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    DVI/HDMI cables - which to buy

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by Scarf_Face, May 3, 2006.

  1. Scarf_Face

    Scarf_Face Notebook Geek

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    I'm about to get a laptop with a DVI connection, and I'd like to hook it up to my HDMI-capable TV. After seeing a DVI-to-HDMI cable for $150 and dragging my jaw on the floor a bit, I decided to check out some online stores, but they have a huge variety of cables, from $10 to 100+.

    Does anybody have experience with these things? Is the quality really different from the midrange to the high-end cables? What would you say would be the smartest thing to buy? I don't need ridiculous quality, but I'd like to take advantage of the HD connections, not have it look exactly like S-Video.

    Thanks.
     
  2. TheUndertow

    TheUndertow Notebook Deity

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    Major difference between DVI and HDMI is that HDMI actually carriers audio as well. Otherwise it's a true digital transfer so no converting to analog...etc

    I actually just ran into a similar issue where I replace my TV - the old one had DVI and the new one HDMI (I had to decide whether to get an adapter or a new cable). One of my friend read an article that stated that because there is no conversion going on and it's just a straight digital signal, the "quality" of the cable is a non-issue...a $10 one will perform the same as a $150 Monster.

    I'll see if I can get the link from him...I'd like to read it myself - like I said...I'm basically dealing with the same issue.
     
  3. masteraleph

    masteraleph Notebook Consultant

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    The only time that "quality" can come in is with longer runs. However, you're never going to see the signal degradation that you do with analog (VGA) connections- either you'll have the image or you'll have a terrible display.

    If quality is a concern for you (I'm presuming that you're in the US), try and see via the included location search if any of the Radio Shacks near you has this in stock. It's essentially the same (except for the outer coating) as the Monster- incredibly thick and high quality. Because RS actually makes more margin on the Monster stuff than on their own brand, they're discontinuing that line. Alternatively, you can probably find some pretty high quality stuff online for cheaper.
     
  4. sonicdivx

    sonicdivx Notebook Consultant

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    I purchased a http://www.monoprice.com/products/p...&cs_id=1020904&p_id=616&seq=1&format=2&style=
    for $12.00

    from monoprice andvery please with this . I have it hooked up from a PC to a Sony Projector. Several people on the AVSForum recommended them. There prices can't be beat and quality surprisingly good.

    The Monster cables are overrated. If you want more info on DVI and HDMI cables head over to http://avsforum.com/ the people there will be extremely knowledgeable. Good luck.

    ### Edit ###
    Cable thickness means nothing. its the quality of the cable that means everything. check some of the retailers listed at AVS and you will find some detail descriptions on cable design
     
  5. strikeback03

    strikeback03 Notebook Deity

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    friend bought one of the cheap cables online after seeing the in-store price, has worked fine for him
     
  6. Scarf_Face

    Scarf_Face Notebook Geek

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    Monoprice looks reasonable, and the reviews on the AVSForum site lean towards the opinion that large pricetags aren't justified. Thanks for all the responses. :)