Why would you use HDMI cables when wireing a reciever?

Question

Installing a home theater system, why run the sound signal through HDMI? Does it send a better singal than regular componet cables? Is it worth it to get a reciever with HDMI inputs?

Answer 1

First of all your hdmi cables run audio and video reducing the overall number of connections you have to make and the over all number of cables you have to manage. Secondly, its the best possible connection you can currently use for video or audio. Its the only connection through which you can transmit all of the fancy new audio formats you find on hd dvd and blu ray disc (dolby hd etc). YES it is most def worth the money to get a reciver with hdmi inputs. Check out ONKYO( i like the 605) and Yamaha. Both of these brands have a range of recivers with hdmi from low to mid price ranges and are in the top 5 best companies that make recivers.

Answer 2

You'd run HDMI cables for your home theater so that you could input multiple devices to your receiver and and use it to switch between inputs so you don't have to change source on your TV every time you change what device you want to use, such as a DVD player, video game or cable/satellite box.  Personally, I'm not so sure once can say it sends a "better signal" than components, as it sends a digital signal rather than an analog.  With component the digital to analog conversion is done by one device then sent to another by an analog means.  HDMI sends a digital signal from one device to allow another to decode it.  Is it worth is?  Depends, if you can afford it, go for it.  If you're not buying hi-end equipment all around and you're just splurging on the receiver, I'd recommend using the money on a better DVD player, TV or speakers.  No point in using the best patch cord to supply the signal to cheap speakers and a poor TV.

Answer 3

HDMI is mainly for convenience.  Allowing you to simplify your connections from multiple audio formats with one cable.

Answer 4

HDMI is NOT the best sound source.  Run the signal through the coaxial port instead.  Make sure you get yourself a good coax cable as well.  I use a Kimber Kable AGDL with WBT NexGen silver RCA.  It's pricey ($550 for 1.5m) but was definitely worth it as it's the best I've ever heard movies through my system (comparing to optical and HDMI).