Question: Basic sound system with Polk R300's

[mattyK]

Image 1 - Back of Sharp flatscreen TV
Image 2 - Back of Verizon FioS box
Image 3 - Back of LG BD390 BluRay player
Image 4 - Speakers


So, the pictures show what is going on currently and the speakers I want to add. This is all supposed to be a xmas present for my parents, because for years they've been hooking up small Altec Lansing computer speakers to the TV when they want to watch a movie.

They don't need a tricked-out sound system, but with the help I'll hopefully get from you guys, maybe getting them started on this basic 2 Tower speaker system will help me know how to build my own system in the future.

The question is, what do I need to do to make this work. I saw that the Blu Ray player has a 7.1 channel thing in the back, but I don't know if that is compatible with the old-school style of the Red/Black wire connections in the back of the R300's. Will I need a receiver?

I know I'm going to have to dish out some more money probably, if at the very least for cables/wiring, but I'd like to keep it low-budget. I'd also like to keep the option open for them to upgrade the system (with their money and my help), by possibly adding a subwoofer, and maybe a center channel.

I'm totally clueless, and would appreciate any and all help. Thanks, and merry christmas!

[mattyK]

Excuse the bump, but to continue...

It seems I'm going to need a receiver. I know you guys are audiophiles, but for the sake of my wallet, think cheap. I've been browsing online and have no idea what is good enough without being overkill for my parents. Their blu-ray player, the LG BD390, has 7.1 capability, but I can't see them ever having room in the house for more than a 5.1 system.

Also, Is it worth it to search for a newer type of receiver that can just connect via HDMI, or find an older cheaper receiver and connect via multi-channel analog output cables?