I'm really glad I found this post. I was about to give up all hope of using Linux on my ps3, it's not just a problem with YDL as I also tried Ubuntu first.
I have a CECHA01 with hard drive upgraded to 120Gib and usually running via HDMI to a Sony Bravia KDL-32L4000 at 720p.
With these settings Linux sucked in a big way!
Running through component I do not have this problem and everything is crystal clear!
Now I have both cables connected and change my tv input when I switch over to Linux.
Thank you all for your troubleshooting!
~ecuintras