I get a lot of friends and family asking me what high definition tv they should be getting. LCD or Plasma? 1080p? 42″, 50″ or 70″? Projector or the flatscreen TV you can hang on the wall? Your options are endless.
720p vs. 1080i
Prices are dropping on earlier generations of HDTVs. With 1080p on the market, some of the older models are dropping in price. Although its a good idea to get a 1080p TV, most cable companies are still too far behind to even show HiDef in 720p or 1080i. Unless you own a PS3, you will not benefit from 1080p anytime soon. This article breaks down further information on 720p vs. 1080i.
Cables
This is where most electronic stores can take you to school. Cables are marked up 100%-1000%. If you are spending more than $10 for an HDMI cable, you’ve been had. Say no to cables from these shops and go online to shop for a generic version:
Shop at Monoprice
Reviews on Monoprice
Or you can try Meritline
Accessories, accessories
Finally, you got your shiny new HDTV at home. Did you upgrade your DVD player? You forget to buy the HD Upconvert or HD-DVD player? How about the receiver from your cable provider? Tell me, at the very least, you got the HiDef receiver from your cable company? Suprisingly, this is where a lot of people don’t prepare themselves in terms of budget for a new TV. The HD receiver is critical to getting HiDef running in your home. Budget around $200 for one. I highly recommend getting your hands on the best HD-PVR your cable provider can supply you with (which can cost upwards of $600). Nothing beats playing, pausing, and recording live high definition as you explain your setup to your friends and family. Some people call that “flossing” 🙂