A bit more... (archive)

I mostly agree with what others have said... but it varies depending on what broadcast market you're in. In some areas, the three main networks all broadcast _some_ HD content, in other areas, only one or two, and in others, none of the three broadcast HD content.

DishNetwork does offer HD content for either Showtime or HBO, but this currently requires a separate dish aimed low to the east (for west-coasters). They are moving a satellite into a more westerly position to make this an easier shot. Of all my high-tech friends, only one has a full HD setup with a dish aimed at this satellite. Very impressive, but perhaps not worthwhile for most people.

In the past year, the HD standard has become more clearly understood, and the manufactures have sets that actually conform. One manufacturer last year had to re-label sets after it was discovered that they didn't meet minimum requirements. We're pretty deep into the second generation HD sets, and I'd feel somewhat comfortable investing in this round of HD technology.

I stand by my recommendation to at least get a set that has line-doubling. Even though the typical NTSC broadcast has 400-some lines of resolution, a good line-double helps immensly on the larger sets (50" and up).

Another side note, more lines (e.g. 1080 vs 720) isn't always better... there's some argument as to whether 1080i delivers a superior picture than 720p ... the difference being interlaced vs progressive scan.

Dave

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