Hi folks! I searched through the threads here, but didn't find a post quite like it. What is all the equipment a new HDTV buyer would need to get the full HD experience? The HD service isn't a problem for me, but it might be good to mention again. Links would be great, too.

Here's the tv I ordered last week (delivery date - 12/27):
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage....=1138084693851

However, I'm totally oblivious to what else I'd need.
1. What kind of cables (HDMI, DVI, etc)?
2. How about methods to keep the cables organized (and not just a mess back there)?
3. Should I go with an upconverting DVD player like this one, or another recommendation? http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h.html
4. Would I need to call the cable company to get a new cable box (Comcast)?
5. What's the best surround-sound-in-a-box available for $300-500?

 

Probably run HDMI from your cable box to your receiver, then either component or HDMI from your receiver to your tv depending on what receiver you get.

You can get plastic cable tubing stuff at Ikea... $4 for 16'.

You need an HD cable box.

If you want to spend a couple bucks more, I'd do something like this...

Harman Kardon AVR 245 - 329

http://www.amazon.com/Harman-Kardon-...&s=audio-video

Basic Polk surround speakers - $250

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-1N6vfZH...0&I=700RM6005B

 

I agree with Beetroot's reply, however, I'm bored at work so I will put in my as well ...

1) Get the HD box from your cable company first before buying any cables since some boxes are DVI, others are HDMI... so you should get the box first so you can see what it supports. Once you have it on-site and you know what you need, get your cables from Monoprice.com. Just as good as Monster at a fraction of the cost. The way mine is hooked up is an HDMI cable from the box to the TV for video, then a digital optical audio cable from the cable box to my receiver for sound.

2) As Beetroot said, plastic tubing can be had easily and for not a lot of money. I personally just have the cables labeled and zip tied. Even though they're all hidden in an entertainment center, having it that way makes it easier if I need to access something.

3) I'm not a huge fan of upconverting DVD players. As one article I read states "The upconverting DVD player is the illusionist of the A/V world. At this point, we certainly hope that no one believes this kind of player can turn a 480i signal into high-definition; however, if it appears to increase the resolution and still create a great DVD image, then we're sold." So, if you do some research and find a good one, it may not be a bad investment... it's just never something I've looked into. I personally use my XBOX360 as my DVD player and it does a great job.

4) Yes. They'll either come out and hook it up for you using component cables (which is fine, let them do that, then upgrade to DVI or HDMI yourself later), or you can go to one of their offices and get one, then hook it up yourself.

5) I like the links Beetroot posted. I'm not a big fan of HTIB... for a little bit more money you can build your own system and it would be far superior. That said, there are some good HTIB systems out there... unfortunately I can't help much here b/c I never really looked into them...

The only other thing I would add is to make sure someone calibrates your TV. Even if it's not done by a pro, tweaking the set will make a world of difference b/c the out of the box settings typically suck. Whether you pay Best Buy to do it, have a friend in the know, hire a calibrator from a higher end electronics store, or do some reading on the AV forum ( www.avsforum.com) and find some recommended settings there and do it yourself, it's well worth it....

 

If you have to buy it in a box, this is nice. + $99.00 but . . .?
http://www.abtelectronics.com/product/23655.html

 

Just curious but since this TV and the one I am getting have the ATSC tuner built in don't you get whatever freebie HD signals are out there without a box? I know that may be just ABC/CBS/NBC. Is this why the ATSC may be considered an unnecessary feature?

 

^ If your TV has a built-in HD tuner then yes, you'll get those channels. You're still better off with a cable box though... so you can get everything.

 

Thanks for the responses so far, everyone!

I think I can see where you're going with this. That looks like a nice amp - so I can always upgrade the speakers later if necessary. Mainly because the 50W powered sub would be one of the first things on the upgrade list. Are you recommending this system because you have one or something similar?

 

I also ran across this guy:
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-mrSBH7q...0&I=580HTS790B

Anyone have that system or another by Onkyo? How are they as a brand?

 

I have been hearing great things about this DVD player and may give it a try.
http://www.oppodigital.com/opdv971h.html