when using a high def TV, does the type of cables make the picture better?

Answer 1

Darn right. 1080p (the highest definition) can ONLY be achieved by HDMI. Don't be fooled by the pricier version. An HDMI cable is a HDMI cable, no matter how you put it. RGB goes up to 1080i (next highest definition). The subject on pricier cables is split between people thinking it does better and people that doesn't think it does any good. My opinion is that they don't. A lot claim that it reduces interference, etc. You only need that if you get a "hum" via your television from either sight or noise. Otherwise, for most of us, it's a waste of money (IE: Monster Cable). But again, it does make a big difference. Cable companies also only go up to 1080i right now for high-def so if you plan on using ONLY a cable box, stick with RGB. If you plan on watching Blu-Ray, HDMI is the way to go.

Also, some people can't tell the difference between 1080i and p with smaller screens. If you have a large screen like I do (65 inch), HDMI makes ALL the difference.

You shouldn't go with standard coax cable (unless you have a cable card) or RCA cables or even S-Video when you hook up things to your HDTV. It makes it look terrible most of the time and will be reduced to 480i for co-ax (the lowest definition).

I also disagree with Chelee. You should get your cable provider to give you a high-def cable box. You'll get high-def channels usually with it but most cable companies boxes allows upscalling from the box. So if you're watching the Maury Povich show on channel 8, you can upscale it from 480i to 720i. Doesn't seem like much of a difference but again, the bigger the tv, the more difference it makes.

Answer 2

HDMI or HD rated component cables can both handle 1080p signals.

As people have said - the cables dont matter unless you hook up to a HD source.

(Now it gets tricky).

Digital signals are very insensitive to the 'price' of the cable so inexpensive HDMI cables work perfectly. Long runs (over fifteen feet) need slightly thicker wires to work, but it's not that much more expensive.

Analog signals are more sensitive to the cable so there IS an issue to worry about.

Analog 'component' cables only have to be compatible with standard def video. Look for "HD Rated" on the package or bandwidth numbers like 90 Mhz or higher. If you cannot find this information - do not buy the cables for a HDTV.

ANOTHER COMPLICATION:

Some people have toggled between HDMI and Component cables and claim to see a difference. But what they forget is that the better televisions have Brightness/Color/Contrast/Sharpness/... settings that are DIFFERENT for each input.

These controls can make a huge difference. A setup disk like "Avia" or "Digital Video Essentials" can be used so the image from both HDMI and Component are calibrated to be the same.

Answer 3

The cables matter, but you'll only get true hi def on programs that are broadcast hi def and if you're subscribing to them. the RGB (red blue green) is what you should use. Less expensive cables may have lower conductivity and interference. My brothers are electricians and they're really into this stuff, and of course I hear all about it.

Answer 4

cable size and brand do not matter. The way it is hooked up does matter. Best HDMI, then component (red,green,blue), then composite (yellow).

Answer 5

Yes. HDMI is the best.