Surround Sound Gurus, A Question.

I have a 5.1 surround sound system which doesn't sound all that great for DVDs. Is this due to the fact I am using component cables not HDMI? I also have my system in a room with high ceilings. Will this effect the sound greatly?

 

If you are using component cables (Red,White) to your receiver it is only 2 channel.

Is your 5.1 system computer speakers or a shelf system?

 

Shelf system.

Am I correct in thinking that a bargain HDMI cable will fit my needs adequately?

 

I don't think HDMI isn't 5.1 channel but other people can correct me of I'm wrong.

Does your DVD player and your shelf system have optical audio?

 

HDMI can output audio in these formats: LPCM, Dolby Digital, DTS, DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio, MPCM

Most of which do support 5.1 and up. So yes an hdmi cable should help your sound. Also what gauge wire do you have connected to the speakers? I upgraded the wire on my system after upgrading to optical audio and both made a significant increase in quality. So my cheap system sounds pretty dang good (minus the 1 speaker I ended up blowing out ).

 

Going out (weather permitting) to get a HDMI cable.

I am using the wire that came with the system. I do have an unopened spool at home. I'll check the gage. I'm guessing the bigger the gauge the better?