Format of HDTV broadcasts? 16x9 or 4x3

[seansupple@hotmail.com]

Are HDTV broadcasts delivered in the widescreen or standard width format?

I would really like to get a 16x9 tv, but will reconsider if the only thing I can watch are dvd's in the widescreen format.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[ibglowin]

All true HD broadcast are 16X9. You won't be disapointed as long as you have some OTA and Dish Network to watch.

[brentp]

What IBGLOWIN said is accurate, . . . that all true HD broadcasts are 16:9.

That being said, not all programming transmitted over the digital channels are in the 16:9 format, . . . yet. In order for the program to be in 16:9, it must be captured by HD equipment. You will still receive a lot of content via OTA or Dish/DTV HD channels that are still 4:3.

There is more an more true HD programming coming out all the time! All of CBS' and ABC' prime-time scripted programming is now capture with HD equipment. This gives you shows like Alias, CSI (both), all of their comedies, etc. NBC is lagging, but is starting to make progress. American Dreams is HD, and NBC just recently started capturing all of the Law & Order series with HD equipment. The reality shows and non-scripted programs (like news programming) are still 4:3. I've also noticed some specials starting to come out in true HD. Faith Hill's Thanksgiving special was in HD, . . . and that was special! Bottom line is that all the networks are now migrating to using HD equipment to capture the program, so now is a good time to go with 16:9 in the home IMHO.

Here is a good website that will show you what is true HD on a weekly basis.


HDTV Galaxy (http://www.hdtvgalaxy.com/)

[Chris Blount]

Originally posted by seansupple@hotmail.com
I would really like to get a 16x9 tv, but will reconsider if the only thing I can watch are dvd's in the widescreen format.
Actually that's not such a bad thing. DVD's look wonderful and much better than watching them on any other type of TV. If you buy your HDTV now, you won't regret the purchase even if you don't have a lot of true HDTV material to watch.

[seansupple@hotmail.com]

Thanks for the responses. I just thought of another question. Are all HDTV broadcasts in Dolby digital?

[ibglowin]

No, HBO and Showtime broadcast quite a bit in 5.1 DD. Discovery HD has a few as well. Last nights premier of Bismarck sinking and exploration was not only in beautiful 1080i HD but DD as well. OTA channles supposedly have the ability but none of my locals seem to be in DD. All are digital 2 channel stereo though which is not bad.

[Mark Lamutt]

Some ABC stations are broadcasting DD 5.1 audio. All of ABC's programming is done in DD 5.1. There are a couple of miscellaneous PBS shows that are also done in DD 5.1. All of CBS' and NBC's programming is done in DD 2.0 audio.

[AFH]

Mark, I have not been able to recieve any of the programming un 5.1. It comes into my surround recv. as DD2.0. What is the deal with that? Is it the local ABC station deciding not broadcast in 5.1? Can anyone tell me where I can get a list of shows in the networks and movies on HBO and Showtime that are shown in true 1080i and not upconverted. I kknow that CSI Miami and Vegas as well as I love Raymond are shot in 1080i but are there any other shows. When will Straz begin to broadcast movies in HD? Mark could you or Steve update the local channel chart to reflect the markets that have been added in the past month or two?

Sorry about all the questions I am bit curious about the ever evolving HD format.

Thanks

[DarrellP]

Yes, all OTA Digital & HD via DBS are Dolby Digital, just not always DD 5.1. Most is DD 2.0.

As far as Starz going HD, their Big Kahuna was interviewed not too long ago and they are focusing on VOD. He said he didn't think the market was large enough yet for HD. Until Starz can make a buck on it, it won't happen.