XBOX 360 output cables

[monty1104]

The XBOX 360 comes with a "HD AV" Cable, which claims to give 1080p resolution and 5.1 surround sound. So what is the diffeence between that and the $60 HDMI cable that comes with the XBOX elite?

 

[Mancey]

Not much.

Basically hdmi is a way of carrying hd output in a single cable, video and sound, rather than having multiples like the component cables you're using.

Bit neater.

My understanding is this. For gaming, the quality is exactly the same using both connections, there is absolutely zero difference. The only time HDMI is a requirement is watching 1080P movies from a blu-ray source, like a ps3, or, not too common now, a HDDVD source. Due to licencing agreements, you cannot watch movies on these formats in full 1080P on anything other than a HDMI cable. It'll still work, but it'll be down scaled to a lower resolution. Its not because the component cables can't handle it, its merely due to licencing.

This licensing agreement does not apply to games however, and the very very few 360 games that are in 1080p native, will display in 1080P on a full HD TV over component cables.

Grab one if you want to reduce the cable clutter...bout it.

 

[monty1104]

Thanks for clarifying. I think ill just save the $60 and use a cable tie

 

[Xtreme]

When using a hdmi cable, i do notice a bit of a difference in picture and audio. But overall, you could get virtually the same effect by turning the tv volume up louder and adjusting the brightness settings on the tv.

I do have a hdmi cable and don't regret buying it, you've also got to rely on game companies implementing the graphics properly, to be able to 'enjoy' it. Some games look better in HDMI than others.

 

[Magnum]

I output my Xbox 360 into my PC monitor using a VGA connector. Looks awesome.

 

[Viney]

The XBOX 360 comes with a "HD AV" Cable, which claims to give 1080p resolution and 5.1 surround sound. So what is the diffeence between that and the $60 HDMI cable that comes with the XBOX elite?

HDMI si digital sound and pick and the HD AV cable is analogue.

There is real conjecture to whether it is any better, but hey.

The 360 HDMI cable has an attachment to also plug in a Digital Optical Output cord into it, which can then be run to a HTS to give surround sound.

BUT, if you are just running sound through a TV, then you can use a regular HDMI cord, which will cost you about $30 at JB, or can be found for about $5 on ebay.

If you have a HDMI capable 360 and are simply running the sound through the TV, I'd simply get a cheap HDMI cable

 

[Ant_]

I used the component video and the tos link fibre optic for digital sound. Looks awesome on my 1080p 50" plasma.

Didn't bother with HDMI as my amp is too old to support it.

 

[monty1104]

I used the component video and the tos link fibre optic for digital sound. Looks awesome on my 1080p 50" plasma.

Didn't bother with HDMI as my amp is too old to support it.

Thats my problem too. Ive got TOS link optic cable, so now i just have to wait until after exams for my xbox