Is it really worth getting a HD TV? is the picture clarity noticable?

Answer 1

I already have one but the problem at the moment is that no one broadcasts in HD unless you have Sky or equivalent and then you have to subscribe to an HD channel to get the benefit. You can get HD DVD players that say they can enhance your original DVD to be viewed in HD (HDMI). I would wait a few years b4 spending a large amount of money on an HDTV, unless of course like me you couldn't wait..

Answer 2

Yes. Here are several reasons why.

1) All commercial HD is digital, so the signal will either deliver an excellent picture, a picture with noticeable pixelation, a series of still pictures, or no picture at all. You would never get a snowy or washed out image from a weak signal, effects from signal interference, such as herringbone patterns, or vertical rolling.

2) Most HD programming and films will be presented in the 16x9 proportioned, semi-widescreen format (though some films created in even wider ratios will still display "letterbox" bars on the top and bottom of even 16:9 sets.) Older films and programming that retain their 4:3 ratio display will be presented in a version of letterbox commonly called "pillar box", displaying bars on the right and left of 16:9 sets (rendering the term "fullscreen" a misnomer). Or, one can usually choose to enlarge the image to fill the screen, however this option will display a distorted, stretched-out picture.

3) The colors will generally look more realistic, due to their greater bandwidth.

4) The visual information is about 2-5 times more detailed overall. The gaps between scanning lines are smaller or invisible. Legacy TV content that was shot and preserved on 35 mm film can now be viewed at nearly the same resolution as that at which it was originally photographed.

5) Two new pre-recorded disc formats support HDTV resolutions, namely HD DVD(which now up to supports 720p and 1080i) and Blu-ray(which supports up to 1080p. Players for both systems are expected to be backward-compatible with DVDs, however the two formats are not compatible with each other.

6) The increased clarity and detail make larger screen sizes more comfortable and pleasing to watch.

7) Dolby Digital 5.1 sound is broadcast along with standard HDTV video signals allowing full surround sound capabilities. (standard television signals broadcast basic stereo audio signals)

Answer 3

The picture is of exceptional quality and yes you will notice the difference straight away but buying a HD ready TV on its own wont do anything.THe only way you can get Hi Def TV at the mo is buy a sky HD box for £300 and then there is only a few documentry,sports, and movie channels available at the moment.PS3 and the likes offer HD but normal terrestial TV wont be Hi Def for at least another couple of years.

Answer 4

HD TV's are great!
But only if you have an HD decoder ie Sky HD box or cable HD box.
Other wise any thing over 42" can be a lttle blury up close, as it still using the same amount of dots to make up the picture as standard TV.
I'm waitng for HD DVD to come out (blu-ray or HD-DVD)

Answer 5

Yes the higher definition offers a sharper picture. In 2008 most broadcasts in the US will be in HD format. You can get a box to use with your current set, or buy an HD ready set. It depends on what works for your financial situation.

Answer 6

I've read somewhere that in the US the picture is a vast improvement as their old format was crap. Anyone who has a PAL telly ie Europe, the picture isn't that much of a difference. Have a look in a Currys or Comet and have a look. I didn't think it was worth a new telly and a tenner a month subscription.

Answer 7

HD television is worth paying for somewhat in case you have HD channels attainable. 17 inches television is particularly small you somewhat dont wanna purchase 17 inches HD television. only spend few extra and get a minimum of a 32 inch.

Answer 8

I dont have HDTV but from experience with it in the stores, the picture is widr and better than traditional tube tv. Another bonus is that HDTVs reduce glare from your lights on the screen, the picture is clearly noticeable. But HDTV service packages from cable or sattelite companies are quite expensive so only get it if you got the dough to go with it.

Answer 9

It is an excellent picture. you can actually see yourself at Comet stores in UK. But the actual price of TV+sky HD box is too much at the moment. Could be worthwile waiting.

Answer 10

Definitely worth the investment, it is visibly sharper and clearer than analog TV. Keep in mind receptions for some channels vary depending on the signal reception in your area.