View Full Version : DVI to HDMI or component Cables?
cnyreject
02-17-2005, 08:58 PM
Ok, guess my question is this. I getting a STB with DVI output. My Hitachi will have HDMI. So my choices are either go with a converter cable to convert from DVI to HDMI or to go the component cables. What's are all you other folks with this problem doing and what are the pros and cons to either?
:hyper: My TV IS COMING!!!!!
Many people try both and see what they like better. See the FAQ on DVI Connectors.
cnyreject
02-17-2005, 10:34 PM
Well reading your write-up has made me feel that I probably can't lose with component cables but could with DVI to HDMI. Also, if there is no advantage to the DVI to HDMI in regards to PQ then there does not seem to be any rationale reason why go with that approach over components.
So componenets will be my connections.
As usual thanks 57U
Perhaps you could borrow a cable to check the digital connection someday. Which model TV do you have?
HookemHorns
02-18-2005, 12:05 PM
Well reading your write-up has made me feel that I probably can't lose with component cables but could with DVI to HDMI. Also, if there is no advantage to the DVI to HDMI in regards to PQ then there does not seem to be any rationale reason why go with that approach over components.
So componenets will be my connections.
As usual thanks 57U
The only rationale reason I can think of to go with that approach would be that it would free up one more component input.
flyonthewall
02-18-2005, 12:15 PM
I would stick w/ component cable. I tried DVI/HDMI on my tv and saw no difference. And mine is a DLP, the type of TV where you potentially could see a benefit. Plus, w/ the DVI/HDMI hookup I sometimes had pix issues related to sequence of turning on/off TV and STB. My cable company gave me the HDMI cable and I went out and bought adapter from Best Buy. Took it back after my "failed" experiment.
cnyreject
02-18-2005, 05:08 PM
57U sorry, did not see your last question about what TV I got. Well got is premature but should have any day a refurbished 57F510 from UEC. :hyper:
The reason I asked is you're less likely to see a difference if your TV is a CRT-based RPTV like yours.
That's not to say that there won't BE a difference, but that's usually due to the calibration of the input, not the cable itself, as mentioned in the FAQ. that's why results are so varied - it's probably random...
cnyreject
02-19-2005, 08:25 AM
Well been thinking about the connections and wondering. If i get the Pace 550 STB and use the DVI to HTML connection to the Hitachi, can I then move my DVD to the first component inputs and then have component connectivity for my XBOX via the video 2. Yes this old fart likes to play games! :)
If this is a doible thing, which I think it is, how does the HDMI interact with the number one composite? Is this something to be concerned about or not?
eberrong
02-19-2005, 09:49 AM
I just hooked my SA8300HD set top box with an HDMI output to my Sony KP57WS500 DVI input with a cheap ($20) HDMI-DVI adapter cable from ebay. I calibrated all inputs, then compared the DVI picture with component. It was a tough call. The DVI picture on HDTV was just a touch sharper, but the component had more vibrant colors. In the end I kept the DVI connection, I felt it was a little sharper and the colors were a bit more life-like. I thought the colors on component were more vibrant than real life.
Definately not a night and day difference.
cnyreject
02-19-2005, 09:55 AM
Thanks eberrong, but i am aware of the possible differences of the 2 various types of connectors. My question, i guess, is more specific. What problems, if any, might I encounter if I connect my STB DVI to my HDMI which, I think, is part of video 1 on the Hitachi 57F510. Then connect my DVD using component cables to the component section of video 1?
cnyreject: The pace STB may be "active" all the time, even when turned off. Since HDMI has priority, you'd not be able to see the component video connection unless you yanked the HDMI cable. Most cable STBs are always sending a signal, even when off, but I'm not positive about the Pace.
cnyreject
02-19-2005, 09:44 PM
Thanks 57U, but I have already gotten the PACE and they did NOT give me DVI to HDMI cable so im going to use component. Also the XBOX cable upgrade I have only puts out S-video or RCA video. So the XBOX will use a S-video connector.
cnyreject
03-02-2005, 09:53 PM
Ok, well I have gotten my TV and put the Pace STB on DVI ->HDMI cable and bought off ebay a HD upgrade for my Xbox. I put the Xbox on Component video 1. I then shut off the Pace and fired up the Xbox . Whalla , the blessed Xbox logo appeared. :hyper:
One happy camper :)
