Currently my TV system is set up as follows:

Cable > Splitter > Digital Cable Box > VCR > A/B Switch > TV

I just bought a new HDTV. I am concerned that the VCR and A/B Switch being in the loop may pose a problem, as neither the VCR nor the splitter have a component connection.

1. Is current configuration a problem for getting HD to TV ?
2. If so, is it with the VCR or the A/B switch ?
3. Is there a way around this problem.
4. Can you provide recommended set up?

Thanks in advance.

To receive HDTV from your cable box, you will need to use either component or HDMI connects for video, direct from the box to the monitor. The rest of the setup can remain unchanged.

But there's no reason to have the switch in the first place. Just use the audio and video outs from the cable box to the monitor. If you use the monitor's tuner for some channels, then use the splitter ahead of the cable box to send the signal to both TV and box.

Thanks.
But what about the VCR?
Is it a problem having it in the loop??
(I put the VCR AFTER the cable box so I could tape premiun cable shows such as HBO.)

How you going to run HD material through an old VCR? Your VCR have HD hook ups on it?

If you can detail the input output connections (HDMI, Component, Optical, Coax etc) on your HDTV, Cable box, VCR and stereo system, I'm sure knowledgable members can help you with the best set up that fits your need.

Good idea zevia. Or refer to the manuals.

Exactly, It wouldn't take to much to tell you if you gave the specific connection layout of your components.

Cable
l
l
l
Splitter
l l
l l
l l
box & TV


Connect box to TV via component or HDMI
Connect VCR to box via cable
Connect VCR to TV via RCA composite video, and L/R audio


IF you use the TV tuner for some channels, the above is the setup to use. If you use only the tuner in the box, then forget the splitter and connect the TV only with video/audio cables from the box and the VCR. Presumably your TV has multiple inputs. IF you wish to watch one cable channel while recording another, and can use the TV tuner, then keep the splitter.

Thanks CDan,
I very much appreciate your help.
Ive decided to solve my VCR problem by getting a DVR box from the cable company, so no VCR anymore.
From what I gather, if I had decided to keep the VCR, I would have had to get it out of the cable box loop.
Since I have a splitter, I was going to use Line A to the cable box and HDMI to TV.
Then I was going to use Line B to VCR and composite connection to TV.

Anyhow, I guess Ill now just put VCR with a TV in the other room.

Thanks to everyone for their help.

You'll be very glad you got the DVR.