HDTV Receiver
The HDTV receiver stands in contrast to
the HDTV
tuner. Unlike the
tuner that is
used for receiving the free over-the-air HD broadcasts, the HDTV
receiver lets you get the HD versions of your favorite cable/satellite
channels. These components often come as part of a package
when you purchase cable or satellite service with HD programming, but
you can also choose to step out and select your own.HDTV Receiver Connections
When choosing your receiver, pay close attention to the input and output connections it features. This is important because there is nothing set in stone saying that a manufacturer must have a specific connection on their receiver. Reference the manual of your HDTV to find out what connections it can accept. While your television probably has component video inputs, you will want to use the DVI or HDMI connections if your television has them. These two are able to transfer more information than component video cables, and do so in digital format. More information means better video quality which is something everyone enjoys. Also know that HDMI transfers both audio and video while DVI is dedicated to video.In regards to audio, the procedure is the same. Chances are if you have an HDTV then you have a home theater receiver. This is where your audio will be routed so check to see whether or not it features digital coaxial or digital optical connections. With this information, you'll be able to weed out the HDTV receivers that will not connect with your equipment.
HDTV Resolution
There are several HDTV video formats, such as 480i and 720p. Make sure the HDTV receiver is capable of transferring video in the formats your television is able to display. This usually isn't a problem since many HDTV receivers can transfer all of the different formats but it is still something to keep in mind. The last thing you want to do is buy an HDTV receiver that will not work with your television.HDTV Receiver Bonuses
There are two extra features that are not always available on all HDTV Receivers but are really nice to have; the first is a built-in digital video recorder (DVR). This is a great feature because it allows YOU to schedule television programming and not some station manager. All you do is program it to record shows you’d like to see at a later time and you’re done. No messing with tapes or VCRs. It let's you go about doing the things you need or want to do without missing out on your favorite television programs.The second - and probably more important - feature is a built-in tuner. This will allow you to connect an external HDTV antenna and receive the FREE over-the-air broadcasts available in your area. These will be the HD versions of NBC, FOX, ABC, and the other national networks. Keep in mind that if you want the HD cable channels just owning an HDTV receiver is not enough, you will have to go through a cable/satellite provider to get them.