Just like everything else with HD.... the channel has to be broadcasting it that way, and they don't all do it. Some use two channel Dolby, some just use whatever, and some use 5.1 but only for certain programs. I would expect that you'd get 5.1 on BTN HD when they are showing a game.
Also make sure you have your settings correct to output 5.1 from the receiver.
With my Sunfire Theater Grand 4 processor, I'm getting Dolby D on many channels when in fact only the front main speakers are active (stereo), nothing from the rear. Something ain't right when my processor is showing Dolby D but it ain't so. Easy fix is shutting the Dolbly Digital off and using either Dolby Pro Logic 2x or NEO:6 Cinema. Wiith any other source I've ever used, if my Sunfire said Dolby D or Dolby-EX, it was just that. Not true with my HR20-100.
Robin
With my Sunfire Theater Grand 4 processor, I'm getting Dolby D on many channels when in fact only the front main speakers are active (stereo), nothing from the rear. Something ain't right when my processor is showing Dolby D but it ain't so. Easy fix is shutting the Dolbly Digital off and using either Dolby Pro Logic 2x or NEO:6 Cinema. Wiith any other source I've ever used, if my Sunfire said Dolby D or Dolby-EX, it was just that. Not true with my HR20-100.
Robin
Dolby Digital does not have to be 5.1. Some channels use DD 5.1 for prime time shows that have surround, and DD 2.0 for the rest, instead of PCM stereo.