Is it time to buy a new TV or just tempted by all those huge, wall-hanging screens? If you can afford it, and for the sake of making your expensive purchase last longer, HDTV seems to be the only way to go. While the technology is constantly changing and improving, prices dropping, and screen sizes growing there is alot to love and fear in HDTV.
High-definition television (HDTV) has been tempting the masses for years. But, for the early adopters or those just browsing, the technology and industry have caused confusion, large prices, and the purchasing (sometimes) of inadequate equipment to satisfy the desired home theater experience.
With cable companies forced to upgrade to HDTV-quality over the next few years, all those flashy new televisions tempting us, everyones desire for the ultimate 'home theater' experience, and the next generation of "dvd" players capable of storing high-definition video with theater-quality audio ... if you're convinced to buy, and you have the money, here are a few ideas to add to all your other research.
HDTV can use audio of up to Dolby Digital surround sound. An HDTV by itself may not be capable of producing that quality of sound - additional audio equipment is common for the full home theater experience. I would suggest either going for the full surround effect or focus on big front speakers and a quality subwoofer. Buying in a package deal can be a good idea - look for ease of install and digital quality.
As most have probably heard, there are, unfortunately, 2 disc formats vying for consumer's attention: HD DVD and Blu-Ray. Basically, both are the next version of DVDs with the potential for much higher quality video more appropriate for your new HDTV. Either choice here could be a risk - time will tell.
If brands matter, I prefer Sony, Sharp, or Samsung. Costs of equipment usually go lower in that order. There are plenty of other names - the usual big names and all kinds of new competitors - up to your personal preference.
Screen size and the LCD / Plasma choice is mostly a financial one. I prefer LCD and the screen size is growing every year. Of course, newer technology is always on the horizon. The old world of televisions lasting for 10 years will end up being replaced by the digital world of constant upgrading - what you probably want is to extend that timeframe as much as you can with your purchase.
Cables. There are newer standards for cabling. HDMI seems best for the all-digital benefits, but otherwise stay with component video, if HDMI is too expensive. Make sure your HDTV is capable of both options, if you are not ready for HDMI but might wish to upgrade in the future!
In terms of resolution, the only thing that matters in selecting an HDTV (at least so far), is looking for 720p or 1080p. The letter after the number is sometimes an 'i' as in 720i and 1080i - 'p' is better. The higher number is better, but right now 720p is much cheaper.
Keep in mind, a common complaint and misunderstanding, that trying to watch most current television stations on an HDTV television will look very disappointing. The television can only display to the highest resolution of the signal sent into the television. The lowest common denominator. HDTV looks best with HDTV signals; patience and selection are important.
Make sure to check out the brand and online store product reviews. Head over to your local electronics store and see it in action. With the right research and a reasonable budget, we can all hope for a miracle that our new digital televisions will last as long as our old ones have.