Why are some prime time shows broadcast in HDTV and some are not?

Question

I've noticed when I watch some prime time shows on one of the major networks some are broadcast in HDTV and some are not.
It seems the more popular the show the more chance it has on being broadcast in HDTV. Could it be that its very costly to broadcast in HDTV?

Answer 1

It requires a different set of euipment to produce a show in HD. Yes, it is more costly. Even if the program is not always going to be BROADCAST in HD, it needs to be made in HD, first, because the quality can not be put in after.

In other words, a show, filmed or taped in regular definition cannot be made into HD, later. One can always LOWER the quality of the product, but it cannot be raised.

A producer of a brand-new show, for instance, may not go for the expense of making it in HD, unless he is very sure he has a market for it. You may know that hundreds of new shows are created, and pilots made that are NEVER broadcast.

Now, the TV broadcast standards are changing, and ALL broadcasters will eventually have to air ALL programs in HDTV. Older sets, that are not designed to receive this signal will no longer work. Older, non-HD programing will still be shown, in it's original low resolution, but it will only be going out in the new signal format.

(as in example: All the old, low fidelety records that were made in the 1950's, or before, and broadcast on AM radio can still be broadcast over FM stations.

Answer 2

It's all about money.