Linear PCM vs Bitstream through HDMI. Help!!!

So I got a PS3, and I'm having trouble getting 5.1 surround sound from my PS3. I have the connection going from the PS3 through HDMI to my relatively new sony reciever, then HDMI out from the reciever to my plasma. When I output Linear PCM through HDMI, however, my reciever wants to display audio in a 2-channel output, despite the fact that the reciever SAYS it is getting "Linear PCM 5.1."

Of course, if I change my settings to Bitstream output, I get the glorius 5.1 surround I want, except certain games and a couple discs I have ONLY have Linear PCM audio, and during these instances I don't hear center or surround speakers, which makes for a heady experience since all I hear is the SFX tracks on the L and R speakers.

Is it a setting in my PS3, or a setting on my reciever? Keep in mind it's a Sony reciever, less than a year old. Any help would be great.

Thanks.

So I got a PS3, and I'm having trouble getting 5.1 surround sound from my PS3. I have the connection going from the PS3 through HDMI to my relatively new sony reciever, then HDMI out from the reciever to my plasma. When I output Linear PCM through HDMI, however, my reciever wants to display audio in a 2-channel output, despite the fact that the reciever SAYS it is getting "Linear PCM 5.1."

Of course, if I change my settings to Bitstream output, I get the glorius 5.1 surround I want, except certain games and a couple discs I have ONLY have Linear PCM audio, and during these instances I don't hear center or surround speakers, which makes for a heady experience since all I hear is the SFX tracks on the L and R speakers.

Is it a setting in my PS3, or a setting on my reciever? Keep in mind it's a Sony reciever, less than a year old. Any help would be great.

Thanks.

styphin

There be a lot of Letters that dont make words in there, boy. i lost you at surround sound.