PCM Audio?

[millerman 3732]

When should PCM be used?

[polkatese]

As in Pulse Code Modulation vs. DSD in the context of Codec methods?

[millerman 3732]

I'am sure I don't know what your talking about :o, I seen the setting on many of the DVD players that I have owned and wondered when PCM should be used instead of bitstream.

[polkatese]

ah, I see. Here is what recommended:

Bitstream/PCM: Set audio output to bitstream. The only reason you wouldn’t want to use bitstream is if you’re not using the DVD player’s digital audio outputs. Almost all DVD players have PCM set as default, PCM will not send Dolby Digital or DTS to the receiver even if the DVD player is compatible with those audio formats. Countless new DVD player owners will listen to stereo PCM transmitted to their receiver over digital outputs, wondering why the receiver isn’t detecting Dolby Digital or DTS.

Translation: if you are using coax/optical, then choose bitstream, if you are using RCA, then PCM.

[millerman 3732]

How about when I 'am using the 5.1 analog, PCM then to?

[polkatese]

that I am pretty sure don't really matter, since 5.1 is in pure analog space, so the option is irrelevant. Assuming you are talking about SACD/DVD-A multi-channel playback.

[millerman 3732]

when I watch an HD DVD I use the 5.1 analog output so that I can get DD+ to my receiver with out the receiver converting it to DTS (so I think) and wondered if that PCM would be a better choice in stead of bitstream in this situation

[wingnut4772]

When I watch an HD DVD over HDMI I have to choose PCM in the menu.

[Sherardp]

hey wingnut, FYI This settings relates to the optical output; it shouldn't affect analog or hdmi, this what I was told over at Hometheaterforum, check this outhttp://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/showthread.php?t=240876

[wingnut4772]

Oh Ok..missed that

[adam2434]

Another example of when you should use PCM is if you're using a DVD player as a transport with an external DAC in a 2 ch system.