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How to connect RCA 5.1 surround sound to receiver?

My receiver has settings specifically for Dolby 5.1 surround send. It’s old (but still strong!) and only has RCA inputs (no HDMI or Optical). I’ve included an image of the back. I’m having trouble understanding how to feed it the surround sound information with the plugins on the back.

The goal is to give it 5.1 surround sound info from the tv. The tv has HDMI and Optical output so I was going to purchase this converter that changes the HDMI to RCA surround sound outputs. Where do I connect these to the receiver though for the SL, SR and Center speakers?

Right now I just have the stereo connection (two RCA plugs) going into the tv/aux input the two rear speaker definitely have no sound coming out.

Receiver is harman/kardon AVR 20II (I know it’s old but I love it! Don’t laugh!)

Thank you so much!

Related images here:
https://imgur.com/kQQ2MUC
https://imgur.com/wjjjtPk
leweyht

Showing 4 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
15,881 posts
 
Also, make sure your receiver is set up properly. They usually need to know whether or not you have a center, surround and sub.  If you have it set to work without surrounds, that is what will happen.
erik_squires
15,881 posts
 
Well, make sure you have the proper material, and that the receiver is set to Pro Logic and not just stereo. :)

I find Netflix is a good place to find stuff.

Also, not sure what your TV has for settings, but if it has a downmix setting, use it. :)

Also check the surround levels.

Best,

E
erik_squires
15,881 posts
 
Also, if you are lucky, your TV will have analog outputs, those can be directly connected to the receiver. My latest LG does not, my older Samsung does.
erik_squires
15,881 posts
 
This is a Dolby ProLogic 5.1 receiver, with 5.1 pre outputs only.

I will go ahead and assume you are a masochist above all others and insist on keeping it instead of upgrading.

Set your TV output to the optical and set it to stereo only or PCM. NOT to Dolby Digital.  You'll need a 2 channel DAC. Any 2 channel DAC that has an optical input will work.  Hook it's RCA to either of the VCR inputs.

The receiver will convert 2 channel to 5.1 and no, it's' not nearly as good as Dolby Digital or DTS, but you'll have your surround set up.

Best,

E
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