HDMI or Component cables?

Question

It is my understanding that HDMI carries audio also but as far as video which is best HDMI or Component?

Answer 1

You are correct in your statement about the audio capabilities of HDMI, and it can do much more as well (will go into that in a moment). I do training Nationally for Monster Cable, and this is a big focus of our trainings.

As far as the picture quality difference the only time that you would really notice the difference in the overall quality of the image is if you were trying to display an image that was 1080p, but unfortunately nothing has a component video output of 1080p at this point. So as far as noticing the difference its not something that is really obvious to the naked eye unless you really compared them side by side for long times, or watched a calibration disc.

Now what HDMI will give you that Component video will not is:
1 - Ability to transmit uncompressed Digital Video.
2 - Ability to transmit up to 8 channels of digital audio (its still up in the air if fiber optic cables will be able to handle the new Dolby Digital and DTS surround formats on Blu-Ray and HD DVD players - HDMI can)
3 - HDMI also transmits control functionality as well. Currently there are only a few brands that have this capability, but at CES next week more vendors are jumping on board. With this feature (currently found on Panasonic) you can turn on your DVD Player and your Television will automatically turn on, and switch to the correct input as well. This feature is called HDMI-AVI, keep an eye out for this.
4 - HDMI also has Auto-Formatting capabilities as well. This also has to be on the devices too, but what this does is takes care of movies on DVD that aren't the same aspect ratio of your television. There is a formatting capability built into the cable that will fix that too.

I hope that helped. If you have any additional questions don't hesitate to email me or contact me through my blog below.

Answer 2

HDMI is a pure digital signal and component is analog. If your DVD/Satelite box supports HDMI, a digital to digital connection between your box and tv is preferable. HDMI cables are expensive though and I would recommend searching for one to buy online. I bought a decent cable online for $30. Not name brand, but cheaper than the electronic stores that charge over $100 for the same (length) and the cable does what it is supposed to do. Component is no slouch either and most people can't tell the difference in quality. More importantly, check with your tv and make sure what resolutions (420p, 720p, 1080p) are supported using a Component cable and what is supported using a HDMI cable. The higher resolution the better.

Answer 3

HDMI 1.3 will carry 7.1 surround as well as 1080p video
resolution. Older versions of HDMI will only do video.

Component video only carries the video signal and will
do an honest 720p. Some say it will do 1080p, but I'm
not so sure that it will.

HDMI is the superior choice in my experience...
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Answer 4

HDMI is better than component, however, you need to have a t.v. that has HDMI inputs to use it.

Answer 5

HDMI is better than component

Answer 6

HDMI

Answer 7

HDMI or DVI