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HDMI Alternatives

Is anybody familiar with any alternatives to HDMI connection? I'm currently undergoing some reconstruction with a tv mount above the fireplace and the installation crew told the stereo store that they couldnt run HDMI cables because of the way that the cables are going to be bent and possible damaged. The guy at the store said that they used a cat 5 cable with Muxlabs balun connector. What ever that means and Im' not sure if I'm spelling that correctly but thats what it sounded like. He said the net effect is the same as HDMI. Any info would be appreciated. I didnt think there was anything similar and equivalent to HDMI.
c019740
russ_l
95 posts
 
C019740- Better question; why are you putting the TV above the fireplace? That's sort of equivalent to sitting in the first few rows at the movie theater. Not good for your neck if you're going to sit there very long.

Plus not ideal for audio. Way out of sync if you're using floor standing speakers. Or, way over your head if your using flat panel speakers on the sides and under the TV.
c019740 OP
30 posts
 
Russ,

We thought about it a long time! like 4 months. Wife liked it, plus I got to get the B&W surrounds in ceilings, the REL sub I wanted and the sources I wanted. So I figure a decent tradeoff. I have a two channel in another room for music only. The room is not big enough for floor standing and frankly I didnt want floor standing in the family room. I personally dont like this sort of equipment to be a focal point. Just my opinion.
russ_l
95 posts
 
C019740- Your opinion counts the most. Enjoy your setup. And making tradeoffs with the wife is something all us crazies have to deal with.

Russ
rwwear
2,904 posts
 
If at all possible try to install conduit for future use and to protect the wiring.
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
A good mechanic won't bend a cable too much. I somehow think somebody is just not willing to do it.

The problem is that only a well manufactured HDMI cable, with proper factory terminations will give you the 'handshake' required for future copy protection.

I just finished a tough re-model, but with the walls open I was able to run HDMI cables through the toughest places.

When the studs are still exposed, take a Saturday and just do it yourself.

Oh, running lots of CAT-6 cable is also a good idea.
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