The original firmware scans the APID AC3 in just fine. It always has. I suspected that the coded bits results in the weird numbers on the screen.
In "The List!", the three digit code doesn't display, even after manually entering the numbers. So either way, I can blind scan the AC3 APID, or manually enter it using CM. CM shows the three digit code and the AC3 is checked. It all works fine. I just didn't know about the handy formula.
Anyway, I got it working. The 5.1 system I bought was defective out of the box. I took it back and got a refund, no questions asked. Later today, I stopped at a real audio store, and bought a "real" 5.1 audio amplifier with a little bit more cash. It has two programmable optical inputs (hubba-hubba!).
The family is now enjoying the rest of the PBS channels on 125W instead of sharing the 5.1 headphones from hell.
The next thing that will happen will be an upgrade to a BUD and a HD SAT box.
It's amazing what a big tax return can do.
