Component vs HDMI Sat connection

[2channellover]

It seems like HDMI is the be all, cure all, but I don't want to run out and buy one for no reason.

My HD satellite receiver will broadcast in 720p, does it make sense to use HDMI over component video (which I already have) to connect to my pre/pro since, from my understanding the only benefit is I don't need an audio cable? If there is another benefit please advise.

Thanks.

[David Meek]

Empirically, the HDMI connection from my Dish HD tuner initially gave a much nicer picture. The color balance/saturation was excellent right "out of the box", as opposed to the component which I tried just for fun and required a bit of adjusting to get things right. As far as detail goes, I think the image is a bit crisper with the HDMI, but that's open for debate.

[2channellover]

Thanks for the reply David.

I need one anyway, and I saw some good HDMI pricing on Blue Jeans, I'll pick up an extra one for the Directv box and see if I can tell a difference.

[wkhanna]

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[heapatrouble]

Empirically, most people will see a qualitative difference between component and HDMI. One of the reasons for this is that the video signal remains in the digital domain from source to Display without going through an analog-to-digital conversion at the source followed by a digital-to-analog conversion in the display. Another potential issue is that content providers (satellite service, cable) have the ability to 'down-rez' the analog output from the decoding/tuner device (cable box, satellite box, DVR). Yes, this is legal (thank you Bill Clinton/DMCA). Yes, it sucks.

[mjb]

My HD satellite receiver will broadcast in 720p, does it make sense to use HDMI over component video (which I already have) to connect to my pre/pro since, from my understanding the only benefit is I don't need an audio cable? If there is another benefit please advise.

Thanks.

The reason to go HDMI (in the long term) is High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP). This nasty little beast may prevent high definition signals from leaving your HD satellite box via component (analog) video connects.

HDCP can force the HD receiver to reduce its ouput resolution for certain content (such as live events or movies) if it can't verify the type of device its attached to - which it can't if the connection is analogue. With an HDMI (digital) connection, the devices will 'chat', and HD output from the receiver authorised.

If HDCP is not currently an issue for you, then by all means stick with your Component connection.

The picture via HDMI will be slightly better (as its digital), but the difference probably isn't worth buying a new TV for if you're happy with what you have.

Component video supports up to 1080i, but not 1080p.