HDMI or Component Video?

[mitch57]

I'm trying to decide which way to go when I hook up my new HD plasma display.

Setup #1: My receiver (Denon 3805) has component out which I'm thinking of connecting to the plasma. I would then connect my Tivo HR10-250 box with either S Video or Component to the receiver which will up convert it to component. I would also connect my DVD player to the receiver via component.

Setup #2: Connect my HR10-250 Tivo to the plasma via HDMI and the optical audio out to the receiver. I would also connect my DVD player to the plasma via component.

I'm thinking for the highest quality video signal setup #2 would be the way to go. But then again for simplicity and ease of hookup setup #1 would be the best option.

Will I really notice a big difference in picture quality between setup #1 and #2? The other issue is whether or not my new Panny TH-50PX50U has discrete codes (that actually work) for changing inputs. If they are toggle codes only, setup #2 is most likely going to be hit and miss at best.

Any thoughts on this?

 

[MAX661]

I would go with setup 2, I figure why add something in the middle of the signal if there is no need for it. Also with HDMI the signal stays digital, so I think it's the best route for a digital display.

 

[RJB]

I would agree with MAX661, I would go for option 2...

I did the same thing with my setup. Does your DVD player have HDMI too? If it does and your TV has more than 1 HDMI input I would also suggest hooking up the DVD player that way too.

In theory there is a better picture with HDMI plus the bonus of it carrying digital audio at the same time ( if you need it ). Some folks say Component is still better but my belief is that it depends on your equipment. I did try both Component & HDMI and found the HDMI slightly better in my case.