I just got an Xbox. I would like to have the DD5.1 sound. My tv is not HD. Can i use the Xbox Hi-Def AV pack hooked to the component inputs on tv and the the optical out to my reciever?

basically what i'm asking is if the av pack supports non-hdtv component connections.

-daveninja

You can get the Advanced AV pack which includes the optical audio connection and s-video connections along with a composite connection *i think*.

Edit: The only video connections on the HD pack is component.

That is correct.

are the component on the HD pack only HD or can they also just do 480i (or whatever non-HD is)?

Just to clear this up in my own mind concerning these two packs...

They both are the same in regards to audio connections; they both have optical out and analog outputs for stereo sound.

They only differ in the video connections they provide...

Advanced AV Pack - S-Video and composite
Hi-Def AV Pack - Component outputs only.

So, buy an AV pack based on your video needs. This has been a PSA.

Edit: The component cables can output regular 480i, which the XBox dashboard is according to the display on my TV.

mtucker: got it. either is good for my DD5.1 needs. there probably isnt much difference between s-video and component non-HD. The HD-AV pack is around for 18-20 bucks. i havent see the Advanced AV pack, but i can imagine it being much cheaper.

Do you have to set something on the xbox to get it to output in anything other than 480i?

In the Video section under Settings on the dashboard, you specify which resolutions your display allows; 480p, 720p, and 1080i. I then assume the game automatically uses the highest resolution it is capable of producing that your display supports, at least I have never done anything inside of a game to set it for 480p for example.

Oddly enough, the two AV packs are about the same price...and I hope you don't think I was spelling out the differences in the two packs too much. I did it mostly for my benefit because I went through some confusion for a while on exactly what connections each pack had.

I need it spelled out. You cant see into the packages at the store to see what connections there are. I'll look for the Advanced AV pack, but may get the HD one if it works on non-HD tv if its about the same price and i cant find the advanced AV pack. I also think i have an open component input on my tv but not an open s-video.

I'm pretty certain that the HD AV pack will work on a non-HD set. It's just component cables, nothing special. One good thing is that the kit comes with the cables and the little connector box.

I just picked one up for my new TV (Samsung 46" DLP), but I haven't tested it out yet.

You can always buy it and try it out. If it doesn't work for some reason, you can return exchange it for the other kit.

I picked up and HD pack today and if it doesnt work on my set up i'll exchange it for the Advanced AV pack. thanks for the help

The hd pack should work fine for you. I am doing the exact same you are right now on my tv.

The HD pack will work fine on a non-HD tv. I have a non-HD 27in flat screen Toshiba in my game room which is connected via component cables.

I also have a 55in MITS HDtv in my living room. I am thinking about moving my xbox to that tv since it is HD and has DTS/DD5.1 sound. My girlfriend would kill me though since she watches TV in there while im playing xbox.

http://www.xbox-scene.com/articles/digital-output.php

I'd highly suggest Option 1 if you have the techie skills of soldering or know someone who does and your reciever has a Coax Digital Input. I did this with the greatest of ease. It also enables the menus for adjusting the sound output for the Xbox. I thought why pay $30 for a simple $3 part that I need? Plus, my warranty was no longer valid considering that:
A) It's more than a year old &
B) I did buy it used at a Gamestop.

I also intend to add a bigger hard drive to it sooner or later to use & abuse the full ability of the system. But of course, that's just my opinion, I could be wrong...

Very helpful posts! My new HD TV will be delivered tomorrow and based on what was said here I went out and got the HD set for the X-Box so that I will be ready to roll! Can't wait to see Soul Calliber and The Simpsons Hit & Run!

Sam