ColorStream Inputs, DVD video Quality

Is there really a big difference between using the S-video input from a DVD to TV, and using the ColorStream or component Video input? Does the type of Comp. video Cable make a difference? There are cables that cost between 60 and 90 dollars, and there are cables that cost hundreds. I have a Toshiba 3108? DVD and a 36" Toshiba Cinema Series TV. I use color stream, but i just use regular RCA cables. One thing i have noticed on some DVD's is color banding, where you see the different shades in a gradient. I'm wondering how i can correct this, is it due to the cables i'm using or is there something wrong with the display setup on my TV?

Hey John, I Also Have a Cinema Series Toshiba Set, and I'm Running it to a Panasonic A310 Player.
The Change From Color Stream (Component Video) to S-Video was remarkable.
No bullshit, the colors really were super dull compared to the vibrance of the ColorStreams. (Video Essentials Calibrated Set) If you want Drama, throw on "Antz" Or "A Bug's Life" For a Huge improvement.
As Far As quality of cables, I won't touch that with a 10 yard pole. I do know for your aplication, you shouldn't have to go balls to the wall and get the very best in gas compressed component cables out there.
I'm sorry, but i can't help you out with the "color banding issue" but I woundn't worry until you go out this weekend and pick up a set of component cables.
(you'll be pleased, I promise)
while you're out pick up Avia, Or VE calibration discs!
good luck
-conrad

I agree with Steve. There is a difference between components and S-video. Though, I have to say, the difference isn't quite as big as going from composite to s-video. Just noticeable enough for you to not go back.

As far as cable quality, I'll take a chance at getting flamed... Yes, there are bad cables out there. Cheapo interconnects aren't necessarily all bad, but you're taking a chance by buying them (though not an expensive chance). As you go up in price, you definitely get higher quality, but it's questionable how much more you're getting for what you pay. I have pretty sensitive eyes, and I swear I can't tell the difference between Monsters versus the higher end stuff like Vampires, Transparencies or whatever. And audio interconnects, well that's all lost to me. Maybe one day when I spend upwards of $10000 on my audio stuff instead of around $4000, I'll demo the high end cables again to see if I can tell.

[DJRobX]

And to answer the other question, the color banding is an artifact from MPEG-2 compression, and has little to do with your interconnects. Some DVDs are encoded better than others, but overall it's an armpit of DVD that you gotta get used to.

As for the interconnects, when I buy new interconnects, I generally like to buy a decent quality set. I've never noticed a change in the output between the different types of cables, but the higher quality ones usually fit tighter, have springs that prevent stress on the cable, and are thick and resistant to getting crushed when moving your HT system back into place. Its sort of a peace of mind issue...




[This message has been edited by DJRobX (edited 01-14-2000).]