When switching from Standard channels to HD channels, my sound levels drop drastically. What's the problem?

Question

i'm currently running an HDMI cable from the Dish Network HD receiver into my TV and a optical audio cable into my sound system Sony Dream System (5.1 dvd & surround). Should i replace the HDMI cable (not sure if current one is up to 1.3 specs)? is it the audio cable? Perhaps its the TV (Sony KDL-32s2000)

Answer 1

Your dish network box needs to be set for PCM output because your tv w/hdmi won't playback 5.1 on the tv sets speakers unless its receiving a Pulse code modulated audio signal  

Answer 2

occasionally there is no problem besides the fact that the channels broadcast in HD use the surround sound are are typically broadcast lower in volume. the SD channels use stereo which rends to be louder. there is sometimes sound check settings on your receiver that enables you to amp the volume to a standard level for all channels. replacing a cable wont fix the problem in my opinion.