Just ordered a HT system which includes the Onkyo TX-DS575X receiver. Looking forward to DTS sound! But what kind of cable do I need? I hear terms like coaxial and optical thrown around, but don't know which I need to get to get the best sound for DTS. Can anyone tell me just exactly what kind of cable I need to buy (and heck, even where to order it online; I'm easy). I have a Monster S-video for the video; but I don't think I have anything special for the audio (my husband *thinks* it's a coaxial cable currently hooked up to the DVD player?).

Also, the rear speakers I bought (small bookcase-type speakers, maybe 9" high and 5" wide) I guess I'll need to get shelves to put them on. Again, do I just get some plain ol' shelves from Home Depot or should I order something "nice" for them too?

Peggy

If your DVD player has an optical out on it use an optical cable.

If your DVD player only has a coaxial output you will just need a simple RCA audio patch cord that is 75ohms.

If your DVD player has both optical and coaxial outputs it really doesn't matter what output you use. You are not going to hear any discernable difference between optical or coaxial. Some people claim they can hear a difference but I would put them to that challenge any day and prove them wrong.

You can pick up either of these cables at radio shack. The optical cable is also known as Toslink.

For your rear speakers I would put them on a decent pair of stands(if you have the room). Shelves can absorb too much of the sound of the speakers. If you want to do shelves, try it. If it sounds good to you then that is all that matters.

Thanks for the help. I guess I'm able to keep my current cable. I was just confused, thinking that I needed something special for the DTS in addition to having the decoder.

Guess I will just order another pair of stands. Spacing *is* a little tight, but I'll see what rearrangement can do.

If I can ask yet another question: The rears say: "The new S200 multipole wall-mountable surrounds that allow you to switch between bipole and dipole dispersion." What is the difference between bipole and dipole?

A dipole speaker basically has two sets of speakers in one enclosure with one set out of phase with the other. Dipoles are especially useful if you have an oddly shaped room or if placement is a problem becuase it opens up the sound field and disperses the sound. A bipole speaker uses one set of the speakers in the enclosure so you would want them pointed at the listening position. Once you get your speakers where they are going to go try the two different switch settings and see which one you like best.