$80 or $12 video component cable? is there a big difference in picture quality?

Answer 1

It's more about which brand is better than price. You can spend
$80 and get inferior cables to $12 brands.

I recommend getting either the least expensive gold plated RCA
connector component cables or DH Labs if you want a better
cable for the money in a high-end set of component cables..

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Answer 2

You will find little difference in picture quality with short cables 6 ft or shorter. When you start looking at longer distances, they are more prone to electromagnetic interference and overall signal degradation. That is where the more expensive materials come in. There is EMI shielding and cable casing that will preserve and protect your picture quality.

If you are going for a 3-6 ft, any cables will work. Even a set of cheap composite cables will work. Most people don't know that composite and component cables are wired the same way. Match the colors and voila, you got component cables.

If you are going for a 6-12 ft cable, I would spend a little more maybe up to $25.

If you are going beyond 12 ft, then it is worth the investment to spend $50-$80. If you spend anymore, then you better have one good damn home theater. If you are really spending this much, then it makes you wonder why you are not investing this money into DVI or HDMI equipment.

Answer 3

Yes, crappy materials keep the price on some cables low, but also add signal noise and are often not as well insulated from other electromagnetic interference. Monster, THX-certified cables, or higher are the way to go. You do get what you pay for. If you've bought a nice new HDTV, put a little more money into the cables to get a really REALLY good picture. Same goes for sound cables.

Answer 4

When you are buying a video component I don't think it really matters. I think all you would need is good satellite reception.