If you already subscribe to cable or satellite programming, it's easy. Just upgrade to an HD receiver, normally $5 to $10 a month. You'll get your service's HD offerings as well as standard-definition channels.
If you don't subscribe to a cable or satellite service, you can still receive HD telecasts from local over-the-air stations. First you'll need to purchase and mount an HD antenna, then connect to a TV that has a built-in HD tuner. If your TV doesn't have a tuner (called "HD ready"), you'll have to add one separately (tuner prices range from about $90 to $400).
You've probably seen ads touting screens with "720" or "1080." The details can get pretty technical, so we'll keep it simple. First, our general advice: don't worry about these numbers unless you're a hardcore videophile, in which case you probably already own an HDTV.
The numbers refer to the maximum resolution your TV can handle. The formats: 1080i means 1,080 horizontal scan lines refresh on the screen in an interlaced fashion. 720p means 720 lines display progressively. But what does this mean to you?
Not much. First, regardless of your TV's resolution, all HDTVs are required to support both formats. You won't even notice a difference unless you sit very
close to a larger screen, which isn't recommended anyway.
Second, there's no definitive agreement that one format is better. In fact, sports broadcasters usually televise in 720p since it's best for quick motion. There's also a 1080p format, considered the highest resolution. At this time, aside from high-def discs, there's not much 1080p source material available.
SCREEN SIZE: Tech writers and reviewers suggest going as big as your room and budget can handle. There's one caveat: if you sit too close to a larger screen, you may sense pixel detail, thus sacrificing overall enjoyment.
NON-HD QUALITY: A non-HD signal—like a standard TV broadcast—won't look sharp and exciting on an HD screen. Depending on the make and model, your HDTV will perform some scaling, but there's not enough visual information to fill your screen as beautifully as HD does.
STORE VISITS: Ask the clerk what you're watching. Is it an HD telecast? A standard DVD? One of the high-def disc formats? That will give you a better idea what to expect from different sources you may connect.
CONNECTING: An HDMI cable is the easiest way to connect audio and video sources to your HDTV. It's a single connection that supports high-definition video and multichannel audio.
Bose® Lifestyle® home entertainment systems now provide simple ways to connect your audio and video sources—and ensure the highest resolution your TV can support.
Find out more about new Lifestyle® systems »