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Quick Guide: HDMI and HDMI cables

Updated June 10, 2010 11:47 AM PDT

HDMI and HDMI cables

In just a few years, HDMI has become the standard audio and video connection for high-definition home theater gear. Every new HDTV has at least two HDMI inputs, and gadgets such as DVRs, DVD players, Blu-ray players, game consoles, and computers feature HDMI outputs to deliver audio and video. Having a single cable handling both images and sound has the potential to make home theaters much simpler, but that's not always the case. Faced with complex standards (HDMI 1.2 vs. 1.3), confusing buzzwords (Deep Color), and exorbitantly priced cables (Monster), many buyers may be tempted to throw up their hands and stick with the analog cables they know.

Don't panic--what seems bewildering on the showroom floor is really pretty simple. And if you get nothing else from reading this guide, you should remember one simple fact: There's no reason to pay extra for HDMI cables. Intrigued? Let's get started.

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Inside this guide
Introduction
What is HDMI?
What HDMI cable should I buy?
More advanced details
Additional HDMI resources
Best HD Products
Best plasma TVs
Best LCD TVs
Best rear-projection HDTVs
Best home theater projectors
HDTV-Related Quick Guides
Four styles of HDTV
HDTV 101
HDTV Resolutions Explained
HDTV Tuneup Tips
HDTV Aspect Ratios
HDMI Cables
HDTV-Related Articles
HDTV Setup Tips
720p vs. 1080p HDTVs
LED TVs: 10 Things you Need to Know
The Basics of TV Power