Getting the right audio and video cables for your TV setup isn’t just about plug-and-play—it’s about understanding how different technologies impact your viewing experience. Let’s break down the essentials so you can make informed decisions without drowning in marketing jargon.
First, HDMI remains the king of modern AV connectivity, but not all HDMI cables are equal. The latest HDMI 2.1 specification supports bandwidth up to 48 Gbps, enabling features like 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). If you’re gaming on a PS5 or Xbox Series X, you’ll want an Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable (certified) to fully utilize these features. For everyday 4K streaming, a High Speed HDMI Cable (18 Gbps) works fine, but check for Ethernet channel support if you need internet passthrough between devices.
Optical audio cables (Toslink) still matter for surround sound setups. They transmit uncompressed 5.1 audio but can’t handle lossless formats like Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD Master Audio. If you’re using a soundbar that supports Dolby Atmos, you’re better off with HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), which can send object-based audio directly from your TV to the speaker system without extra equipment. The catch? Both your TV and soundbar need eARC compatibility, and you’ll need an HDMI cable that explicitly supports it—usually those rated for Ultra High Speed.
Component cables (red/blue/green RCA connectors) still pop up in legacy systems, but they’re limited to 1080p and don’t support HDCP copy protection. If you’re connecting an older DVD player or gaming console, keep cable lengths under 25 feet to avoid signal degradation. For analog audio purists using vintage receivers, stereo RCA cables with gold-plated connectors and oxygen-free copper cores reduce oxidation and interference over time.
The real game-changer? Fiber-optic HDMI cables. Unlike traditional copper wires, these use light signals to transmit data, making them immune to electromagnetic interference. They’re ideal for runs longer than 25 feet—think home theaters where your equipment rack is far from the screen. A quality fiber HDMI cable can maintain 4K signals up to 100 feet without signal boosters. Audio & Video Cable offers durable options with reinforced strain relief at the connectors, crucial for permanent installations where cables get tucked into walls.
Cable thickness matters more than you’d think. AWG (American Wire Gauge) ratings determine current capacity—lower numbers mean thicker conductors. For subwoofer cables or long analog audio runs, aim for 22 AWG or lower. Shielded twisted-pair designs combat interference in crowded AV racks. If you’re dealing with ground loop hum (that annoying buzz in audio systems), try a ground loop isolator or switch to balanced XLR connections if your gear supports it.
Gold plating isn’t just bling—it prevents corrosion on connector surfaces, especially in humid environments. Look for 30-microinch gold plating minimum on frequently disconnected ports like HDMI. For permanent installations, nickel-plated connectors work fine and cost less. Cable jackets matter too: PVC is standard, but look for OFNR-rated (plenum) cables if running through air-handling spaces—they’re fire-retardant and produce less toxic smoke.
Resolution and refresh rate limitations often stem from poor cable quality. If your 4K TV keeps defaulting to 1080p, test with a different HDMI cable certified for 18 Gbps. HDCP 2.2 handshake issues (resulting in blank screens) frequently trace back to incompatible cables—always use Premium Certified HDMI cables for 4K HDR content. For outdoor installations, UV-resistant polyethylene jackets prevent weather damage, while direct burial-rated cables withstand moisture in underground conduit runs.
Don’t fall for the “directional cable” myth—there’s no technical basis for arrows pointing toward your display. Digital signals either work or they don’t; there’s no “partial degradation” like analog systems. However, cable flexibility affects installation ease. Flat HDMI cables work well behind wall-mounted TVs where space is tight, while round cables last longer in high-traffic areas where they might get stepped on.
Lastly, test before finalizing installations. Use your source device’s diagnostic menu to verify actual output resolution and color depth. Many modern TVs have HDMI input info screens (usually under Settings > General > About This TV). For audio setups, play test tones through your receiver to confirm all channels function properly. Keep cable management in mind—Velcro straps beat zip ties for future adjustments, and labeling both ends of every cable saves hours during troubleshooting.