What is HDTV , and will I need to replace my existing T.V?

[Sekosha]

I curently do not have sky , equally I live in a non cable area , I do however have a freeview box , and currently looking for a lcd tv for the bedroom,

I am confused with HDTV , some are HDTV ready most are not , some have built in freeview digital rercievers but still not HDTV ready , does this mean once HDTV kicks in standard tellys will be no good ?? if so how comeso many NON HDTV ready are being sold ??

Look forward to an idiots guide

Best regards

T.D.Meakin

[fo3nix]

digital tv is one thing, HDTV is another.

digital tv: you're already getting it --- freeview. in a few years, the analogue system will be switched off, and digital will be all there is.

HDTV really goes hand in hand with digital tv (everywhere else except for europe and japan, it's broadcast digitally). the HD stands for High Definiton. Basically, we use the PAL system right now, which means that the pictures on our TV is made up of many horizontal lines, 620 or something (I cant remember). what HDTV does is (along with other things too), increase the number of horizontal lines. This means that you get more detail in your pictures.

Soon you'll be able to buy HD DVDs; there are two competing standards right now, bluray and HD-DVD. I hope bluray wins, as it's technically superior.

there are different "types" of HDTV; 720i, 720p, 1080i and 1080p. the p standing for progressive or interlaced (i wont go into that here).

once all broadcasters use only HDTV, then yes normal PAL TVs in the UK will be no good. but I dont think that'll be for a while (afaik). Digital TV is on its way in though.

my advice would be to simply buy the best TV you can afford.

[Dreddnaught]

I wouldn't buy an HD teevee right now, firstly because new technology is always more expensive, and secondly, broadcasters aren't really doing anythin that necessitates an HD teevee.

With the prices nowadays of decent LCD teevees, I'd go for one of thse, and consider an HD teevee in around 2 years time, when they'll be more wallet-friendly and you'll be able to get a use of them.

[Sekosha]

Thanks for your answers , I have decided to buy the best I can afford right now , which has built in digital freeviewe but not HDTV ready , working on the basis that it will come eventually but maybe not today or tomorrow.. thanks again guys.. I understand a lot clearere now.