QUOTE(Maverick0984 @ Aug 11 2009, 08:46 PM)

Spot on.
Acutually, I don't know too many devices that allow audio over HDMI and SPDIF simultaneously. This includes PC's. Honestly, if this were true, the PS3 would be the first I know of.
I suppose some random BluRay player might have the capability, who knows.
I believe the Xbox 360 does this...I know that my HDMI is connected only to my tv and I can just turn up the tv's volume for quiet gaming, or I can use the optical on my AV unit to get sound as well...I have to double check that though.
MY concern with this 3.0 update is two-fold.
#1, the Slim was just announced today at gamescom and they said it will be preloaded with the 3.0 update SANS the Other OS menu item. Ok that's fine, I played with some linux flavors on my phat ps3 but I don't really use it.
#2, Does the 3.0 update REMOVE the Other OS feature on phats as well?
The only reason I ask this, is that if there is much hope for homebrew (XBMC, MKV etc.), wouldn't one of the routes to this be through this ability?
I am simply asking because I don't know. My original thought was to sell my phat for $200 and get a slim for $300 but I don't want to sacrifice future abilities that the community comes up with...Can anyone shed any light on this?