I must admit I am a little confused with all the options and requirements with buying a new HDTV.

Before I begin the search for an HDTV I need to check what will be supported by my MCE. My MCE box is still 2005, becuase I still utiilize my linksys extender. I have a Vista View analog and HD, so I know I will not view real HD unless I am viewing over-the-air tv. I am OK with that, since I am not ready to buy a new Cable Labs certified PC.

So, my question is what is needed to purchase for my Media Center PC to view on the New HDTV. I've been researching and I beleive I need a new video card that supports HDCP HDMI. Does MCE 2005 support HDCP? Is HDPC needed for  HDTV. If so what are some good video cards that have HDCP HDMI out? I prefer to have a video card and also links audio to the HDMI feed to limit the amount of cables.

Applogies if this was answered in a previous post. I first reviewed the previous posts on TGB, but it started to confuse me further. So thanks for the reply's and have a great day.

Do you plan to connect your Media Center PC to your new HDTV directly through HMDI or use a new extender that support HD?  Either way, I don't think HDCP play a role until you want to play Blue Ray or HD DVD through a PC connected directly to an HDTV over HDMI.

Connect directly. I already utilize a version 1 Linksys Extender. I have no plans to spend more money on another extender, for a few more years. It is the only reason I have not upgraded to Vista. I have a Vista license, I just will not upgrade until I have another extender. And another extender is not in my budget for a few more years. I am just now looking to purchase a new flat HDTV.

HDCP nor HDMI is "needed" for Media Center 2005 (Blu-ray/HD DVD do need it), but you really don't want to buy a new HDTV that doesn't include HDMI-HDCP at this point.  You don't need it for Media Center, but look for a model that includes at least one HDMI-HDCP port.  You can add more later using an AVR or even a cheap HDMI switcher.

Thanks Chris,

So I would only really need it if I installed a Blu-Ray or HD-DVD drive in my PC?

What do you suggest is the best connection from the PC to the HDTV? HDMI, DVI, RGB?

DVI and HDMI are the exact same video signal, and either one of them are generally considered the best to use when connected PC to TV.