Component Video Cables

[Mike F]

I usually consider myself relatively technologically savvy and competent, but am clueless as to why component video cables can range from $12 to $200.

If I'm setting up an HDTV, do I really need to invest in the high end variety (i.e. will the difference be readily noticeable/dramatic)?

[MrMastodonFarm]

Better quality cables means that the video is transfered better from your HD receivor to your TV.

Monster cables are on the more expensive side but worth it.

[jroc]

personnally i wouldnt spend over $80 on component cables... and this is comming from somebody who just finished a near 2 year tenure with futureshop...

[ken0042]

Originally Posted by MrMastodonFarm

Monster cables are on the more expensive side but worth it.

I have to disagree. Granted, they are good cables. But not what I would consider to be "worth it."

Get a decent set for around $25-30 and that's all you'll need in my books.

Or if you can wait check out monoprice.com

[PsYcNeT]

I would scrap anything that uses component and just go HDMI instead, that way, you are fully HDCP compliant.

That is of course, if your TV cannot use HDMI, in which case, I would buy crappy cables, because on any TV that doesn't do 720p+ you won't notice the difference.

[HelloHockeyFans]

Originally Posted by ken0042

I have to disagree. Granted, they are good cables. But not what I would consider to be "worth it."

Get a decent set for around $25-30 and that's all you'll need in my books.

Or if you can wait check out monoprice.com

Agree with you 100% Ken. Monster is notorious for huge mark-ups and monoprice.com was actually the same site I was going to mention for great deals on comparable products.

[MrMastodonFarm]

Originally Posted by ken0042

I have to disagree. Granted, they are good cables. But not what I would consider to be "worth it."

Yeah, I should have said I'm not expert, so anyones advice is probably better then mine.

[HelloHockeyFans]

Just remember to do your research! Getting cables and other power protection devices is definitely a good investment for your new expensive TV, but don't spend more than you have to.

Quick example:

Tripp Lite Surge Protector:

http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applicatio...4913&CatId=232

- 3570 Joules rating
- $500,000 Lifetime Insurance for equipment connected to device
- 10 outlets

for $106.99

Monster Surge Protector:

http://www.futureshop.ca/marketing/v...id=EN#MoreInfo

- 1665 Joule rating
- $50,000 Lifetime Insurance for equipment connected to device
- 8 outlets

$160.99

[Draug]

If you cant go with HDMI, get the best component cables that Monoprice sells; you'll save a bundle.

A 6ft premium RCA Component cable is $18.50 US, including shipping (to Calgary). I have used tons of Monoprice cables and they are as good as any cable you can buy in the stores.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/pr...ormat=2&style=

They sell every kind of cable and wire, as well as some switches and things of that nature.

http://www.monoprice.com

[jolinar of malkshor]

I use to work at Radio shack when I was in college and the mark up on cables was stupid.

Radio Shack brand cables that would sell for $20 would actually have a cost of about $2-3.

Monster Cables of $60 would have a cost of about $10.....so I really dont think there is that much difference in the cable....as long as there is enough shielding.

[photon]

Another vote for monoprice, I've ordered there before and like their stuff.

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/

If you must spend more, there's another good one.