I just had Direct TV install my new HD DVR. They used component cables and not HDMI cable. My TV is a Samsung 42"er that is about 1.5yrs old if that matters. I just bought HDMI cables and I am wondering will I be able to tell a difference between the picture using HDMI and component cables? It looks pretty darn clear right now. Should I take the cables back to Sears and save $40?
Thanks in advance.

Try the HDMI cable. If you don't see a difference, return the cable. :)

Yes take them back since the only difference you might have seen would have been is in color quality and not in resolution(clarity).

Your DirecTV HD DVR should have come with an HDMI cable in the box. That cable will work fine so go ahead and return the one to Sears if you can. If you don't have the HDMI cable (sometimes the installers will keep them for themselves) you can stick with the current component cable.

If you prefer to use HDMI you can keep the cable from Sears and use it. Or return that cable and buy a cheaper cable from Monoprice.

The quality difference between the 2 is not $40. (IMHO)

It may be worth $15, which is the price for a cheap HDMI cable. (YMMV)

Thanks guys