Need Assistance with Connections to Get All Speakers to Function Properly in All Modes

[Nathan G]

Hi, I'm using components from four different brands. The sound is great but when I use different modes especially when i'm listening to music thru my PC, it's not being distributed correctly. The connections I believe are set up correctly but I know i'm missing something somewhere. This is what I have: 1) Samsung 65" 4K model number# UN65Ku7500F 2) Onkyo Integra TX-DS939 Receiver 3) Klipsch Icon WF-35's as my front speakers 4) Polk RTi-A1's as my rear speakers 5) Paradigm Monitor cc-290 as my center speaker 6) Paradigm Sub-Woofer DSP-3400 7) Dell Inspiron 3650 Desktop with HDMI connection.

I have the PC and Cable Box connected directly into the TV. The PC is connected to the receiver from the line port into the CD left & right port on the receiver. All of the speaker connections are connected with Mediabridge Banana Plugs. When I test the speakers, it runs thru each of them one after the other and the levels are the same which is why i'm somewhat baffled as to why the sound is not distributed well in all sound playback modes. I was wondering if I needed to run the PC directly into the receiver with an HDMI audio extractor converter but then, how would I connect it so that I can see everything on the TV. I should be able to use the on-screen display function but I haven't been able to figure that one out as well. It's been a long time since I've been into equipment for the purpose of enjoying music like I used to and could definitely use some help from those with the expertise to assist me. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Nathan G, New york

 

[WaynePflughaupt]

You didn’t mention if you’re having the “sound playback modes” issues with music, video programming, or both.

Basically, you should connect all components directly to the receiver, with its “monitor output” going to a TV input. So basically, the TV is only a video monitor. That should solve most of your problems.

When I test the speakers, it runs thru each of them one after the other and the levels are the same which is why i'm somewhat baffled as to why the sound is not distributed well in all sound playback modes.

The speaker test is generated solely by the receiver and has nothing to do with any other piece of hardware connected to it. The receiver can and will generate the test signal even if no source components are connected at all.

From that point, what you get in the way of surround sound modes to all the speakers is wholly dependent on the program source. If you’re watching old westerns from the 1950s, then all you’re going to get is the center channel. Indeed, most network TV programming makes little use of the surround speakers. You’ll get the most surround sound “action” from theatrical movies.

Another part of your problem might be incompatibility between the various components. If your computer and cable box only have HDMI outputs, then you need to retire the Onkyo and get a new A/V receiver. Either that or swap out your source hardware for units that have connections that the Onkyo does.

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[Nathan G]

Hi Wayne, thanks for feedback. I will take your suggestion and connect everything directly into the receiver. The cable box has video and audio jacks as well as HDMI. As for the PC I can always get a new sound card with RCA jacks. I think i'll try that before swapping out the receiver. I really like what I get from it. I have a pioneer receiver with six HDMI jacks if all else fails. Much appreciated and thanks again.