Receiver/PC compatibility question

[Drummerboy]

I am going to run HTPC. My PC has 7.1 optical out and DVI out. I need to get a receiver that switches DVI. My current Pioneer VSX-101 5TX doesnt do it. However, i realize the latest is HDMI switching, and is compatible with DVI. So, how would i run a projector as a monitor? Is it as simple as running the DVI to HDMI cords from the PC to the receiver and then HDMI to DVI out to the projector? Can an input on a reciever (say, DVD in) run a DVI to HDMI cord AND an optical cord as a source? HDMI carries both signals of course, but i have yet to see a PC output in HDMI to combine the signals in one easy cord. Its DVI and optical as far as i know for PCs. The bottom line is this : i need suggestions for a receiver (ballpark $1000) with the HDMI switching. I will hook up the PC to it as my all in one machine (with satellite in, cable, TV tuner ETC. on the PC) The monitor will be a projector of course. The speakers will need enough power to be driven by the reciever you suggest. I have RTI8 fronts, CSI5 center, FXI3 surrounds, RTI4 surround backs. The sub is a PSW505 which i will be upgrading to two SVS PS12 ISD/V subwoofers (maybe one if it cuts it). Opinions are more than welcome!! Thanx in advance for your replies!

 

[jaxvon]

The only one I know of in your price range is the Yamaha RX-V1600. It's MSRP is $1100, but you should be able to pick it up for $1000.

 

[Bigsilvs]

I think you should look into purchasing the Pioneer VSX-74TXVI. Retail is $1499 but I just purchased one for a $1000 online. It has 2 HDMI inputs 1 output, usb input for streaming audio through Windows Media 9 or other sources, and XM outputs. No DVI in our outs but this issue can be taken care of with a DVI to HDMI cable. Here is the Pioneer link: http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/product/detail/0,,2076_4155_272584179,00.html This receiver has yet to be reviewed on Audioholics but Sound and Vision reviews it on the Pioneer website. I am very happy with this 7.1 channel receiver. I have had it for about 2 weeks.

 

[Hanse18]

Don't wire your dvi through your receiver. If your htpc is truly your only source, you will have no other hdmi or dvi devices that would require the switching done on a receiver. That is just the practical reason... The technical reason being that many receivers will not pass your signal since it isn't hdcp enabled. That is the same reason why there aren't hdmi video cards to begin with. Run dvi straight to your monitor, digital output to your receiver, and spend all your money on a good powerful receiver. Anything from last year is discounted of course, but there are no real changes to the power supply.

 

[Drummerboy]

Ok... that makes sense... i like the pioneer and the yamaha that was suggested, for the HDMI reason, however it makes sense to wire directly with one source. So i guess the best option is one from another thread regarding power... just get a 2 or 3 channel amp and power up the fronts (and center if needed) and run the rest off the reciever. 120w is enough for the fxi3 and rti4 for sure, but not the rti8 and csi5.... input would still be appreciated if you can add something i could consider...

 

[Hanse18]

Rotel or Outlaw I would say. I like Outlaw's monoblocks because you know exactly what power you are pumping into each speaker, you can space them out if you want, and they look cool and do a good job of filling up an empty-looking audio shelf (htpc and cable box... meh). You could start with just 2, then add a 3rd later on if you feel you need it.

I have always been under the impression (I don't know why exactly, I can't personally validate it) that H/K had exremely good power supplies, and can handle large loads. Maybe something like the 435 would suit your needs, and then you would still have a decent amount of money for your amps. Otherwise last year's yammy 2500 and denons 3805 would be good bets... good preamp section and high power, without the HDMI switching overkill that just adds costs.

I suppose another benefit of adding amps, given the current disarray of HDMI specs and whatnot, is the abilty to update just the preamp section.