I have a question about HDMI vs DVI cables and prices

My new monitor arrived yesterday and I installed it. It is a Sceptre 24" monitor. In my opinion, it's very nice. First LCD monitor I've owned. And no dead pixels.

Now right now I have it hooked up using the existing VGA cable that I have hooked up to my computer.

I'll be installing a new motherboard, CPU and hard drive as son as they arrive. My new HIS PCI express graphics card arrived yesterday also. I'll install it when I install the new motherboard.

My new monitor and graphics card both accept HDMI and DVI as well as VGA.

I've been doing some reading and if I understand it correctly, HDMI and DVI are basically the same thing except HDMI also has a connector for sound.

Well, I plan on using my existing speakers because they sound better than the speakers in my new monitor. So I assume that I might as well go with the DVI cable. Am I correct?

Also I see that 10' DVI cables can run from about $10 all the way to around $50. Is a $50 cable really worth it, or are you just paying more for a brand name?

Thanks,

John

 

That is almost right. HDMI has the capability to carry 5.1 surround sound in the same cable and connector as the video signal. There is not an extra connector for audio, there are extra pins in the same connector.

The digital video signal carried by HDMI and DVI is exactly the same so choice of connector, in terms of video quality, is not an issue. Adapters degrade the signal (even if not noticeable), therefore, go for what your card and monitor supports without using adapters. Since HDMI is the way of the future, and DVI is phasing out, and you have a choice, I would go HDMI to ensure future compatibility. Connecting your speakers is done in the same manner, regardless your choice of graphics connection.

Quality cables (HDMI or DVI) are a necessity so I would definitely avoid the $10 cable. However, you don't have to buy the most expensive either. If it has a "monstrous" price tag, you are paying for the name, not the best quality.

 

Thanks for the reply. This morning before you posted I went to town and bought a DVI cable. Looks good too.

Thanks again.

John

 

Good. Glad it worked out and I assume you got your sound going too.