HDTV or high definition television has been making quite a splash of late. It's modern, it's sleek, and it's high quality. You can see everything in perfect clarity. It's really of the future. However, how you actually get your fix is something of a quandary. For most people, it's complicated; you'll hear those who swear by satellite, while others love their cable. Or you could go satellite tv the old rabbit ears, and buy an economical HD antenna. And then there are new technologies to throw into the mix such as fiber based services. It's rather confusing, especially if you're not a gearhead who knows all the ins and outs of each technology.
Let's start off with the antenna, aka terrestrial high def TV. Antennas are probably your cheapest option for getting a high definition signal. Many local networks broadcast a high def signal which are free to viewers; most newer sets include ATSC tuners which can pick up HD broadcasts and lower res digital broadcasts over the air. However, with an antenna, the programming you can receive is limited. While all of the major networks offer many of their shows in high def, news, daytime and reality programming are still broadcast with standard definition.
Cable and fiber optic are both quite popular delivery methods. They also work much in the same way the only difference being that fiber optic is delivered by your phone company, while cable is provided by your cable company. To watch high definition programs via cable you will need a set top box; some companies offer it for free, while others charge a modest per satellite tv rental fee. You may also be charged extra for specialty networks such as HDNet and MOJO, while the major broadcast networks are delivered at no cost. Programming is much more expansive than what'd you get with an antenna, as cable companies usually include the high def versions of regional sports networks along with the major broadcast networks. However, programming is up to your cable provider and they may not always offer HDTV versions of your favorite channels. Cable can be somewhat pricey too, as the local operating costs aren't always cheap.
Satellite is often cheaper than cable for receiving high definition TV. However, it has had its fair share of complications. Not until just recently, the only way to get local HD (users can get national programming without any trouble) via satellite was to purchase an over the air antenna add on. Today MPEG-4 video compression technology allows you to get twice as much high def as before, local networks included. Of course the trade off is that older receivers and set top boxes simply don't work with MPEG-4 which means consumers will need to purchase upgrades to take advantage of the new technology. Then, there's also the potential for signal disruption in bad weather. Also, regional sports networks often aren't offered via satellite, whereas cable provides RSNs as part of local programming.
Pricing varies depending on what service provider you go with. Depending on your needs, you should study all your options before deciding on one HD delivery method.
For the best in entertainment, look to Direct TV. When you select one of the many available Direct TV deals, you get television entertainment from the leading provider of high definition satellite television services. For top sports programming, movies, and high-definition entertainment, go with Direct TV.
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