AV Receiver

• AV receivers accept audio and video signals from various devices for distribution to television screens and speakers. A simple version may have three inputs for connections from a DVD player, a cable box and a VCR to send basic composite video signals to a standard TV and a pair of speakers. Advanced versions may accept high-definition signals from various sources with outputs to the five speakers in a surround-sound system and multiple HDTV viewing screens. An AV receiver adds versatility and control to any home entertainment system.
  
  

HDTV Speakers

• The internal speakers in an HDTV may not produce high quality sound. They may be small or positioned where acoustics deteriorate sound quality or distribution. For some programs that only include voices, this may be sufficient for many viewers. But for music buffs or anyone who prefers higher quality sound, an external speaker system greatly enhances their entertainment experience. Furthermore, some movies and programs include elaborate sound effects that need additional speakers placed behind the viewers.
  
  

HDTV Sound Routing

• A HDTV may have various input ports for several signal sources with a control to select which ones go to the screen and speakers. Some signal formats have separate connections for audio and video, and operators can route the sound to external speakers. However, an HDMI connection or a signal from an antenna or direct cable input includes video and audio, and routes the sound to the HDTV's internal speakers. If you want to play the sound on external speakers, turn down the volume and connect the digital audio output to your AV receiver.
  
  

Alternate Connections

• If your AV receiver has the correct inputs and outputs, you may have better luck routing the sound from all signal sources into it. If your cable or satellite receiver has an antenna input, you can use the turner in either to select stations, and route their video and audio outputs into the AV receiver, along with inputs from all your other devices. Route the video out of the AV receiver to your HDTV and the sound to your speakers. The AV receiver then acts as the command central for your entire system.