A/V receiver setup with Yamaha digital sound processor?

[rov]

Due to space constraints, curious little kids who won't be able to keep their hands off the surround speakers, etc., I'm looking for a simple speaker setup that still gives some surround sound. And yeah, I know it won't match a true X.1 system, but compared to what I have now, it should be more than adequate. And if not, then I guess we'll upgrade someday and put it in the basement.

Anyway, the Yamaha YSP-800 seems like the perfect answer, but I'm struggling with how to hook it into the rest of the system. Here's what I've come up with so far:

- The YSP acts as the amp, sound processor, and speaker(s), all rolled into one box. Which means the audio inputs would ideally go directly into the YSP.

- However, video signals from DVD, VCR, game box, cable box, etc. should go to the a/v receiver so the receiver can handle the video switching and upconverting, if any. With the audio signals going to the YSP, switching video with the a/v receiver would mean the audio would have to be switched separately (I think), which is a hassle.

- But, I think the audio could be routed through the receiver and passed to the YSP, enabling video and audio switching by the receiver. Since the YSP does all the sound processing, you wouldn't be using the receiver's processor or amp. It's basically just a giant switch with an AM/FM tuner.

My setup is (or will be when I get the rest of the gear) a Samsung LCD TV, Yamaha RX-V657 receiver, the YSP-800, Olive Musica music server, and probably Sony or Toshiba DVD/VCR player. I don't have cable or game boxes. I think I can set up the system with all video and audio inputs going into the receiver, and either DVI or component video out to the TV. The audio would go via coax or digital optical cable to the YSP. I think the receiver should be set up for direct audio (no processing), so that the YSP can do its thing.

I'll admit this is all just theory at this point, since I only have the TV so far. If the above setup doesn't work, I think I could get around the audio/video switching with a decent remote macro. I'm already thinking about a Harmony, for matrimonial harmony...

Thanks in advance for any ideas, suggestions.

--rov

 

[jcPanny]

Yamaha YSP

Like you suggested, the Yamaha YSP is designed to simplify HT setup by working as the speakers, amp, and audio processor. So in most applications an A/V Receiver is not necessary. Just make sure that the Yamaha YSP has enough audo connections on the back for all of your gear (CD player, DVD, cable, etc.) If you TV does not have enough video connections to directly connect all of your sources, than you should consider adding a video switch box, not an A/V receiver.

If you want to use an A/V receiver and have the ability to upgrade, then consider the following configuration:
A/V reciver with only Main and center channels connected. All speakers can be mounted to the wall on brackets out of reach from the kids. The receiver will "simulate" surround sound by sending the extra audio to the front 3 speakers. You can add 2 (or 4) surround speakers later for a 5.1 or 7.1 setup.

Whether you decide on the YSP or a receiver, you will need a subwoofer. Check out the 10" subs from SVS and HSU.

 

[rov]

agree that an a/v receiver isn't necessary with the YSP, but i still need a AM/FM tuner. i've looked at straight tuners, and they don't seem to be much less $$ than a full blown a/v receiver. so, i figured i'd go ahead and get the receiver.

wall mounted speakers are not a good option for me, which is part of the reason i'm leaning toward the YSP. i plan to get a sub, but probably not right away. gotta work into this slowly...

thanks for the reply - rov