Dear Audioholics:
My question is about the importance/need for HDMI connectivity through my new reciever. I Currently have a 7.1 set up powered by an older Onkyo DS 898 receiver in a large 20 by 20 foot family room, with large speakers. It has high bandwidth component switching (for xbox and dvd input), but no HDMI input or switch. I run my DVI/HDMI to my JVC HD-ILA HDTV directly from my satellite receiver. The satellite receiver sends dolby digital sound via optical link to my reciever, and works well. The reciever is about 3 years old and was quite costly.
I am looking for a 2nd receiver, to power a 5.1 system using in-ceiling sonance speakers (mostly the symphony s623 speakers, rated for 125 watts I believe) in a bedroom. Will be watching a sharp 32 inch lcd HDTV with both DVI and HDMI connections. Will have a separate, high definition satellite receiver in a closet area with all the AV gear hidden.
Should I get a receiver with HDMI switch? I have been told by some AV people that component often still looks better, and that the HDMI may cause problems with dolby digital signals from certain satellite receivers (mine made by Dish, for Bell Express Vu in Canada). The Yamaha RX 1500 is available for approximately $600 US, but anything with an HDMI switch likely $400 more. The HDMI cables are also more expensive and I will need a minimum of 12 feet.
Do I need the HDMI, and Prologic IIx, for example, or should I just stick to component switching? If I spring for an HDMI system, what are my low to midrange options?
