On Mon, 27 Oct 2008 02:35:08 -0000, "R. Mark Clayton"
wrote:

A lot of gear. I am contemplating a similar upgrade.

I bit of rationalisation wouldn't go amiss either... particularly as you
have some sub optimal connections -

Generally, I'd agree with you.

even the cheapest DVD player will look
better in component than yours in s-video.

You might be surprised, but that isn't necessarily true of all
equipment. Take my Topfield PVR, for example. I have the option (and
cables) to be able to connect it via either component or RGB. But I
don't. I use S-Video. It gives a more realistic and pleasant picture.
Both component and RGB look decidedly lurid. (Everything else in my
system is connected via either HDMI or component, though.)

Some things might as well connect directly to your screen (e.g. PC via
DVI - HDMI input (cable only - no conversion)) although there is a sound
routing issue.

Quite. Which is why an amp with decent video switching (and upscaling
where appropriate) is a nice solution. (And dead easy to operate with
eg a Logitech Harmony remote. That can switch on all relevant
components and correctly set the inputs for any given activity with a
single button press.)

Peter.