Scroll down to bottom of the page or try a search. HDMI vs component has been discussed. My understanding is HDMI/HDCP is a form of copy protection. On the newer units and on an HDTV you won't get an HD picture without it. And with my HDTV the source has to be 1080i. If the source is not 1080I than you don't need an HDMI cable.
Just my .02 cents.