I just ordered digital cable/internet/phone and it is going to be installed on the 21st of March. In regards to the cable, I was looking to get the nicer cables that I would need ahead of time, figuring that they would only supply the most basic coax cables to hook up the set top box/DVR. It has a digital coax and optical output. My stereo/receiver has one optical input and one digital coax input. Right now, my DVD player is using the optical input. Sounds easy enough, have them hook up the set top box with digitial coax, except that, my old DVD player was hooked up with digital coax and I occassionally got 'blips' in the sound while watching a movie. By 'blip' I mean the sound would go out for a second or two. I don't know whether it was a crappy cable or a crappy input, but what I was wondering was, is there an optical "Y" cable that would allow me to connect both the set top box/DVR and my DVD player to the same optical input on my stereo/receiver?

Thanks

Yes there is..I have used these. [Link: altex.com] Just remember to turn off one source while using the other or you can get two sound sources going at once.

Thank you very much.

Now on a similar subject, I just realized that I only have one component input on my tv, but two sources, DVD and Digital TV box. (I am still too poor for a digital TV) Do they make a similar Y cable/connector for component inputs? If not, can anyone recommend which source, digital TV or DVD, that they would use the S-video on instead on the component cables? I am guessing the DVD.

Thanks again.

is a receiver upgrade in the cards? the cost of all the parts to 'piece it together' may be better spent towards a new reciever

No, the receiver is an Aiwa "all in one", receiver, cd, cassette. Definately do not have the money to upgrade that.

I just found these cables on a website. I am trying to figure out if I could use these to connect two component outputs to one component input. Any opinions? Would I need to buy three of them, one for each, reb/blue/green?

Thanks again.

[Link: trianglecable.com]

Or none, but the point is the same; only have one component powered up at a time.

You can't Y-connect video signals together, even if only one is on at a time.

Ordered that item from Altex, its nothing more than a coupler to combine two lengths of optical cable together and CANNOT "Combine two digital devices (DVD, DAT, etc.) to one input or vice versa." as the website specifically says. Thanks fro your help anyways, I just sent them an angry email, wonder if I will get anywhere with them.

Hey kidd..i think i had the same problem basically..one set of component inputs on moniter..one optical input in receiver..i purchased a component video/audio switcher from Audio Authority..model 1154A..It allows 4 different component signals to be connected and senses which one to input..also allows 4 optical inputs..check it out..www.audioauthority.com..i currently run a dvd player/dvd recorder/hd-vcr and hd cable box though it..all component video and optiacl audio..to my plasma with one component video in..

Thanks Rich, I'll look into that.

Good luck..if that link doesnt work a bunch of places sell them online..you should pay between 125 and 150...

What idiots someone is (are) at that company! I see that the device shown will not combine two signals, but only because I have seen one that will. Their description is exactly what you want, but their product is NOT that.

I have bought and used one of these from a local importer, to split an optical signal to two receivers. It can definitely be used to give you the possibility of either of two signals going into the same input. You already got the warning about turning off the unused source.

Email me if you have not located the product. I can get it for you.

Ernie

I have never seen such a thing, while working with optical for a long time. The optical signals would "freak" each other out and nothing would come out. They need to be discrete and can be switched, but can't be combined.

...but this is something you can use if you don't mind the switch.
[Link: hosatech.com]

If you need one let me know, I sell all of their stuff!

Someone else may even make one that is IR compatible.


Hope this helps.

dajedikidd,

E-mail me with your home address and I will throw one of the ones I have in an envelope and send it to you. I am sure I have an extra one that I purchased from Altex. I have the ability of walking into the store and I am sure there are things on thier shelves which aren't online or in a catalog.

oex is right. Save up the money and replace your weakest link - the Aiwa. Everthing we're talking about is a bunch of bandaids. The entry level Yamaha RX-V450 ($300) has a component switching and both an optic an digital coax input.

This receiver would solve your challenge and vastly improve sound quality while sporting the proper switching and a cleaner look without all the dumb buttons.

A good receiver won't drop your digital coax signal - I think the problem is either in the Aiwa or the old DVD player. Aiwa is not known for their uncompromising quality.