You only need a component cable (you can use one for PS2 or PS3, the cable is exactly the same) I would recommend a high quality component cable due to the fact that component is an analog signal and you will benefit from a good quality cable (better shielding). Not sure what your budget is but I would go with the Monster Game Link component cable, it comes with an optical cable for audio. The HD PVR does allow HD playback while recording. I've had an HD PVR for a couple years now so I know all about it. Any more questions just ask