The only option I have from my satellite and DVD player is component, but I don't understand what you are saying when you mention to use the optical out the optical out from the TV and cable box so I get 5.1. Right now I am using the digital audio out from my satellite box to my receiver, is that what you mean?
Yep, just making sure you had a digital audio connection from your sat box - don't want to miss the beauty of "What Not to Wear" in surround sound!