Buying an HDTV - Frequently Asked Questions

Buying an HDTV can be confusing for those looking into them for the first time.  This FAQ is here to help clear up some common issues people have when shopping for a new high definition television.

Why go with an HDTV?  Isn't my standard set good enough?

Well, there isn't anything wrong with your standard set, but an HDTV is amazing step up in image quality.  For some people, image quality isn't a big deal, but if you're really into the way your video looks, an HDTV is the only way to go.  The difference in the sharpness and clarity of the image is like night and day when compared next to each other.  Once you've adapted to watching an HDTV, you will never want to go back.  It's just that much better.

What kind of HDTV should I choose?  LCD or plasma?

First, know this:  both technologies are very good.  You can get excellent TVs using either system.  However, LCD TVs are generally thinner, lighter, sturdier, and more energy efficient than their plasma counterparts.  However,  a plasma TV can handle motion much better than most LCD models.  What I would recommend  is to check out both kinds in a store, and see which ones you like the look of the most for your particular needs.

What size of HDTV do I need for my room?

This depends, but a common rule of thumb is to take the distance between where the TV will be and where you will be sitting in inches, and divide that number by three to get an approximate value for  how big your TV should be.  This will be a good starting place when shopping.

Where can I find good HD content for my new TV?

Fortunately, finding HD content is not hard at all these days.  You can buy yourself an HD antennae that will pick up local HD channels.  If you want other channels, pretty much every cable and satellite provider can set you up with  a good HD content package.  Blu Ray players are dropping greatly in price, and yield stunning image quality when compared to pretty much any other type of HD signal.

So, I hope this has helped you get a few basics of buying an HDTV down.   Whatever you choose, if you're coming from the world of standard def, you're sure to be impressed by what you get with an HDTV.