[mythtv-users] Question/Recommendation: Amplifier w/SPDIF w/RS232?

[Brad DerManouelian]

On Jul 20, 2009, at 11:51 AM, mythtv at derdev.com wrote:

> I'm planning my first installation of a standlone front-end (away  
> from my
> Hybrid).  TV and stereo receiver are gonna get replaced, so this is  
> much a
> request for recommended hardware as it is how to control it...
>
> I'm comfortable with using an RS232 from the Frontend to the LCD  
> HDTV to
> tell it to power on, etc.
>
> I'm having some trouble with SPDIF and it not controlling volume on an
> amplifier. ( http://www.mythtv.org/wiki/SPDIF )
>
> If SPDIF (and VPDAU) support is the right way to build a new  
> solution, I'm
> a little lost on how the receiver gets controlled via the frontend.
>
> Do I need to integrate a handful of the receiver's controls into a
> universal remote and put up an IR repeater for the (hidden) receiver?
> (Mostly to control volume and possibly change input source to  
> accommodate
> the Wii)?
>
> Or, is there a combination of RSR232 and SPDIF that works with a  
> frontend
> for control of an amplifier (that isn't making the solution 'more
> complex').  Am I thinking too much about this?  Is it a case of "many
> suitable options, just pick one"?
>
> Guidance and any product- or brand-specific votes appreciated!

Are you objecting to using the volume knob on your receiver (or remote  
codes to adjust volume there)?