HDTV is no longer a technology of the future.
It’s here now, bigger and better than ever. And there’s
never been a better time to make the move to high definition.
Prices have fallen significantly, and there’s more HD programming
options than ever before. Practically everything you’ve
been accustomed to watching in the past is now available in stunning
high definition.
What is High Definition TV?
The old, traditional broadcast TV system depended
on signals that were analog in nature. Advances in technology
over the last several years have introduced the capability of
sending a new type of TV signal that is called digital, or High
Definition. This signal offers the capability of a dramatically
better, stunning picture, and much better sound.
The HD terms you hear such as 720p, 1080i
or 1080p refer to the number of scan lines that the TV can display.
Traditional analog TV pictures were made up of about 480 horizontal
lines of resolution. These are the small scan lines that actually
make up the picture that your eye sees. This is commonly referred
to as a 480i, for 480 lines. The “i” refers to the
fact that the lines are interlaced, meaning the lines are displayed
alternately. High Definition TV offers many more lines of resolution
– thus the reason for the incredible picture clarity. HDTV
also makes it possible to display the lines progressively, or
without having to alternate them. This enhances the clarity even
further.
Basic High Definition is referred to as 720p,
meaning 720 lines of resolution displayed progressively. But that’s
only the start. Full HD has 1080 lines. Broadcast signals go up
to 1080i, but there are now new products such as high definition
DVD’s that are displayed at 1080p. Thus, 1080p is the ultimate
High Definition picture – requiring the most advanced electronics.
American carries an unbeatable selection of all different levels
of HDTV’s. Once you see the stunning clarity of HDTV you’ll
see what all the buzz is about. If you’re a sports or movie
enthusiast, once you’ve seen your favorite in HD, you’ll
never want to go back!
Screen Size and Format
Previous TV's had a width-to-height ratio
of 4:3, meaning they were more square-like in shape. Today’s
new HDTVs’ aspect ratio is 16:9. This wider screen format
far better accommodates sporting events and widescreen movies,
making the HDTV experience even more spectacular.
Size Matters, and So does the
SOUND!
As stunning as the clarity of HDTV is, the
HD experience is not complete without dolby digital surround sound.
HDTV offers this technology – you simply need the audio
system that can best bring that sound into your home. If you’re
investing in a new HDTV, you’ll want to seriously consider
a surround sound system to maximize your HD entertainment. American
has dozens of pre-configured HDTV/Surround Sound packages available.
Or, you can build your own with custom components from your favorite
manufacturers.
Different Types of HDTV
HD Flat Panel TV´s
These are the thin, sleek TV's you see that
can hang right on a wall. These TV’s offer the widest
viewing angle and the highest contrast. There are two basic
types of flat panels. LCD (liquid crystal) TV’s and Plasma
TV’s. Plasmas are generally larger screen sizes, while
LCD can be large or small in size. Small or mid-sized LCD’s
are a great option for countertops, dens, kitchens and baths.
HD Advanced Micro Displays
These TV's offer a slim, lightweight design
and advanced technology without the expense of flat panels.
All are HD Ready or HD Built-in and offer large screen sizes,
a wide viewing angle, high contrast, and have a replaceable
light source.
Front Projectors
These giant screens are generally used for
wall-sized displays of approximately 100” or larger. Unlike
older projection systems, advances in technology now allow the
stunning clarity of High Definition to even be seen on these
huge screens. You’re seat on the 50 yard awaits!
See the difference for yourself!
American's commitment to HDTV goes far beyond
simply having the finest selection of brand name HDTV's on display.
At American, customers can step up and see
everything High Definition has to offer. Experience firsthand
the incredible difference in clarity, resolution and color that
HDTV's 1080 lines of resolution provide. You'll hear and feel
the awesome sound an HD signal is capable of bringing to your
home through Dolby digital surround sound.
Don´t forget the HD Signal
Once you've made the decision to purchase
your new HDTV, remember that to experience that stunning High
Definition picture in your home, bringing in the HD signal is
the next key step. This can be accomplished through an HD over-the-air
tuner, satellite tuner, or in many markets, HD cable. American
makes it easy with our convenient tuner choices.
HD Programming - It´s HERE
and more is on the way!
There has been a significant increase recently
in the amount of available High Definition programming. The major
networks now simulcast in high definition with most local affiliates
also sending out this signal. Over 70% of the networks prime-time
lineup is now produced and broadcast in stunning High Definition.
In addition, the pool of HD programming available via satellite
or cable has now expanded to include networks such as HD Net,
HD Net Movies, ESPN HD, TNT HD, Discovery HD, HBO HD, Showtime
HD, INHD, Cinemax HD and more. Specials, movies, sitcoms, and all
kinds of sports are now broadcast in stunning HD. For sports fans,
most major sporting events are now broadcast in High Definition
– putting you in the middle of all the action.
When will all signals be digital?
According to the FCC, the target date for the end of the transition from analog to digital television signals is February 17, 2009. At that point, broadcasting of the current "analog" channels will end and that spectrum will be put to other uses. If you use cable or a satellite service - or have a digital (ATSC) television – a converter box will not necessary to continue receiving your current programming choices on those TV’s. If you receive over-the-air television broadcasts and have an analog television, a converter box will be needed to watch television programming. These digital-to-analog converter boxes will allow existing analog televisions to display the available digital television signal. For more information about the digital transition as well as the digital converter box coupon program, see our summary at
http://www.americantv.com/pages/hdtv_digital_transition.jsp.
Until the transition to DTV is complete, television stations will continue broadcasting on both digital and analog channels.
HD Players
Yes, it’s now possible to have a High Definition player connected to your HDTV. And they, too, are becoming more affordable. Most of these new High Definition Blu-Ray movies are being released in 1080p. So, if you are a movie buff who plans on taking advantage of this new technology, make sure your new HDTV also has 1080 capability.
Can I record HD programming?
Yes. Recording HD broadcasts is now easier
than ever, and more affordable as well. To record in HD, you will
need to purchase some form of an HD recorder. This can be a stand
alone HD recorder, or it can be a unit purchased or leased from
your cable or satellite company that serves as both your tuner
and your HD recorder. Whatever choice you make, one good idea
is to make sure you get as large a hard drive as possible. HD
programming takes up significantly more space than traditional
programming did.
Installation
With the advancement in technology and formats
comes an almost endless list of possibilities for installation
in your home. From basic hook-ups, to advanced system installations,
the professional installers at American will do the job right
and take the hassle out of home theater installation. Looking
for custom design of your new home theater? No problem. If you
can dream it, we can make it a reality. Our team of design specialists
are ready to work with you whether on a remodel or new construction
project. We do it everyday!
