Buying a high-definition TV set isn’t like picking out a jar of salsa. It’s more like figuring out the capital loss carryover on Schedule D of your tax form. Don’t let it scare you.
What do I need to get hi-def?
Four things:
— The obvious: a high-definition TV set.
— Hi-def programming from either a cable or satellite provider, or an antenna.
— With a cable or satellite set-top box, you’ll need a digital audio-video connector called HDMI or an analog-video connector called component video. Some cable boxes require a digital video-only cable called DVI. You can buy a single cable with a DVI connector at one end and an HDMI connector at the other end. (Ripoff alert: Don’t pay high prices for these cables. Suggested source: monoprice.com.) If you want nothing more than local stations in hi-def, buy an old-style rabbit-ear antenna. Visit antennaweb.org for details on getting the best reception.
— An HD DVD or Blu-ray Disc player. Almost all of these expensive ($400 and up) players deliver the highest-quality HDTV signal, 1080p.
How do I know if I’m watching hi-def?
If you have an HDTV tuned to a hi-def channel that’s showing a hi-def program, then you’re watching hi-def. Once you’ve seen hi-def, you’ll always know the difference.
What’s the best HDTV for me?
The one that looks best to you. Some basic guidelines: Under 42 inches: LCD. Over 42 inches: Plasma, LCD and DLP sets. DLP sets offer the biggest screen at the lowest price, but beware of their hidden cost — they use a lamp that lasts 2,500 to 3,000 hours. Replacements cost $250 to $300.
What’s so good about a hi-def picture?
For those who haven’t seen hi-def, let’s toss out some numbers comparing lines of resolution (the more lines, the sharper the picture): VCR: 240. Analog TV: about 330. DVD: 480. HD: 720 or, in some new sets, 1,080.
What happens to all the analog TVs still in homes after the turn-off date for analog signals set by the FCC?
They’ll still work, but they’ll need a set-top box to convert the digital signal back to analog. Cable and satellite subscribers will get those boxes from their service providers. Subscribers who don’t use a box now might not have to add one if their cable company sends out both analog and digital signals. Those still using an antenna must purchase a converter box, although the federal government will provide subsidies up to $75 per household. RCA has already announced its first converter box, the DTA800, but has not set a price.
