Benefit to running sources through entry-level A/V reciever?

[jpaget]

I've done as much research as I can on this, but I really haven't gotten a simply or straight answer. My initial understanding is that entry-level A/V receivers are more "A" processors than "V" processors. I've just purchased a RX-V659 and Klipsch RF-62 towers as well as an Aquos. I've got the Motorola DVR/cable box with HDMI from Comcast and and older JVC DVD player with progressive scan. Currently, I run the DVR to the HDMI input on the Aquos and to the 659 by SPIDF. Likewise, I run the DVD player to component inputs on the Aquos and to the 659 with SPIDF. For OSD calibration, I run an s-video cable from the 659 to the Aquos. So, my receiver isnt really the "hub" of my system. Am I missing out on not running things through the receiver? Obviously, it doesnt have HDMI switching.

 

[avaserfi]

No, you arent missing out on anything. In reality most A/V receivers should not alter the video signal, unless they are more high end and upscale. The main reason to do so is if you want to run all sources into the receiver than run one set of wires to the tv. It all is personal preference, some people like the simplicity of only having to run one wire to their display source rather than mulitple while others like to control what displays via the display and not the receiver.

 

[Seth=L]

Given your present setup there would be no benifit from using the receiver as your "hub". Newer receivers with HDMI switching, upconversion, and upscalers. For those that have multiple HDMI or component devices and only one or two of each on their televisions a switching/processing receiver can be quite useful.

The real big deal with receivers now is HDMI interface. Audio and Video can be passed uncompressed on one cable (similar too firewire with more brandwidth and more restrictions). With the new HD-DVD and Blu-ray formats as well as HD cable and satelite you can enjoy HD video and audio using HDMI. With HD-DVD and Blu-ray you can enjoy the new formats Dolby Digital Plus, TrueHD, and DTS-HD master audio along with 1080p video (this all depends on the receiver you have of course)

Hope that is what you were asking and possibly more, let us know if you have anymore questions.

Seth=L

 

[jpaget]

That was what I was looking for and what my intuition was telling me. Thanks for response, it is much appreciated!