Video Connection Cables

[Zonker]

Do the type of video cables affect the picture quality. I am interested in an HDTV with only 1 HDMI input, but it also has several component video inputs.

In the future, I would like an HD DVD. Will component work just as well?

 

[BMXTRIX]

Tough love answer: It depends, and there is no way to know for sure.

In theory, HDMI is supposed to be the best possible connection for HD material. But, it is still 1080i or 720p that is being carried. So, in practice it is often found that HDMI does not produce a better image, but the exact same image, or sometimes an inferior image when compared to component.

I won't switch to anything different than component video for a while yet. At least until more A/V receivers are available with HDMI switching built in and 1080p support.

 

[Mort Corey]

Best guess is no. The players will likely require some form of HDCP copy protection over a digital output. Most all of the present "upconverting" type players only output the higher resolutions over DVI/HDMI so I'd expect any HD player to follow along those lines.

Mort