Which type of connection offers the fastest data transfer speeds for AV equipment?

The correct answer is HDMI, as it is specifically designed to transmit high-quality digital video and audio signals between devices. HDMI can support resolutions up to 8K and provides bandwidth that exceeds 48 Gbps, which is essential for high-definition video content and multi-channel audio. This capability makes HDMI particularly suited for modern AV applications, ensuring that there is minimal lag and high fidelity in the audio-visual experience.

In contrast, while Ethernet can provide high data transfer speeds for networking purposes, it is primarily used for data communication rather than direct video and audio signal transmission. USB connections vary in speed (with USB 2.0 being significantly slower than USB 3.0 and later versions), but they are mostly utilized for connecting peripherals rather than serving as a primary interface for high-bandwidth AV content. VGA, being an older analog standard, does not support the same level of quality or speed as HDMI, as it cannot handle high-definition digital signals and is limited to lower resolutions.

Understanding these details distinguishes HDMI as the optimal choice for fast data transfer in AV applications.