HDMI

• HDMI (high definition multimedia interface) cables are the best option for home audio and video connection. The cables provide the only widely-adopted method of digital connection of A/V components. HDMI cables are available in an assortment of sizes to connect devices a relative short distant apart to components with several feet separating them. High-speed HDMI cables are most commonly 6-feet in length or shorter and provide a path for even more data through the cable than standard HDMI cables. Not all components are equipped with ports for HDMI, however adapters are available to connect HDMI cables to devices with DVI (digital visual interface) ports. HDMI cables transfer audio and video signals through a single cable, making it the clearest and most space-saving option.
  
  

DVI

• DVI (digital visual interface) is less commonly available for connecting home theater components than HDMI or analog options. Home theater owners who choose DVI cables often need an adapter to connect their components via DVI. Computer monitors and televisions which can also be used as computer displays may have DVI ports as part of their panel of connections. The problem is that many of the components you need to connect to the display do not include audio. DVI only supports video transfer. Audio connection between home theater components need to be satisfied by using a separate audio connection cable.
  
  

Analog Composite Cables

• Analog composite cables remain a viable option for high-definition connection. Composite cables only offer video transfer but, unlike the DVI cables, composite ports are accepted by a wide range of televisions, cable and satellite set-top boxes and video game consoles. Whereas HDMI and DVI make connecting your home theater video equipment easier, composite cables require more attention in connecting the three or four jacks to their corresponding ports. You need to have a clear view of the ports to connect composite cables, as the color-code on the individual jacks must be connected to like-colored inputs.
  
  

RCA Cables

• RCA cables are the most widely-accepted method of connecting audio and video components, though not the best. The familiar red, white, black and yellow jacks can be used to connect your home theater components for audio and video. RCA (Radio Corporation of America) has been available since the 1940s. Newer televisions and components may have the appropriate inputs and outputs to support RCA, along with ports for newer connection options with higher-quality capability.