Are DTV and HDTV the Same?

One of the topics that confuses most people about the DTV Transition is High-Definition Television (HDTV).  Many people think that HDTV is something you have to have in order to make the DTV Transition.  In actuality, HDTV is a form of digital television that offers at least 720 lines of resolution as opposed to the 330 lines of resolution on a standard definition analog television.  The picture quality on a HDTV is sharp and clear, and the sound rivals the quality you would get on any audio CD.  

People, who currently have a standard definition television that will be needing a digital converter box in February, do NOT have to buy a new HDTV to make the transition.  However, if you were in the market for a new television, a HDTV would not be a bad way to go.     

When shopping for a HDTV there are many things to consider.  Consumer reports suggests you take these things into consideration before heading to the store:

• How much you are willing to spend
• LCD or Plasma
• Screen size
• 720p or 1080p
• What type of service you will be using

All of these items will help you to be an informed comparison shopper to ensure you are getting the best television for your needs.  

The good news is once you have found your new HDTV, you no longer have to worry about getting a digital converter box as most new HDTV's being sold already have built in digital tuners.  However, if you do not want to pay for cable or satellite service, you will still need an antenna to pick up a signal.  

As I have mentioned in past blog posts, getting a good digital signal is much harder to do than receiving the current analog signal.  This is equally as important if you are trying to pick up an HD signal too.  You need a special antenna designed to receive HD signals and without it the new HDTV you just got will not be living up to its potential.  Although I have not been out shopping for an HD antenna,  I have heard that many on the market still fail to deliver a quality signal.  I did find this video on YouTube that explains how to make a fairly inexpensive HD antenna out of everyday household items.  

I cannot speak to the effectiveness of this antenna, but if anyone out there does try it and it works, I would love to hear your comments about it.

Again I cannot stress enough, buying an HDTV is NOT necessary to make the DTV transition.  If you do decide to purchase a new television, be an informed shopper and choose the best television for your needs.