The reason I ask is because I currently use HDMI only on my DVD player, but I've noticed picture problems with some discs (especially red/green "flickering" on older, B&W films). Is it possible to have other cables hooked up as well to deal with problem discs that HDMI doesn't handle so well?

I think the answer is usually yes, but the PS3 is a notable exception. Remember that the player won't upscale most discs over component.

Well, I already have an unpconverting DVD player. I just wanted to know if I could have both sets of cables hooked up and just switch between them through the inputs on the TV.

I couldn't do that with the Oppo that I had. With some players, if the HDMI is connected, then the component is shut off. Now that I think about it, my Toshiba D2 might be that way too.

I recently purchased an Oppo from Woot. I tested it with a few discs using the HDMI connection. According to my Vizio LCD, the signal being displayed is only 480p. Is that right or should I expect 1080i/p or 720i/p resolution? Shouldn't the Oppo be upconverting the signal?

What is the model of both your TV and your Oppo?

In a word, yes, it should, but there are a few things that could be hampering you.

1. You just have to change the settings on either device to have them sync correctly to display an upconverted image.

2. Your TV isn't handshaking with the HDCP profile given it and defaulting to 480p.

3. You are part of a vast conspiracy preventing HD video from being seen.

There are some other explanations I am sure, but these are the most likely ones

My TV is a Vizio VU42L FHDTV10A and my Oppo is a DV-981HD. I know my Vizio handles 1080p video since it says so right on the TV and in the manual and on the box.

I'm going to check #1 to see if there are any settings I'm not configuring correctly.

If its #2, what can I do about it? I don't think its #3.

Are you connected via HDMI?

I found the solution. It was as silly as just pressing a button on the remote labeled "HDMI". It cycles through all the display resolution options until you get the one you want. Sorry for wasting everyone's time.

You are not wasting anyone's time, this is how we learn and help each other.

I blame the industry for the poor job they do at unifying the terminology and better explaining their products and the features on their products.