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General discussion

Cable Box doesn't have HDMI connection

by huskerwatcher Oct 2, 2008 5:08AM PDT

Just bought a Samsung LN37A450 to replace an older tv. Connecting it to a Sony Stereo/Receiver STR-DE345, Sony CD/DVD Player DVP-C660 (both are about 5+ yrs old) and a Magnavox VCR Player (probably 5+ years old also, but don't have model). Cable company doesn't have a cable box available with HDMI connection so have to use component video. Plan on leaving the current connections the same between DVD and VCR player and my receiver. How do you suggest I connect my tv to receiver and dvd player? Would I get a better picture if I return the cable box and get one with HDMI connection when it is available?

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5 Posts
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In one line.
by r. proffitt Former Forum moderator Oct 2, 2008 5:12AM PDT

Use the best signal you have available from each device.

When the cable box shows up, HDMI would be nice but will you be upgrading the service to HD?

Why I ask is the usual cable box with component output was usually 480p.
Bob

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exactly
by Pepe7 Oct 2, 2008 5:22AM PDT

The weird part is, sometimes using different connections between the exact same components can give different results. I had two friend with the same setup- Sony LCD in combination w/ Motorola HD-DVR (Comcast). One looked great w/ HDMI, but the other's SD TV would only look decent w/ Component.

To the OP> FWIW, I had to call my cable provider several times to get them to upgrade my box to one w/ the correct outputs for my surround sound receiver. They will often refuse since they don't make any money by providing a new box that may not mean you have to add $$ to your mothly bill. I had to pull teeth practically to get Comcast to swap my old box out for one w/ toslink (optical) to provide the DD5.1 sound I was paying for <vbg>. Good luck.

-Pedro

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Have HD Service
by huskerwatcher Oct 2, 2008 6:09AM PDT

I have already upgraded my service to HD but they were not able to provide a cable box with HDMI. Will I still get a good picture with component?

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only one way to find out
by jostenmeat Oct 2, 2008 6:25AM PDT

try it

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Insist they provide a box w/ HDMI
by Pepe7 Oct 2, 2008 12:10PM PDT

If you're paying for HD they have an obligation to provide you with equipment that includes the proper outputs. It's similar to when I upgraded to Comcast digital cable/HBO w/ DD5.1, but still had a box w/o the correct outputs. It took a few calls up the food chain, but I got it done eventually. The installer even left me a few extra component & toslink cables for my troubles obtaining the new box.

Out of curiosity, who's your CATV provider, and in which market(?)

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