I'm new here, please help!

[Chicagosi2000]

I just recently bought a hdtv monitor,(Sony FD Trinitron WEGA #KV-32HS500). Whats your take on this purchase, is it a good tv? Is it up to date with the latest tech. out there. I've read something on this board about "DVI", do i have this on my model??? And if i do, i take it this is good right? So far i'm please with the performance of it. DVD's look outstanding in progressive scan, PS2 looks great, in component hook-up, and the dam thing sounds just as good as my bose system. And also, whats a good set-top box out there, havn't seen a true HD signal yet, can't wait. Also, i've heard that directv is going HDTV, i have directv, what do i need to get HD signals. One last thing!, Do i have to upgrade my outside attenna to recieve HDTV, or do i just need the set-top box.

[pcoffman]

It may take a little bit for someone to reply to most of your requests so be patient please. I can help with one question though. You shouldn't have to get a new antenna. I use a small indoor antenna and pick up all the HD stations fine. Of course it will depend on how far you are from certain towers. For instance I only live about 10 miles from all the towers that broadcast here in oklahoma but if I lived further away like 40 miles I probably couldn't use my indoor antenna I would probably need a larger outside antenna. As for DVI if your TV has it it's fine if not don't worry right now they still haven't figured out what they want to have as a standard yet so I really wouldn't worry about that yet. It could be a few years or so before they decide on that probably.

[Marty]

To check if you have a DVI input on your tv, simply look at the online product description or take a look at the connections on the back of your tv. You'll recognize it either by the label or just how different it will look from the rest of the connections (looks somewhat similar to a computer's printer/parallel port connection). As the previous poster said, if you have DVI, great, if not, I wouldn't worry about it. For more information on DVI, simply read the threads in this forum, lots of information here about what it is and the debate surrounding it.

Directv offers 3 HD channels, HBO HD, HDNET, and Showtime HD. If you want to get these channels as well as you're OTA HD channels, you will need a HD STB from Directv (Sony, Samsung, Hughes, etc. all make them). These STBs allow you to receive Directv HD channels as well as OTA HD channels (as opposed to just a standard OTA HD STB). In order to get all three of the Directv HD channels, you will need the oval 18x24 dish. You can purchase this yourself from your local BB or CC or Directv may be able to offer you a deal on the dish so I would give them a call as well.

As far as your outdoor antenna goes, it is hard to say if you will need a better one until you purchase your STB and try and tune in the OTA HD channels.