How come DAC and Cable dont mix?

Chad,

The TW box outputs Dolby Digital 2.0, 2.1 or 5.1. This is not compatable with a DAC that requires PCM input.

I've tried several different STBs from TW and none of them are configurable for PCM. Sorry, but it ain't gonna work!

TIC

damn I was really pumped about getting it to work too, thanks for the reply Ruebent.

Might ask the local company... CATV mega-companies were generally formed by acquisitions, so there isn't really any standardization, even in systems owned by the same parent (my provider--Comcast--uses Sci. Atlanta STBs, but their system in DC, only 4 miles away, uses Motorola STBs). I have a Sci. Atlanta STB that I can configure to output PCM compatible with my 2CH DAC--my last two STBs by the same mfr couldn't be set up that way.

Dishnetwork outputs PCM via toslink. I just upgraded to the Dish 622 HD box and it gives me a choice of Dolby feeds or exclusive PCM. Yes, my better DAC is an improvement in sound quality.

Your D/AC may have too low a kHz rating to decode the signal.