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Monster Cable MC 500HD-2M: Review

Posted to Accessories 2009-12-31

The Monster Cable MC 500HD-2M is a standard speed, 2 meter (6.56 ft) HDMI cable with a bandwidth of 4.95Gbps. The cable is designed for first-generation 720p and 1080p high definition signals. The MC500HD features corrosion resistant 24K gold-plated contacts, high density triple-layer shielding for minimum interference from RF and EM and double helix construction, which maximizes signal strength.

The MC500HD also features rugged fully-shielded connectors, support for 8-bit color and support for HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control channel), which enables automated audio/video component setup and control. The cable is covered by Monster Cable's Live Forever Full Lifetime Warranty, which is the best cable warranty in the business. The MC500HD is designed for first-generation HDTVs, progressive scan DVD players and cable/satellite receivers. It is designed with the budget buyer in mind. The MC 500HD is also available in 1 meter (3.12 ft.), 4 meter (13.12 feet) and 6 meter (19.68 ft.) lengths.

Rating:

3.2 out of 5

Value

HDMI cables are not cheap. Even though Monster states that these cables are designed with the budget buyer in mind, they cost half as much as some of the lower-priced HD components they're designed to connect. While Monster Cables are known to be among the best in the business, it would be nice to see some truly budget priced cables offered by them for the more cost-minded buyers among us. That being said, the MC 500 HD is a high quality cable that is priced less than some of Monster's higher-end cables.

Performance

The MC 500HD delivers adequate performance for the types of equipment it was designed for. Bandwidth is more than adequate for 720p and 1080p signals, and interference is kept to a minimum by the triple-shielded construction. And signal loss is not a problem due to the double helix design. The connectors are high-quality, shielded for reduced interference and gold-plated for maximum signal transmission. In addition, the cables are rated for in-wall use.

Summary

The MC 500HD cables are a good choice for first generation HD equipment; we just wish the price were a little more reasonable. The fact is, the quality is still higher than the comparably priced competition, it's just that sometimes you get the feeling that you're paying for a name when you buy Monster Cables. Still recommended if they're within your budget.

Pros

HDMI cable designed for first-generation HD devices
Compatible with 720p and 1080p signals
4.95Gbps bandwidth
Triple-shielded construction

Cons

Expensive for a budget cable