HDMI connections

[Prot]

My understanding is that an HDMI cable carries both the audio and video signals. That is, I only need the one cable if I am going to hook a dvd player to my tv.

I do have this setup in my bedroom on my 23" Samsung with a Sony upconvert dvd player. I will be purchasing a 40" 1080P HDTV this weekend, and my newly purchased blu-ray player does not mention the option of just using the HDMI cable with the tv. I am assuming I can do this, but I would appreciate any input that goes against this option.

I have no home theatre system as of yet and I know I will be sacrificing surround-sound.

TIA

[redwudz]

Yes, video and audio. From our Glossary:

HDMI
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the first industry-supported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. HDMI provides an interface between any audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, and A/V receiver and an audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV).
HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. It transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports 8-channel digital audio, with bandwidth to spare to accommodate future enhancements and requirements.
http://www.hdmi.org/faq/faq.asp

[bmwracer]

It's more than likely that your HDTV and Blu-Ray player have the HDMI connections, so there's no need to worry.

If you're still having any anxiety, check the specs on your HDTV and player at the manufacturer's website... They typically have the user manuals online for viewing and/or download.