So, you're ready to make the move to HD Television, but need some guidance on HD Television Buying?  No worries; many have been in your exact position, researching HD Television Buying and trying to decide where to start.  With a little patience and research, you'll soon know all you need to know about HD Television Buying. 

Let's begin with the basics.

Note: The following overview is meant as a general guide to HD Television Buying only. Specific details will be explored in future writings.

HD Television Buying Budget: As with any large purchase, begin with your budget; how much money do you have to spend on a new HD Television? Tip: don't spend what you don't have. HD Television is great, but it's not worth going into debt for. Seriously. Define your budget before you explore HDTV features.

HD Television Buying Type: For most people, the question of HD Television type comes down to one of two options: LCD HDTV vs. Plasma HDTV.  There are additional, less popular options, including Rear-Projection HDTVs, Picture-Tube HDTVs, and Front Projector HDTVs. Do your research, based on your needs, the room where the HDTV will be housed, where the screen will be mounted, where you and guests will sit in relation to the screen, etc.

HD Television Buying Screen Size: Is bigger better? Often, that is indeed the case with HD Television.  You'll need to evaluate maximum screen size based on a) your budget and b) the wall where you'll be mounting your HD Television.  Also, remember basic things like "How will my new HD Television get to my house (delivery/pick up/etc.)?", "If I'm going to pick up my new HD Television, will it fit in my car?", "How will I mount my new HD Television?", and "What about cabling?".

These are excellent questions to start asking yourself as you plan your HD Television Purchase.

HD Television Buying Resolution: Will you get the true HD 1080p, or opt for 720p?  Is there really that significant a difference between the two? How will my old DVDs look when I play them on my new HD Television? And what about my old video tapes (yes, some people still have and use them!). Research, research, research! Only in asking can you hope to find the answer you need.

HD Television Buying Features: Here are some additional issues to consider with your new HD Television:

• What connections will I need (i.e., HDMI, DVI, VGA, Composite, Component, S-Video, etc.)?
• What Aspect Ratio adjustment options will I want?
• Do I need Film Mode (also known as 3:2 pull-down, motion compensation, CineMotion, Film Mode), for viewing films on my HD Television?
• Do I need a cable card slot?
• How about picture in picture support?
• What features do I need in my remote?
• What audio system does my new HD Television need?
• Do I want a digital (or ATSC) tuner?
• What response rate will deliver the best viewing experience?
• Do I need an HD Television with an anti-glare screen? Anti-burn in?

These are some of the questions you'll need to begin to ask yourself before you invest in your first HD Television.  Buying a quality HD Television need not be a painful experience; it should simply be an informed decision.

Until next time.