High Definition TV

You need three things to take advantage of HDTV. First you need a television that will receive and display high definition signals. High definition TV channels won’t do you any good if you don’t have an HDTV receiver or HDTV tuner.  The high definition TV technology is specifically designed to receive and display the HD signals.

Secondly, you will need an account with a broadcast cable or satellite company that broadcasts in HD.  

Thirdly, you will need to ensure that you choose an account that offers you HD channels in the package. Just because your cable or satellite provider offers HD channels and is capable of broadcasting in HD, does not mean you have those channels in your package. When you sign up for a package, be sure to ask your service provider about the HD channels.   

If you are ready to buy a high definition television, you should research the various kinds of TVs and technology that will allow you to receive high definition signals. There are several types of these TVs on the market today and the costs, features and quality vary from model to model and from brand to brand. 

First, decide how much you have to spend. HDTV sets can range in price from $850 to $10,000 for the largest, most sophisticated units. Technology variations can be overwhelming. Whether to choose plasma, LCOS, LCD or DLP may be something you cannot handle on your own. The staff at a reputable electronics store can show you the features and discuss the tradeoffs but you will ultimately have to decide. Many people think DLP is the best choice for resolution, cost and quality but others are zealous about plasma and other technologies.  

Only you can decide what combination will be best for you. Increased cost may not be something you want to incur for the privilege of getting the increased resolution, unless you are a true fanatic. Do not be bullied into buying the very best if you can’t afford the $5,000 price tag. And don’t forget that the more complex HDTV units typically require expert installation and that installation service is not free.   

Whatever you choose, once you have seen high definition TV and high definition channels you will wonder how you ever watched TV on a regular set!