The 970 should pass the HD dvd signal with out any problems to the tv. Just utilize the Toshibas HDMI out and connect straight to the DVI input on the 970. Likewise lead out with the 970 DVI output to either the HDMI or DVI input on the Samsung tv.

You could go straight out of the HD dvd players HDMI output to the tv's input. It is probably a HDMI input but I don't know this for sure. In any event bypassing the 970 would eliminate the need for a second cable running from the 970 to the tv. However, you would be giving up the switching capability offered by the 970 if you choose to take this more direct route. This is just one of those personal preferences you will have to sort through.

I will say that I have connected my Toshiba up to the DVI inputs of both a sony LCD and JVC HDILA with no problems.

As for the audio I suggest hooking up the 6 channel external outputs of the Toshiba to the 6 channel external inputs on the 970. This will allow you to utilize a hi-rez LPCM transmission of Dolby Digital Plus found on all HD dvd's. If you choose Digital coax. or a fiber optic output for your audio you will not be able to use the Dolby Digital Plus soundtrack on the disc. The best you could hope for is DTS or standard Dolby Digital. Neither of these two options are capable of carrying Dolby Digital Plus. Actually the Toshiba will transcode a standard Dolby Digital signal to DTS automatically. Granted DTS and DD are good but they fall short compared to the external 6ch. LPCM Dolby Digital Plus sound track.

Also,if you do run the video through the 970 you will need the HDMI to DVI cables.

Hope this helps.