First Time Poster - a little lost ... please help!

[flowdog]

Just looking to hookup my 42" Vizio TV. It is currently connected to Dish HD satellite box via DVI. I want to replace my old VCR with a new "combo" DVR/VCR.

My lack of understanding starts here: The DishNet box has DVI out, and the Vizio has a single DVI input (currently used). The combo units I am considering have HDMI upconversion (eg. Samsung VR325). There don't seem to be enough HD connections on my TV to accomodate the Dish box and a DVR Combo. Also I would need an HDMI to DVI cable if I go the "upconversion" route. Am I doomed to swapping back and forth or is there a way to do what I hope to accomplish.

Any directions here would be greatly appreciated. Also, opinions regarding the DVR/VCR combo vs. stand-alone components. My problem rests on the fact that I have some family VHS tapes that are precious to me and I would like to preserve them on DVD. I also have a pretty fair collection of VHS movies I like to watch.

Thank You
:bow:

[oman321]

You could always connect Dish rcvr via Component. Your DVD/VCR combo would need the DVI for upconversion as you state. Your only other option is to get a DVI switcher but they're pricey.

[Ratman]

Thread split by moderator

Please don't hijack existing threads. I started a new one for you!

[flowdog]

Sorry about the "hijacking" ... I didn't know how to start a new topic under an existing topic. Thanks.

[Ratman]

When you enter the "main" forum SVA / Norcent / Vizio HDTV sets, just click on the "New Thread" box on the top left.

No harm...

[flowdog]

You could always connect Dish rcvr via Component. Your DVD/VCR combo would need the DVI for upconversion as you state. Your only other option is to get a DVI switcher but they're pricey.

Oman, thanks for the info, but I want to make sure that I understand it. I can connect the Dish receiver to the TV via <Component>. I'm not sure what that is and if I can get HDTV using that. I assume I can since you reccommended it. Can you decribe waht Component is?

Also I have read elsewhere that some people are experiencing various video problems on their Vizio when using an HDMI to DVI cable. Is that the exception or are problems the norm using this type of conversion cable? Since the "upconversion" DVR/VCR combo units I am considering have HDMI output, in your opinion, am I just asking for trouble? Is the picture quality gain using HDMI vs. a progressive scan DVR/VCR worth it?

Thanks again. :patriot:

[oman321]

No problem, here is link from the FAQ about cables and connections.
http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/showthread.php?t=3529

To quickly answer the question though, yes, you can obtain an HD signal from Component cables and inputs. Those are the RED, BLUE, & GREEN video inputs on the back of your STB and SET. Many dont see any big improvement on HDMI vs. component so if you only have one slot, most will use it for the upconverting player. Having said that though, I did read a review about the Vizio which stated how it benifitted from the HDMI connection.

On a plasma, and in paticular the Vizio I think you will benifit from an upconverting player. You'll just have to try and see if it gives you any problems. Some of the problems that occur are more related to the equipment rather than the connection.