What Size HDTV Should I Buy?
If you're ready to step up to HDTV but don't know how big to go, this handy guide has the answers you're looking for.
Colour Like No Other
With a great range of sizes and specifications there is a Sony LCD TV for everyone.
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What is HDTV
Anyone who has seen high-definition programming on an HDTV knows, the images are often so realistic you feel you can almost reach out and touch them. But what is it about HDTV that makes the picture so much better? The main difference is image resolution. A high definition image holds more information than a standard definition one, providing up to six times more detail. The fact that HD programming is often displayed in the cinematic widescreen format makes for even better viewing.
Things to note before buying an HDTV
You keep hearing how amazing high-definition TV is, and you may have seen it for yourself in the shops. Now you're ready to take the plunge and make one of those widescreen beauties your own. But all the choices in display technologies and resolution types migh get you a little overwhelmed. While there are a number of factors to consider in choosing the right HDTV, it is not as complicated as it seems. And the quantum leap in picture quality makes the small amount of research required well worth it. Here are five quick tips to help you choose the perfect HDTV for your home-viewing needs.
TV Placement
First, decide where you're going to install the new HDTV once you get it home. You want to place the TV where ambient light won't wash it out and/or reflect off the screen. It is better to put the set next to a window than across from one, so farther away from a window, like the opposite wall, could be worse than near the window. Ideally, the screen should be placed at the long end of the room, preferably centered horizontally on the wall. This allows more viewers to be close to the central 'viewing axis' (the imaginary line extending from the center of the TV screen into the room). Where should the TV be placed vertically on the wall? A good rule of thumb is that the center of the screen should be about the same height as your eyes when seated.
TV Size
Now that you know where your TV will be, it's time to answer the question you've been dying to ask. How big is suitable for my room? Remember, it is possible to have a screen that's too big. Check out our sizing guide to help you find the perfect size for your space.
TV Type
Whether it is LCD, plasma, or others, HDTV's all have their champions and detractors and can come in a variety of high-definition resolutions. Your viewing environment and favorite types of content will help determine which TV is the best fit for you. Take a look at our HDTV comparison chart to get a better understanding of what kind of options are available to you.
Picture Quality
Superior picture quality is probably the main reason you're shopping for an HDTV in the first place, so when comparing the options, make it your top priority. Performance still varies greatly between brands and even different models of the same brand, so consult published reviews and buying guides to make an informed decision.
With any type of HDTV, models with 1080p resolution will deliver the best picture quality. They have more pixels than other sets, allowing them to display the full capacity of detail contained in a high-definition signal from your HD DVD or Blu-ray player. HDTV models manufactured in the last couple of years have 1080p output, but they're more expensive than 720p or 1080i models. The advantages of 1080p are most noticeable on screens 50 inches or larger. If you anticipate watching a lot of HD content over the years to come, you probably want to invest in a 1080p TV.
In addition to resolution, contrast, black level, brightness, and colour accuracy also contribute to picture quality. A TV with excellent HD picture quality should display a natural-looking image with deep blacks, accurate colors, and clear detail. You'll be living with your picture for years to come, so study it closely before you commit.
Once you've narrowed it down to a few choices, try to compare them side by side with calibrated displays. Comparing the HDTV in the store with the default settings should never be used to make a determination of picture quality.
HDTV Cables
Make the most of your high-definition TV investment by using the highest-quality connection cable - HDMI. It is a slim cord that supports all high-definition resolutions (720p, 1080i, 1080p, etc.) and can carry multichannel audio as well. HDMI is all you need to connect your high-definition DVD player or digital television receiver to your HDMI equipped HDTV. By maintaining a digital signal throughout your home-theater system, HDMI avoids the digital-to-analog conversion that can degrade your image quality. Uncertified cables might be cheaper, but they could be more susceptible to electrical interference and unreliable connections or have other problems.
For more information about HDTV, please see our HDTV FAQ.
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