Another question, do I have to use HDMI? Can I hook everything up with RCA cables? What would I have to use to connect an LCD TV? I was looking up some reviews on the Onkyo 605 and there seems to be intermittent problems with the HDMI ports. Since I'm not totally convinced that HDMI sound is the best option, I'd really like to just hook everything up with RCA cables. I've heard conflicting info that I might be compromising video quality. I'm confused about that. Any advice? Sorry for the totally newbie questions. All responses very much appreciated!
Zoë
You don't have to use HDMI, although, theoretically it's supposed to simplify matters--video and audio through one cable. No, using RCA cables is okay, too.
For audio, the easiest solution is to go toslink or digital coax. If you have an HD DVD player or Blu Ray, you might want to use analog connections--meaning one cable for each speaker--left, center, right, left rear, right rear, and sub. Go this route if you want to get into the new HD audio formats and have a player that can decode and pass the signal along.
For video, component cable hook-up is fine. As far as quality between HDMI and component, well, it's personal preference and system dependent. I had a 34" Sony CRT that I preferred component over HDMI. On my Sony LCD that I have now, there was little to no difference between the two.
