I'll be looking to help someone out with hdmi audio.
I was curious, though, if nvidia or ati is better for having hdmi audio work.
Intel supposedly has open source drivers so it would seem you don't have to do as much tweaking?
I read that with open source ati drivers, you have to edit the grub config file. Oh, with kernel 3.5, you don't have to do this or? I believe there is support with kernel 3.5 on.
Else, you would have to install the Catalyst (binary) drivers.
As for Nvidia, nouveau doesn't have hdmi audio driver support so you have to install the binary Nvidia drivers.
I believe you have a couple of choices (Debian and Nvidia ways?) but they require some manual configuration. It's in the manual, too.
So, what is the recommended setup if you are in the market for a cheap, 'htpc' video card and want hdmi audio?
P.S. Thanks, vilda. I think part of your post will help me.
I've read a bit about ALSA and hdmi audio.