What do I gain by using an HDMI cable over Component cables?

Question

I have DISH Nework's HD DVR (VIP 722) and a SHARP "Aquos" 32" LCD TV (1080p, Contrast Ratio 10,000:1).

The DVR's highest capability is 1080i and It is connected through Component cables which allows it to display Video in 1080i. I have not yet tried HDMI and I wonder if there is a difference.

Answer 1

Well, the HDMI cable is usually cheaper.

The HDMI cable can show a reduction in artifacts on cheaper televisions because they dont do a good internal analog->digital conversion with the component cable.

HDMI includes audio and has provisions for new, un-compressed audio formats.

HDMI has problems with longer (over 15 ft) runs so slightly more expensive cables are recommended for long runs.

The down side: handshaking is sometimes a problem with HDMI switching from one device to another. Sometimes the HDCP causes problems and makes the screen go blank.

Some receivers strip off the audio with HDMI forcing you to use your AV receiver for everything.

On most sets - there should be little difference in video quality between good component cables and HDMI. People that see a difference usually have the HDMI brightness/contrast/color balance setup differently.

Answer 2

You won't see any difference.  Don't listen to these nuts that tell you to get expensive cables.  I PROMISE you will not see any difference at all with hdmi over component

Answer 3

The main thing is that the only way to get a true 1080p signal is via HDMI. Next year when they start to roll out digital signals and 1080p is being broadcast over cable/satellite, it's really the only way you'll be able to view the highest quality.

I can't confirm, but my HD DVR is hooked up via HDMI and I know that the 1080i picture looks a bit better.

When I first hooked up my 360 through HDMI, I instantly noticed the increase in brightness and sharpness.

Answer 4

Since your display will natively display at at 30 frames a 60i image only requires a small amount of processing, therefore the difference should be quite small. However what device does a better job of image processing? In most cases it is the source device has the upper hand. So for that reason I would say stick with component, as you should reserve the hdmi connection for something that needs it. Component will have no handshake issues and is capable of longer distances and is less prone to interference. HDMI is just there for nervous studios

Answer 5

I've used both on all of my components and have detected zero difference in picture quality (dish 1080i DVR, 1080p upconverting DVD and HD DVD). The biggest advantage I see is it cleans up the cable mess. It's much neater to run 1 cable from each HD component.

Answer 6

the HDMI is a little bit crisper not even noticable to normal people