Confused about HDMI Switchers & Other Things (1 Viewer)

[Robemm]

We are in the beginning stage of putting together a nice, albeit "not too expensive" HT. We just bought a new (2011/12) Insignia 55" HDTV from Best Buy; and like most newer HDTV's, it only has 3 HDMI inputs so I'm considering a 5x1 or maybe an 8x1 HDMI switch. I doubt that I'll ever need 8 inputs; but who knows what tomorrow's technology will bring me. I also haven't considered a/v receivers.
Anyway, since I know so little; and don't really know what I don't know, I've been looking at switchers that range in price from $29.95 to several hundred dollars (5x1) and $79.95 to several hundred dollars (8x1). I want to get components that are going to give us good vid/audio; but I don't want to buy product "a" for $350 when product "b" does the same quality job for $52.95.
FWIW, we are (Comcast) cable connected; and just bought a ROKU 2 XS as well as an AppleTV (since my wife already has an iTunes subscription) streaming device, so there goes my 3 HDTV HDMI inputs. We already have an older "upscaling" DVD player; and are looking to get a Bluray player fairly soon.
I'm not really a "brand snob" so I don't look for specific brands of "stuff"; but I'm not against paying a bit more for a brand "b" set if it'll be better than a similar brand "a".
So I guess my questions are about HDMI switchers vs a/v receivers and HTiB sets.
Thanks in advance for any and all ideas, advice, and suggestions.
Rob

 

[Jim Mcc]

The easiest (not cheapest) way to do this would be to use an A/V receiver as your switching device. You would run everything into receiver, then run one HDMI cable out to TV. If you are not going to hook up a receiver to the TV, then you should just use an HDMI switch. I recommend you look at Monoprice.com for the switch and all cables. It appears you currently need 4 HDMI inputs. Once you buy the Blu-ray player, you don't need the upscaling DVD player.
DO NOT buy a HTIB.

 

[Robemm]

Good morning Jim, thanks for the response, I appreciate the input.
If/when we do consider an a/v receiver, ILO an HDMI switcher, it'll have to be one compatible with/capable of being utilized with our next TV, one that is 3D capable. The current TV is new; but not 3D capable. It was just available at such a great price we couldn't pass it up.
For now though since we're only here in Colorado temporarily; and living in a 2d floor leased condo, I'm a bit leery of getting an a/v receiver, new speakers for surround sound, etc. since I don't know how "soundproofed" these units are. Not to mention that our downstairs have a very small child; and another on the way.
So, I'm guessing that you are not a fan of HTiB systems.
Thanks again for the response.
Rob

 

[Jim Mcc]

Sorry, I got the impression from your post that you were thinking of a receiver and speakers purchase. If not, then all you need to do is buy a HDMI switch.

 

[Robemm]

Thanks again Jim. My current thinking is to go with just an HDMI switch; however, there seem to be a gazillion or so 5x1's available priced everywhere from $19.95 up to the thousands. I don't want to spend "just a little" for one that isn't reliable; but I don't want to spend several hundred dollars for one when a similar switcher priced much lower will do the same quality job.
Anyone with HDMI mfg/model experiences please chime in. Conversely, anyone who has reasons to stay far far away from switchers, please chime in also.
Thanks,
Rob

 

[Jim Mcc]

Like I said above, I would buy the switch from Monoprice.com. They are a great company and stand behind their products.
There are numerous reviews(for each switch) on their website you can check out.