Flat Panel TVs
If you don't have a
flat panel HDTV for under $2000. Pretty sweet.
Pixel Problem Solving
Digital content currently is delivered in one of five formats: 480i, 480p,
1080p.
* 480i is the same format as a regular analog television and also the standard format for digital cable and satellite.
* 720p, 1080i, and 1080p are considered "high definition" by cable and satellite providers.
** 1080p is the highest quality format available because it can display every pixel of the highest resolution HD broadcast. 1080i stands for 1080 "interlaced." It displays identical resolution to 1080p, by displays the image in lines instead of pixels. It is best to go ahead and buy a 1080p HDTV to get the highest quality image from digital media providers that are adopting the format.
HDMI
Many people buy an HDTV, hook it up to their digital cable and think they will immediately get HD quality. Even if you get HD channels, you will not get an HD display until you buy an
HDMI cable. This cord can be bought for under $20, and connects your HDTV to your digital cable box. It transmits digital HD sound and display from the box to the TV. The traditional cord corrupts the information by transforming it to analog. You will notice a huge difference in your HD programming with an HDMI cable.
LCD Televisions
70" LCD is pushing $30k. Most will find that a 32" or 46" LCD is the most reasonable home entertainment buy.
Plasma Screens
Plasma screens offer rich color and dark blacks. Since they aren't as bright, they are more more vulnerable to glare. Plasma's are the most affordable way to get a gargantuan screen.
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