Expert: Bobbert - 11/11/2009

Question
Hi Bobbert,

I have been considering purchasing a new HDTV for a while, and when I purchase it I'd also like to buy a Blu-Ray player and a new receiver.  I can tell I'm very out of touch with the features of today's receivers (the one I have is from 1997).  I've been trying to compare features and look at the ratings of current models and what's really puzzling me is the presence of all these Composite Video/S Video/Component Video inputs, not to mention video conversion.  My VCR and DVD player currently have the video running to the TV and the audio running through the receiver.  Are these video inputs now more of a necessity in a receiver or can the same result be achieved by just using the video inputs/upconversion capability on the TV?  Thank you very much.  Sincerely, Frank

Answer
Generally you want to connect both the audio and video through the receiver, as it will handle input selection and so-on. Modern receivers simply offer more connections and types of connections, for example CVBS, S-Video, and YPbPr. A further connection you'll want is HDMI, to support that Blu-ray player.

In purchasing a new receiver, I would suggest something with proper HD codec decoding, something like Sony's STR-DH800 or DN1000, Pioneer's TSX-V919 or 1019, Yamaha's RX-V 665 or 765, or similar, and decent video upconversion (upconversion is simply converting a type of video input (such as CVBS to YPbPr).

If you have any further questions, feel free to post a follow-up.

-bob