Want to know all about HDMI cables? HDMI, or high-definition multimedia interface cables are capable of transmitting uncompressed digital audio and video signals. In other words, HDMI cables are capable of delivering near-perfect digital audio and video signals to the back of your television or home theater receiver in one neat and tidy package, unlike component cables. This makes 1080p HDMI cables the elite option for video and audio experts when wiring their home entertainment systems. The home theater boasting HDMI connectivity can expect to receive not only 1080p picture-perfect video resolutions, but also crisp and clear multi-channel sound – provided you have the necessary hardware.
HDMI has rapidly grown in popularity since it was first introduced in 2003. Today, a wide variety of the tech industry’s brand names use it with their televisions and home theater components. You can find HDMI ports for Sony TVs, Samsung TVs, Hitachi TVs and more. You’ll also find that many home audio companies have embraced the digital alternative, including Yamaha and Panasonic. Finally, even cable and satellite companies have made the jump, including DirecTV and EchoStar.
Advantages of HDMI Cables
The obvious advantage of full-sized or mini HDMI cables is the quality of the signal they provide. If you’ve got a multi-channel sound system, this is the wiring to use in order to receive the very best sound. If you’ve got a brand new LED or LCD TV capable of 1080p resolutions, then this is the wiring to choose. HDMI cables aren’t the first to introduce digital signal transmission (DVI cables also perform that function), but they are the first to combine digital and audio signal transmission into a single cord. Note that HDMI splitters and HDMI switches are available for adapting a DVI cable to HDMI.
Disadvantages of HDMI Cables
Although HDMI cables have come down in price significantly since their first introduction seven years ago, they remain very expensive compared to composite or component cables. Budget manufacturers produce these things for under $50, but the best HDMI cables like Rocketfish and Monster, which promise better picture and audio quality than their competitors, still demand $70 to $100. Don’t be discouraged, however: the price of HDMI cables has come down a lot even in the past two years, and that also means they’re available in more places than just big box retailers – be sure to check out eBay or the classified ads for more affordable prices.