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Resolved Question

Smart TV and Pioneer SX 850 receiver

Feb 18, 2015 6:23AM PST

I have a new Samsung 55" Smart TV and a just acquired immaculate Pioneer SX 850 receiver. From looking at the back of my TV and from documentation I've read, all the outputs from my TV are digital. I would like to be able to route the TV sound through my receiver to my home speakers, but can't figure out a way to do it. Any suggestions? I've tried the following:

1. Audio out on the TV to the AUX input on the receiver - no sound.
2. Looked for, and did not find, a headphone jack on the TV.

Please help if you can. Thanks!

Larry

Discussion is locked

lfroboz has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer
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Clarification Request
(NT) Can't find the 55 inch TV model number. Please add that.
Feb 18, 2015 6:38AM PST
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Model number
Feb 18, 2015 6:41AM PST

Sorry I forgot to add that. The model number is: UN55H6300AFXZA

Best Answer

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OK, using this link.
Feb 18, 2015 6:51AM PST
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Audio out
Feb 18, 2015 7:17AM PST

Thank you for your help. I followed the link you gave me, and indeed saw the spec showing it had an audio out mini jack. Unfortunately, I could not find a diagram or picture showing the location of that jack. I just wrote Samsung and asked them to help. We'll see what they write back. I'll post that info here just in case it helps someone else.

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How about this pic?
Feb 18, 2015 7:35AM PST
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Picture on visual guide
Feb 18, 2015 7:44AM PST

Hi Bob;

I did try a 3.5 mm mini cable in the jack and it did not appear to fit. I'll try it again, just in case I had the plug misaligned with the audio out on the TV. I'm at work now, so won't have a chance to try it till this evening. Thanks again for your help.

Larry

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Is there a cable or sat box in the mix?
Feb 18, 2015 12:55PM PST

Or are you watching TV using only an external antenna connected to your HDTV? Just want to be clear.

IME, you may not be completely satisfied using an older stereo receiver (1970s model?) with a digital HDTV, even one w/ a remnant analog out output. Sometimes the minijack to 'Y' connection (to accomodate the red/white inputs in back of the Pioneer) just doesn't work like it should. YMMV. It will be a night and day difference if you could even add an inexpensive All-in-One entry level system w/ surround sound and all the correct digital inputs, etc. Second hand audio shops are great places to find deals as such.

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Old receiver vs. new surround
Feb 18, 2015 1:33PM PST

You may be absolutely correct, but I want to give it a try if it is possible. I do know it's gotta be better than the inexpensive sound bar I'm currently using. By the way, there is a DirecTV box in the system. Unfortunately, my budget for audio/video equipment is shot for now, after just moving into a new house, buying new speakers and picking up the Pioneer receiver in immaculate condition.

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"Better" is subjective
Feb 19, 2015 12:21AM PST

Understand, you are referring to a receiver that is from the late 1970s, without the connectivity you require. There simply is no demand for such electronics anymore for a good reason. The soundbar on the other hand, *would* at least be compatible with your new HDTV, since it does likely contain the correct digital optical input(s). Sound quality may of course be an issue <ahem>, but at least you would have something to tide you over.

I bet if you look around a little more, you could find an inexpensive AV receiver which would fit your budget. Been there, done that. I have seen plenty of 5.1 rigs for <$100, sometimes including speakers & sub. Your current (presumably, only stereo?) speakers could still be used with a 5.1 AV receiver- just connect the front right/left and configure output for stereo only if programmable.

Keep in mind that immediately you could utilize the surround sound output from your DirecTV box via a simple digital optical to the aforementioned ~ $100 surround rig. HDMI could go directly to the HDTV, etc. If you need more help with connections feel free to ask...

cheers

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Continued demand for Pioneer SX line of receivers
Feb 20, 2015 1:17AM PST

You hold the same opinion of vintage stereo equipment that many others have, but many others still love these old receivers. As I wrote above to Bob, these receivers are still in very high demand and get top dollar due to various factors such as sound quality, quality of build (many have never needed a repair), and they just look good. I'm happy with this system as a home audio system as it gives me all I want, but as I mentioned above, I may find another solution for video options as this setup requires me to manually change the volume. A small thing, I know, but it does get to be a pain in the butt sometimes. Hmmmm. How in the world did we ever survive before remote controls? Have a good weekend and thank you for your thoughts and suggestions.

Larry

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I moved into separates for awhile
Feb 20, 2015 2:58AM PST

I found that even more rewarding, personally. Found some relatively inexpensive Carver amps at fire sale prices and was hooked. Gave up that hobby though when other ones (and kids) started demanding more of my time.

To be perfectly frank with you though, it's only the higher end SX models that truly get discussed, such as the 1080 and higher. I don't see anything special about their other SX receivers, especially when I hear about the arguably crappy speakers some folks decide to pair them with Wink
It's probably a matter of personal taste though.

I really like the C2s though. Especially if you don't have particular bass-heavy music to deal with. They sound nice for that(!)

Have fun

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Success!
Feb 20, 2015 1:09AM PST

Hi Bob;

Thank you for all your help with this sound hookup. Last night I connected the audio out on the TV to my Pioneer receiver Tape 1 input, held my breath and turned everything on. After adjusting volume and tone controls, selecting a movie to test it out on, the system responded flawlessly, with great sound from my two Energy Connoisseur C-2 bookshelf speakers. I can't believe how good it sounds.

For those who are unfamiliar with the 1970's Pioneer SX line of receivers, you have missed a wonderful experience. Even today, those receivers, ranging from the very modest SX-450 up to the monster SX-1250, are highly sought after and command top dollar when they are in good condition. Mine is near mint. Their quality was such that many of them are still operating strongly today without ever needing a repair.

In spite of all the previous praise, I might seek another, more modern solution, and it's because of something you mentioned the other day Bob. In order to adjust the volume, I must get up and do it manually, as there were no such things as remote controls for receivers back in the mid 70's. I'll still enjoy my receiver while listening to FM, playing cd's, or the occasional vinyl.

Thanks again for your help. Have a great weekend.

Larry

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(NT) Even better now. Thanks for the report!.
Feb 20, 2015 3:28AM PST