How to add HDMI switcher?

[patnshan]

Hello,

It's been awhile as I've been happy and haven't been buying much in the AV world I did just get the iris on my projector replaced under the extended panny warranty, thank god!
I recently upgraded my HTPC with an HDCP capable HDMI video card (ASUS 3450). I of course want to use the HDMI output which can also handle audio. I have my PS3 and A2 connected to the Yamaha 603 via HDMI, then out to the projectors one HDMI input. I have the DVR hooked up with component to the receiver, but plan to switch to HDMI as well. I just ordered a 4 to 1 HDMI switcher with remote from monoprice.
This leads to a couple of options:
1. Connect the PS3, A2, HTPC, and 8300HD via HDMI to switcher, switcher out to one input on the receiver.
2. Connect three of the above devices to the switcher, and one directly to the receiver

Is there any benefit from connecting one of them to the receiver or would you just simply connect them all with one input on the receiver?

Also, do any of you have this switcher remote programmed into your Harmony? Does it work well or should I count on using the "auto switching" function?

Thanks,

Pat

 

[allargon]

Option #1 definitely, connect all four of them to the HDMI switcher and none of them directly to the receiver to make for easier button controls on your universal remote control.

If your DVR is a Dish DVR, note that the 622 series (and likely the 722) tend to look a little different with HDMI vs. component. Personally, I prefer the colorspace of the component with my 622 even though I use HDMI for ease. BTW, I also use a Monoprice 4x1 switch into my HK AVR-247.

 

[Midcow2]

Plus one

Option #1 definitely, connect all four of them to the HDMI switcher and none of them directly to the receiver to make for easier button controls on your universal remote control.

If your DVR is a Dish DVR, note that the 622 series (and likely the 722) tend to look a little different with HDMI vs. component. Personally, I prefer the colorspace of the component with my 622 even though I use HDMI for ease. BTW, I also use a Monoprice 4x1 switch into my HK AVR-247.

I agree with allargon this will be much simplier from a logistics and usablity standpoint.

However, I am connecting 722 via HDMI and I am very please with results to LCD TV.

LOL I also have a 622 though a monoprice component switcher ( Pionerr Elite receiver component switching failed) because older TV has component only and only one component input that supports 1080i.

Thanks!

MidCow2

 

[patnshan]

Thanks guys, that's what I was thinking. I need to redo the harmony I guess. My DVR is the SA 8300HD from TWC.
Thanks,
Pat

 

[OttoMatic]

Hi Pat,

I have one of the Monoprice HDMI switches. I have never tried the auto sense feature, and I just reprogrammed my Harmony to do the switching directly. Sometimes I want to watch something and listen to something else, so I like to be able to "force" it. Also, I never really turn off my DVR, so if it were "on" and I was intending to watch a BluRay, which device would the switch select?

Can you describe the rest of your HTPC? What processor, RAM, BluRay drive, etc? I've been using an HTPC for years to play DVDs, but I haven't upgraded to BluRay yet (I just purchased a standalone BluRay player for simplicity). What software are you using for playback (PowerDVD here).

Thanks and good luck!

 

[highfigh]

Hello,

It's been awhile as I've been happy and haven't been buying much in the AV world I did just get the iris on my projector replaced under the extended panny warranty, thank god!
I recently upgraded my HTPC with an HDCP capable HDMI video card (ASUS 3450). I of course want to use the HDMI output which can also handle audio. I have my PS3 and A2 connected to the Yamaha 603 via HDMI, then out to the projectors one HDMI input. I have the DVR hooked up with component to the receiver, but plan to switch to HDMI as well. I just ordered a 4 to 1 HDMI switcher with remote from monoprice.
This leads to a couple of options:
1. Connect the PS3, A2, HTPC, and 8300HD via HDMI to switcher, switcher out to one input on the receiver.
2. Connect three of the above devices to the switcher, and one directly to the receiver

Is there any benefit from connecting one of them to the receiver or would you just simply connect them all with one input on the receiver?

Also, do any of you have this switcher remote programmed into your Harmony? Does it work well or should I count on using the "auto switching" function?

Thanks,

Pat

The HDMI switch codes should work with the Harmony. Look in their database for some of the more common brands.

I agree that checking each source to find out which format looks best is a good idea. You may not need to add anything if some look better using component video.

 

[patnshan]

Hi Pat,

I have one of the Monoprice HDMI switches. I have never tried the auto sense feature, and I just reprogrammed my Harmony to do the switching directly. Sometimes I want to watch something and listen to something else, so I like to be able to "force" it. Also, I never really turn off my DVR, so if it were "on" and I was intending to watch a BluRay, which device would the switch select?

Can you describe the rest of your HTPC? What processor, RAM, BluRay drive, etc? I've been using an HTPC for years to play DVDs, but I haven't upgraded to BluRay yet (I just purchased a standalone BluRay player for simplicity). What software are you using for playback (PowerDVD here).

Thanks and good luck!

I am actually "preparing" for future blu ray use on the HTPC. I use it mainly for ripped MP4's and audio now. I use the PS3 for Blu Ray, but might move that upstairs. I have an ASUS 3450 card, an AMD 3000+ processor, 2GB of RAM. I may need to upgrade the processor to do blu ray, I need to run one of those "readiness checkers". I know the card can do it as I picked that one based on being cheap, having HDCP HDMI, and having good reviews!
Thanks,
Pat

 

[patnshan]

The HDMI switch codes should work with the Harmony. Look in their database for some of the more common brands.

I agree that checking each source to find out which format looks best is a good idea. You may not need to add anything if some look better using component video.

Good idea, I may need to A/B the cable box as it looks mighty fine with component now

Pat

 

[patnshan]

I got the switcher and it works fantastic! Harmony has the unit programmed in it's database. It's under "audio/video selectors". Just enter the model number and your there. I have it turning the unit on and selecting the proper input with each task. Highly recommended!

Pat