While browsing around my local DSE store this evening, taking advantage of the really late night shopping, I noticed an interesting display in the entertainment section.
This display was for "Monster" Brand AV cables, in particular the Monster brand HDMI cable. The display had 2 Samsung 56cm LCD TV placed side by side and both playing a synchronised feed of the movie "Cars". Behind the TVs was a cardboard backdrop advertising the Monster Brand HDMI cables and why they are the most superior. Above the right TV was a sign that said "Monster Cable" and above the left TV was a sign with "Standard Cable" printed on it.
I noticed that the right hand TV had an extremely richer picture than on the left.
The curious person I am started looking at the back of the TVs. On the right - a Monster Brand HDMI cable was plugged into the HDMI port. On the left TV a cheap, low quality composite cable (it was actually one of the cables from a stereo RCA audio cable) was plugged into the "Video In" port of the TV.
When questioned about the point of the display, the clerk said that they are showing how HDMI is better that composite. I explained to him that the display was a little misleading, using the term "Standard Cable" in a display that is selling the benefits of a Monster Brand HDMI cable. The Clerk did say they were clearly labelling it as a standard composite cable - Yeah right! I can just see it now. A customer that doesn't have the understanding of the different AV connectors, buys a brand new HD TV and a Blue Ray DVD player. When looking for a HDMI cable to connect the two together, they see this display and say "Geez, the colour is a little washed out with the standard cables, I better get the Monster brand" - And they part with $200-$300 on a cable they don't necessarily need.
Buyers, watch out. Make sure you are 100% comfortable. If something doesn't seem right, then question it. Just remember, you are in control of the situation. You can walk at any time. When shopping for TVs and cables and DVDs etc don't be scared to swap the cables around, change the channels on the display units even eject the DVDs playing to ensure they are the real deal just so you can be sure there is no trickery going on.
FYI - I connect my Media Centre to my plasma with a $40 DVI -> HDMI video cable (from Radio Parts Group) and get superb picture quality at 1080P.
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