HDMI to 5.1 Analog Converter - Is there such a thing?

[JackBurton]

Is there a device available that converts an hdmi signal to 5.1 analog? I like the receiver I have but it does not have hdmi inputs (Pioneer VSX-1015TX (http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/product/detail/0,,2076_4153_209686388,00.html)). In the future if I were to get a standalone HD/BR player, I'd have to get one with 5.1 outputs. But, if I were to get a PS3 or something else that only output hdmi, is there any way to get the lossless sound without upgrading my receiver?

I'm sure its likely that a device like this would be too expensive (not cost effective over getting a new receiver) if it where to exist. I'm just curious.

[DVD Josh]

Jack, the PS3 has an optical out.

[Patman]

Sounds like Jack wants lossless audio, which means he'll need a pre-pro/receiver that will handle HDMI input and process the audio portion and spit out the lossless audio channels via low-level outputs (pre-pro), or to the speakers directly (with a receiver).

The optical audio output on a PS3 will not quite give you lossless audio, but somewhat compressed audio - but it'll take good ears and equipment to hear a major difference between lossless and somewhat compressed audio channels.

[Spiky]

I'd have to say the answer is: every other BD player except the PS3. There's even one cheaper than the PS3 now, even after the price cut.