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We are passionate about technology and enjoy researching and reviewing the latest in HD Televisions for our readers.

High Definition Television technologies are rapidly changing and evolving and it is often difficult to separate the hype from the truth about what makes the best viewing experience. Some highly touted features are not worth the extra money while others can make a big difference. On the pages of this site, we endeavor to provide the latest and most accurate information available.

Seven Steps to High-Definition Television

After you plug in your new HDTV, everything that you watch will not magically become high-definition. Here are the necessary steps.

Step 1

Purchase an HDTV – LCD HD Television, LED HD Television, or Plasma HD Television

Step 2

Purchase or upgrade to an HD capable receiver. Check the receiver’s display settings and make sure that the output is set to 1080i

Step 3

Order HD TV service. Remember that not all digital programming is high-def. You must let your TV service provider know that you want HD. Many cable providers charge extra for HD programming. In many metropolitan areas, you can get HD programming with a good antenna.

Step 4

Use the correct connectors. You must use the HDMI or component video input on your television. HDMI is better because it carries audio and video on one cable. You must use HDMI to transmit 1080p and upconverted video from Blu-ray players

Step 5

Tune in to the HD version of the channel you choose. Remember that some channels broadcast standard definition on one channel and HD on a different one; be sure that you pick the HD one (which usually has HD in the listing).

Step 6

Change the HDTV setting to HOME. Most new TVs will prompt you to choose between the HOME setting and the STORE (or DISPLAY) setting when you first power them up. Usually the STORE setting colors will look wrong under home lighting conditions. You should also go into the video or picture settings on the setup menu and choose one of the picture modes. Depending on the brand of TV, you will usually want to select the Cinema, Pro, or Standard settings instead of the Vivid or Dynamic settings, but you can watch the picture change to see which you prefer. Each mode provide different picture attributes, such as brightness, sharpness, and color. Most people prefer the “Warm” color temperature for a cinematic look.

Step 7

Fine tune the picture by choosing the Custom or User mode. Freeze a DVD or DVR image that includes people and both light and dark objects. Then adjust the brightness and contrast and then the color. Start in a neutral position and then adjust up and down to your preferences. On most TV sets noise reduction gives objects harsh details, so you may not want to use that setting. After fine tuning, skin tones should look lifelike and you should be able to see details in the shadows and also in the bright areas.

On the following pages of this site, we have more posts on choosing the right TV for your needs. Jump in and feel free to leave a remark in the comment sections.

Happy reading and happy TV watching!

Team HDTV review