[Parsons123]

I have an xbox 360 and a samsung HDTV with HDMI.

I am just wondering how dramatic is the effect of changing from Component to HDMI?

Thanks

[NICK G]

DVI vs HDMI vs Component.
As you read this, it's not simply cut-n-dried.
Akthough this article is 3 years old, not much has changed. Still many variables.
Good luck.

[JohnWill]

FWIW, I see a big difference between connecting my HDTV to the Verizon HD DVR with HDMI vs. component video. Remember, the component video has an extra conversion from analog to digital, since your HD-TV requires digital video to address the discrete pixels. I believe that article is somewhat dated, because I can't imagine many cases where HDMI being available that component would be a better choice. The one area that it could work out I have also seen. I have a Samsung VCR/DVD combo that has HDMI and component video outputs. The upscaler built into the unit to convert from DVD to HDMI obviously isn't a high quality, since sending the component to the TV from that unit gave me a better picture from the DVD's. I rate this as somewhat a special case, obviously the conversion in the TV was done with a better upscaler from the component video inputs.

[Parsons123]

So in conclusion which would be better , in your opinion, in my case?

[NICK G]

Conclusion is stated at the end of the dated article:
"There's no real substitute for simply plugging it in and giving it a try both ways."
Some can see subtle differences right away. Others, me included, can't really see a
difference between a DVD or VHS movie shown on a CRT or LED screen.
(I do prefer DVD...quicker search and no rewind.)

[JohnWill]

I agree with the conclusion, just try it. I'm amazed that Nick can't see the difference between DVD or VHS on an LCD screen!

[NICK G]

John, a lot depends on the size screen being used. Larger screens equals better DVD.
Super VHS is about same lines as DVD. A 25" LCD will have a small edge with digital.
I still play EP VHS regularly and maybe my age or indifference has a bearing on what I
perceive. Kinda like food for me. If it tastes OK I'll eat it regardless if it cost $2 or $200.
No connoisseur of video or food.

[JohnWill]

I guess my 1080p LCD screen has sufficient resolution to see the difference.

[simpswr]

My 1080i is enough to tell the difference with HDMI . . I started with S-Video, but the VCR went south, I so got one of the upconverting ( who invented that word??) with HDMI and there is a noticable difference!

[wtxcowboy]

i can see the difference as well. i have a 51" philips hdtv with a home theater hooked up via component cables & can watch a dvd vs s-cable & there is a bit of difference in clarity. i can take the same dvd & watch it in my pc with the lcd monitor & there's a really noticable difference, being better. i can't wait til i can afford a hdmi home theater so i can fully enjoy my hdtv. it will be a while b4 i upgrade 2 hd satellite.