J
John Morris
If I have my HDTV do the switching, then I've got multiple component video feeds instead of just one, right? Beside, the TV only has 2 inputs, which is what started the whole thing.
Mike: Sorry I wasn't clearer. Here are the reasons why I suggested going direct to the HDTV from each component video source. First, using your pre/pro to do component switching will actually result in one more component video cable set, than if you ran your video direct to the HDTV. Second, since most pre/pros do not upconvert composite nor S-video to component, you will also have to use an S-video cable to connect your pre/pro. Third, almost no pre/pros or receivers will show an OSD on the component outputs. Fourth, if you are sending different sources to your HDTV into one input, you may find that you have some major differences in the images from each source. My DVD(RP-91), HD STBs(Panasonic and Sony)and my HDTV PVR HTPC all require different calibration settings for optimum images. To send all of my component sources into one HDTV component input would mean that I would need to adjust that input settings each time I change sources. By sending my DVD, STB and HDPC into three different HDTV inputs, I can calibrate each input according to each source and always have a perfect image when that input is selected. Fifth, unless you buy a very nice pre/pro or receiver with a high bandwidth component switcher, your signal may be degraded somewhat. Sixth, depending on your room/Rack/HDTV layout, you may save some money by using 3 short component cable sets and a long digital audio cable versus using a short digital audio cable, 3 short component video cable sets and one long component video cable set.
Unfortunately, if your HDTV only supports two component inputs and you have three sources, you will need to switch somewhere anyway.
If you have any questions, get back to me.