Colossus 1 & 5.1 AC3

[mocarob]

I recently started capturing with a Colossus 1, VHD splitter & My Dtv HR24.. (have used 1212 & 1512 for years)
To enable 5.1 (on the colossus) I have to unplug the HDMI feed to my LG TV or else it switches to 2.0 AAC.. I assume it has to do with the fact that the TV is 2.0..
Is there any workaround that would allow 5.1 with everything connected? Also, Whenever I use the Colossus a message pops up on my screen from the HR24 DVR that asks me if I want to program my remote with the new device. Does that factor in somehow? I just decline the pop up.. Furthermore, HDMI control is turned off on the HR24. (if that matters)

Q2: I was originally using a 25ft HDMI cable to feed the Colossus but for some reason it would only feed it 2.0 AAC until I swapped it out for 2 shorter cables coupled together. Voila. 5.1.. Can somebody explain that to me? Bad/old cable? Was the length an issue for carrying the signal? I know USB has a max length before needing a repeater - Is HDMI the same way?
Thanks..

[redwudz]

Q2: I use a 50 foot HDMI cable to my video projector with no problems. But it is a high quality cable from Monoprice.

Q1: Are you using a powered active HDMI splitter? That solves some HDCP problems with HDMI connections.

[mocarob]

Q1: Yes. The VHD (HDCP) splitter is powered.. I get video just fine. It's the AAC audio that is a problem. I assume it has to do with the EDID of the TV removing 5.1 surround..
The only workaround I've found is switching the TV to the component input while capturing (HDMI is still attached but not active).