looking to tweak it to get more juice :-)

Here is my question

1) I am missing out on the next gen audio (TrueHD, DTS-HD). I have a limited budget so my question is... WILL I get a better sound experience if I invest in a receiver like the Onkyo 605 + PS3 OR exsiting + analog audio Blu-Ray player ?

2) Will a new receiver (605/705) make a noticeable difference in sound quality when playing regular DTS or DD or Stereo sources ?

3) Speaker Upgrades: My existing speakers sound decent. But will I get more mileage if I upgrade to better ones ? All the front speakers + sub are using 14 AWG cables or premium coax cables. Rears are 16 AWG

4) I have a Sony SSF-5000 speaker pair in my basement. Will this make a good front speaker set ?

5) Please give me any and all available advice on replacing speakers and how much difference in sound will i percieve ?

Thx a lot!

Speaker Upgrades
==============

I love my S790 HTB. Sounds fantastic. Had it for bout a year now , so looking to tweak it to get more juice :-)

Here is my question

1) I am missing out on the next gen audio (TrueHD, DTS-HD). I have a limited budget so my question is... WILL I get a better sound experience if I invest in a receiver like the Onkyo 605 + PS3 OR exsiting + analog audio Blu-Ray player ?

2) Will a new receiver (605/705) make a noticeable difference in sound quality when playing regular DTS or DD or Stereo sources ?

3) Speaker Upgrades: My existing speakers sound decent. But will I get more mileage if I upgrade to better ones ? All the front speakers + sub are using 14 AWG cables or premium coax cables. Rears are 16 AWG

4) I have a Sony SSF-5000 speaker pair in my basement. Will this make a good front speaker set ?

5) Please give me any and all available advice on replacing speakers and how much difference in sound will i percieve ?

Thx a lot!

Well here is what I know based on lots of info.

1) Yes you will notice a difference by upgrading to a receiver that handles the high def audio. Not from first hand experience, but from alot of opinions of people I know. Their opinions are what talked me into deciding on a onkyo 705.
2) not sure. I would guess that would depend on if it had a better power output and THD %

3)speaker upgrades are a must in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, At first I loved the speakers that came with my 790, but then I started upgrading and started hearing things I hadn't heard before. Real bass, sounds I hadn't been able to hear before. I had jbl stadiums for fronts, an infinity c360 center and a jbl 12 Sub. My 790 front speakers have been demoted to rear speakers now.

4) never heard those before, so can't give an opinion on it.

5)Do it!

I have the HT-S790 and will like to know whether passing new audio formats (DTS MA, Dolby True HD etc) audio formats (via analog) to the HT-S790 receiver and speakers will be a noticeable improvement over the standard DD and DTS that the receiver decodes?

I don’t want to spend money on a new receiver or speakers (for another 2-3 years) and have to decide whether to go for the PS3 (and use optical output) or wait for one of the new blu-ray players that will decode the new formats and pass via analog output.

I understand that HT-S790 is relatively an entry level set-up and don’t want to wait or spend extra money on a new blu-ray player that has analog output if it is not going to make a noticeable difference on HT-S790.

I will appreciate your views/recommendations or experience you have had with the new audio formats on HT-S790.

Thanks

I have the HT-S790 and will like to know whether passing new audio formats (DTS MA, Dolby True HD etc) audio formats (via analog) to the HT-S790 receiver and speakers will be a noticeable improvement over the standard DD and DTS that the receiver decodes?

I don’t want to spend money on a new receiver or speakers (for another 2-3 years) and have to decide whether to go for the PS3 (and use optical output) or wait for one of the new blu-ray players that will decode the new formats and pass via analog output.

I understand that HT-S790 is relatively an entry level set-up and don’t want to wait or spend extra money on a new blu-ray player that has analog output if it is not going to make a noticeable difference on HT-S790.

I will appreciate your views/recommendations or experience you have had with the new audio formats on HT-S790.

Thanks

To answer your first question, probably. But if you already have the 790 system I wouldn't spend that much on the 908, you're going to get the same grade speakers and sub. I would HIGHLY recommend just getting the Onkyo 605 receiver which is the same receiver in the 908 package.

You can get it around $400 and if you want to go refurb from shopoinkyo closer to $300. Then you can auction or sell your 800 receiver and get what you would have had in the 908 package for a minimal cost to upgrade.

And if you've got the extra money to spend that the 908 would have cost you that would leave you at least $400 for a speaker or sub upgrade which would totally blow away either one of these packages performance wise.

Forget Monster cable - they are ridiculously overpriced. A lot of people (myself included) go with Monoprice.com for their cables. Here are the appropriate links for the cables you mentioned (except the PS2 cable) in 6' lengths. Be sure to measure the exact lengths you need - and taking into account extra length needed when pulling the receiver out of your entertainment center. The PS2 component cable is available at CC or BB - I just bought one for $25 at CC.

Links


6' Digital Audio Optical Cable $4.87 (http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10229&cs_id=1022901&p_id=2764&seq=1&format=2&style=).




OK. I feel like an idiot. I have the Onkyo HT-S790 and this exact same cable from Monoprice. For the life of me, I cannot figure how to insert the cable into the receiver and my new LCD TV. The end will not go in all the way. I went to this thread to make sure that I bought the right cable. What's the trick to get it to fit? I cannot get the cable into the TV too (Samsung A650). It feels like I need to really force it in and that concerns me. I have never used this type of cable before.

Thanks for any help.

Their Keyed, and as such will only work in one position. just rotate it so it slips in with little fight.

Yea, certainly don't need to force an optical cable.

OK. I feel like an idiot. I have the Onkyo HT-S790 and this exact same cable from Monoprice. For the life of me, I cannot figure how to insert the cable into the receiver and my new LCD TV. The end will not go in all the way. I went to this thread to make sure that I bought the right cable. What's the trick to get it to fit? I cannot get the cable into the TV too (Samsung A650). It feels like I need to really force it in and that concerns me. I have never used this type of cable before.

Thanks for any help.

Did you remember to take the plastic end caps off?

Did you remember to take the plastic end caps off?

LOL! There were no plastic end caps to take off. I actually bought the cable last year in anticipation of getting an LCD TV. I had to buy some other cable, so the extra cost was neglible.

BTW, I was able to fit the cable into the TV and receiver. It required a little more force than what I am used to. I'm not getting any sound from the receiver from the TV. I am using the Opt 1 input and selecting Video 1 for output. I have had no problems with my DVD player on Coax. Unless someone has a suggestion to remedy the situation, I'll just play around with it tomorrow.

Cable might be busted. Fiber optics are somewhat fragile.

Is the Optical 1 tied to Video 1 using the digital input button on the front of the receiver? That's another common thing to overlook.

It's all good now. Thanks!

It's all good now. Thanks!

What was the solution?

What was the solution?He said he had to push it in a little harder than expected.

He said he had to push it in a little harder than expected.


He stated that when it WASN'T working.

He then stated it was "All good now", but I don't believe he stated what the solution was............which is why I asked...........so everyone else would know.

He stated that when it WASN'T working.

He then stated it was "All good now", but I don't believe he stated what the solution was............which is why I asked...........so everyone else would know.
LOL! There were no plastic end caps to take off. I actually bought the cable last year in anticipation of getting an LCD TV. I had to buy some other cable, so the extra cost was neglible.

BTW, I was able to fit the cable into the TV and receiver. It required a little more force than what I am used to. I'm not getting any sound from the receiver from the TV. I am using the Opt 1 input and selecting Video 1 for output. I have had no problems with my DVD player on Coax. Unless someone has a suggestion to remedy the situation, I'll just play around with it tomorrow.
Look at the bold parts.
He had gotten it connected, and then apparently had some settings issues.

Look at the bold parts.
He had gotten it connected, and then apparently had some settings issues.

LOL! There were no plastic end caps to take off. I actually bought the cable last year in anticipation of getting an LCD TV. I had to buy some other cable, so the extra cost was neglible.

BTW, I was able to fit the cable into the TV and receiver. It required a little more force than what I am used to. I'm not getting any sound from the receiver from the TV. I am using the Opt 1 input and selecting Video 1 for output. I have had no problems with my DVD player on Coax. Unless someone has a suggestion to remedy the situation, I'll just play around with it tomorrow.

Apparently YOU can't see the most important part of the quote you keep referring too. I'm just going to wait for the OP to reply. :rolleyes: He NEVER stated what fixed it.

Apparently YOU can't see the most important part of the quote you keep referring too. I'm just going to wait for the OP to reply. :rolleyes: He NEVER stated what fixed it.
ok, ok we are each interested in different things here. At first the OP couldn't get the cables inserted and didn't know if he had the right cables. I wasn't interested in anything beyond that, but you are so, maybe the OP will post back with your answer.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help here.

I got the Onkyo HT-540 in the deal from Club Onkyo where it comes with the receiver and 7.1 speakers. It's been great so far. I have the following components involved here:

Onkyo HT-R540 receiver - Component Cables to TV
PS3 - HDMI directly to TV and Optical Audio to receiver
Wii - Component cables to receiver
Phillips DVD player - Component cables to receiver
Scientific Atlantic Explorer 8300HD - HDMI to TV and coaxel audio to receiver
Panasonic Plasma TV

So here is the story - I had some friends over to play Rock Band on the PS3. One of them decided to turn the volume up to 50 on the receiver and then it suddenly shut off on it's own. The standby light was flashing at this time as well. Now I can not have the volume that loud on my receiver at all without it shutting itself off and the flashing standby light.

Through trouble shooting I have determined that the PS3 is not the root of the cause, nor the optical cable. This is because the receiver will do the exact same thing when I am playing an audio (mp3) cd on the DVD player to the receiver using RCA wires. The common thing is when a loud, sudden noise occurs on the receiver.

I have tried a bunch of different things from the following:

Reset the receiver by holding the video 1 and standby button for three seconds.

Unplugging everything from the receiver and the receiver from the wall for an hour then plugging the receiver in and turning the volume to max without it shutting off. I think unplugged it, plugged everything back into the receiver and then the receiver to the outlet. Still no dice.

Reseated all of the wiring for the speakers to make sure there wasn't too much copper exposed.

Let the receiver sit overnight to ensure it wasn't over heated.

Adjusted various output settings (DTS, Direct, Movie Plex, ect) while experiencing the problems and they still occur.

This really just occurs when the volume is louder (in the 40's on the receiver) and a sudden (explosion) noise occurs. The one catch is it won't shut down if I am watching regular TV. I'm not sure if it's because I haven't watched a movie with loud explosions on TV or what not.

Any and all help here would be appreciated!

Hi folks, I'm new to the forums but have a question that hopefully someone will be able to answer for me.

I have the HTS790 HTIB setup, although my receiver recently died and to replace it I decided to go with the Onkyo 606 for the Hi-Def audio and HDMI inputs. Reading the forums I'm well aware that a great many, if not all of these receivers emit some crackling or popping sounds when hooked up to a PS3, but I figure if it's too troublesome I can simply return it and try a different brand.

My question is pretty straightforward, being new to Home Theater setups I was wondering which 7.1 frequencies I can select under the PS3's audio HDMI menu. Not certain what the speakers from the 790 set can handle and I don't want to damage them. Can someone let me know which frequences I can check on and which ones I should leave off to prevent damage?

Thanks in advance

Ajalon, are you still having the issue of the receiver shutting off upon having the volume up past 50 and a sudden loud sound occurring? I am having the same problem and I'm having no luck fixing it.

After I upgraded the mains to a pair of Klipsch bookshelf's, I haven't had to turn up anything over 40. I plain to upgrade the center to a Klispch as soon as it goes on sale.

Are you on a regulated power supply, line conditioner or backup power supply, something that ensures your AC is not spiking under a sustaioned load?

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help here.

I got the Onkyo HT-540 in the deal from Club Onkyo where it comes with the receiver and 7.1 speakers. It's been great so far. I have the following components involved here:

Onkyo HT-R540 receiver - Component Cables to TV
PS3 - HDMI directly to TV and Optical Audio to receiver
Wii - Component cables to receiver
Phillips DVD player - Component cables to receiver
Scientific Atlantic Explorer 8300HD - HDMI to TV and coaxel audio to receiver
Panasonic Plasma TV

So here is the story - I had some friends over to play Rock Band on the PS3. One of them decided to turn the volume up to 50 on the receiver and then it suddenly shut off on it's own. The standby light was flashing at this time as well. Now I can not have the volume that loud on my receiver at all without it shutting itself off and the flashing standby light.

Through trouble shooting I have determined that the PS3 is not the root of the cause, nor the optical cable. This is because the receiver will do the exact same thing when I am playing an audio (mp3) cd on the DVD player to the receiver using RCA wires. The common thing is when a loud, sudden noise occurs on the receiver.

I have tried a bunch of different things from the following:

Reset the receiver by holding the video 1 and standby button for three seconds.

Unplugging everything from the receiver and the receiver from the wall for an hour then plugging the receiver in and turning the volume to max without it shutting off. I think unplugged it, plugged everything back into the receiver and then the receiver to the outlet. Still no dice.

Reseated all of the wiring for the speakers to make sure there wasn't too much copper exposed.

Let the receiver sit overnight to ensure it wasn't over heated.

Adjusted various output settings (DTS, Direct, Movie Plex, ect) while experiencing the problems and they still occur.

This really just occurs when the volume is louder (in the 40's on the receiver) and a sudden (explosion) noise occurs. The one catch is it won't shut down if I am watching regular TV. I'm not sure if it's because I haven't watched a movie with loud explosions on TV or what not.

Any and all help here would be appreciated!

Hello all! I have the HT-S790 and i upgraded my sub to a JBL SUB12 tonight. the SUB12 has a freq. dial on the back ranging from 50Hz-150Hz. What should I set my receiver to and the dial on the back of my sub. You guys got any suggestions? thanks!

folks, i have this set but i'm not too sure why i can't get any sound out of the 2 rear speakers when connected to an HD-A3 or a PS3 using components. I tried that all items in that menu which consists "Neutral Surround", Neo6: Cinema", "Neo6:Music" but it still did not solve the problem. as the result, my system is like a 5.1 now. Anyone has any idea what to do?

I have the HT-S790 combo and I'm looking to buy a Panny Blu-Ray player with the analog outputs. So I'm looking for a definite answer:

Will this 540 receiver play the decoded HD Dolby/DTS sound over the analog ins?

I'm in no way eager to replace this receiver just yet as I find it more than suitable and the analog connections don't bother me.

Thanks,

folks, i have this set but i'm not too sure why i can't get any sound out of the 2 rear speakers when connected to an HD-A3 or a PS3 using components. I tried that all items in that menu which consists "Neutral Surround", Neo6: Cinema", "Neo6:Music" but it still did not solve the problem. as the result, my system is like a 5.1 now. Anyone has any idea what to do?

Are the rear surrounds "turned on"? I know that you can either turn them on or off, so you might want to check the speaker set-up on your receiver.
Just my $.02...

Long time since I posted here......I had picked this up from ShopOnkyo during Thanksgiving last year. Over time, I upgraded the fronts with Polk R50's, center with Polk CSi3, and pushed the Onkyo fronts to rears.

Very happy with the sound till I moved into another house with a full HT room :-). Now I'm upgrading my fronts again and going to push my R50's to rears. Will be replacing the fronts with either Infinity Primus 362 or Polk Rti8s.

After playing around with the receiver last night, I found these settings give me the best audio....

Front/center=small
Rears=small
Crossover (Sub)=80 (I'm using a Dayton 10" sub)

Frag

PS: Bought the refurb and so far, its been going strong :-).

Well, my 10 month old HT-R540 has started running *very hot* and shutting down. I've already emailed Onkyo about it and will probably have to send it in for repair. :(

What is interesting is that when it shuts down it is usually when the system is using the component input from my Samsung H260F OTA receiver. Though it runs HOT with all of the inputs it is strange that it seems to only shut down when using the H260F's input. Is there something specific to a single input that could cause the receiver to shut down?????

Ed

Certianly. could be a bad part on that connection between the outside jacks and the internal point it connaects to the main logic board where everything else comes together.

Certianly. could be a bad part on that connection between the outside jacks and the internal point it connaects to the main logic board where everything else comes together.

Thanks for the reply, NOVA5.

My how time slips away from us...those 10 months are actually 22 months...warranty is gone. :( I'm currently using two component connections (satellite and ota receiver) and running my dvd via HDMI to my Panny panel. There is a component connection designated "DVD"...hmm, I might try re-routing the ota receiver through this connection and see what happens.

Ed

Well, the sudden shut-off is still occurring and I'm beginning to think it's something more than overheating. It seems to happen more so during volume peaks in 5.1 sound. Maybe even when more bass comes into play. The "VROOM" sound that CBS played during their college football games when they switched to an instant replay or either a stats screen would often shut the receiver off.

It seems to help decrease the frequency of the shut-downs if I turn the volume down. Tonight while watching the "Mentalist" on CBS it shutdown and as soon as the volume came up after turning the receiver back on it would shut off...I had to turn the volume down a good bit before it would stay on.

Not exactly a scientific, highly technical description of what's happening but basically it's what I'm experiencing.

Ed

I get the "sudden" shut off every now and then and I agree it is a volume/level problem! mine happens in the same situation every time! always and only when I have initiated showtime or starz vod the initial little station logo and music comes on then there is the shut off almost like they didnt edit out extra frequencies or something then the feature starts an the problem is gone so I now shut off the receiver until the feature starts!

It definitly sounds like it's overheating. A transistor has to work harder to produce more output, thus generating more heat. If it's running hot for some reason, it wouldn't be strange for it to shut down while trying to produce loud sounds.

When's the last time you blew the dust out of your unit?

It definitly sounds like it's overheating. A transistor has to work harder to produce more output, thus generating more heat. If it's running hot for some reason, it wouldn't be strange for it to shut down while trying to produce loud sounds.

When's the last time you blew the dust out of your unit?

It's clean as a pin. It's interesting but sometimes the receiver doesn't *seem* to be hot when the unit shuts down. I might see if my brother-in-law will let me borrow his IR thermometer the next time he comes down and see if there's one or more transistor/chip going thermal on me. If I can detect a few suspect transistors I might could add some additional heatsinking to them. But...if it's individual transistors heating up suddenly when more power is applied why has it started doing this? If I could figure out what's going on I might could do something about it...I've built a few ham radios, etc.,....surface mount I haven't tackled yet, though. :)

Perhaps a heatsink wasn't tightened properly or is lacking thermal grease. Or maybe something is shorting out during high load conditions...

Hopefully after Christmas I can get some time to pull the receiver off-line and do some checking. I've been eyeballing the SR606, but for the 3+ Ben Franklins they're asking for it I'd *much* rather get the 540 straightened out. When it's working right the 540 does what I need it to. I just dread having family over and have the system shutting down sporadically while the kids are watching some of the Christmas classics. Ah well, the kids have good ears so I'll keep the volume turned down. :)

I'll check the speaker connections, too. I tinned all the wires when I initially set it up but, who know's, there might be a wild hair somewhere.

Thanks for the feedback...anymore suggestions or thoughts feel free to send'em on!!

Merry Christmas,
Ed

Hi

Does anyone know a link to the color-coded rear panel diagram of the HTS 790 Receiver ( I believe it SR-604) ? Your help will be muchos appreciated.

Regards,
HT

Hi

Does anyone know a link to the color-coded rear panel diagram of the HTS 790 Receiver ( I believe it SR-604) ? Your help will be muchos appreciated.

Regards,
HT

Hmm...maybe I'm wrong, receiver is SR-540, not SR-604. Anyone knows a link to the color-coded rear panel diagram?

Is this what you're looking for?

Hey guys, I'm having a problem with my 790. I just moved into my new place. I was running a 5.1 setup prior to moving in. I setup a 7.1 setup and I wanted to test it with the scene in Black Hawk Down when an RPG flies by one of the soldiers and you hear it go from front left to the rear. I was not getting any sound to the rears. When the RPG was launched, I heard it on the front left speaker and then the system shut down. The red light began to blink so I disconnected the system and all the wires. I tried reconnecting again a few minutes later and the same even when I went back to the 5.1 setup. Any ideas and/or solutions to this problem. This is the first problem I have had with this system. I appreciate any help given ... thx.

Bump

To anyone who reads this ... after testing all my speakers n' wires, I seem to have it working. I think it was the speaker wires. What could have been wrong with the speaker wires? Could staples interfere with the signal? I'm asking that b/c I ran the wires along the wall with a staple gun ... any ideas?

To anyone who reads this ... after testing all my speakers n' wires, I seem to have it working. I think it was the speaker wires. What could have been wrong with the speaker wires? Could staples interfere with the signal? I'm asking that b/c I ran the wires along the wall with a staple gun ... any ideas?

Very easily could have shorted your surrounds with the staples... the staple goes through the insulation and allows the two wires to make a closed circuit and wham! Every time a signal goes to that speaker, your system shuts down. Glad it was an easy fix (I was thinking it was just some frayed wires at a terminal or something). Hope you don't have any other problems!

Very easily could have shorted your surrounds with the staples... the staple goes through the insulation and allows the two wires to make a closed circuit and wham! Every time a signal goes to that speaker, your system shuts down. Glad it was an easy fix (I was thinking it was just some frayed wires at a terminal or something). Hope you don't have any other problems!

Good to go now ... thx. I bought those ... what do you call them ... they're like plastic white hooks with a nail so that you can just hook the wires, nail it and thats it. Woot! :cool:

I Want To Learn (Flags),

You are replying to posts from 2006 and 2007. There is nothing constructive to gain from taking an argumentative stance against opinions from so long ago. Please don't pick up where you left off. Be a better member of the forums.

Thanks.

I Want To Learn (Flags),

You are replying to posts from 2006 and 2007. There is nothing constructive to gain from taking an argumentative stance against opinions from so long ago. Please don't pick up where you left off. Be a better member of the forums.

Thanks.

^^^

posts deleted

I have the HT-S790 combo with the R540 receiver and I'm looking to buy a Panny Blu-Ray player with the analog outputs (BD55). So I'm looking for a definite answer:

Will this 540 receiver play the decoded HD Dolby/DTS sound over the analog ins?

I'm in no way eager to replace this receiver just yet as I find it more than suitable and the analog connections don't bother me.

Thanks,

I have the HT-S790 combo with the R540 receiver and I'm looking to buy a Panny Blu-Ray player with the analog outputs (BD55). So I'm looking for a definite answer:

Will this 540 receiver play the decoded HD Dolby/DTS sound over the analog ins?

I'm in no way eager to replace this receiver just yet as I find it more than suitable and the analog connections don't bother me.

Thanks,

I'm using the BD35 with optical s/pdif and am VERY happy with my 5.1 result.
Sorry this doesn't answer your specific question, but my point is you can make the BR jump now and enjoy your current receiver until you upgrade.

Tony

hi all, i am looking up upgrade my hts790, after two years of usage. here's what i like to get for speakers, would the htr540 receiver be able to handle all these adequately?

klipsch rf3 fronts
klipsch rc62 center
klipsch rs52 rears
ed a300 subwoofer

thanks

can anyone confirm the HTR540 receiver that comes with this box is the same as the standalone TSXR504? i've read the spec on the 504 and it seems to be a bit different than what the HS790 manual said about the HTR540

Hello, I have a couple of questions regarding my 550 receiver. I was in the process of hooking up 7.1 using rca output jacks from the Blu ray player to the receiver for multichannel audio. On my center channel speaker, there is a left (white) and a right (red) but on the back of the receiver, there is only one input. Do I need to go to radioshack to buy connector ends for the wire and then a coaxial adapter? Or does the receiver only have this signal in mono?

Second question: I recently bought an old Carver 2 channel amp and would like to use this for the front speakers all the time with each application i.e cd, blu ray movies etc. How would I set up the wiring on this particular unit for this? Or is it even possible? Thank you :)