Since there are about 10 new threads a week about this system, I thought a generic thread similar to the one the S790 owners have would be a good tool. I'll get around to posting the specs a bit later, but in the mean time, please feel free to post tips, tricks, problems, what have you.

I'll start: I just received the HT-S590 system yesterday. My plasma TV is in the shop at the moment, so I haven't used it with 5.1 sources yet. I have played some songs from my iPod. Many of the surround listening modes sound great. I haven't been able to discern the nuances between them yet.

I fooled around with the placement of the sub some. I found I got a lot more response with the sub in a corner than I did in a 1/3 spot on the wall.

Great thread to start. I just received a refurb of this unit and I am pleased so far. I have not been able to delve too deeply yet but have been pleased with what I have heard so far. Plenty of volume to play with in my media room.


I should be receiving an optical cable in a week or so and can test out the xbox 360 surround sound then. I also am going to investigate direct component to the projector versus component through the receiver to see if their is any image degradation or change in brightness.

S790 seeker here but Frys has the s590 for under $150 in this weeks flyer. ( SF area)

R

good move on starting this thread...let's hope it is as successful as the 790 thread. :cool:

HT-S590 interference issues and solutions thread

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=691847

I don't have any interference issues but this is good info.

HT-S590 interference issues and solutions thread

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=691847

I don't have any interference issues but this is good info.

I just noticed that I was having the same interference issues on the surround modes that is mentioned in that thread. The very last poster mentioned that it was a ground loop problem. He suggested to look it up. I googled it, but everything I could find was written over my head. When I get back home, I'll probably try the tape spacer trick to see if that helps.

Here is another thread with some good information such as being able to connect a powered sub woofer to the Onkyo 590:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=751314

Cheers to DIMAN75 and Jakeman02 for their input as this is someting I am pondering doing down the road.

I just noticed that I was having the same interference issues on the surround modes that is mentioned in that thread. The very last poster mentioned that it was a ground loop problem. He suggested to look it up. I googled it, but everything I could find was written over my head. When I get back home, I'll probably try the tape spacer trick to see if that helps.

Before cracking open the receiver, I decided to try just loosening the two screws near the speaker terminal. I'm happy to report this has done the trick for the time being. We'll see if it holds.

I'm actually thinkiing about getting a S590 from circuit city today. They have it listed at 280 but I have a 10 percent off coupon and another 10 off on top of that. So after my savings I'm looking at 242 -- anyone know of a better deal than that?

Also if by any chance someone can help me with this next question i'd REALLY appreciate it. I have a PS3 and an HDTV with an HDMI input. How should i hook this all up? I was thinking HDMI from the PS3 to the TV and then optical from the PS3 to the receiver. Will this automatically turn off my tv speakers (they are terrible)? Thanks a lot, and great idea to start this thread.

I'm actually thinkiing about getting a S590 from circuit city today. They have it listed at 280 but I have a 10 percent off coupon and another 10 off on top of that. So after my savings I'm looking at 242 -- anyone know of a better deal than that?

I got a refurbished S590 from shoponkyo.com for $133. They don't have any available at the moment, but they come and go pretty regularly. Usually the refurbs are $200 or less, so I would wait if you could. Or if you're wanting to spend that much, just upgrade and get the S790 from shoponkyo.

EDIT: I should add that there is no indication at all that this system was ever used/damaged/etc.

Also if by any chance someone can help me with this next question i'd REALLY appreciate it. I have a PS3 and an HDTV with an HDMI input. How should i hook this all up? I was thinking HDMI from the PS3 to the TV and then optical from the PS3 to the receiver. Will this automatically turn off my tv speakers (they are terrible)? Thanks a lot, and great idea to start this thread.


You are correct in that the 590 does not have any HDMI connections and will have to be hooked up directly to your TV. Optical is definitely that way to go with the 590 - it has two optical inputs and one coax.

The ability to turn off the TV sound automatically with the optical output will likely depend on the TV, otherwise you will have to hit mute on the TV I guess.

The previous poster is also correct to check the onkyo store to purchase the 590. make sure you register as a club member for free to see the discounted price and to obtain automatic reward points (1 point = $1 discount). As much as I like to see support for the system I purchased, the previous poster is alss correct that you might want to consider the 700 series for the money you are considering spending as I believe the 790 should give you some options with HDMI too. Otherwise, just wait for some refurb 590s to come out on the website to get a great deal.

I received my refurb-ed 590 a few days ago (thanks to all for the $133 tip!!) and have been fiddling with the settings. I upgraded to 18 gauge wire (I actually didn't think the 16 would fit in the connectors) and hear a buzz but only with the source off and the volume max-ed out. I may try the insulating spacer tricks mentioned in the earlier threads.

My question....Is it generally better to let the unit interpret the TV channel or DVD input and pick the right Mode? Do you folks constantly switch between modes depending on concert, sports, drama etc to find the right one??

And my wife tends to surf by RAPIDLY changing channels rather than using the on-screen guide to see what's on. Since the 590 switches modes by TV channel, is there any risk of damage by this quick change and not letting the 590 "settle out" between channel changes??

--Jeff

Just bought a S590(S) system today ($299 from CC).

I have my Comcast HD DVR and XBox 360 hooked up to it, both via optical/digital. Sounds great to me. I used the speaker wire that came with it, so no buzzing.

My video goes straight from my HD DVR to my Samsung plasma via component.

Any tips/tricks on the S590 that I should play with?

What is the (S) after my model # mean?

Also, I'm assuming upgrading to a powered subwoofer would be a no-brainer *?*

"What is the (S) after my model # mean?"

Silver ;>

"What is the (S) after my model # mean?"

Silver ;>

So I'm guessing black is available? *sigh*
My wife isn't happy about the silver. Especially since the TV is a shiny, piano black. Oooh well, too late now!

Its not too late, you bought it from Circuit City, you can always exchange it for a black one if available. You've got 30 days to change your mind.

Shouldn't the "double d" symbol light up on the receiver when I am watching a DVD with 5.1 dolby digital? I just received this for Christmas and have it connected with an optical cabel but this does not light up on my receiver. Since it is not lit up, I am afraid that it is not receiving the dolby digital signal for some reason.

I think somone should post the differences in the two receivers with the s590 and the s790 so that newcomers like me can view instead of thumbing through 20+ pages for an answer

Well Ive had this system for a few months now. Got a refurb from shoponkyo.

So far its perfect. I installed with some nice 16G wire and it sounds great. I have used it with a xbox360, cable stb, and dvd player all hooked up via optical and all sound great.


I live in an apt and this sytem is perfect.

So the S590 doesn't have a powered sub?

Since it is not lit up, I am afraid that it is not receiving the dolby digital signal for some reason.

Did you go into the DVD player setup and turn on "BITSTREAM" instead of "PCM"? You must do this and also turn on DTS for the player to send a DD or DTS signal to your receiver.

That worked...thanks aforgt!

Did you go into the DVD player setup and turn on "BITSTREAM" instead of "PCM"? You must do this and also turn on DTS for the player to send a DD or DTS signal to your receiver.

I had no idea you were to even do this. I came here with intentions of asking:

Which listening mode does everyone use? I has SO many different. For my situation I mostly watch everything in HD. Not many movies. But I'll check my dvd player when I get home for the bitstream setting.

Also what is PCM?

Ok I wiki'ed PCM but I'm still puzzled as to how it relates to which setting I should use.

I had no idea you were to even do this. I came here with intentions of asking:

Which listening mode does everyone use? I has SO many different. For my situation I mostly watch everything in HD. Not many movies. But I'll check my dvd player when I get home for the bitstream setting.

Also what is PCM?

Ok I wiki'ed PCM but I'm still puzzled as to how it relates to which setting I should use.

When watching something in HD on the HD DVR via optical audio cable - I think I hit the "surround" listening mode button on the remote until the receiver says "Dolby - Direct". I'll have to double check to see if that's exactly what it is. I'm still getting familiar with this receiver's settings (only had it for a few days now)

When watching SD, I make sure it's set to one of the ProLogic II settings.

I hooked mine up today and couldn't get true 5.1 for the life of me. Then I figured out the trick: B speakers need to be off. You can't have A and B going at the same time, it needs to only be A. So, if anyone else is having the same problem, try that.

Great advice about the 5.1 needing the "B" speakers turned off.

Silly question - my 4 year old nephew knocked my center speaker off my entertainment stand yesterday. It dropped about 3 feet onto the carpet. Should I be worrying about any sort of damage?

Just hooked up my Onkyo S590 with 16 AWG speaker wire, sounds great, no problems.

Great advice about the 5.1 needing the "B" speakers turned off.

Silly question - my 4 year old nephew knocked my center speaker off my entertainment stand yesterday. It dropped about 3 feet onto the carpet. Should I be worrying about any sort of damage?

Not if it sounds ok. 3 ft on carpet isn't that bad as long as nothing it one of the drivers directly or it jared something loose you should be fine.

Oh man, this is killing me, I can't decide if I should throw down the extra money for the 5790s, or just stick with the 5590, seeing how I would end up running the 5790 as a 5.1 instead of 7.1

Oh man, this is killing me, I can't decide if I should throw down the extra money for the 5790s, or just stick with the 5590, seeing how I would end up running the 5790 as a 5.1 instead of 7.1

Depends on how much you want to spend. The S790 gives your more digital inputs a more powerful receiver and a powered subwoofer and the speakers are of somewhat better quality, although still HTIB quality. If you're happy with the S590 keep it, yeah you would probably hear a minimal preformance incrase with the 790 but enough to offset the cost....not imo. I purchased the 580...previous version to the 590 and was very happy with it, imo for the difference in price you could get a quality pair of bookshelves for the front and far exceede both systems.

No, you see, I don't have either Onkyo. It's deciding whether I should grab the 59 or pay the extra for the 79.

Im most certain Im gonna buy this, but what if the Rear Wires are not long enough? which ones can I buy to replace them?

Im most certain Im gonna buy this, but what if the Rear Wires are not long enough? which ones can I buy to replace them?

Lowes or Home Depot is ususally as chep or cheaper than anyone for speaker wire. 16ga is fine.

but isnt those 16ga the ones that have problem with the sound the other people are reporting?

but isnt those 16ga the ones that have problem with the sound the other people are reporting?

it isn't the fact that it's 16ga. It's just larger than what comes with the system and with the upgrade for some reason it seems to cause a grounding issue. Would probably be the same with 18ga but nobody would want to upgrade to 18 to find out. If you're going to upgrade speaker wire you want to go 16. that's the largest thickness the spring type terminals on this unit will accept. And not all of the 590 receivers have this issue, there have been quite a few recently that have upgraded with no problems. I suspect, and I stress suspect, that onkyo has corrected the problem on the current ones but their are still lots of past units still on the shelves.

how do I find out my units manufacture date?

I finally got around to setting up my speakers after putting off through the holidays. I have run into a little bit of a problem. No sound. I upgraded the wire to 16g right away and figured I went wrong there, but even using the factory wire has produced no results. All I get from each speaker during the test is a hissing noise letting me know, at the very least, that I correctly placed the speakers. I am pretty frustrated as I have hooked up a speaker system in the past and am unable to figure out what is going wrong. Hopefully I just overlooked something really stupid and I can move on from here. Any thoughts?

turned off B speakers?

I wish that was the case. The system wont even run the test effectively unless speaker A is turned on. Turning on B leads to the test showing that "Speaker B is ON" and turning them all off and running the test displays "Speaker A is OFF". I have even considered that maybe the test was somehow "broken" and hooked up various devices with no such luck.

Hi. I am new to this world of AV and digital stuff. I am coming from a long forgotten place of VCRs and regular TV. We recently got a Samsung 50" TV and the 590 system. My husband has an xBox 360. I have figured out nearly everything, but can't get the xBox audio to play through the 590 system. Where should my connections be, or maybe I am doing something else wrong? Any help at all would be really appreciated. Thanks

Caitlin,

You should connect the 360 via digital optical (toslink) out. The receiver has 2 optical inputs, so just get a toslink cable (if you don't already have one) and connect. Simple.

THANK YOU for answering me Birdie! I will now let you in on how clueless I am. What's a toslink cable? I am staring at a cable coming out of the xBox that has the red/green/blue/yellow/white/red jacks. The XBox manual said to connect all of them into the TV, but leave the yellow unconnected. I get the picture, and sound on TV, but not through the surround. Should I reconfigure where the stuff is presently plugged in on the TV (component 2)? I am confusing the daylgihts out of myself, probably you too. Any thoughts?

toslink = optical cable. I just got mine from Walmart for about $14. I was in a pinch but you can find them cheaper online.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10229&cs_id=1022901&p_id=1447&seq=1&format=2&style=

If all you have at the moment are red/white cables. Run it from your 360 to the back of the receiver. Just pick an empty input on the back. Also red/white. Then select whichever you input on the selector on the front to whichever you plugged into the back.

Thanks for all your help. Hubby is poresently playing xBox in surround. I will keep tweaking the details and may have another question or two. You were really helpful. I am so happy that I could figure this out wiht some help. Circuit City wanted a truckload of money for someone to come out and set it all up! Thanks again!

If I configure it this way, I have the surround now, but lost the TV sound. Did I do something wrong again, or is that the expected outcome? I have the R/G/Bl cable from xBox to TV, and the R/W to the receiver on video 3.

Yeah, that's how it's supposed to be. You're sending audio to the receiver and video to the TV.

So, I have to ask, what kind of speaker stands are some of you using for this system? Specifically for the rears. I have my fronts on an entertainment stand, but my rears are sitting on stacked cardboard boxes...not real attractive. Not to mention, that makes it really easy for the cat to knock over the speakers. :eek:

Is there a way to get both, the surround and the TV simultaneously?

So, I have to ask, what kind of speaker stands are some of you using for this system? Specifically for the rears. I have my fronts on an entertainment stand, but my rears are sitting on stacked cardboard boxes...not real attractive. Not to mention, that makes it really easy for the cat to knock over the speakers. :eek:

I bought these

http://www.ritzcamera.com/product/EP5496505.htm

You can use Google Checkout for another $10 off. They are very nice for the price. Just search around for reviews.

What are the speaker wire lengths for this system? I have a projector, and all my equipment will be in the back. I hope the front speakers will be long enough.

Is the 790 that much better than the 590??? Im asking b/c I have been researching these 2 systems for over a month now and I cant decide on the two. The thing is even if I get the 790 im only going to have set up as 5.1 b/c of my living situation in an apt. but I thought I'd get it & use the 7.1 when we move into a house in the next year or two. This will be kind of like future proofing. On the other hand the 590 seems Ideal for the type of space im workin with (dont know the exact dimensions off hand). Also @ the moment the price for the 590 is REALLY tempting due to the fact that im working on tight budget b/c I promised the wife a few things thats costing me over a grand...sorry for the long read.

Any suggesstions?


And if I do decide to get either system I will have the following devices hooked up: HD cable box, Xbox 360, PS3, and DVD player. I have a 32in Samsung LCD.


(Also posting in 790 thread)

what type of speaker wire should i buy for this system, my living room is pretty small so probably need only 50 ft of cable. i got a refurbished system and doesnt come with wire

what type of speaker wire should i buy for this system, my living room is pretty small so probably need only 50 ft of cable. i got a refurbished system and doesnt come with wire

Just pick up some 16ga from Lowes or Home Depot. 50ft should run you about $10-$12.

so 16ga is the smart choice for wire?

MarkAELSU

Yes it is, but beware of the potential buzzing problem. I got a new system and upgraded the wires to 16ga immediately, but got the buzzing problem. Instead of loosening the screw or making spacers, I simply switched the front left speaker to the supplied (24ga?) wire and the buzzing problem went away. Just a word of caution.

Caitlin,

Yes, it is possible to have both audio outs hooked up to the tv and surround sound. You'll have to switch the RCA cables that you're using now back to the tv and then purchase the toslink cable from monoprice that kantonburg linked you to in his/her post. So you would then have the RCA cables (both audio and video) connected to the tv and then you would have the toslink cable connected directly to your surround receiver. Easy.

So, I have to ask, what kind of speaker stands are some of you using for this system? Specifically for the rears. I have my fronts on an entertainment stand, but my rears are sitting on stacked cardboard boxes...not real attractive. Not to mention, that makes it really easy for the cat to knock over the speakers. :eek:
Go into Members FhotoGallery, there is a picture of the stands that i'm using with my HT-S590. They are Sanus aluminium speaker stands.

how many banana plug wires would i need for that system?

Yes it is, but beware of the potential buzzing problem. I got a new system and upgraded the wires to 16ga immediately, but got the buzzing problem. Instead of loosening the screw or making spacers, I simply switched the front left speaker to the supplied (24ga?) wire and the buzzing problem went away. Just a word of caution.

I never upgraded the wire and I had the buzzing issues. I don't think it has anything to do with the wire. I just loosened the speaker terminal, that usually does the trick, but occassionally I have to jiggle it. If I bothered to actually open the receiver and inserted the spacers, I'm sure it would go away, but that seems like too much hassle for the moment.

Dah... I just noticed there was an official thread after posting in another one. Anyway, here's what I posted:

How high do you have the volume at where you feel the sub is loud enough? Just curious because I tend to have it at around 30-35 and I can barely hear it at all. If I crank it up, I can finally hear it booming, but at those low sound levels, there's barely any sound coming out. I tried messing with the settings, but it doesn't really help.

Another thing I thought was weird was that recently the volume on the receiver will go up by itself. At first I thought it was the wii remote since it only happened when I was playing, but I covered the whole front of the unit and the volume still goes up. I find myself having to lower the volume every 15 minutes or so. Anybody else encounter this problem?

While watching TV, the shows are one volume but the commercials are much louder. I think Dolby 5.1 shows are coming in soft but 2.0 commercials are booming. Constantly reaching for the remote and adjusting the volume is a real pain. Is there a way to "normalize" or set a narrow volume range so that there isn't much difference between modes?

Thanks.

While watching TV, the shows are one volume but the commercials are much louder. I think Dolby 5.1 shows are coming in soft but 2.0 commercials are booming. Constantly reaching for the remote and adjusting the volume is a real pain. Is there a way to "normalize" or set a narrow volume range so that there isn't much difference between modes?

Thanks.


I'm with ya on this one. My wife absolutely hates it and I have to admit, it's a real pain.

Just wanted to say I just got a S590 from shopOnkyo and it looks brand new. Mine did come with speaker wire but I do have a roll of 16ga that I am going to use. I have been reading posts on this site for a little while and thanks for all the info. The reason I went with the Onkyo is because of the good reviews people here give it. I will post how I like it after I hook it up.

Well I use my S590 for the 1st time last night watched Pirates of the Carabine. I am very happy with my purchase.

When I watch a DVD on the display of my 590 it shows, Dolby Digital, DTS and Neo:6 and reading my manual that sounds like the best sound. The problem is when the DVD is going thru the previews it shows this on the receiver, but one the movie starts it stays at Dolby Digital and the other two turn off? I must start by saying this is my first 5.1 receiver and not the strongest when it comes to this stuff...

Wait, which setting do you want, DTS Neo 6? DTS and Neo 6 will only really work if you have a DTS encoded movie (the actual movie, not the preview stuff), and you usually have to go through the DVD menu before starting the movie to activate it.

Most DVDs have Dolby Digital, so that's usually what your receiver will use by default. Only a comparative handful of DVDs will have DTS. While I prefer DTS, it's not something that guides my movie selection.

TULPA-
Thats what I dont get?? When the Previews play it stays in Neo:6, but when the movie starts it goes away. This has happened at least on 6 movies I have rented and all new movies. I dont get it???

That happens with mine (although I have mine on PLIIx Movie mode instead of Neo 6, but same thing otherwise.) I think the previews are encoded differently, or it just uses what you have for your default mode.

In any case, your unit is probably operating correctly. The discs just don't use DTS Neo 6 unless DTS encoding is on the disc, so the receiver goes to what is available (Dolby Digital in this case.) You can try adjusting to another listening mode to see if you can find one you like (I find I can go from Dolby Digital to PLIIx sometimes.) If I put in a DTS encoded disc (and activate it in the DVD's setup/language menu), it will go to Neo 6.

You could buy nothing but DTS encoded movies, although that will limit your selection. :)

TULPA

I had a feeling it was the DVD's, just wanted hear from someone else. Its strange that the previews would have the codeing and not the movie. I did adjust the sub power that I read in another post and that helped. For system thats under $300.00 I cant complain.

I actually don't think the previews have the actual DTS encoding. I think your default mode is just putting whatever encoding they have to use (might be plain stereo that your receiver is converting to surround, or something. Not sure.)

I am seeing the exact same thing you're describing on my own system, so it's nothing to be concerned about. :)

TULPA-
Thats what I dont get?? When the Previews play it stays in Neo:6, but when the movie starts it goes away. This has happened at least on 6 movies I have rented and all new movies. I dont get it???

When the previews and other added content is playing it's usually recorded in 2 channel (not always) but usually. The Neo 6 or whatever processing mode you have set as default then processes the signal for surround. When the movie starts it's usually in dd 5.1 or sometimes DTS and the receiver sees that so the Neo 6 goes away.

Whats the recommended default setting for the receiver, remember I have no clue about this stuff and the proper settings. This is the first stereo I have bought in 20 years.

If you're talking about processing modes there is no recommended. It's whatever you like. What I meant by default is, if you had it set on Neo6 previously and haven't changed it that's what will be applied to non dts or dd5.1 audio. It reverts/defaults back to whatever you used last. If you had used DPII Music it would revert to that. You can check the manual for more detail on what each mode is geared toward but in the end it's whatever sounds best to you.

ive been doing some research online and im pretty sure i want this HTIB. the problem is i live in Canada. Does anyone know where I can buy this system online and have it shipped to Canada?

Frys Electronic ships to Canada through DHL. You may have to pay extra or pick it up at an airport if it's over 70lbs (can't remember what the weight is.)

edit: Unfortunately, I don't see the 590 on their website. :(

Just had one shipped to me 66 pounds :)

Can anyone tell me the remote control code number for the Onkyo HT-S590 that I need to program into my DirecTV remote control to get it to control the Onkyo? Thanks

Well I bought this system about 2 weeks ago an I have a small problem.

When I power on the system no sound comes out.........I am assuming it is not getting the signal......If I turn it off and on a few times it works fine.....


Any explanations?

Can anyone tell me the remote control code number for the Onkyo HT-S590 that I need to program into my DirecTV remote control to get it to control the Onkyo? Thanks

All DirectTV remotes are not the same. Depends on the manufacturer of the satellite receiver. Some have Sony, Phillips, or other brand satellite receivers. You'll have to look in the instruction manual because the codes will be different.

And since when does a satellite remote have enough buttons to do all the functions of a A/V receiver? Usually its the other way around. People want to program their A/V remote to control the sat receiver.

You might be better off purchasing a universal remote in the long run.

Anyone ever had any problems with this system?

Other than the buzzing problems that have been well documented, no I haven't. This system was a steal for the price I paid.

Have this system since last summer, never had any problems no buzzing no hissing or anything like this. Thinking about changing speaker package to make it sound even better. Passive sub definetely lacks the punch in the system but the receiver is great.

What settings do you put when listening to the radio? I ususally put all 5.1 sound.

Well I was at CC today looking at the 790 and saw the 590. I think I might go with it. I dont have much room on the book shelf I am going to put the speakers on so the smaller speakers of the 590 will fit better. I have a powered sub from my old system. Which would work better?

Picked this up last night for $220 brand new with a Circuit City coupon. I must say I'm quite dissapointed.

The sound quality is very nice when properly tweaked, although the sub is a let down (the sub is so big you expect it to do more). I can't knock the audio aspect of this system.

The problem I'm having is with the component inputs. There is very noticeable drop in signal quality when running components through this system. My HD channels are much more blurry. It is especially noticeable when running the Xbox 360 through it, scan lines are very visible.

It is too bad since the main thing I wanted was a good reciever with multiple component inputs since my TV only has one single input. Anyone want to weigh in on this? Maybe I just got a bum unit. Either way I'll be returning this soon. If you're getting it purely for the audio, you can ignore my post. But if you're like me and looking for a reciever that can switch component inputs, this is not the way to go.

I have my HT-S590S connected directly to my Magnavox LCD via coax digital cable and experiencing an issue.. If I am in any mode other than STEREO...I hear a slight muffled poping sound when changing tv channels. Its hard to explain..kind of like a fairly deep poping sound. It will also do this when toggling between the different sound modes.. Is this normal? I am not referring to the clicking sound the unit makes when it detects a digital signal... Anyone else experience this? Not sure if it is my TV or the Onkyo and if its even a problem..but it is very annoying..thx

I saw it (refurb) on shoponkyo.... it was on sale for $149!! Plus the $10 savings from points, making it $139!!

I would like some advice before I pull the trigger... I am also considering the S790 ($349 - 10 at shoponkyo, refurb)

Here's my situation: I am a newbie to HT, and am looking for a decent sounding, while affordable, system for my room. I have a 32" LCD, HD cable, DVD, PS2, and Wii. I live in an apartment so I don't need the sub to be wall rattling (and prefer it not to). Shop Onkyo will not provide the wires since it's refurb, so I will be using 16 ga wires (as many ppl here recommended) for the speakers.

Given my needs, is the 590 a good fit? Should I just go ahead and buy it, or is the 790 worth the extra $200?

Thanks!!

I saw it (refurb) on shoponkyo.... it was on sale for $149!! Plus the $10 savings from points, making it $139!!

I would like some advice before I pull the trigger... I am also considering the S790 ($349 - 10 at shoponkyo, refurb)

Here's my situation: I am a newbie to HT, and am looking for a decent sounding, while affordable, system for my room. I have a 32" LCD, HD cable, DVD, PS2, and Wii. I live in an apartment so I don't need the sub to be wall rattling (and prefer it not to). Shop Onkyo will not provide the wires since it's refurb, so I will be using 16 ga wires (as many ppl here recommended) for the speakers.

Given my needs, is the 590 a good fit? Should I just go ahead and buy it, or is the 790 worth the extra $200?

Thanks!!

You can't get better than $139 for the 590. The 790's big advantage is the powered subwoofer. There are the added benefits of the extra speakers, but I didn't really consider that when buying, because only two of my 40+ DVD have 6.1 sound. I also don't plan on investing in HDDVD or BluRay for the time being, so the 590 fits my needs the best.

I also live in an apartment. The 590 more than fills the room and I could still annoy the neighbors if I wanted. The receiver is this system's greatest benefit, so you could always replace the speakers (or at least the sub) at a later date with better equipment.

You will most likely get speaker wire even though you ordered the refurbished system. I did, along with many others here have reported the same. However, it's very thin and cheap, so you may want to upgrade that anyway.

The 590's small downfall is that many have come with a buzzing issue in the speakers, but there is a fix you can do. It is well documented in another thread somewhere in this forum.

The problem I'm having is with the component inputs. There is very noticeable drop in signal quality when running components through this system. My HD channels are much more blurry. It is especially noticeable when running the Xbox 360 through it, scan lines are very visible.

Any other 590 owners experiencing this problem too?

When I press the display button on the remote when im watching a movie in DD it says 3/2.1? What does that mean? 2.1 surround sound??? I thought I was listening to 5.1?

You are listening to 5.1.

3 front (left, right, center), 2 rear (left surround, right surround), one sub.

Add them up and you get 5.1. :)

It is admittedly confusing, but rest assured, you're getting 5.1. If you don't believe me, stand by each speaker separately and listen.

You are listening to 5.1.

3 front (left, right, center), 2 rear (left surround, right surround), one sub.

Add them up and you get 5.1. :)

It is admittedly confusing, but rest assured, you're getting 5.1. If you don't believe me, stand by each speaker separately and listen.
Oh ok thanks! I was confused because all of my speakers was working and it said 2.1? :D One last thing what do you put as your crossover and what does that mean?

I just ordered a refurb S590 to complete our home theater set up in the den (just got the Olevia 337H and really enjoying it).

Does the S590 have the ability to power a set of "B" speakers? In other words can you hook up 2 or more speakers in addition to the 5.1 setup? I would like to power the 2 outdoor speakers on our deck with the S590 (just have them hooked up to a crappy minisystem now).

My Yamaha YHT 270 has this ability to power additional "B" speakers, although it won't power the 5.1 setup (the "A" speakers) at the same time. I'd like to be able to have the "A" and "B" going at the same time so I can put music on in the den and have it going on the back deck at the same time.

I do believe that the S590 receiver will indeed power 2 sets of speakers simultaneously, but there is a catch. If you do have set A & B on at the same time, it will default the primary speaker set (A), to 2.1 channel stereo only. So you can't have 5.1 on set A AND power set B at the same time.

The problem I'm having is with the component inputs. There is very noticeable drop in signal quality when running components through this system. My HD channels are much more blurry. It is especially noticeable when running the Xbox 360 through it, scan lines are very visible.



anyone else having this problem?

Considering picking up this receiver tonight refurbished.

I notice that it doesn't have any s-video inputs on it. Is there any advantage to funneling the video through the receiver instead of direct to the tv. My satellite receiver only has composite and s-video outputs.

Is there any advantage to funneling the video through the receiver instead of direct to the tv.

Video switching. Otherwise, go ahead and run it direct to the TV.

Video switching. Otherwise, go ahead and run it direct to the TV.

Would it make any sense to run composite video to the receiver, and s-video to the tv? or use a s-video to composite adapter?

Not really, IMO. I don't think that receiver converts composite to S-video.

I guess an adapter could work, but I'd just keep it simple and switch video at the TV.

Looking for some opinions on this receiver vs. the S680. Is the S680 worth the additional $100?

it seems my surround speakers are very low, are they suppose to be like this? Also the sub is horrible unless cranked way up.

I do believe that the S590 receiver will indeed power 2 sets of speakers simultaneously, but there is a catch. If you do have set A & B on at the same time, it will default the primary speaker set (A), to 2.1 channel stereo only. So you can't have 5.1 on set A AND power set B at the same time.

Thanks for the input, that will work for what I want to do. Since I just want to use speakers B for music that will be just fine.

I ordered a refurb 590 on shoponkyo, and i'm looking to buy 16-gauge wires for it.
I'm totally new to this... so i got some questions:
- for the 590, does the brand of the wires matter? Would a $10 roll of brand-less wires from radio shack be good enough? Or should I shell out more for a known brand like monster or acoustic research? what is the difference?
- should i use the same 16 gauge wires for the sub?

for the 590, does the brand of the wires matter? Would a $10 roll of brand-less wires from radio shack be good enough?

Not at all ..Go to Home Depot, they have the cheapest prices for speaker wire

How often do the refurbs come up? I'll just be checking in on shoponkyo every day, it'd just be nice to know if I'll be waiting days, weeks, or months for a refurb sale to show up.

Thanks.

feelhong, just stick with the standard wires that come with it .. sounds great

reman

Anyone know which is better DTS or DD when using the Onkyo? I tried some dvd's and its gotten mixed reviews. Like War of the worlds DTS sounded better than DD but Sin City DD sounded better than DTS?

That's really something that depends on the movie and on the listener.

While I tend to prefer DTS, many times I find it too close to call.

If offered a choice, I tend to go for DTS and throw in Neo6 to get some back surround sounds.

I know you need a Optical cable to get surround for the 360 but what about your tv?

That's really something that depends on the movie and on the listener.

While I tend to prefer DTS, many times I find it too close to call.

If offered a choice, I tend to go for DTS and throw in Neo6 to get some back surround sounds.

Don't you get 5.1 sound ("some back surround sounds") anyways with DTS? What's the need for Neo6 mode?

Don't you get 5.1 sound ("some back surround sounds") anyways with DTS? What's the need for Neo6 mode?

I have a 7.1 system with four surrounds.

When I say "back surrounds," I mean the ones way back. DTS gives me 5.1 with two surrounds (the sides, in my case), but when I kick in Neo6, it gives a nice matrixed mix between the four surrounds. I can hear the difference.

It's kind of an academic point, though, since he was talking about a 5.1 system, but I just threw in the Neo6 comment because that's what I usually have going. If my system was 5.1, I'd just use regular DTS.

Picked this up last night for $220 brand new with a Circuit City coupon. I must say I'm quite dissapointed.

The sound quality is very nice when properly tweaked, although the sub is a let down (the sub is so big you expect it to do more). I can't knock the audio aspect of this system.

The problem I'm having is with the component inputs. There is very noticeable drop in signal quality when running components through this system. My HD channels are much more blurry. It is especially noticeable when running the Xbox 360 through it, scan lines are very visible.

It is too bad since the main thing I wanted was a good reciever with multiple component inputs since my TV only has one single input. Anyone want to weigh in on this? Maybe I just got a bum unit. Either way I'll be returning this soon. If you're getting it purely for the audio, you can ignore my post. But if you're like me and looking for a reciever that can switch component inputs, this is not the way to go.

I get that too. The quality seems fine, but I get the scrolling horizontal purple/yellow lines (which I notice most on my SA8300HD cable box), which is pretty annoying. My 'solution' was to drop the black levels (although I have an LCD, so let's say grey levels), and strangely enough they seem to go away if I have my SA8300HD set to output 720p only.

I know you need a Optical cable to get surround for the 360 but what about your tv?

If the TV is acting as a tuner, you should have some digital audio out, probably optical. Just hook another cable and assign the digital input.

If there is no digital out, go ahead and use the analog audio out (L/R) and use one of the Dolby Pro Logic II modes to get surround. It won't be as good as Dolby Digital, but it will work.

If you're using a cable or sat box, then I wouldn't bother using the TV's audio out at all.

If the TV is acting as a tuner, you should have some digital audio out, probably optical. Just hook another cable and assign the digital input.

If there is no digital out, go ahead and use the analog audio out (L/R) and use one of the Dolby Pro Logic II modes to get surround. It won't be as good as Dolby Digital, but it will work.

If you're using a cable or sat box, then I wouldn't bother using the TV's audio out at all.
Im using an HD antenna and this is my tv:
http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Samsung-32-LCD-HDTV-LN-S3251D/sem/rpsm/oid/145931/catOid/-12867/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

It has digital optical out on the top row.

http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/0a/3f/9f21225b9da07f975383d010.L.jpg

Run that from the TV to the receiver. Might have to enable something in the TV's menu, too (I don't know your TV's functions, so look in the manual.)

It has digital optical out on the top row.

http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/0a/3f/9f21225b9da07f975383d010.L.jpg

Run that from the TV to the receiver. Might have to enable something in the TV's menu, too (I don't know your TV's functions, so look in the manual.)
So I need to get another optical cable?

Yeah. Does your receiver have two optical inputs? If not, and the coaxial input (orange RCA) is free, you can get an optical/coaxial adapter from monoprice.

Yeah. Does your receiver have two optical inputs? If not, and the coaxial input (orange RCA) is free, you can get an optical/coaxial adapter from monoprice.
Yes I have two Optical inputs but im not sure if my tv have one.

If your TV is the one in the link you posted, it has one.

If your TV is the one in the link you posted, it has one.
Kool thanks. Ill try the optical cable that I use for the 360 to see if it works...

I get that too. The quality seems fine, but I get the scrolling horizontal purple/yellow lines (which I notice most on my SA8300HD cable box), which is pretty annoying. My 'solution' was to drop the black levels (although I have an LCD, so let's say grey levels), and strangely enough they seem to go away if I have my SA8300HD set to output 720p only.

can more people weigh in on this issue? it seems a lot of people has this htib. is the component switching faulty on this reciever? can it handle 480p/720p/1080i sources properly?

can more people weigh in on this issue? it seems a lot of people has this htib. is the component switching faulty on this reciever? can it handle 480p/720p/1080i sources properly?

It has something to do with one component connection interfering with another, because if I have only one device connected via component through the receiver, the picture is fine. It's when I have two or three devices connected that the horizontal scrolling lines appear, no matter if the other devices are on or not. I don't think it's specific to any of the devices either, as I've tried removing each device individually to see if it was the source.

I am new here!
Just bought a HT-S590. Can anyone please let me know what is the optimal position for the surround speakers?
My room is 20' wide. The 2 surr. speakers look good in the 2 back conners of the room, but they will be 12' away from where I sit. I am afraid that they are too far. If I move them closer, I have to hang them in the middle of the back wall. They stick out of the wall and look stupid!
Any help will be appreciated.

I am new here!
Just bought a HT-S590. Can anyone please let me know what is the optimal position for the surround speakers?
My room is 20' wide. The 2 surr. speakers look good in the 2 back conners of the room, but they will be 12' away from where I sit. I am afraid that they are too far. If I move them closer, I have to hang them in the middle of the back wall. They stick out of the wall and look stupid!
Any help will be appreciated.
Put the speakers where you want them. Just adjust the settings on your receiver to how far your speakers are. Than I would use a dvd that is THX certified and use there audio calibration.:)

Someone said: "I did adjust the sub power that I read in another post and that helped."

I looked around, but did no find any posts about adjusting the sub power for te S590...? Can anyone point me in the right direction? It sounds OK to me, but as they say, "more is better" ;-)

Hope someone can help. My buddy has this HTIB and it sounds great. The only thing he wanted more of was a little more sub so he bought a decent powered sub. He set it up, plugged in to the reciever, the single sub out RCA wire to the in on the subwoofer and it didn't work. He then noticed that the sub has speaker wire connections so he took the speaker terminal for the sub on the reciever, and used that and it worked fine.

Now my question is, is this ok, or should he really try and get the RCA connection working? And, if so, is there some kind of config setting on the Onkyo that maybe turns on that connection?

Thanks...

There's a setting in the setup menu that should turn the sub on and off. Speaker Config, I think.

Hope someone can help. My buddy has this HTIB and it sounds great. The only thing he wanted more of was a little more sub so he bought a decent powered sub. He set it up, plugged in to the reciever, the single sub out RCA wire to the in on the subwoofer and it didn't work. He then noticed that the sub has speaker wire connections so he took the speaker terminal for the sub on the reciever, and used that and it worked fine.

Now my question is, is this ok, or should he really try and get the RCA connection working? And, if so, is there some kind of config setting on the Onkyo that maybe turns on that connection?

Thanks...

The receiver in the Onkyo HT-S590 HTIB does not have a line level (RCA) output for the subwoofer. What your buddy was connecting the sub to is the sub RCA connector for the multi-channel INPUT. He has to use the speaker level output for the sub on this system.

I just got mine today. Ordered a refurb from ShopOnkyo at an excellent price. Signed up for the club and got $10 off and free shipping. The free FedEx shipping was FAST. I placed my order Monday night and I received it Wednesday afternoon!

I see no scratches or other marks anywhere on any of the pieces. Certainly not obvious that its a refurb. Plus it DID include 6 speaker cables, even though it says "no cables included!!" all over the website and the packing material. No batteries and no "rubber feet" anywhere though.

I can't give a full review - i only hooked up the front 3 speakers and the sub and only listened to some music on my Xbox 360 and a little Gears of War via composite audio input (red and white cables). Not really a good test. I have a digital optical cable on the way. I'll certainly have a better review this weekend.

I'm sure I'm spoiled by my Denon/NHT/SVS system in the basement on the 65" Toshiba rear-projection system but this new system isn't meant to compete. It's my living room system for my 50" Panasonic Plasma and Xbox 360. I never even wanted to get a HTIB in there - i wanted to keep it "clean and simple" but I just couldn't resist getting some surround sound. It's sad that I barely use my awesome basement system any more - I mainly stay upstairs with the new plasma.

Anyway - more info coming this weekend once I get 'er all wired up.

Jason

Hope someone can help. My buddy has this HTIB and it sounds great. The only thing he wanted more of was a little more sub so he bought a decent powered sub. He set it up, plugged in to the reciever, the single sub out RCA wire to the in on the subwoofer and it didn't work. He then noticed that the sub has speaker wire connections so he took the speaker terminal for the sub on the reciever, and used that and it worked fine.

Now my question is, is this ok, or should he really try and get the RCA connection working? And, if so, is there some kind of config setting on the Onkyo that maybe turns on that connection?

Thanks...

This is fine, hooking the sub up from the "subwoofer out" speaker connections on the receiver to the "high level in" speaker connectitions on the sub. I had the 580 which is a previous version to the 590 and used it that way for 3 different powered subwoofers.

Hi,
I've had the 590 for almost a week now. At under $150 refurbished, the system is a real bargain. But the speakers do leave a lot to be desired, and I'm thinking of replacing them already... I'm a newbie and didn't know what to expect.. I guess I should have gone with components in the first place.. :(

I have some questions:

- How good is the receiver that comes with it? Besides 7.1 support, what's the major difference between this receiver and the onkyo 504?

- If I am thinking of replacing the speakers + sub, would I be better off actually returning the whole system and just get a stand alone receiver (e.g. onkyo 504)? Or should I just keep the receiver and sell the stock speakers/sub on craigslist? Returning will a big hassle for me though...

- Can someone recommend small speakers that sound good? I live in an apartment with not too much space, so size is an issue. I need the satellites to be less than 5" by 5" in base area (and preferably stylish ;) ). I'm no audiophile; I just want movies and music to sound clear and crisp and reasonably realistic, and I don't need a booming bass. My budget (speakers + sub) would be around $400. How is the Harman Kardon HKTS-15? Or the Athena Micra 6? Or any other good ones?

Thanks a lot!! You guys are great!!

- How good is the receiver that comes with it? Besides 7.1 support, what's the major difference between this receiver and the onkyo 504?



The 504 also has additional digital audio inputs (two more optical, basically) as well as component and s-video inputs (which the 590 receiver I think lacks.) Also has additional listening modes and a bit more power.

While the extra features on the 504 are nice, they're not critical to a good surround sound experience.

If you go to Shoponkyo.com, you can see both features of each receiver (the 590 receiver is the 304.)



- If I am thinking of replacing the speakers + sub, would I be better off actually returning the whole system and just get a stand alone receiver (e.g. onkyo 504)? Or should I just keep the receiver and sell the stock speakers/sub on craigslist? Returning will a big hassle for me though...


Well, there's nothing wrong with the 590's receiver. It is a good, solid Onkyo model that will work with different speakers. The 504 receiver does have an array of features that are nice. Tough call.

Dolby Digital problem???

I am connecting the COX cable box to the receive using an optical cable, so I can have Dolby Digital when watching HDTV. It is interesting to find out that in many HDTV channels, I didn’t hear the sound come from the center speaker and the 2 surround speakers! Sounds like I could only get stereo sound from both front speakers, but lost the surround sound, especially in the Music HD channel (MHD), all I could get was the stereo sound. I am wondering if this is normal because these TV programs didn’t produce surround sound, or because I didn’t set my system up correctly?
Note:
Yes, I did set the audio out put in my cable box to Dolby Digital output.
When I switch to all speakers mode or test mode, I hear sound come out from all speakers. That tells me that I didn’t have any connection issue here.
Any help would be appreciated.

It probably is the source. Surround sound from a TV show is always hit or miss, as they say they do Dolby Digital and such, but who knows what they're actually sending down the pipeline.

Do you have other components hooked up? What about other TV shows? Some of the one hour dramas are pretty good at living up to surround sound (I've found CSI has some good effects.) Might watch one to hear what happens.

It probably is the source. Surround sound from a TV show is always hit or miss, as they say they do Dolby Digital and such, but who knows what they're actually sending down the pipeline.

Do you have other components hooked up? What about other TV shows? Some of the one hour dramas are pretty good at living up to surround sound (I've found CSI has some good effects.) Might watch one to hear what happens.

Yes, I do get surround sound from some of the channels. I agree with you that it most likely is the source. I posted this just to see if other people is seeing the same, and to make sure that nothing wrong with my system.

I was really supprised that the Music HD channel (channel 715 in the COX's HD channel line up) which is actually the MTV channel in HD only produces stereo sound. Even if it's in Dolby Digital, the Dolby Stereo sounds boring!
I don't have a lot of know knowledge in Dolby Digital anyway, someone please explain to me if I was wrong.

Just received my refurbished S590 a few days ago. I have it hooked up to a Dish Network receiver.

On most programming I get an interference noise through the rear speakers. Usually the only time that the sound out of the rear speakers is crisp is when the source is in DD. It seems that whenever the receiver is doing the processing, I am getting the noise. I've tried two different receivers (2 different models), as many different processing modes. I am using the regular speaker wire that came with the receiver.

Is this noise normal for non-DD programming? If I use a mode in which it is just stereo in the rear, there is no noise.... it's only when the receiver is attempting to process the surround sound.

I'm back, after some more testing. Received my unit on Wednesday but only hooked up the front 3 speakers and sub with the included speaker cable and had no digital source to listen to.

Now I've received my digital optical cable to connect my Xbox 360 and I've put in some 16 gauge wire for the rear speakers. Still on the standard wire for the fronts, but I'll change them later.

Sound is obviously much better with the digital optical cable hooked up - listening to some HD-DVD's via the Xbox 360 add-on and playing games on the 360.

One problem though - the system keeps turning itself off. It clicks off and a red light on the left of the receiver will start blinking. I guess this is the protection circuit kicking in because it's being overloaded? This happens when I have the volume moderately loud and there is alot of action going on - explosions, running dinosaurs in King Kong, etc. But I don't think the volume is THAT loud - it's in the 50's on the volume knob.

It'll also cut off while playing Gears of War on the 360. Volume only needs to be in the 30's or 40's.

Am I really running it too loud? The volume maxes out around 75 so I don't think 55 is that high. It wouldn't have anything to do with different gauges of speaker wire would it? (16 in the rears and factory in the front) It never cut out earlier in the week when I only had the 3 fronts and the sub connected.

Other than this problem - i'm pleased with the purchase considering the refurb price.

Let me know what you recommend. Thanks.

Jason

I have that same problem but it doenst happen too much to be considered a problem.

Ok I just bought another optical cable for my System for the use of watching regular tv. Now I have my other cable for the 360. Now my question is there a button you can press on the remote to switch too optical 2? Because everytime I want to switch from watching tv and playing my 360, I have to get up and walk 5 ft to my reciever and press the digital input button!!! Please help!

Does the 590 have video selection buttons? Like DVD, V1, V2, etc.? I know the 790 does, and I think it can work the same way.

With the 790, you assign the digital inputs to the video selection buttons. Even if you don't route video through the receiver, this will still work from the remote. Pick one selection (like V1) and assign it a digital input (TV or 360, doesn't matter.) Pick some other selection (like V2) and assign the other digital input you have.

I'm not sure if the 590 can do this, but it should be very similar.

Does the 590 have video selection buttons? Like DVD, V1, V2, etc.? I know the 790 does, and I think it can work the same way.

With the 790, you assign the digital inputs to the video selection buttons. Even if you don't route video through the receiver, this will still work from the remote. Pick one selection (like V1) and assign it a digital input (TV or 360, doesn't matter.) Pick some other selection (like V2) and assign the other digital input you have.

I'm not sure if the 590 can do this, but it should be very similar.
Yea that worked thanks.

Hi ,I'm new here and was wondering if someone can help me .I have a panasonic sub that kicks the s**** outta my new onkyo sub.There are no pre-outs on this receiver and my sub has just one rca input The exsisting sub is wired like the satellite speakers.Help on how to get active sub to avr. Thanks

Weeks ago, I as referred to the Onkyo 590 while looking for a very inexpensive unit that had "some" redeeming quality. For $159 and an hour of my time, we hooked up my non audiophile friends, like new, but refurbished unit. He and his wife were very pleased as they do the Netflix thing regularly, and are now enjoying the HT experience much more.
Many thanks to those of you who made this suggestion !!!!

Hi ,I'm new here and was wondering if someone can help me .I have a panasonic sub that kicks the s**** outta my new onkyo sub.There are no pre-outs on this receiver and my sub has just one rca input The exsisting sub is wired like the satellite speakers.Help on how to get active sub to avr. Thanks
Quite simple! You visit one of these auto-detailing and electronics shops which i'm sure you have around your place and buy high-to-low level connection converter.It is a small device with RCA inputs on one side and speaker level connectors on the other one.What it does it converts amplified signal coming from your receiver into low level signal a.k.a. unamplified. You simply connect sub's speaker wire to the appropriate jacks and you RCA wire from your active sub to the RCA jack.They sell all sorts of adapters with different power handling and numerous number of connectors on-board.

Thanks Diman75 I found one at crutchfield its a Scosche SLC4. Do you think it will work with my avr and sub.I know im a noob but i don't want to be a boob and ruin my receiver.Thank Again

Hi,

I just bought my first Home Theater, the Okyno 590. I am completely confused by setting this thing up, but I got some help and this is how I have thing set up now.
I currently have an HDTV, Comcast set top box, Panasonic DVD-R, a Ninentdo Wii, and a PC that I use like a Tivo.

I've got my DVD-R conected via optical cable to the Okyno receiver, and HDMI to the TV. So far this is working fine, though I've no idea how to mess with the speaker setup. For example, the set up process asks if your speakers are 'small' or 'large' and I've no idea if the speakers th at came with this are considered small or large. To me they look small...lol, but the default setting said they are large.

Second, I've got my set top box connected to the receiver via a coaxial audio cable and via component cable to the TV. I went to Video 1 on the receiver, set the digital input to 'coax' and I dont get any sound coming when I watch TV normally. I'm going to go exchange the coaxial cable for a optical one today, maybe that will fix it.

Third, I'm trying to connect my Wii through the receiver for audio. I got the component cables for it, but the red/white for audio in this component cable wont reach both the TV's component input and the receivers audio. If I get an extension red/white audio cable and run it back down to the receiver, will that work?

Fourth, what would happen if I connect the Audio out from my HDTV to the receiver, will any audio connection going to the TV output the receiver? Would this work for the Wii, if I connect the Wii audio connection to the TV then output it to say, Video 2 on the receiver?

Any help would be appreciated.

1st, try the speakers both ways. My guess would be small will sound better.
2nd, that should work fine. You must have something set wrong. Double check the connections and play with the settings, try video 2 or whatever and see if you can get sound.
3rd, that should work, but you could just use the 2nd cable to run straight from the wii to the receiver and unplug the other connection.
4th, yes that should work but remember to get discrete dolby you need a digital connection, either digital coax or optical. The red and white rca's will only give you stereo and you would have to use the prologic function in the receiver to simulate surround.

The large setting is usually for those tower speakers that are big enough to act as their own subwoofers.

Dunno why the default is set to large. Speakers in these HTIB are small, both literally and as far as that setting is concerned.

Hey, thanks you guys rock.
Just an FYI, the Nintendo Wii only supports prologic, and it does not have optical cable or coax outputs. Also, because they use proprietary connectors on the Wii end of the cables, I can't just run a red/white cable from the Wii to the receiver and the component video to the TV, as its all bundled together.

You can get a female to female RCA connector to plug the regular end of those cables, and then run a red/white analog cable to your receiver.

Something like this might work, one for each male plug:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10401&cs_id=1040107&p_id=685&seq=1&format=2&style=

So thanks in part to your help, I got ALMOST everything working now. Hope I can bother you guys with a few more questions.

1: Using the little plugs Tulpa linked in the post above, I connected my Wii to the Video 3 input on the receiver, and set the listening mode to "PL2 Game". I didn't notice any surround experience, basically it seemed the sound was only coming from the front speakers and subwoofer. I am supposed to get simulated surround with this setting arent I?

2: I am still unable to get my PC to work with this. I have a regular stereo jack in my sound card for audio out, so I have a little converter that converts it to RCA red/white which then plugs into Video 2 red/white of the receiver. I cycled through all the listening modes and still got nothing. I noticed I had to unplug and replug my speakers and/or receiver before the other devices started working properly, and I also noticed that I had some static shock going on every now and then, can this be the reason why I had to unplug everything to get it to work?

3: Do you have any recommendations for adjusting the speaker settings? I've heard people say the default settings aren't but you will get better sound by adjusting them.

Thanks again!

I'm having an audio problem (popping sound on wireless speakers) which I believe is due to my receiver not being grounded correctly. A suggested solution I read on another forum is to connect the receiver ground to an earth ground (such as the screw on the wall outlet). However, the S590 receiver does not have a labeled GND screw on the back panel as I've seen on other receivers. What can I use for a GND connection on the s590 receiver?

thanks,
John

Is anybody else getting a 480i output to the tv from the receiver when inputting 480p? I just hooked up a ps2 to the receiver, which I believe is supposed to do 480p. However, according to my 42PX60U, it's receiving 480i. Is there any kind of setting in the receiver to "pass thru" a progressive signal? Anybody else experience this sort of issue with their receiver?

I have a couple questions. I just bought the Onkyo 590 and like it, although I have no frame of reference since this is my first HTIB. The surround sound speakers (back speakers) seem a bit quiet to me, I have to go and listen closely in order to tell if they're on. Is that normal? I have them turned up to 12+ and I can't go any higher than that. I haven't entered in the distance from the listener yet.
I have a chance to obtain free speaker stands but before I do I wanted to see if anyone could tell me if they will work with the speakers that come with the Onkyo 590? The stands are the $100 Bose Universal metal floor stands and says they are for use with the Bose cube satellite speakers. I can't provide the link since I haven't posted enough yet but they are on Amazon under Bose UFS-20.
My other questions concern the speaker wire. The wire for the surround sound speakers is actually not long enough for our room so I was thinking of replacing them with better speaker wire while I'm setting the speakers up. Is Monster wire really better than other less expensive brands? We have some Monster XP speaker wire lying around from about ten years ago. Would that work? Also, are the Monster digital cables (optical/coaxial) any better than others? Also, does anyone have any advice on how to hide speaker wires when running them around a fireplace tile surround and a wooden mantel?
I would appreciate any input.
Thanks!
Kathleen

I wouldn't get Monster wire. Overpriced.

Home Depot and Lowes have brands like RCA and GE that'll work. Pick up some 14-16 gauge and you'll be good to go.

Be warned that 16ga wire is hard enough to get into the speaker terminals. 14ga is nearly impossible.

I have a couple questions. I just bought the Onkyo 590 and like it, although I have no frame of reference since this is my first HTIB. The surround sound speakers (back speakers) seem a bit quiet to me, I have to go and listen closely in order to tell if they're on. Is that normal? I have them turned up to 12+ and I can't go any higher than that. I haven't entered in the distance from the listener yet.
Kathleen
The distance part of the set up is for delay timing so that all the sound arrives to the listener at the appropriate time no matter how far the speakers are away from you.

What you hear on the surrounds is typically quieter than the fronts and center as the audio "field" is weighted toward the fronts/center. In Dolby's various formats, what you hear in the surrounds is dependent on the source material being played as well as what output format you have chosen. Listening to some movies, it seems as though the speakers aren't even on but you may feel the sound enveloping you. This is the way it works. This is usually done at almost imperceptible sound from the surrounds.

I watched Twister last night and the surround effect both in audio effects and background music was very evident, very full, even though the surrounds and backs weren't breathing hard.

The best thing to do is to calibrate the speakers using the test tones in the receiver and a sound pressure level meter. (I think Radio Shack has them for $40 or so) Without the meter you can do it by ear but not as accurately. After you do this and listen to a movie, you will still find the surrounds to be, low. Thats the way it should be.

Another test would be to change your receiver output into one of the "concert hall" type modes and you should hear a larger response from the surrounds. If not, then maybe other problems exist.

Cranking up the surround speaker level is actually defeating the intended purpose of the system unless thats the way you like it.

Good luck.

I have a chance to obtain free speaker stands but before I do I wanted to see if anyone could tell me if they will work with the speakers that come with the Onkyo 590? The stands are the $100 Bose UFS-20 Universal metal floor stands and says they are for use with the Bose cube satellite speakers.


Hey everyone who posted in response to my questions, thank you very much. The answers were very helpful. One questions still remains unanswered: Does anyone have any idea if the speaker stands (referred to above) would work?
thanks!!

I just wanted to thank everybody who posted about how good this system is for the $150.00 refurb price!

I got mine a couple days ago to replace a Panasonic HT-900 home theater system, and now that I have it set up I can easily say that this system is a steal for $150. Also, although people tend to talk bad about the included speakers, they're much better than the HT-900's speakers. I also get much better surround separation in this than I did with the HT-900.

What percentage of better sound does the 790 give versus the 590? A friend heard my 790 and wants to get surround sound and I said I would check with you fellows.

I've had mine for a month or so now. My biggest pet peeve with it at the moment is that whenever I'm changing channels on TV, the amps (?) inside keep making a pretty loud clicking sound whenever the type of incoming signal changes.

Like if i'm watching a movie or TV show in 5.1 Dolby Digital, then a commercial will come on thats just broadcasting in stereo and I'll hear the receiver "click" as the lights on the front of the display change from the DD indicator to Stereo (or whatever it actually is - i sit to far away to see).

It's even worse if you are flipping channels because it'll click each time you hit a channel thats doing a different sound source - DD or stereo.

This is normal I'm assuming? I've never seen another amp that operates like this. The only time i'm used to hear clicks is when you first turn one or or sometime if you turn on additional speakers (and therefor amps).

Jason

The clicking is somewhat normal. One of my old Sony receivers had a very audible case of it. I don't hear it as much with my Onkyo 504 receiver but I think that may have something to do with the format that I use for routine broadcast viewing/listening. I typically use DD PLII X for TV. This decoder handles 2.0 & 5.1 audio so it changes between source signals without switching from this decoder, therefore, little or no clicking.

I've had mine for a month or so now. My biggest pet peeve with it at the moment is that whenever I'm changing channels on TV, the amps (?) inside keep making a pretty loud clicking sound whenever the type of incoming signal changes.

Like if i'm watching a movie or TV show in 5.1 Dolby Digital, then a commercial will come on thats just broadcasting in stereo and I'll hear the receiver "click" as the lights on the front of the display change from the DD indicator to Stereo (or whatever it actually is - i sit to far away to see).

It's even worse if you are flipping channels because it'll click each time you hit a channel thats doing a different sound source - DD or stereo.

This is normal I'm assuming? I've never seen another amp that operates like this. The only time i'm used to hear clicks is when you first turn one or or sometime if you turn on additional speakers (and therefor amps).

Jason

If you change your analog choice to say Cinema/Movie mode it'll stop clicking. Basically don't use stereo for any non-Digital source.

My nit keeps shutting off and blinking the red light at me. Why??? Its happened twice now. I was watching TV at about volume 35. I was listening to TV via digial COAX froma HD Cable box.

My nit keeps shutting off and blinking the red light at me. Why??? Its happened twice now. I was watching TV at about volume 35. I was listening to TV via digial COAX froma HD Cable box.

Because Onkyo sucks. Their quality has gone downhill and their customer service is horrible.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=833420

I haave had mine for about 3 months now. i was wondering if everyones rear speakers were or seem too quite? i have the db set at 6 should it b higher or are they just soft speakers? what do you guys have your settings at

My nit keeps shutting off and blinking the red light at me. Why??? Its happened twice now. I was watching TV at about volume 35. I was listening to TV via digial COAX froma HD Cable box.

Same thing happens to me. Either on digital optical cable from Xbox 360 or digital optical cable from Panasonic plasma (with cable card). Volume will be near 40 (give or take 5) and if there is a loud explosion or something, the amp will turn off. VERY annoying.

I could understand if I was up near 60 or 70 (what is the max, like 75 i think?), but a little more than half volume it shouldn't be overloading the amp.

Jason

I just rec'd my system at the end of last week, and hooked the speaker up. So far, I am very pleased with the sound, but a couple of quick questions.

First, how the heck do I hook my tv into this (sorry, I am definitely below a noob status). From what I am reading, most are going from a cable box into the receiver, however, I do not have a cable box. I have cable hooked up straight from the wall into the tv (vizio 42" lcd), and still recieve what I believe to be a digital and hd signal. Reading about folks having digital output on their cable box has me somewhat concerned.

Second, I have a pair of Bose 201 series II bookshelf speakers that are about 19 years old. Would these be better front speakers, or has technology advanced since that many years ago, that the included speakers provide a better sound? I have hooked them up and tried to compare the quality, and I could not tell a real difference, other than the Bose seemed to give a more bassier sound. Just thought I would try and get an opinion from folks who actually know their sound quality!

Thanks!

First, how the heck do I hook my tv into this (sorry, I am definitely below a noob status). From what I am reading, most are going from a cable box into the receiver, however, I do not have a cable box. I have cable hooked up straight from the wall into the tv (vizio 42" lcd), and still recieve what I believe to be a digital and hd signal. Reading about folks having digital output on their cable box has me somewhat concerned.


I'm assuming you're using the TV's built in tuner. The TV might have a digital output (usually an optical out) to hook into the receiver.


Second, I have a pair of Bose 201 series II bookshelf speakers that are about 19 years old. Would these be better front speakers, or has technology advanced since that many years ago, that the included speakers provide a better sound? I have hooked them up and tried to compare the quality, and I could not tell a real difference, other than the Bose seemed to give a more bassier sound. Just thought I would try and get an opinion from folks who actually know their sound quality!

Thanks!

They probably won't match the center tonally. I wouldn't use them unless you got a matching Bose center.

Because Onkyo sucks. Their quality has gone downhill and their customer service is horrible.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=833420
What are you taking? I want some!

Your time and response is appreciated, thanks!

I'm assuming you're using the TV's built in tuner. The TV might have a digital output (usually an optical out) to hook into the receiver.



They probably won't match the center tonally. I wouldn't use them unless you got a matching Bose center.

Same thing happens to me. Either on digital optical cable from Xbox 360 or digital optical cable from Panasonic plasma (with cable card). Volume will be near 40 (give or take 5) and if there is a loud explosion or something, the amp will turn off. VERY annoying.

I could understand if I was up near 60 or 70 (what is the max, like 75 i think?), but a little more than half volume it shouldn't be overloading the amp.

Jason
It happened again, but this time it would not come back to life. I called onkyo and got a an advanced replacment. So far so good (one 3 days though). 24 is on tonight and that should put it through the paces.

I just got my system about a week ago and out of no where there is a fairly loud humming noise coming out of the right rear speaker. I switched inputs on the receiver and it appears that the receiver is causing the noise and not the actual speaker. No idea when this started happening but it's a pretty annoying sound. Any help would be appreciated.

I just got my system about a week ago and out of no where there is a fairly loud humming noise coming out of the right rear speaker. I switched inputs on the receiver and it appears that the receiver is causing the noise and not the actual speaker. No idea when this started happening but it's a pretty annoying sound. Any help would be appreciated.


Skim through this thread.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=691847

I just got an Onkyo SR600 (the replacement of the 590) and hooked my Oppo 970 in the DVD inputs with component and L/R Audio cable. Then I got another component cable from the Onkyo to the BNC inputs of my Panasonic 42PH9UK. However, with this setup I only get sound and no video. If I connect the Oppo directly to the Panasonic with component and the L/R audio to the receiver I get both video and sound. Am I doing something wrong on the receiver part? How should I connect the DVD player? I followed the directions on the manual :/

Anyone know which is better DTS or DD when using the Onkyo? I tried some dvd's and its gotten mixed reviews. Like War of the worlds DTS sounded better than DD but Sin City DD sounded better than DTS?

Put it this way:

It's very rare that DTS is WORSE than DD. It might not be better, but its at least as good.

I got the factory wires with my refurb set... would there be a signifigant gain in sound quality with a 16ga wire? I hardly run it very loud at all, so I'm not looking for something that would handle more power, just wondering if I'd notice a difference at normal listening levels or not.

2: I am still unable to get my PC to work with this. I have a regular stereo jack in my sound card for audio out, so I have a little converter that converts it to RCA red/white which then plugs into Video 2 red/white of the receiver. I cycled through all the listening modes and still got nothing. I noticed I had to unplug and replug my speakers and/or receiver before the other devices started working properly, and I also noticed that I had some static shock going on every now and then, can this be the reason why I had to unplug everything to get it to work?
Sounds like something's wrong, I had no issues whatsoever hooking my headphone -> RCA splitter into my "TAPE" channel and playing from the reciever.

I Like this posting.

I just got my 590 refurbs in. I have 1 question, when i turn it to just "A" setting, i get an echo sound coming from my tv and the speakers. Is there a way to have just the surround sound on and not the TV also. Sorry im new to this, and have am using the A and B settings right now. Thanks in advance.
Chris

Turn the volume on your TV all the way down, you don't want to use the tv speakers at the same time you're using the system.

Not sure why, but the volume on my tv affects the volume on my surround sound. Maybe i plugged it in wrong?

My stupid dog ate my surround sound wires so I just ordered some 16 gauge wire off monoprice, hopefully i'll be satisfied with it.

Hope your dog passes everything ok, you should be able to find him/her pretty easy anyway.

Got the 590S refurbished from shoponkyo.com last week. Hooked it up today. Sound comes out of the "front left" labeled speaker but... there is crackling. :-(

It is a pretty annoying distortion. Most noticeable with voices. I switched the front speakers (kept the wires in place) but the physical speaker labeled "front left" still has the crackling of sound, even though it's plugged into the front right slot of the receiver. So the speaker itself i bad, I guess.

I also guess I can't be too upset since this system was a great deal, price-wise. Still, I'm a little sad... I was so excited to try it out tonight!

I looked online and saw that Onkyo said to contact the nearest Authorized Repair Center for warranty repairs. I looked it up on their website and there is one in my town only three miles away... I guess I'm lucky there. I'll call that center tomorrow...

(Note... this is crackling of the sound coming out of the speaker... when the speaker isn't firing, there is no sound, so it's not that ground loop hissing problem that the S590 can suffer from.)

Got the 590S refurbished from shoponkyo.com last week. Hooked it up today. Sound comes out of the "front left" labeled speaker but... there is crackling. :-(

It is a pretty annoying distortion. Most noticeable with voices. I switched the front speakers (kept the wires in place) but the physical speaker labeled "front left" still has the crackling of sound, even though it's plugged into the front right slot of the receiver. So the speaker itself i bad, I guess.

I also guess I can't be too upset since this system was a great deal, price-wise. Still, I'm a little sad... I was so excited to try it out tonight!

I looked online and saw that Onkyo said to contact the nearest Authorized Repair Center for warranty repairs. I looked it up on their website and there is one in my town only three miles away... I guess I'm lucky there. I'll call that center tomorrow...

(Note... this is crackling of the sound coming out of the speaker... when the speaker isn't firing, there is no sound, so it's not that ground loop hissing problem that the S590 can suffer from.)

Why not try the tape trick before taking everything out? I did that the first day and haven't looked back. I've had mine 8-10 months now. Sure it's jacklegged, but it works!

Why not try the tape trick before taking everything out? I did that the first day and haven't looked back. I've had mine 8-10 months now. Sure it's jacklegged, but it works!

I don't think the tape trick will work, doesn't sound like a problem with the receiver, he moved the speaker and the problem went with it.

Got the 590S refurbished from shoponkyo.com last week. Hooked it up today. Sound comes out of the "front left" labeled speaker but... there is crackling. :-(

It is a pretty annoying distortion. Most noticeable with voices. I switched the front speakers (kept the wires in place) but the physical speaker labeled "front left" still has the crackling of sound, even though it's plugged into the front right slot of the receiver. So the speaker itself i bad, I guess.

I also guess I can't be too upset since this system was a great deal, price-wise. Still, I'm a little sad... I was so excited to try it out tonight!

I looked online and saw that Onkyo said to contact the nearest Authorized Repair Center for warranty repairs. I looked it up on their website and there is one in my town only three miles away... I guess I'm lucky there. I'll call that center tomorrow...

(Note... this is crackling of the sound coming out of the speaker... when the speaker isn't firing, there is no sound, so it's not that ground loop hissing problem that the S590 can suffer from.)

Call onkyo first before you call the repair center just to see what they say. Their really isn't much the repair center can do with one bad htib speaker, they will probably want to replace the speaker rather than paying for service to replace a driver etc, not near the expense.

My 16 gauge wire will be here on monday, I had no bad issues with the system so I'm hoping this new wire won't cause any feedback to force me to do the tape trick.

I don't think the tape trick will work, doesn't sound like a problem with the receiver, he moved the speaker and the problem went with it.

Right. This is not that ground loop problem. If I had that, I would definitely do the electrical tape/spacer fix. This is like a tear in the speaker, as the sound is actually distorted.

Call onkyo first before you call the repair center just to see what they say.

Too late, whoops. The repair center just had me bring in the one speaker, dropped it off this morning. I'm guessing they'll just replace it, like you said.

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

Do you have all your speakers set to SMALL? If so, the sub will kick in all the time. What sound mode are you using to play MP3 or CD?

Do you have all your speakers set to SMALL? If so, the sub will kick in all the time. What sound mode are you using to play MP3 or CD?

Hi Afrogt,

Thanks. all speakers have been set to Small. I try using Dolby pro-II Music mode, the display on the onkyo receiver reads it as PCM and the Khz is set to 120Khz.

the sub is really weak when i play CD/Mp3, but the movies are awesome. BTW am also one of the victims to the buzz when the system starts up, which i noticed is a known issue with this series. i can live with that issue as it is only during startup.

But i appreciate any input you can give on the audio cd/mp3 part..

Thanks
A

Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum. I'm a new owner of this system and I've read through this thread because I'm having some problems:

My speakers seem to sound fine - no hissing of any kind which seems to be the common problem in these threads.

But, the dialogue is so horrible on 5.1! On 2.1 stereo, I can hear it easier but I still can't catch whispers unless I crank up the center channel, turn down all the other channels, and then crank up the overall volume.

Now, I've seen some posts that say it's because the speakers for Onkyo in this HTiB are pretty bad and I should just change them all. Other say I should just look for a good center channel speaker.

I'd just like to know (1) if it really IS the center channel that's the problem, (2) if so, whether I should get a new set of speakers or just replace the center, and lastly, (3) if just replacing the center, which type would be appropriate?

Many thanks,
Charles

Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum. I'm a new owner of this system and I've read through this thread because I'm having some problems:

My speakers seem to sound fine - no hissing of any kind which seems to be the common problem in these threads.

But, the dialogue is so horrible on 5.1! On 2.1 stereo, I can hear it easier but I still can't catch whispers unless I crank up the center channel, turn down all the other channels, and then crank up the overall volume.

Now, I've seen some posts that say it's because the speakers for Onkyo in this HTiB are pretty bad and I should just change them all. Other say I should just look for a good center channel speaker.

I'd just like to know (1) if it really IS the center channel that's the problem, (2) if so, whether I should get a new set of speakers or just replace the center, and lastly, (3) if just replacing the center, which type would be appropriate?

Many thanks,
Charles

First try a couple of things. Lots of people do have problems with dialog from the center but to be as drastic as what your saying shouldn't be the case. Usually bumping the receivers center channel a little helps or solves the issue.

Recheck your wiring making sure everything is connected correctly, securely and there is no bare wire that could short out, also make sure you have the polarity correct for each speaker - going to - and + going to + for each speaker.

Go into your receivers setup menu and make sure sub is set to Yes, all other speakers are set to Small and the crossover is correct, 100 should be optimal for those speakers. Set multiplex to Sub.

Make sure you have you distance settings correct from your listening position to each speaker and they are level matched from your listening position.

If all this is correct and bumping up the level of the center channel a little doesn't help then just for kicks and testing just get one of your surrounds and replace the the center with it. Try that for a while, if it helps then yeah an upgrade is probably in order.

As far as which center, you want to go with a speaker that will match your fronts, if you don't want to replace all 3 now then get a center and the other two later but in the end they need to be from the same line. Outpost has some great deals on the polk r series which would be a good upgrade on a budget.

thanks a lot jakeman

Hello!

I just have bought the Onkyo S590, it should be here this or next week. My problem is that I need new speaker racks for the front and the rear speakers. What racks do you all use?
Thanks for your advice.
Best regards
RedDevil210

Hello!

I just have bought the Onkyo S590, it should be here this or next week. My problem is that I need new speaker racks for the front and the rear speakers. What racks do you all use?
Thanks for your advice.
Best regards
RedDevil210

I got these when I caught them on sale. They are WAY nicer than I ever imagined.

http://www.ritzcamera.com/product/EP5496505.htm

Does anyone know of anyone still selling the Onkyo S590? Yeah, I know, its "old" but would work well for my daughter's apt if I could find one for $150.

Does anyone know of anyone still selling the Onkyo S590? Yeah, I know, its "old" but would work well for my daughter's apt if I could find one for $150.

You might be able to find a refurbished system. Check accessories4less.com and shoponkyo.com. Shoponkyo usually comes out a little better in the final price as they have free shipping and $10 your first purchase however both places are a great bargan. $150 is pushing it though you might be able to get close.

Shoponkyo doesn't have any listed right now but that could change, just depends on their stock. Accessories4less has the 600 listed right now for just under $200 which is the current version of the 590. Both are authorized dealers that sell factory refurbished systems.

Jakeman,

I had checked shoponkyo and thanks for the lead on accessories4less. I hadn't really thought about refrub s600 yet ... good idea.

Now this is for my daughter's college apt common area. They certainly are not audiophiles but would appreciate a decent system and I'd like to get something that last her for 3 years. While she does not have a HD TV yet, who knows what the next three years will bring (Gees, we're talking college kids but my son pooled all his XMAS money 2 years ago, got a Black Friday Panasonic TUBE HD, was able to resell and has upgraded to a 42" DLP ... good thing he did that coop!).

So, at the S590/S600 refurb price point of $150 - $190, does anyone have input on other HTIB choices? I don't think I want to put together components for her .. HTIB would be a good fit for her (I could scour CL and such for used items or wait till the end of the college school year when seniors tend to do some dumping).

As a noob to avsforum, is there a better forum to ask that question? Shoot me for not doing much poking around yet.

I have the S590 system which has served me well with my DVD player with optical out.

I bought a Playstation 3, and the first movie I got was the remastered The Fifth Element. The only audio output options on this Blu-Ray disc are "PCM 5.1" and "Dolby TrueHD".

Am I correct in assuming the HT-R430 receiver that came with the HT-S590 won't handle either of these formats through TOSLINK optical? I'm stuck right now using one of the built-in surround modes on the receiver.

Thanks for any advice.

Is anyone else using the optical out on the PS3 to the Onkyo? How is the sound quality on your Blu-rays?

Are you getting 5.1? Can you post the settings on your PS3 and Onkyo receiver if you are satisfied with whats coming out?

I have set the PS3 to bitstream, connecting through optical, but the sound quality is nothing but terrible. there is no 5.1 effect and center channel is the weakest.

Thanks