Think you're ready to make the switch to HDTV Before you head out to buy a television set that is certain to become the most valued piece in your home entertainment system, it is a good idea to make sure you know what you're looking for. There are actually different types of HD televisions, so taking the time to know what you're looking for is a good way to make sure the TV you ultimately purchase will suit your needs.

First, let's examine the difference between HDTV and HD-Ready TV. An HDTV is a television set with the ability to receive HD signals over the air. In order to receive those signals, you may need an antenna; however, the HD tuner that is built into the TV has the ability to process the HDTV signal without the need to purchase any other additional equipment. In order to receive an HD signal from your satellite or cable provider; however, you will need to acquire a proprietary set-top-box from the provider.

With an HD-Ready TV you will need to purchase an extra piece of equipment in order to be able to receive the signal. For example, you would need a stand-alone HD tuner. Another option would be to use the set-top HDTV box that is provided by satellite and cable providers.

In addition, you need to be aware of the different choices that are available when it comes to HDTV. When you go out to buy your first HDTV you are going to need to give some thought to the best delivery method for your needs.

The first decision you will need to make is the type of screen that you prefer. One option is a CRT; which stands for Cathode Ray Tub. You are already familiar with this type of screen even though you may not be aware of it. This is the most traditional type of television screen. Another option is a rear projection television. In the past these types of televisions were actually based on the same technology as CRT; however, today LCD technology is replacing that. You can usually find rear projection televisions in much larger sizes than CRT.

The newest members of the High Definition family are flat panel televisions. There are also two different choices to choose from here as well. They are LCD and plasma. Plasma televisions use gas that is sealed inside plasma right in the cells on the television screen. The picture signal charges the gas and causes it to change colors. The picture is formed as a result. LCD, on the other hand, utilizes liquid crystals instead of gas.

It is important to keep in mind that there are a few critical differences between LCD and plasma HD televisions. With plasma HD televisions, you will typically be able to find larger screen sizes. In addition, these TVs will generally have improved color accuracy as well as motion tracking. The one drawback with plasma is that they tend to produce more heat than other types of HD televisions. LCD High Definition televisions do not produce as much heat and also typically offer a longer life than plasma televisions.

How to buy a Flat Screen Television in 6 easy steps

1.How much do you want to spend Give yourself a price range and stick to it . For
example if you are looking to spend no more than $3000 only look at televisions in
that range. And remember you get what you pay for in the world of flat screen
televisions. If you get a Plasma Display for under $2000 remember that it will not
have a picture like a Plasma that sells for $4000. Here is a list of price ranges and
screens available in those ranges  $1500 - $2500  will get you a decent EDTV 42
Plasma made by a Top brand name, or a HDTV LCD in the 20 to 30 range, and a
low end HDTV DLP or LCD projection

$2500 - 3500  this is the price range that most 42 Plasmas, 30 - 37 LCD and 50
rear projection televisions fall into. Plan on getting a excellent display if you are
willing to spend close to $3500 (all HDTV)

$3500 and up  this price range the Plasma,LCD and rear projection screen sizes
start getting larger and you get top of the line brand names such as Sony, Hitachi
and Panasonic in the larger screen sizes and more options available such as input
and outputs.

2. Plasma vs LCD vs LCD or DLP rear projection

choose Plasma  if you want overall great color saturation, contrast and screen size

choose LCD  if you want your screen to double as a computer monitor or video
game console such as XBOX 360 with HDTV, they look insane

choose DLP or LCD rear projection  if you are going for screen size and budget

3. Screen Size, Screen Size, Screen Size. This might be one of the most important
factors to you when selecting a television because we all know bigger is always
better. With the larger screen sizes especially 50 and up we are in the true HDTV
range. Remember when shopping for the display always look at it at a local retailer
such as a Circuit City or Best Buy even if you are going to purchase it online.
Basically you want to see it for yourself. (Note when viewing screen sizes in t he
store always remember they will appear smaller than they actually are when you get
them home, because they are all placed next to each other. The 42 actually look
small when they are all hung next to each other at the stores but when you get it
home you will see it is no joke.)

4. What connectivity options do you require. Basically what are you going to need to
connect this television to your existing cable or satellite receiver or over the air
antenna. Do you have a audio system you are going to want to connect What
connections do you desire such as HDMI Component VIdeo and so on. You should
always look for the highest quality connections for video if you can. Video
connection quality from highest to lowest is HDMI, component-video, S-Video,
composite-video (white and yellow AV cables) and antennacable inputs.
Remember you will need enough inputs for everything you are going to connect to
the television such as a DVD player, DVR, satellite, cable, computer and other
devices. Also the cables that come with most displays or devices (if they even do)
aren't of the greatest quality and I would suggest getting a high end cable such as
those made by Monster Cables.

5. Picture Quality. I feel this is the most important deciding factor when purchasing
a Plasma, LCD or rear projection TV. The only way to determine this is to actually
compare displays side by side, read reviews and specifications. If you are going to
compare displays at a store bring a DVD alone to use as a reference when judging
between different displays.

6. Warranty and Service Contract. Make sure the display you are going to purchase
has at least a 1 year warranty on parts and labor offered by the manufacturer and it
would be a great idea to purchase a extended warranty and service contract
especially on a Plasma display because if something does go wrong fixing the
display will cost much more than just buying a new one. (note if you are installing a
display on a wall always have professional do it!)

Enjoy your new Television!