HDTV: HDMI or Component Video?
Given the current state of high definition television technology, one has the option of connecting their display with either an HDMI (high definition multimedia interface) cable or a component video cable. I have a great deal of experience with both, and following are my thoughts on the matter.
The first point I would like to make is that I see NO discernible difference in video quality between the two options. All things being equal, both will deliver a quality image to your display. That stated, it really boils down to one’s individual setup that may determine the option you choose.
One distinct advantage to HDMI is that in addition to carrying the video signal, it also carries a two-channel digital audio signal as well. This can be extremely useful in situations where you will not be utilizing multi-channel, or surround, sound. Another situation where this option makes sense is when you have a requirement to run your cable through walls or in the attic, perhaps to another location in the house. Using an HDMI cable means you will only have to run one cable. HDMI cables also do very well transferring the signal over longer distances with very little loss in signal quality. I’m running a 60 foot cable from my satellite receiver in my family room underneath the house to the HD display in my office - both picture and sound are excellent.
As you can see from the image, component video is simply a larger connecting cable than HDMI, as it requires connecting three distinct cables which are each carrying separate video information. When using the component standard, it will also be necessary to connect a digital audio cable, either optical or digital coax, to a home theater receiver to receive digital sound. You can also simply run standard RCA composite cables to the back of your display for non-digital sound. As I stated above, there is virtually no difference in video quality as compared to HDMI.
In my setup, I utilize both the HDMI and component video outputs on my satellite receiver. As referenced earlier, I’m using the HDMI output to send the signal to my office, the component output is therefore used to send the video to my primary display in the family room.
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Similar Posts
Loading ...