planning to buy monitor

[MDme]

was thinking of getting a new lcd monitor maybe 19" or up...but I was wondering which would be a future proof buy if HDCP (protected video path) in vista comes out. would i need a monitor with HDCP support? please tell me if I'm wrong, HDCP uses DVI as the port??? Also, please include common price for your suggestions, was hoping not to spend TOO much, if it can be helped. better too if HDTV ready.

Thanks a lot guys

This will be my first lcd or >17" monitor

 

[CP5670]

I don't think Vista needs HDCP in general, just for viewing certain types of movies.

 

[MDme]

am aware of that, but i want ot be able to watch my movies (that I buy) in their intended quality without the image being scaled down, blurred or worse...blacked out.

 

[Keeir]

Currently, HDCP is delievered in two ports

DVI-HDCP
HDMI-HDCP (yes, you can actually have a non HDCP HDMI port. But there is not a single US model which has a non-HDCP HDMI I believe)

You will also need a HDCP enabled DVI output on your Video Card. I know ATi has several models which currently support this and I think that nVidia does as well.

Right now, to get a HDCP enabled monitor, you need to get one of the following

Gateway 21" Widescreen (~$600)
Samsung 19" Multifunction (potentially other Multifunctions... may not be availbe for purchase yet) (~$800)
or
LCD/HDTV TV type (various)


Out of these, the Gateway clearly shines as best currently availible, but I bet that Dell/Others must have HDCP models in the works. Might be better to wait till closer to Vista's/Blu-Ray/HD-DVD release and content-support to ensure a monitor will work with those standards.