HDMI-DVI vs Component for projector?

[TABCON]

Would using a Belkin Pure AV HDMI-DVI cable be any better than the decent set of component cables I'm currently using for my Sim projector connection?
I purchased the Belkin cable to connect my Imac to my AV system and then found out it won't work on the Imac model I have. Should I switch and use the Pure cable?

Thanks-

Tabcon

 

[darien87]

I have used both an HDMI-to DVI and component cables on my CRT rear projection TV and I noticed NO difference. However I have been told that there is a difference with the high-end LCD TV's and such.

 

[agarwalro]

Theoretically, if you feed comparable signal to comparable cables, both should do equally well. But in actual practice the following is observed...

Over short lengths, < 30ft, in a relatively electro-magnetic noise free environment there will be very little difference.

Over greater lengths, analog signal cables are prone to picking up noise and signal degradation from transmission losses. In this situation, HVMI or DVI will yield a better result.

As if that was not enough, it also depends on the display. Some work better with analog signals, others work better with digital.

 

[flyv65]

If you actually have both cables, why not hook them both up and see if you notice a difference? If not, and you're about to purchase cables then *usually* an HDMI cable is cheaper, but with some components the HDCP handshake will drop periodically and you'll lose the picture untill it reaquires. For that reason, I'd tend to go with the component cables, but that's just my preference: YMMV.

Bryan...component for my DVD, HDMI for my satellite...

 

[JonBaker99]

I would actually say run both cables to your projector. Ultimately HDMI is going to give you better compatibility for future sources. Many sources won't allow you to do 720 or 1080 over component (manufacturers restriction, not a cable limitation). I would run both and then you are covered.

 

[TABCON]

Just a follow up.

I tried the HDMI/DVI cable and it didn't work. As a matter of fact, my receiver didn't work with any HDMI at all. I sent it back to the factory last week to have it repaired. In it's absence, I was loaned a Denon AV957. For around $800 to $1,000, this is a great AVR.

Anyway, I connected the 957 to the Sim with a straight HDMI cable and the difference was amazing. It's almost like having a new projector. Brightness and black levels are now what they should be.

I can't wait to get the 4806 back to try it. But if you're looking for an inexpensive AVR to use, I highly recommend the 957, with the exception of it's remote. It really sucks.

Tabcon

 

[feffpig]

I hooked up both to be sure I never had to run a new cable thru the walls.
Bought the best quality, 35 foot runs both, from monoprice.
Works great so far.
When I get the HD sat receiver in a couple of months, I'll test it with both and see which is best.

To carry the upscaled signal (from 480p to 720p) from the Denon DVD, thru the Denon AVR to the projector, the HDMI turned out to be required. Otherwise, component seems to work as well as HDMI if the resolution is native from source thru to the projector.