Maybe i am not tech literate enough but why would analog (RCA?) cable matter for 5.1 audio?

I just change over to Stereo mode (using HDMI).

I assume that without digital-coax, optical or HDMI I cannot get 5.1 audio to my receiver from the STB anyway...or can one get 5.1 signal via analog/RCA cables?

On another note, AT&Ts reputation is tarnished with me and others because of this issue.  So, AT&T save yourself some stamps and quit mailing me promotions for your cell phones as I will never switch given this experience.  And forget me recommending this service to anyone else. I had 2 others on my block that were interested and i was the first and now told them of the issue. As a result they are staying with cable. 

Word travels fast AT&T even without the internet!