HDMI/DVI/Component Questions (I read the FAQ)

[Serbonze]

I recently purchased the new Sony A10 LCD TV to replace my Sony RP. I should be able to pick it up next week. I have a Scientific Atlanta HD-DVR cable box through Brighthouse Networks, and a surround sound system that I watch all tv and dvd movies through.

I currently use component cables for both my tv and dvd player. I was quite confused about the difference between all the cables, and then I had a chance to read the FAQ (wish I would have found that a year ago!).

I just want to clarify a few things:

1. HDMI and DVI are essentially the same cable. HDMI just adds an audio feed. Since I watch all of my TV through my surround sound system, the HDMI cable would not be necessary for my situation. The DVI cable would be the correct choice for both tv and dvd watching on the new LCD set?

2. There would probably be no PQ change by switching from component to DVI using my RP set, because it's an analog signal. I might find an increase in PQ however, once I get the LCD set. (what are the chances of getting an increase in PQ quality?)

3. There is a possibility that by using a DVI cable, the "stretch" function will not be available on the tv when viewing SD cable, because the tv will think it is getting a HD feed.

Thanks all!

[57U]

1. The SA8000HD has DVI, the SA8300HD has HDMI. You would use the appropriate cable. You can't plug a DVI into an HDMI, the connectors are different.

2. Chances? Let's say 70/30? It depends on the calibration of the input, but its "likely" that you'll see a difference. An LCD-based RPTV will look different than a CRT-based RPTV to begin with since LCDs are typically 720P, 768P or 788P, while CRTs are 1080i in their native format.

3. Most TVs will react properly, provided the STB is set up properly to send 480i or 480P signals for SD channels to the TV. IF the STB is set up to send 720P/1080i on an SD channel, then most TVs cannot stretch those signals. I have not heard of issues with Sony. (I have with some Samsungs)

[Serbonze]

1. The SA8000HD has DVI, the SA8300HD has HDMI. You would use the appropriate cable. You can't plug a DVI into an HDMI, the connectors are different.

Oh, you know I hadn't even thought about the output on the cable box! I guess that would limit me to the choice of cable. :D

2. Chances? Let's say 70/30? It depends on the calibration of the input, but its "likely" that you'll see a difference. An LCD-based RPTV will look different than a CRT-based RPTV to begin with since LCDs are typically 720P, 768P or 788P, while CRTs are 1080i in their native format.

That sounds like a good argument to try out a new cable (whichever the cable box will support).

3. Most TVs will react properly, provided the STB is set up properly to send 480i or 480P signals for SD channels to the TV. IF the STB is set up to send 720P/1080i on an SD channel, then most TVs cannot stretch those signals. I have not heard of issues with Sony. (I have with some Samsungs)

Not to sound ignorant, but what is STB (standard broadcast?) Currently my cable box is set up to send 480i on standard definition channels.

[Ratman]

STB = Set Top Box
an external receiver (satellite, cable or over the air)

[Serbonze]

STB = Set Top Box
an external receiver (satellite, cable or over the air)

oh :whistle:

I just checked the specs online. The Sony LCD only has an HDMI input, however my cable box has HDMI output. I'll do a search for a cheaper alternative to the Monster cables that are sold at the local retailers. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

[57U]

I'll do a search for a cheaper alternative to the Monster cables that are sold at the local retailers. Any suggestions?You may wish to try the first part of the FAQ that you read... ;)

[Serbonze]

Just placed an order. :cool:

I picked up a an HDMI cable from monoprice.com for about $28 shipped to the house. I'm so glad that this board is around. I would have payed four times that amount from the local retailer. This is a much cheapers way of comparing picture quality.

When I was home for lunch I looked at my DVD player, and it only has component out, so I will have to keep that as is. Unless of course I picked up a new DVD player. Hmmm..... :D