The Sony Bravia V3000 series was the most popular request in our latest VIP Poll. I have tested and published my findings on the Sony KDL40V3000.
On an interesting note, I see my competitor over at hdtvorg.co.uk has published a review of the Panasonic TH42PX80. Nothing wrong there, except that on closer inspection it is a word-for-word rehash of their own TH42PX70 review. Have a look at the following screen captures from their website.
From hdtvorg.co.uk/reviews/plasma/panasonic_th42px80.htm:
From hdtvorg.co.uk/reviews/plasma/Panasonic_th42px70_2.htm:
Given HDTVOrg’s past history of plagiarism, constant rehashing (check out the “Performance” section of their Samsung PS63P76FD review which is again completely rehashed from the corresponding section in their PS50P96 review, but somehow they forgot to substitute the model name), and the fact that I haven’t seen anything but generic stock photos on their website, I suspect that HDTVOrg actually writes bogus reviews without having seen many (if any) of the TVs himself.
Part of what motivates me to continue reviewing HDTVs is the sense of achievement I get from publishing my reviews way before the likes of What Hifi and Home Cinema Choice (because I’m not afraid of buying the televisions myself if there’s popular demand in our VIP poll). But how can you compete against someone who can fabricate an entire review at the drop of a hat?
On this bombshell, if you’d like to see us buy and review the Panasonic TH42PX80, I have started a fundraising to help me cover my loss when selling the plasma as second hand after the review. I have been in touch with Panasonic, but they told me that they haven’t received their loan stock in yet, and even if they had they would send the pioneer batch to the major publishing houses first.
The Toshiba 37XV505DB is the first of their Regza XV range of LCD televisions we managed to get our hands on to review. Replacing the ever-so-popular Regza X series, the new Toshiba XV LCD TVs feature true high definition (HD) 1920 x 1080 native screen resolution, “Luma Sens” technology which automatically adjusts the LCD backlight depending on the ambient light detected to improve blacks and save energy, a full power down mode which consumes even less power (compared to standby), and a dedicated game mode that decreases input lag for better gaming experience.
While researching this LCD HDTV on the internet, you may have come across different model names such as Toshiba 37XV503DB and Toshiba 37XV505DB. They are essentially the same panel (in terms of specifications and presumably picture performance) bar some minor cosmetic differences. However, some retailers have taken advantage of this difference in model name to refuse price-matching requests which may erode their profits.
Remember the Hitachi 1.5 UltraThin LCD HDTVs you saw at CES earlier this year? Well the 1.5 Ultra thin series has now been released in the US in two separate model ranges. First up is the Hitachi Directors series X, and the Hitachi Ultra Vision V series. We will be talking about the X series / directors series here.
The 1.5 ultra thin sets had a huge amount of attention at CES and rightly so, they are just 1.5-inches thick or thin. The Director’s Series Models will be avaliable in four sizes, from 32-inches to 47-inches. On the larger end, we have the 47-inch Hitachi UT47X902, 42-inch UT42X902, and 37-inch UT37X902, all with a 1920×1080 pixel full 1080p HD resolution, 120Hz Reel120 technology and two year warranty.
On the smaller end of the Hitachi X series, we have the 32-inch UT32X812, and UT32X802. The former features the 120Hz Reel120 technology, while the latter does not. Both have a 1366×768 resolution and 2 year warranty. The unrivaled thinness also comes with a great 360 degrees design that is appealing all around. All come with an optional audio video center.
One of the most exciting HDTVs announced this year by the major brands is the Samsung Series 6 650 range. The Samsung 6 / 650 series consists of six different sized models, and sitting right at the very top of the series is the largest 52-inch Samsung LN52A650.
The Samsung LN52A650 seems to be a straight winner, with an amazing new look featuring Samsung’s “Touch of color” and the very latest and highest specifications and features to being the very best in HD viewing. If your looking for a stylish and modern LCD HDTV, with a large screen size, and also great features, the LN52A650 should suit you very well.
Offering the highest HD format called Full HD / 1080p the 1920×1080 pixel LCD screen offers the native resolution for blu-ray and will show the best image quality for a screen this large. Along with 1080p, Auto Motion Plus 120Hz high frame rate keeps image sharpness and clarity during fast moving scenes, and scenes free from image judder, often seen during image panning. A high 178 degree viewing angle enables easy viewing from around the room, and the fast 4ms response time works well with the 120Hz technology for motion blur free viewing. A massively high contrast ratio of 50,000:1 ensures vivid and natural colors with deep black levels.
From use of the Ethernet port on the Samsung LN52A650, you can access the latest news, weather, stock info and sports news with a simple press of the button on the remote via the InfoLink RSS technology.
Other connections on the LN52A650 are very healthy with a nice collection of four HDMI 1.3 inputs (1 on side), 2x component, s-video, composite and PC VGA input.
Samsung have given the plasma HDTV market some love with it’s latest 50-inch plasma offering, the Samsung PN50A550. Samsung looks set to win some of the plasma market back from Pioneer with the PN50A550. It comes from the new Samsung Series 5 range, and offers a full HD 1080p resolution, with advanced processing to improve image quality and reduce noise.
The specifications look very impressive on the Samsung PN50A550, with a very high contrast of 30,000:1 for great colors and black levels, along with 18-bit processing for smooth color grading and Samsung’s Ultra FilterBright technology. Connectivity is very good also, with three HDMI 1.3 inputs, PC VGA input, component, s-video, and USB 2.0 for photos and music playback. Cnet took a look at the PN50A550 and say, excellent picture, with highly accurate colors, very little noise, and solid processing. Unlike most HDTVs we’ve tested, the Samsung PN50A550 was able to successfully de-interlace 1080i film-based material once Film Mode was engaged.
PC connection on the PN50A550 is also very good via both the HDMI and VGA inputs, resolving all details at the perfect 1920×1080 pixel resolution.
Panasonic is doing a great job this year with it’s new range of LCD HDTVs, and the very well impressive and well priced Panasonic TX-32LZD85 stands out well. The TX-32LZD85 has some more advanced features over Panasonic’s lower end models, such as the high 100Hz refresh rate which cuts down on motion blur and image judder, while increasing image sharpness and detail by adding in extra frames.
The Panasonic TX32LZD85 features a full HD 1080p LCD screen with 100Hz, 24p and a Motion Focus system brining you the very best in HD from a blu-ray movie. The 1920×1080 pixel resolution is still rare for a screen of this size, and along with the image enhancing V-Real image processing engine, the TX-32LZD85 can produce an amazing image with a very high contrast ratio of 10,000:1 for vibrant colors and deep black levels. TReviews said the TX-32LZD85 delivers greatly, making it easily the company’s best LCD HDTV yet.
Inputs are good on the Panasonic TX-32LZD85 with three HDMI 1.3 input, component, PC VGA input, a SD card slot for viewing photos, and digital audio out for a separate audio system.
At their press conference, Philips used the occasion to great effect (light show and dance intro, fashion catwalk, and even a specially-commissioned film by esteemed director Wong Kar Wai) to drum up interest in their new Aurea 42PFL9900D LCD that could be best described as “Ambilight In Bezel”. Notice in the following video how the colour/ intensity of the light zones embedded within the bezel changed according to what was displayed on screen:
If you feel that the Aurea is too distracting for your taste, there’s always the conventional Ambilight models to fall back on. I am always very impressed with Philips televisions’ performance in showrooms, and this time was no different. They put up a few of their EISA-award-winning Philips 47PFL9732D LCD TVs side-by-side in on/ off mode to demonstrate their 100Hz Clear LCD, Perfect Pixel HD and HD Natural Motion technology. While I believe that the effects were exaggerated (for example, the judder on the “HD Natural Motion Off” screen was much worse than your usual telecine judder), these nevertheless gave a glimpse of what the new generation of Philips LCDs are capable of.
Panasonic
Overall the Panasonic booth was quite dark with the only significant light source coming from all their television screens, which of course showcased the already excellent blacks on their plasmas. Current full HD models like PZ700 and PF9, and the newer TH42PZ70 (which will have twice the quoted contrast ratio but cost £500 less than the outgoing TH42PZ700) were on show, but it was the 103-inch behemoth of a plasma TH103PF9 that grabbed the crowd’s attention (it was placed in a dedicated room with surround sound). Here’s a picture… if you look closely you may see someone standing to the left of the picture which gives you a scale of how humongous that screen is:
Panasonic will also – for the first time – venture beyond 32 inches in their LCD product lineup: the 37″ Panasonic TX37LZD70 LCD TV will feature a full HD 1920 x 1080 screen based on IPS-alpha panel complete with 100Hz Motion Picture Pro technology. Given the low ambient lighting condition, I couldn’t help but notice the average blacks, but hey, I’ll be the first to hold my hands up and admit that it was not calibrated (so black level could be brought down if Panasonic are considerate enough to introduce a long-overdue backlight control). Viewing angle, as always, is one of the best in the LCD business:
Samsung’s exhibition stand covered the largest area among all the HDTV manufacturers I’d visited at IFA Berlin 2007. Strategically positioned near one of the main entrances, it was crawling with dealers, journalists and consumers… like they were holding a trade show of their own. This is probably a testament to the popularity (read: value-for-money) of their products, not to mention their financial clout as the world’s leading consumer electronics company.
Being someone who avidly follows all the advancements in the high-definition television industry, I naturally hustled and bustled my way through the crowd to home in on a pair of LED-powered LCD TVs, the 52″ Samsung LE52F96BD and the 70″ LE70F96BD. Armed with an array of local-dimming LED matrix, the backlight can – theoretically – be shut off totally to produce an absolute black level that’s even lower than the Pioneer Kuros, resulting in an extremely high contrast ratio (Samsung have quoted us a figure of 500,000:1).
While across the pond US consumers have been able to buy and enjoy these LED LCD TVs since 2 weeks ago, here in the UK I probably would still have to wait for a little while longer before getting my hands on a sample to review in the home environment. What I have received though is a Samsung LE40F86BD LCD TV, which is the next step up from the LE40M86BD with 100Hz Motion Plus technology and a higher claimed dynamic contrast ratio:
Sony has launched their new Bravia W4000 range of LCD HDTVs—comprising the Sony KDL40W4000, KDL46W4000, KDL52W4000 and even a 32″ 1080p true HD KDL32W4000—according to a press statement released on 31 March 2008. Here are some snippets of the press release along with our analysis.
XMB is short for XrossMediaBar, Sony’s award-winning graphical user interface (GUI) found on the Sony PS3 and the latest US Bravia LCD HDTV models (e.g. XBR4/ XBR5). This is the first time we will see it implemented on a full HD 1080p HDTV aimed at the UK market.
XMB is short for XrossMediaBar, Sony’s award-winning graphical user interface (GUI) found on the Sony PS3 and the latest US Bravia LCD HDTV models (e.g. XBR4/ XBR5). This is the first time we will see it implemented on a full HD 1080p HDTV aimed at the UK market.
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Background:
As the HDTV market continues to heat up, consumers are in need of being educated on the latest technology. One of the terms that you, the consumer, will surely run into while selecting a HDTV set is: HDMI. For most this is an unfamiliar term and we will explain the details of HDMI in this article so you, the consumer, is armed with the proper knowledge to make intelligent purchasing decisions.
What is HDMI: HDMI is an acronym for High Definition Multi-Media Interface. The HDMI specification (now at 1.2) was created by some of the largest consumer electronics manufacturers in the world: Hitachi, Matsushita, Philips, Silicon Image, Sony, Thomson, and Toshiba. HDMI is the latest digital HDTV interconnection standard. The notable differences between HDMI and the earlier HDTV interconnects standards (component video, and DVI) are:
-HDMI is all digital unlike analog component video cables
-HDMI supports multi-channel audio in addition to digital video. (DVI only supports digital video)
- HDMI is more compact in size and carries both audio and video signals therefore eliminate cable clutter.
-HDMI incorporates content protection called HDCP ( high definition content protection)
What does a HDMI connector look like: HDMI looks similar to a USB cable. The compact size and high integration (carries both audio and video) makes the HDTV installation experience truly "plug and play."
Why should I use HDMI:
-HDMI is all digital, so picture quality is "perfect" from source to display
-HDMI is both a digital audio and video connection. This will minimize cabling in your system
-HDMI is rapidly becoming the de facto standard for HDTV connections.
How does HDMI transport the digital video: The video portion of HDMI is carried by 3 separate differential pairs. Each pair transports 1 of 3 uncompressed native digital R,G, B signals from source ( dvd player,set top box) to the sink ( HDTV display). A unique protocol, T.M.D.S.( transmission minimized differential signaling), is used to transport the digital data. Each pixel is represented by 24 bits ( 8 bits each for each of the primary colors). The T.M.D.S. protocol then "calculates" and stuffs 2 extra bits to the video data stream in order to create a digital stream with minimum transitions ( lower EMI, lower interference) and also minimize long strings of '1' and '0' which can cause detection errors.
A fourth differential pair, called the TMDS clock provides the pixel clock for timing the data stream. The maximum TMDS single link pixel clock rate is 165 MHz.
What is the data rate of a single link HDMI connection: The maximum pixel clock rate is 165MHz and each of the 3 TMDS video streams carries 10 bits. Therefore the aggregate data rate is 3 x 10 x 165MHz = 4.96Gbps.
How many pins are included in the HDMI connector: There are 19 individual pins in the HDMI connector. There are 3 pairs of TMDS signals which carry all the digital audio and video signals.
How is the digital Audio signal transported: The multi-channel audio is time multiplexed into the TMDS data streams. Audio is much lower data rate (192kbps) and the extra time is used to demux the audio signals.
What is HDCP: HDCP is an acronym for High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection. HDCP is an encryption method developed by Intel in order to control unauthorized copying of digital media. The encryption is carried out in the HDMI transmitter found in the "source" ( dvd player, set top box) and decryption is carried out by the HDMI receiver ( the HDTV display). The secret keys for encryption are exchanged between the source and display over an I2C bus ( pins 15 and 16).
Is HDMI compatible with DVI: DVI is the predecessor to HDMI. HDMI and DVI are identical as far as video is concerned. Therefore, video backward compatibility exists. However, DVI will not support digital audio. For example, if you have an older DVI connection on your source and a HDMI connector on your display, a HDMI to DVI cable is all that is needed in order to view the video. A separate audio cable ( TOSLINK or SPDIF) will be needed to carry the digital audio.
What formats will HDMI support: HDMI is high speed digital connection and will support resolutions of 480i, 480P, 720i, 720 P, 1080i and in the future,1080P.
Conclusion:
HDTV technology is changing rapidly. HD connections such as HDMI will become the de facto standard in HDTV connections. We have outlined the important features of HDMI, so the consumer is well informed and ready to make intelligent purchasing decisions.
Analog
An analog television receives signals via satellite, over the air or through a cable; whereas older (standard) televisions accepted signals from radio waves transformed into sounds and screen images.
Digital
Digital television (DTV) converts signals for DVD players to analog. However, limited pixels limit resolution for viewers, affecting quality imaging on the television screen.
Reportedly U.S. broadcasts are moving in the direction of DTV transmission, transmitting video and sound data zeros and ones over wave transmissions, basically using the UHF spectrum over the air with a 6 MHz bandwidth, similar to analog transmitting.
Features and benefits of DTV include:
• Better quality image.
• Better resolution with big screen TVs
• Better video graphic imaging.
• Multicasting.
• Interactive content can be transmitted.
• High-definition (HDTV) compatibility.
Bad news: older standard analog televisions cannot show DTV productions. So you may still need two TVs at this time, depending upon cable and how late you stay up and want good content, etc.
HD
HDTV is part of DTV. It carries the highest standards for DTV, as set forth by the Advanced Television Standards Committee (ATSC) for digital television.
Of the18 digital broadcast formats for video, the top tier for HDTV needs to reflect the following over analog and other lower standards with respect to:
Aspect ratio - HDTV must have a 16:9 aspect ratio; standard TV only needs a 4:3.
Resolution - HDTV needs high resolution, like up to 1920 x 1080 pixels; standard TV only needs 704 x 480 pixels.
Frame rate – HDTV needs the highest frame rate (like screen speed), at least 60 frames per second. Standard TV is under 24.
The mains things to note with high-definition visual and sound are twofold. Number one, the television station needs to be transmitting high-definition signals. Without that much, no need to continue. And number two, you need to have the right television equipment to receive and view the high-definition transmissions.
So get informed and check out your systems and equipment! It’ll make upgrading to HDTV that much easier – and enjoyable for your family.
What was then a crude box of wires and valves and brushes, is a magical tool that provides crystal clear pictures and surround, natural sound from a size of not more than your two skateboards put together! Today`s television quality has been defined by the introduction of High-Definition TV (HDTV).
It is a digital broadcasting system that allows more video compression, less bandwidth and most importantly clears and superior quality pictures or video. HDTV provides an image resolution of around 720 lines of progressive scanning range (720p) to 1080 lines of interlaced scanning (1080i). The quality and superiority of HDTV is unmatched as per now. The image resolution is much higher as compared to conventional TV sets. But television`s superiority hasn`t stopped at HDTV itself. A new introduction has been made to the superior range of televisions today.
Full HDTV, or ultra-HD, true HDTV or 1080p has excelled over the quality of HDTV sets. The image resolution, picture quality and sharpness are all much higher than HDTV sets. Full HDTV sets provide an image resolution of around 1920 by 1080 pixels.
Full HDTV uses the progressive scanning technique to produce an image, while other HDTV sets use the interlaced scanning technique. The former is superior as the jitter factor is ruled out considerably than in the latter. The former is better for video displays or moving objects that move diagonally or vertically from one part of the screen to another. The progressive scanning used in it is also important as per the following factor. The fact that a clean, sharp and distinct superior quality video is only possible in LCD sets, Plasma sets and also with micro displays is only provided by progressive scanning is a boost for Full HDTV sets.
The picture quality in full HDTV sets is far higher than conventional and other HDTV sets. This is because in large screen TV sets, the pixels are less in number and hence are magnified to occupy maximum screen space. This gives a deteriorated picture quality. But due to the high quantity of pixels in the Full HDTV sets, picture quality automatically gets smoother and better. Vastly detailed pictures and video can be viewed and provides an optimum quality of TV viewing experience.
Nowadays, in the age of the Home Theater, DVDs and VCDs, films are often watched sitting in the comfort of home. Full HDTV sets provide you with the best option available, as huge screens (conventional or flat) only provide you with optimized video content only with the full HDTV system. Not only is the film-experience aggravated, but also lends it an authentic touch as of excellent picture quality as in cinema halls and theaters.
Full HDTV has been so successful only because of the high-definition digital broadcast of programs. But the same can be said the other way round. Probably, in the coming generation, television will attain even more advanced forms. But it is correct to state that only with the initiation of the full HDTV sets, was the sweeping modernization of sleek television truly born. As the new age television takes its place in drawing-rooms all across the world, full HDTV acts as much more than a mere complement to it.
* The HDTV TV set itself
* A media supplier, cable ,satellite or local stations
* A signal provider, antenna, cable, satellite
Firstly it would be advisable to look for your HDTV set. You should find two kinds of sets available. The most common at the moment is the HDTV ready set which means it has the capability to upgrade at a later time to receive high quality broadcasts but does not do so at the moment. It will adequately give reasonable standard picture quality but not high definition.
Secondly there is the integrated set. This TV set has the correct components i.e. a in built digital tuner, so you can install a HDTV antenna and receive a wide screen high definition signals.
HDTV Info About Signals
After searching around for HDTV info about the TV signals the conclusion will be that there are various types of ATSC signals. There are no current HDTV sets that will convert and display all of them on the one set. What happens is the HDTV set receives a couple of these signals and displays a scaled down view which is adequate for general watching under most conditions.
Your HDTV info will let you know that there are further continuing improvements being implemented to improve the digital signals across the board which means that the local resolutions available will dove tail the signals you need for optimum high definition display. Having a set that is capable of producing high frames rates will be of no advantage to the owner as this does not produce better picture quality when receiving lower frame rate signals from your local signal provider. As mentioned, this will improve over time.
So which signal provision will you choose. Be it satellite, cable or antenna. HDTV info is readily available from each of these providers and some stores are well stocked with HDTV info just to confuse you even more. But as long as you decide on a particular signal supplier first and then match your HDTV set to it you should be on track. It is no use to find the best HDTV with all the state of art gadgets if the signal provision in your area will not be sufficient to give this wonderful technology the best show it can deliver. Some signal providers have matched their technology to the manufacturers capability and provide packages which makes the HDTV info gathering a lot easier. Just choose your signal provider and match the HDTV to it.
The proper antenna choice is dictated by numerous factors, most of them are derived from your location. The most important step in HDTV antenna selection process is to find out what broadcasts are available in your area, which frequencies (channels) they are transmitted on, and which CEA color area you are located in with respect to the transmitting towers. Consult HDTV Antenna Labs guide and follow the selection process.
In most cases an outdoor antenna is the way to go. Indoor antenna reception quality is always inferior to the quality obtained with an outdoor antenna, especially in remote areas. However, of you live in a HD signal saturated area in the immediate proximity to the towers, then an indoor HDTV antenna may work great for you.
There are many reasons for using indoors antennas, most of which have to do with the inability of installing an outdoor television antenna. Indoor HDTV antennas are especially popular with individuals living in apartments. Your home may simply not have the space to mount an outdoor antenna, and there are several indoor models that serve as space savers while providing you with reception.
Many individuals choose to purchase an indoor TV antenna instead of its outdoor counterpart for aesthetic reasons. Some housing developments and neighborhoods have gone so far as to ban outdoor TV antennas, especially neighborhoods of historical homes. For this reason, and indoor HDTV antenna still allows you all the fantastic qualities of HDTV while not marring the physical look of your home with an unsightly antenna.
Normally, indoor antennas do not require any maintenance and the troubleshooting is trivial. This is not always the case with outdoor antennas. Strong winds, and stormy weather in general, may cause damages to rooftop antennas. Professional assistance in the roof antenna installation is recommended.
The major issue with indoor TV antennas is a poor reception of weak HD signals. Performance of any particular indoor antenna type or model is hardly predictable because it depends on so many factors - construction materials of the building, the exact placement in the house, other objects located near the antenna. For these reasons, Consumer Electronics Associations (CEA) does not rate indoor antennas by CEA color areas as they do for outdoor antennas. With indoor antennas nothing is guaranteed.
Although an outdoor antenna can potentially pull in more TV channels, its higher cost, bigger size and installation hassle can turn your decision in favor of an indoor antenna. Audiovox, RCA, Samsung these are just a few of many indoor HDTV antenna manufacturers. All of them offer similar products. For VHF TV channels 2 to 13 all you have is the well known rabbit ears antenna. Anything more sophisticated than that in VHF band would be simply too large to place indoors. UHF antennas are smaller and a consumer has many antenna types to choose from. The most basic (and poorly performing) is the UHF loop antenna. More sophisticated UHF antenna types are directional log-periodic and scatter plane antennas.
When considering the particular antenna types and brands, be sure to research a specific model before you buy. Look at customer reviews and compare antenna specifications carefully.
HD (high definition) refers to the quality of the picture being transmitted to your television set.
Picture quality is measured in scan lines. The more scan lines that are transmitted to your TV, the clearer the picture.
For instance, analog (over-the-air) TV has 525 scan lines per image. HDTV, on the other hand, has up to 1,080 lines per image -- almost twice as many lines of resolution giving you twice the clarity of analog TV.
There's a huge difference between watching TV on a regular TV set as opposed to watching an HD TV. The HD picture is sharper and the colors are brighter. The picture is so realistic it's almost like watching a scene through a window.
HD Satellite TV Features
Here are the main features of HD satellite TV:
* High resolution picture -- HDTV produces a super-sharp image, resulting
in a clearer, more lifelike picture.
* Widescreen picture -- you get a full-width picture just like you see in the movies.
* Digital audio -- HD audio programming is broadcast Dolby Digital format so you get a three-dimensional surround-sound listening experience.
HD Satellite TV Providers
Both DISH Network and DIRECTV offer HD programming. Here's a rundown on their HD satellite TV channel lineups ...
DISH Network HD Satellite TV
DISH Network offers two HD satellite TV programming packages:
The DISH Network HD Pak
This package includes HDNet, HDNet Movies, ESPNHD, Discovery HD, and TNT in HD.
The DISH Network Voom Pak
This package includes Ultra HD, Monsters HD, Rave HD, Equator HD, Gallery HD, Anamania HD, Rush HD, HD News, Guy TV HD, and Majestic HD.
In addition to the above packages you can also get HBO HDTV, Showtime HD, DISH on Demand Pay-Per-View in HD, and CBS HDTV.
In order to receive HD programming from DISH Network you must have an HD receiver. When you order satellite TV service from DISH Network you can get an HD receiver free.
Note: For more information on current DISH Network HD programming and subscription fees, or to order satellite TV service with a free satellite TV system, click on the links below.
DIRECTV HD Satellite TV
DIRECTV offers one HD satellite TV programming package:
The DIRECTV HD Package
This package includes ESPN HD, ESPN2 HD, Discovery HD Theater, HDNet, HDNet Movies, and Universal HD.
In addition to the above package your can also get HBO HD, Showtime HD, and DIRECTV Pay-Per-View, plus ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, and the WB channel.
Sports packages include NFL Sunday Ticket HD and NFL Sunday Ticket SuperFan HD.
In order to receive HD programming from DIRECTV you must have an HD receiver. When you order satellite TV service from DIRECTV you can get an HD receiver free (after a $199 rebate).
Note: For more information on current DIRECTV HD programming and subscription fees, or to order satellite TV service with a free satellite TV system, click on the links below.
The Bottom Line
The only drawback to having HD satellite TV is the cost. If you don't already own an HD TV set, then you'll have to buy one. And the HD programming fees are another expense that will add to your satellite TV bill.
However, if you want to see your favorite shows in near lifelike clarity and you can afford the extra expense, having HD satellite TV is definitely worth the added cost.
People were amazed by the technology of being able to watch live broadcasts from across the world, films and sports all whilst not having to leave their homes.
Then came along colour!
Obviously, we have come a long way since then, what with the capabilities of computers and the internet, video calling and other technological advances, having colour television all seems a bit primitive.
Since colour television there also have been some more advances for our viewing pleasure.
There was the VCR, giving people the choice of recording their programmes or buying video’s for their kids.
Then came along DVD. DVD produced improved quality in audio and visual a normal VCR cassette couldn’t compete with, as well as separating the films into scenes and sections, and adding extras.
Now with digital television widely becoming the standard, we have LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) & Plasma screens, again improving picture quality whilst saving space. But it doesn’t stop there.
The new technology that again, will improve the viewing pleasure is ‘High Definition TV’ or HDTV for short.
So, what is HDTV?
HDTV is the latest generation of digital TV, providing life-like picture quality, at least four times superior to current standards. It will provide extremely clear and fine picture detail with richer colours, improving the visual experience.
At launch, HDTV is thought to be available from BSkyB. In order to view programmes broadcast in 'High Definition', a soon to be released HDTV Sky Receiver with Sky+ technology will be required. In addition, the benefit of High Definition will only be apparent through a HDTV television (ideally plasma or LCD).
Please note, not all Plasma & LCD televisions currently available are HDTV compatible. It is expected to become available in the first quarter of 2006.
The terms HD ready and HD compatible are being used around the industrial world for marketing purposes. They indicate that a TV or display is able to accept video over an HDMI connection, using a new connector design, the main purpose of which seems to be to ensure that digital video is only passed over an interface which, by agreement, incorporates copyright protection. Even HD-ready sets do not necessarily have enough pixels to display video to the 1080-line (1920x1080) or 720-line (1280x720) HD standards in full resolution without interpolation, and HD-compatible sets are often just standard-definition sets with an HDMI input. This is a confusing use of the terms HD and hdtv.
MPEG-2 is most commonly used as the compression codec for digital hdtv broadcasts. The hdtv is capable of "theater quality" audio because it uses the Dolby Digital (AC-3) format to support "5.1" surround sound.
Japan has the earliest working hdtv system still in use, with design efforts going back to 1979. Japan began broadcasting analog hdtv signals in the early 1990s using an interlaced resolution of 1035 lines (1035i). The Japanese MUSE (Multiple sub-nyquist sampling Encoding) system, developed by NHK Science and Technical Research Laboratories (STRL) in the 1980s, employed filtering tricks to reduce the original source signal to decrease bandwidth utilization.
Japan is forerunner of hdtv in the world. Japan terrestrial broadcast of HD via ISDB-T started in December 2003.
The hdtv transmission in Europe started in 2004. Euro1080 is the pioneer in hdtv transmission in Europe. Australia started HD broadcasting in January 2001.
CHUM Limited's Citytv in Toronto was the first hdtv broadcaster in Canada and CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) officially launched hdtv programming on March 5, 2005.
Mexican television company Televisa experimented hdtv broadcasts in the early 1990s, in collaboration with Japan's NHK.
The hdtv specifications are defined by the ATSC in the United States. An hdtv-compatible TV usually uses a 16:9 aspect ratio display with an integrated ATSC tuner. Lower resolution sources like regular DVDs may be upscaled to the native resolution of the TV.
The hdtv services were made available in the Republic of Korea in 2005 and Brazil is expected to go for it in 2006.
There are numerous online sources carrying volumes of info on plasma hdtv, lcd hdtv, hdtv antenna, hdtv receiver, dlp hdtv, hdtv cables, hdtv tuner etc. Scores of sites are offering hdtv reviews, hdtv articles and hdtv news that are very helpful for the potential customers to buy hdtv.
Now that you’ve chosen what size HDTV to get the next question is what type of technology you should look at. Older CRT analog televisions were all based on the same basic technology, but now you have a potentially confusing array of choices: LCD, plasma, DLP, LCoS, and D-ILA. LCD and plasma are both flat panel technologies that can be mounted on walls. If you’re looking for an HDTV less than 42 inches then LCD is probably your best choice. Plasma is a better choice for HDTVs over 42 inches, as current LCD units get very expensive in larger size formats.
I just pre-ordered the new Samsung HLS-5087W 50 inch rear projection DLP HDTV. Many believe that DLP technology offers the best price/performance in the 50 inch plus category of HDTV today. Sony has made a large investment in LCoS technology which it brands as SRXD, while JVC brands their LCoS line D-ILA. LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) is most similar to DLP (Digital Light Projection) technology, however many believe the DLP camp has made faster progress on reducing manufacturing costs to offer consumers a better price/performance ratio. While rear projection DLP HDTVs lack the flat panel appeal of LCD and plasma units, they are much lighter and have far less depth than the CRT televisions of the past.
You’ve chosen the right size and technology for your new HDTV, and now you’re trying to understand what is 720p versus 1080i versus 1080p. Let me help you out here – don’t bother getting a 720p today. I’d recommend at least a 1080i, better yet a 1080p. My new Samsung is both 1080p input as well as output. In order to understand what all of these strange numbers mean, well, you’ve have to wait until my next article.
CRT TVs
While it may not be as high-tech as a Plasma HDTV screen, you can still get a big screen TV with the Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) technology (small cathode ray tubes that produce color to create images), also known as direct-view televisions. CRT is the basic technology for televisions that everyone is familiar with and is most commonly available. While they are bulkier and do not have the same image quality as the newer technologies, CRT screens still provide good color, have a long life, can be viewed in brightly lit rooms, and are available for decent prices. CRT screens exist in wide screen and flat screen options. CRTs are built to last, with picture quality that does not fade. A CRT is a good economical choice. However, when Plasma HDTV becomes less expensive in the future the CRT TVs will probably become extinct.
LCD TVs
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screens consist of two polarizing transparent panels with a liquid crystal solution in the center that is in a state between solid and liquid. LCD is flat and lightweight, which makes the LCD technology popular for laptop and even some desktop computer screens. The biggest detriment of this type of TV is its limit in size (about 40 inches). The LCD screen is a good choice if you are not interested in getting a large screen.
Plasma HDTV
Plasma HDTV is one of the best and most impressive technologies in the market right now. The plasma screen consists of tiny gas plasma cells that are charged at exact electrical voltages to make a picture. It uses a digital technology that has a higher resolution than the CRT TV screens. The Plasma screens can be produced to have the resolution to watch HDTV. As of now, Plasma HDTV is still superior to LCD screens in displaying blacks which means it has better contrast and picture. They also have better viewing angles than the LCD screens.
The Plasma HDTV not only gives you superior picture quality but it is also smooth and sleek. These screens are flat and light (but not quite as light as the LCD screen) and can be hung on the wall like a picture and are not limited in screen size as the other models are. However, this new technology is still very expensive.
Projectors
Projectors, although not technically a television, are a popular way to get the big screen experience. Quality projectors will give you a good picture and they are excellent for watching movies or playing games. However, you need to have a blank wall or screen and lights have to be dimmed or off to watch it since the projector’s light is dim.
With a better knowledge of the CRT technology, LCD Screens, Plasma HDTV, and projectors you can make a better decision on what type of big screen TV you want to have. With so many choices it is important to know what you are selecting from. If you are serious about your television watching experience, than you will want to get Plasma HDTV for your next big screen TV purchase. This will give you the sharpest image out of all your choices.
Recently TV’s have got wider and thinner, but have they got any better ?
Sure, the latest trend is HDTV (High Definition TeleVision), promising stunning picture quality, but at a much higher price than regular CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) Televisions.
Have a look online, or in the electrical stores and you will see a massive quantity of High-def televisions available. Buzz words like plasma, rear projection and LCD will roll off the salemans tongue and then you will have to choose from a variety of screen sizes, shapes and brands. It's enough to make you give up before you even start looking for the perfect compliment to your Sony PlayStation 3 videogame console.
So what exactly is HDTV then ?
Putting it simply, it's all about small dots. Any television picture is made up of dots of colour. The smaller the dots, the more vivid the images will look. That is why HDTV images look great.
Why do HDTV cost so much ?
Currently we are still paying a premium price because the technology is new and cost a lot of money to develop. The reason for this is that the colour dots that make up the picture have to be 9 times smaller on the HDTV. This makes them very expensive to build.
The PlayStation3 is similar in that it cost a huge amount of money to develop, but Sony can afford to sell the PS3 console at a gross loss, purely because Sony know that the average owner will spend an additional $100 + on very profitable games and accessories for their next-gen games machine. HDTV manufacturers do not have this option, so we pay more until the development costs are covered.
So Do I need a HDTV for my PS3 ?
If the question was ‘will my PS3 only work with a HDTV’, then the answer is no. The PlayStation 3 comes bundled with a cable that will let you use a regular television, however the picture quality is so much worse than a HDTV that is makes your PS3 games look only slightly better than PlayStation 2 games.
If you are happy with a small screen, then the alternative is to hook your PS3 up to a computer monitor. You will need a special cable, and a monitor with a digital input, but this will work fine. If your monitor doesn’t have speakers, then you will need to buy some.
If you want a screen larger than 22 inches, then definitely get a HTDV, but make sure it has at least one HDMI connector on the back and has a resolution of 1080i or 1080p and a screen refresh rate of 8ms or less.
