HTPC/AVR config issues

Deleted User 234324 · 2 Feb 2013 at 12:34

Hey folks,

Got my HTPC connected to my AVR (Onkyo TXNR515) via HDMI and the issue I have is that when using pass through mode for watching general TV or when I don't fancy waking up everyone with the AVR on. I don't get audio at all.

If it is stereo or above I get nothing unless the AVR is on. I had a similar issue before where if the AVR isn't switched on the HTPC defaults its sound settings to stereo (that of the TV) and even when switched back on again the AVR would not process DTS/DTS HD (the lights wouldn't come on for it). So I forced the EDID of the AVR so that it always outputs the correct formats.

But that has then caused the above to happen, without the AVR on I get no sound at all. Is there a work around for this as the whole idea of getting an AVR with pass through is so I wouldn't need it switched on to watch bog standard TV.

Participant · 3 Feb 2013 at 09:07

Don't know the reason but pass through always seemed pointless to me, and if you own a Logitech harmony then it's completely redundant. You just keep the avr volume low and enjoy higher quality sound.

Deleted User 234324 · 3 Feb 2013 at 11:08

To keep the AV system on 24/7 would cost in excess of £70/year in electricity, not a lot I know but it soon adds up. That's a holiday's worth in 10 years.

413x · 3 Feb 2013 at 11:20

I get stereo through on pass through but only really use this when using htpc for non sound tasks.

However since installing a new gfx card turning it on causes the pc to think nothing is connected and a restart of PC is required

I use pure direct now instead of pass through, but tbh 99% of the timethe avr iis on

Deleted User 234324 · 3 Feb 2013 at 11:29

Managed to solve the issue I had though with an EDID editing program, merging the info of the TV and AVR means I get both working just fine without issues.

The issue I had is as you describe al4x.

Dangerous Dave · 3 Feb 2013 at 12:53

I agree with Robbie G, you have purchased a nice surround system that you are then not using it due to power costs.

You have to take into account a lot of AVRs when in pass through mode leave half the amp powered up 24 by 7. My Yamaha AVR draws 25 watts in pass through mode and stops my switched power block for the power amps from turning off. In comparions in stand by mode it draws less than a watt and in light listening it is around 60-70watts (including two power amps).

You have gave an example of it costing £70 being on 24 by 7 surely the amp will only be on when watching TV ? Also factor in the power draw the amp gives in passthrough mode 24 by 7 it may even be cheaper to have it on for TV viewing which then allows it to be in proper stand by mode for the rest of the time.

Have you checked the power consumption in pass through ? The earlier Onkyo amps drew close to 100watts in pass through mode as it basically turned the front screen off , I am sure the newer ones are a lot better.

Participant · 3 Feb 2013 at 14:01

MadMossy said:
To keep the AV system on 24/7 would cost in excess of £70/year in electricity

Why on earth would you leave it on 24/7?

Buy a Harmony for £30 and it'll switch it on for you and off again once you've finished watching.

Deleted User 234324 · 4 Feb 2013 at 11:47

Makes sense, checked out my british gas monitor thingy and it does indeed draw just as much power with pass through so may as well just use it all the time.