PS3 killing audio when on standby (using audio splitters)?

Question

My surround sound (sony DZ555K) has only one audio input (red + white cable) and my Set Top Box is currently pluged into it, so i got a splitter thats for splitting the cable from one into two.

I turned it around and pluged both the STB and PS3 into the splitter which then connected into the surround sound. It works fine but when I put the PS3 on standby no sound gets through from the STB, but if I turn off the PS3 at the back sound comes through fine. I dont have the same problem with the STB though, PS3 sound comes through fine when that is on standby.

I just want to know if there is some way of changing the PS3 settings because it seems to block the sound when its on standby, its really annoying to always turn the PS3 off at the back.

(in case you were wondering my TV [samsung PS42S5H] doesnt pass the sound through the AV out when using HDMI or composite cables)

Oh, the surround sound also has a DMPORT, if there is some way to use that instead can you tell me.

Thanks

Answer 1

Instead of using a splitter you should have used a switch. The difference is the splitter splits (or the way you used it, combines) audio streams.

A switch allows you to select the source you want and feed only it to the input to your amp.

Switches can be bought pretty cheap (some even have remote controls) and avoid the possibility of damaging equipment (as you are currently risking).

See the links for two inexpensive online option -- or try a local electronics parts store (I bought a 4x1 A/V (composite, S-video, stereo audio) switch with remote control for $25 locally)