Bitstream or pcm is for the digital audio output, not the analog. I didn't notice a drop-off in bass when I switched to the HD-A1 and direct analog connection. I plan on making a digital connection and running a calibration dvd to check the levels between the two. I'll let y'all know how it turns out. By the way, I totally agree with mktheater about the sound quality of the two Dolby TrueHD soundtracks I've heard.

--Chuck