(This review goes more in-depth than the older review of this product. Do not think that this is a short review already: How much can a guy write about a wire?! There is also some detailed information regarding component video output and its performance).

Introduction to Component Video Output

Most Playstation 2 game disks and all DVDs store a component video signal in digital format. Since this is the native video format that is stored on these disks, it is also the best format to use to display the picture, if your equipment is capable of handling this type of signal. Component video may also be referred to as "YPbPr." The Y component of this signal is the black and white information contained within the original RGB signal. The Pb and Pr signals are color difference signals, which are mathematically derived from the original RGB signal. Since the color information is split into three separate wires, the video quality is better than that of composite video or S-video which both have only one wire for video information. This results in an optimal picture for movies and games with vibrant color and increased clarity.

All that you need is a Playstation 2, a component video cable such as the one featured in this review, and a high-end television with component video output.

Pelican's price advantage

The retail price of this component video cable is $10. Sony's cable is $20 and the Monster Cable Product Inc.'s is priced at $60. You might think that the higher price of the competition is due to enhanced performance, but this is only partially true. Actually, the Pelican component video cable performs better than the official Sony cable because its video and audio contacts are all gold-plated. This coating reduces distortion and thereby results in a better picture and sound. However, the cable from Monster Cable does have a slightly better picture than the Pelican because its cords have been injected with nitrogen gas to allow electrons to flow more freely to the television. However, this almost negligible improvement in picture quality is not worth the extra money because the Monster Cable has no audio wires and costs about six times as much. The bottom line: Pelican is the best way to go.

Buy this now!

The Pelican component video cable is essentially the best you can buy for the least expensive price. If you have a television with component video output and a Playstation 2, rate this review and go straight to a store that sells this peripheral.

Recommended: Yes