Hey guys, I'm not sure if I'm posting this in the correct location, but it seemed to fit the description somewhat.

I have a problem that I'd like the cheapest solution to. What I have:

LG HDTV w/: DVI input
Cable Box w/: HDMI Output
Computer w/: DVI Output

I'd like to connect both my computer and the cable box to my tv, both through the DVI input. RIght now I have the computer hooked up through that input, and the Cable Box is on the way. I wanted to make sure this was the cheapest solution:

Buy:
HDMI to DVI adapter
KVM Switch (neweggdotcom/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817402031)


I'd hook the Cable Box HDMI cable to the adapter, connect that to the KVM switch. Connec tthe Computer's DVI cable to the other DVI input on the KVM switch, and hook the switch to the TV through another DVI cable. This sounds right to me, but I want to confirm it with you who know more than I. Also, if there's a cheaper, better solution, please advise.

Last, would I lose quality going from HDMI to DVI, and do the cable lengths play any part into quality?

It seems like that product has a few bad reviews concerning the DVI ports. No, you shouldn't loose any quality on the HDMI/DVI conversion. Have you considered using component for the cable stb? That would likely be the cheapest solution.

And from what I have seen, equal in PQ. Not that I wouldn't suggest digital if you had that option easily available but in your case I'd go the component route.

Isn't component video less quality than HDMI or DVI? I have an HDTV and want to use it to its fullest potential, especially for sports.

If that KVM product got bad reviews, can someone recommend a better product?

Thanks for all the help so far!

Yes in theory HDMI or DVI which is digital should be better than analog component, but in practice I've tried both from a Digital cable box to a Sony XBR4 46" LCD, and myself and a friend could not really tell the difference between the 2 cables. That said we went with the HDMI cable since the Sony had 3 HDMI inputs and he liked the idea of one cable for A/V instead of 5 fat ones for component. It wasn't a quality issue.
I'm thinking any PQ gained by the digital route may be lost by the switcher, which No I have not heard anything bad about. It's just one more think in the loop. But if you want to go the route of the switcher that would probably be ok too.
P.S. not sure if you are aware of Monoprice.com, but I just recently bought a 4X1 hdmi switcher with remote control for $39.10. It was v1.3 compliant. Haven't hooked it up yet but it looks nice. I think they also sell HDMI to DVI cable adapters for cheap.

Thanks jjeff. With your suggestion, it might be wiser to get a HDMI switch with a HDMI to DVI adapter to hook it into my TV. Might be cheaper than a DVI switch, even with the multiple DVI to HDMI and HDMI to DVI adapters. One more reason for the switch would be a potential purchase of an XBox 360 and PS3, but those are in the distant future.

Yes good to think ahead. Things have a way of multiplying. Also I believe HDMI is more commonly used so it would be good to stick with that for a switcher and just convert the DVI as you said. Note it's also my understanding DVI does not carry audio, while HDMI can and does most of the time. Keep that in mind when you look for switchers and HDMI to DVI adapters.

good point jjeff,. thanks again!

Most people just buy a cable that has HDMI on one end and DVI on the other. Cheap at monoprice.

joed, thanks for the suggestion, I can get everything I need including shipping for around $60 at monoprice.