"As in the daytime there is no star in the sky warmer and brighter than the sun, likewise there is no competition greater than the Olympic Games."
Pindar, Greek lyric poet, 5th century bc.
You're setting at home, watching the tube happy as a clam, when all of a sudden, you see a splash screen appear: 'Channel 9 News Leads the Way with High Definition Broadcasts!" Oh yeah, that's right, you just have a regular TV, thanks for the reminder Channel 9. It's true you have been contemplating taking the plunge into HDTV, maybe even a big screen. Yet somehow, watching a high definition newscast doesn't get your circulation going. It isn't enough to get you to part with the kind of money needed for a big screen HDTV. What it may take to get things rolling is a killer app so to speak.
Well, you know the old saying, ask and ye shall receive. Yes, I am talking about the 2004 Olympics being held in Athens Greece! NBC is going to present the Summer Olympics in high definition. Nearly 400 hours of coverage will be broadcast in 1080i resolution and Dolby digital 5.1 surround sound. This will include Swimming, Diving, Gymnastics, Track and Field, Basketball (medal rounds) and last but not least, Men's Soccer (gold medal final).
Perhaps you're interested but, it's going to be more than you ever spent before on a device to watch television and movies. What's the best choice, a plasma screen, with the ability to hang on a wall, a projector, for that 'through the window" effect? Maybe you've seen the new Digital Light Processing (DLP) rear projection units, they must be good, Texas Instruments stock is going through the roof. There's a lot of choices,so it makes sense to do a little research first. After all, you want to make sure you're happy with what you bring home. Just like anything else, there is no perfect solution and also, it's a personal choice too. Moderator Seán Byrne has put together a great guide that will help you to see the differences in the choices that are out there. Here is a portion of what Seán has written:
| If you go into any medium to large electrical or computer store, you are bound to see some big screens on offer. There are a whole range of different types and prices making it difficult to immediately point out the perfect set. The three main types of large TVs are flat panel, rear projection and front projection. CRT's generally do not go any larger than 40" due to their sheer weight and depth.
As no two large screen lovers have the same environment where they intend setting up their large TV, there are many things to consider before choosing a set. For example, while a front projection system is relatively cheap and can produce a huge image, it would not be suitable in a brightly lit environment unless it is only used at night. |
The Olympics may not be a good enough reason to make the switch now, but I think we can all agree, that the broadcast and the movie industry are trying to lead us down that upgrade road. Sooner or later, we all will probably have to make a choice. With the DVD movie as a a major form of home entertainment now, it sure would be nice to watch them in this 16:9 format on the big screen as well. People with large families could surely see an advantage of a home theater.
Head on over to our Satellite, HD-TV, Blu-ray and HD-DVD Forum, and take a look at this extensive guide Seán has put together. Hopefully, it will clear some things up and help you to see what best fits your lifestyle. Or maybe, you can use it as a reference in the future if you see some good deals in the paper or on the internet. Also, some of our readers may already have a high definition setup and they can give us their thoughts in the forum, or below in reactions. That way, we can all make the most informed decision when we get ready to "take the plunge".
Source: The Club CD Freaks
