SPDIF from PC to 7.1 surround can't output surround.

[Furthur]

I'm attempting to hook my PC up to a Panasonic 7.1 system using an optical cable but having trouble getting it to output in surround. My mobo (Asrock Extreme6 z97) states that it is able to output 7.1 and comes with the codec for DTS. However, when I go into my sound options the "configure" option, that would bring you to speaker layout, is grayed out for the optical output. If I attempt to enable DTS and change the channel settings to 5.1 (either through the Realtek utility or Windows) I get no sound and 7.1 isn't even an option.

I've double checked that DTS is enabled on my surround sound system, reinstalled the Realtek drivers, and checked the bios for any audio settings without finding a solution. Is it possible my 7.1 system is just old enough that the software isn't compatible? It can be connected to the Internet but I never saw the use. Worth trying a firmware update?

Advice?

 

[ssddx]

is this panasonic 7.1 a home theater in a box (htib) set? have you read the manual and verified that it does indeed allow 7.1 over optical? (many cheaper sets only support 2.0 on optical).

 

[Furthur]

Thank you for the answer! Yes, I assume this qualifies as a HTIB. However, the only in port it has is optical and it specifically says it's DTS compatible (and one of the major uses of DTS is 7.1 over optical). http/www.amazon.com/Panasonic-SC-BT203-Channel-Blu-ray-Theater/dp/B002KNZN52

e/ It obviously has AUX also, but I didn't think that would be the only way of getting 7/1 since it lacks an hdmi in. I can't find anything that specifies that it either can or cannot do 7.1 through SPDIF.

 

[Furthur]

Hm one of the reviews says it can decode DTS on a Bluray but not from an outside source...That seems like an answer....though an unfortunate one.

e/ It being the HTIB.

 

[ssddx]

normally i'd say that is certainly the case, although i read something odd in the manual...

In some cases the audio signal will only be output as 2ch audio from the TV. In this case, connect the Set Top Box (Satellite
receiver, Cable box, etc.) that will be used most commonly with multi-channel audio to this unit’s “OPTICAL IN 2(STB)” terminal.

which seems to hint that it accepts more than 2.0 in the one optical port but not in the other. make sure you are using the correct port.

if it still doesnt work then it could certainly be that its not compatible with your pc, or it doesnt actually accept more than a 2.0 input and you're likely SOL.

 

[Furthur]

normally i'd say that is certainly the case, although i read something odd in the manual...

In some cases the audio signal will only be output as 2ch audio from the TV. In this case, connect the Set Top Box (Satellite
receiver, Cable box, etc.) that will be used most commonly with multi-channel audio to this unit’s “OPTICAL IN 2(STB)” terminal.

which seems to hint that it accepts more than 2.0 in the one optical port but not in the other. make sure you are using the correct port.

if it still doesnt work then it could certainly be that its not compatible with your pc, or it doesnt actually accept more than a 2.0 input and you're likely SOL.

I had already tried switching optical ports just as part of my normal trouble shooting, but I'll see whether I perhaps skipped over something assuming it wasn't going to work anyway. I greatly appreciate the help - looking up the manual and reading through it was truly going above and beyond.

Quick tangent since I noticed the beginnings of your Headphone Guide (and feel free to ignore this, you've already been a great help): Do you have a suggestion for an IEM between $100 and ~$250? I listen to a wide variety of music, but primarily Jam Bands and classic Rock. Looking for something that's well balanced, overear, and durable.

e/ The latter probably should have been a PM. Sorry for the off topic post.

 

[ssddx]

above $100 iem's really arent an area that i'm well versed in (generally i deal with headphones though was going to include iems for completeness). you might want to read http/www.head-fi.org/t/478568/multi-iem-review-340-iems-compared-fidue-a31s-added-08-02-15-p-1075

is there a reason why you want an IEM over say.. full sized over-ear headphones?

 

[Furthur]

above $100 iem's really arent an area that i'm well versed in (generally i deal with headphones though was going to include iems for completeness). you might want to read http/www.head-fi.org/t/478568/multi-iem-review-340-iems-compared-fidue-a31s-added-08-02-15-p-1075

is there a reason why you want an IEM over say.. full sized over-ear headphones?

Mainly convenience. I want something easily stored and useful for running/working out. When listening at home I only occasionally use headphones and when I'm on the move I'd prefer something that can fit in my pocket. Once again, the advice is greatly appreciated.