UK Buyers Guide

What to look for when buying products and services. A UK consumer guide .

The Buyers Guide to HD TV - High Definition TV Explained

For years we have watched our telly in good old Analogue PAL transmission. It never really changed since the introduction of colour television. 625 lines were the standard resolution but the way producers make programs and movies, the 625 line system is no longer efficient. Understanding HD TV can be as simple as you wish. Let's take the simple route first. HD TV's will allow you to watch the latest movies and programs in crystal clear stunning images - but only if they are produced for HD or digitally enhanced for HD TV.

Soon every movie and every program will be HD compatible and if you have your old telly, you won't get the benefit, further more when they pull the plug on the old analogue broadcasting - you won't get a picture unless you have a set top box to pick up the free to view channels.

Prices for HD Ready TV's are at a low and it is a good time to buy - so, what do you look for?

Digital TV means it receives and displays 'Digital' TV Signals as opposed to Analogue TV Signals so you will see a significantly improved TV Picture Quality. It isn't HD.
HD ready TV is a digital television with a built in "High Definition" Receiver.

There is a big BUT coming .... just because you have a HD ready TV, it won't pick up HD broadcasts unless you subscribe to your provider for HD signals. So before you buy an HD ready TV ensure you can receive HD broadcasts.
Screen Size

If you ever saw or owned a large analogue TV you'll remember that the bigger the screen the lesser quality picture because it simply enlarged the 'pixels' or dots on the screen. This isn't the case with HD TV and you will receive a near perfect picture.
When a TV size is quoted, it refers to the diagonal measurement of the screen. (Corner to corner)
Audio

The standard sound for HDTV is "Dolby Digital" (5.1 Channel Surround Sound - or better). Some TV manufacturers install their own brand audio system and it might be perfectly acceptable to you. Before buying, listen to a TV with "Dolby Digital Surround Audio" and the compare it with the manufacturers own brand audio.

To hear the true effects of Dolby Digital Surround Sound your TV may need an external A/V Receiver and "matched" surround speakers so ensure you discuss this with the retailer. Another option is the Home Cinema or Home Theatre Systems, prices vary widely and your choice really depends on your 'ear' and budget.