Should I use PCM or Bitstream audio with my Blu-Ray player?

Question

What is the best audio output to use when connected via HDMI?

I'm using Samsung BD 1400 and a Samsung 720p TV.

Which would give me the best audio on DVDs and Blu-Rays?

Answer 1

If you have a compatible receiver ( HDMI switching or repeater receiver ) set PCM.

Answer 2

Since you are talking about Blu-ray the best audio is high definition audio which can only be done over an HDMI cable. This is called Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD audio. This is 24 bit 7.1 audio. But you also need a separate receiver to decode the audio and a 7.1 (or 5.1) speaker system to hear it.

The second best audio is bitstream which is 16 bit 5.1 audio. Again you need a separate receiver and speakers to hear it.

PCM audio is 16 bit stereo or 2 channel audio. If you only have a TV set and no HT (home theater) system it doesn't much matter since the TV will downmix everything to 2 channel stereo.

Answer 3

Assuming you don't have a home theater system, it really isn't going to make a l**k of difference.  Assuming you did have on though PCM would probably be fine if you were attached to the TV only, if you bought a receiver then you would choose bitstream because PCM is stereo only (no surround sound) bitstream on the other hand supports DTS 5.1 and Dolby Surround.

Answer 4

Many TVs don't even play bitstream audio over HDMI.

Since your TV has only two speakers, PCM will be fine.