What do you mean exactly by: "If you try to connect any other cable type (component or anything) the system will not work."

We've done that coax hook up (and a few other variations) and nothing works. That set up is what used to work before. What you didn't mention is the RCA jacks. What about them?

I'm actually resigned at this point to the thing just not working. We've got the DVD connected normally now (without the HDMI), so at least it works. I'm bummed, though. I like to record off of TV.