HDMI is a standard in all current 360s. For most people, it's hard to tell the difference, but people with bigger HDTVs can see it easier. If you have HDMI hooked, the darks will look better.
Also, since your 360 is purchased from the US, just hold on to the receipt and if your 360 ever RRODs and your friend lives in the US, have him get it fixed for you. You probably wouldn't even need the receipt, since they go by the serial numbers, I've heard. I've never had a RROD, even on my launch console. The DVD Drive did go bad, but that's my fault, played Fable II for 3 days straight without turning it off. I recommend you to install games before you play (except Halo 3/ODST).













