I use the 7.1 analog out for multich music, stereo music, dvd, and br. I have this set as dvd input source on prepro. I use an optical as well and have that input set as cd on prepro. I run hdmi direct to display/pj in my case. With this config I can play a stereo cd and select dvd input source to hear it via the analog outs or switch prepro to cd input and hear it via optical. Depending on disc it can sound equal or slightly better on one or the other.