Technology has come a long way in the last century, especially where TV is concerned. With the recent switch to digital broadcasting, many consumers are buying new TVs. You have probably wanted a new set for quite a while, what better excuse than this?
Of course you do not have to get a new TV, you can simply buy a converter box that allows your analogue set to receive digital audio and video. But buying a new set is more fun. You can get a big screen with the stereo package and create a home theatre in your living room.
Do not confuse high definition television with digital broadcasting. High definition programs use more pixels per square inch. It is beautiful for programing and channels sent in high def mode, but will have little effect on other broadcasts.
Digital broadcasting is more like a broadband Internet connection, able to transmit more, faster and in less space. Analog is more like dial-up. One signal at a time. You can either be on the Internet or on the phone, but not both at once.
Most high definition television sets are digital ready, but ask before you buy. A new TV is not an impulse purchase. It takes time and research. You have to get a set that is right for your needs. A set that will fit into the room where you want it installed. And even if you are not receiving any high definition programming at the moment, you might in the near future, since more channels are going high def.
Also consider a wide screen. The future of television programming is going wide screen. If you are buying a new set anyway, it is better to be prepared than to find yourself, a few months down the road, with a 4:3 aspect ratio with half of the picture cut off on either side of the screen.
