HDMI Cables - Choosing Yours
A great television is the basis, but you also need an HD receiver or Blu-Ray player so that you can get a great quality picture.
The only real option for getting the HD signal from the source to the television is through HDMI cables, so you'll need a quality one of them as well.
There are actually a few things to know about choosing yours, however.
They'll play a big part in the overall quality of your picture, so keep a couple of points in mind.
For starters, understand that there are two main types of HDMI cables, referred to as Category 1 or Category 2.
Category 1 is the least expensive of the two, and in most cases you can find one that costs less than twenty pounds.
Category 1 is often called 'standard' since it delivers a 1080i or 720p image along with surround sound, and could even carry Ethernet capability.
These are generally the cables most people buy because of their lower cost and the fact that you get a great high definition picture quality for your money.
In other words, they're a great value.
If you're in need of an HDMI cable that will provide the maximum quality images and can be used over longer distances, you'll want to go with Category 2.
These are also needed for deep colour or 3D signals, and will cost a bit more.
They'll provide 1080p quality images and are often called 'high speed' cables.
Additionally, they're usually the option that provides lengths of more than fifteen metres.
Standard ones rarely go above that length due to the chance of signal degradation, even with the presence of four twisted pairs of wire within the rubber coating.
That's worth touching on as well.
Most HDMI cables are constructed similarly to Ethernet cable, with four twisted pairs of wire.
However, HDMI will usually be shielded to prevent any signal degradation and ensure the maximum quality images are delivered.
Whether you're using a PlayStation 3 or a high definition satellite television receiver, you'll need to use these cables to connect your system properly.
A home theatre that will blow your mind is closer and more affordable than ever before.
And while the major components are all needed to make it work, without the right cable carrying the signal you'll be left with nothing but a blank screen.