Got Shaw Blue Curve and can't get surround sound. I did on the old PVR

I have a Samsung 4K Tv and a Pioneer receiver 

For the sound output on the TV the AV Selection comes up but disappears when you select it 

I am using HDMI from cable box to receiver and HDMI from Receiver to TV

The technician says I may need an optical cable instead of HDMI from the receiver to the TV

Anyone else have this issue?