By David D. – Product Specialist
Before I started working here at Sonic Electronix, I knew very little about HDMI Cables, I had no idea there was different variations of speed and performance. Now that I have been here for a while, I have learned why HDMI cables are made in different speeds and what they are most commonly used for. With today’s technology of high performance components constantly evolving, the cables that connect to these devices must evolve as well. Monster Cable has recognized this and manufactures some of the best HDMI Cables in the business. Below I will discuss the different types of speed ratings.
Standard Speed
A standard speed HDMI cable is an entry-level high-definition connection cable that performs at 4.95 Gbps and supports 720p and 1080p. It provides maximum performance from up-converting DVD players and standard high definition digital TVs. Standard speed supports 8-bit color, which enables the display of up to 16 million colors and is featured in most first generation HDTVs. With standard speed HDMI cables, you can achieve an excellent high definition picture and great sound quality for a price that doesn’t break the bank.
High Speed
A High Speed HDMI cable gives you a higher definition picture than standard speed. It performs at 10.2 Gbps and supports ultra-high definition 1080p video. High speed allows you to attain excellent performance from new generations of HDTVs, DVD player, and cable/satellite receivers. It supports 10-bit color that displays up to 16 million colors and provides faster speed for smooth motion video. The most common components used with high speed HDMI are Blu-Ray Players, HD DVD players and even gaming consoles such as PlayStation 3 and XBOX 360.
Ultra High Speed
Ultra high-speed HDMI cables are for home theater enthusiasts who want the best in HD whether it would be gaming or for a 1080p HDTV. It supports 1080p+ ultra-high definition video and performs at 13.8 Gbps. Ultra high speed also provides the support of 12-bit color (also known as Deep Color). This provides the smoothest gradation of colors and allows the display of billions of colors. It supports Dolby True HD and DTS-HD lossless surround sound, found mostly on Blu-Ray and HD DVD players. Ultra high speed is ideal for AV sources and HDTVs with a refresh rate of 120 Hz and is ready for 3D displays.
Ultimate High Speed
Ultimate high speed HDMI cables perform at 15.8 Gbps and are the best in high definition home theater. Monster has been a step ahead in the home theater game for a long time, now they have produced a HDMI cable that will work now and in the future. Ultimate high speed is the highest speed HDMI cable that Monster manufactures. It is ideal for HDTVs with 120/240 Hz refresh rates and is ready for 3D Displays. It supports 16-bit color that provides the display of billions of colors. Dolby True Hd and DTS-HD lossless surround sound is also supported by the ultimate high speed HDMI cable. Ultimate high speed provides the sharpest, most enhanced picture you can possibly have.
Whether you’re looking for an entry level cable, or a cable that has surpassed HDTV technology, Monster Cable has an HDMI cable to suit your needs.