The website for Element Electronics shows that every single TV they offer that has a digital audio output also has analog outputs.
We'd know for sure what the issue is if Bob would take the time to actually answer some of the questions that have been asked but I think it's safe to say that the digital audio output doesn't work because he is using basic cable that only has analog audio on its channels.
Actually, I have to agree with Adam here. After looking at the owners manual for this TV, it does appear that the
only audio out is via a digital coaxial input.
In that case, his ONLY option* is to feed it into a digital coax input on the HT receiver. It matters not what the input is called on the receiver. It could be called satellite, DVD, cable or even Arthur. As long as it has a digital coax input, you should be good to go.
If the HT receiver lacks that, he has no choice but get one that does allow it.
No wonder I never heard of Element TV. Stupid design. Lotsa input options but lousy output but then again, this isn't exactly a deluxe model. More than anything else, with I/O, you get what you pay for.
Feed all your audio from your sources directly to your receiver, not your TV, and use your receiver as an audio selector. You'll be better off that way.
Also, what MDS says is very possible aswell, whily you may have a "digital" tuner, it's very possible that what you are receiving on your
basic cable is only analog channels that don't send digital audio. In many areas (mine included), you don't get digital service without stepping up to another level of service and getting one of their digital boxes. The cable companies make the rules, not your TV manufacturer.
I have a fairly upscale Toshiba with all three tuners (NTSC, ATSC and QAM) and I still had to go through their HD cable box for HD digital service. The only digital service I got for free was from my outdoor antenna.
And, Bob, always remember... in most cases you get what you pay for.
* technically, is it really an "option" if there is no other way?
