Audio Systems: Multichannel PCM from PS3, dolby digital dts, 1080i 1080p

Question
Hello,

I have a Play Station 3 (with newest firmware update) connected to an Onkyo TX-SR875.  My question is regarding to audio formats transmitted from my Playstation 3 to my A/V receiver.  It seems that no matter what format my BD/DVD is recorded in (Dolby Digital, DTS HD, etc) my Onkyo sees the signal as some form of multichannel PCM.  Does this mean that the audio is being processed by the Playstation before it gets to the receiver?  I would like the audio to be passed directly to the receiver so that the receiver can then play it in the best format possible.  For example, I recently watched a Blue Ray of Fantastic 4 which was recorded in DTS HD (fully supported by my Onkyo)  I wanted to utilize the new audio format, however, my receiver said that it was getting PCM audio in and it was passing it out at whatever format I chose and that the receiver deemed compatible with the input type.  DTS HD wasn't an option, therefore, I don't think the audio is being passed appropriately.

I guess my question(s) is this...Is the audio being manipulated on the PS3 into multichannel PCM?  Is multichannel PCM an inferior format or a even format at all?  Any suggestions on how I should set things up (menu settings, etc)?  My goal would be to get the audio in the format in which it was recorded, to my receiver, so that I can then listen to it as it was intended to be listened to.

Thanks!
mark


Answer
I recommend you study the settings for pcm and dts in your manual. It clearly sets out how to set up the receiver.  Also, the technical specifications of the ps3 are clear:

AV Output
   Screen size: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p
   HDMI**: HDMI out - (x1 / HDMI)
   Analog: AV MULTI OUT x 1
   Digital audio: DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL) x 1
   Blu-ray/DVD/CD DRIVE "read only"

meaning the digital output is a pcm stream through the optical connector or analog multi-channel.

So, I think the problem is in your set up of the two apparatus.  

You can download the Onkyo manual at:
http://www.onkyousa.com/download/own_manuals.cfm?cat=Receiver
and the PS3 at:
http://www.us.playstation.com/Support/PS3/Manuals

Pages 83, 84 and around there from the Onkyo manual give the instructions and guidance on dts listening and what precludes it from going to pcm settings.

Also, go through the audio troubleshooting section on pages 112, 113 area as there are some comments about keeping it locked on to dts and dolby.

So, I suggest you follow the instructions carefully and see if there are settings that will bring the full dts (which is a form of pcm, by the way) to and through the receiver.

Hope this helps. Come back at me if necessary.
Cleggsan