Another TV question this time 1080p

[voodooflux]

But if the source material is 720 (which Sky HD is) then the 1080 setting just upscales it, damaging the quality (?)

Given a 720 source then something has to scale it up to 1080 - either the box or the T.V.

And if you're watching it on a 768 T.V. then in that case the conversion would be 720 -> 1080 -> 768, with the box doing the first conversion and the T.V. doing the second.

[gingerjedi]

I am not a complete expert on this but I think a lot of people aren’t distinguishing between the ‘I’ and ‘P’, I’m pretty sure I’ve read that a 720P panel can handle 1080i just as well as a 1080P panel.

[VectraMan]

I am not a complete expert on this but I think a lot of people aren’t distinguishing between the ‘I’ and ‘P’, I’m pretty sure I’ve read that a 720P panel can handle 1080i just as well as a 1080P panel.

That's a physical impossibility. There just aren't enough pixels.

All the "HD ready" (i.e. half HD or 720p) TVs have become really cheap recently, I suspect because they're essentially clearing stocks of obsolete end of line products. So on that basis I wouldn't buy a 720p one. Having said that, it could well be cheaper in the long run to buy one of the cheaper 720p screens now and then buy another bound-to-be-better-and-cheaper 1080p screen in a couple of years when there'll be more stuff to watch.

I understood Sky and everyone else were broadcasting 1080i, but that's no guarantee the source material is that.

[voodooflux]

I am not a complete expert on this but I think a lot of people aren’t distinguishing between the ‘I’ and ‘P’, I’m pretty sure I’ve read that a 720P panel can handle 1080i just as well as a 1080P panel.

That's a physical impossibility. There just aren't enough pixels.

Not quite sure what gingerjedi means, but any 768 line panel should handle both a 720p and 1080i input - the latter will just be scaled down by the panel. Most current panels will also accept a 1080p input and scale it down accordingly.

[VectraMan]

Not quite sure what gingerjedi means, but any 768 line panel should handle both a 720p and 1080i input - the latter will just be scaled down by the panel. Most current panels will also accept a 1080p input and scale it down accordingly.

He said "just as well". Clearly it won't be just as well as there aren't as many pixels. Whether you can tell the difference is a different issue.

The fact that it's 768 lines should give everybody a clue as to what these screens were designed for. I.e. not TV.

[voodooflux]

He said "just as well". Clearly it won't be just as well as there aren't as many pixels. Whether you can tell the difference is a different issue.

Still not sure what he means by "handle" though - maybe he can clarify for us

Meanwhile, I'm off to enjoy my 50" plasma with just 768 lines whilst trying not to succomb to the temptation of buying a 1080p Pioneer Kuros

[Moscow Mule]

It also depends a lot on size. Under 40" screen 1080 (i or p) won't make a perceptible difference to picture quality, but if you get a decent 720 it will be able to handle a 1080 signal well.

Once you get above 40" the difference between 720 & 1080 starts to be perceptible.

And I really wouldn't buy anything before looking at it, with both HD and normal inputs - some 1080 sets look horrific with Freeview broadcasts.

As with everything, you pays your money and takes your choice.

[d000hg]

Even if everyone is currently broadcasting at lower than 1080, that won't remain. Things are certain to improve and since a decent TV should last you a few years it seems worth it. Although, I imagine a top-notch low-res TV would be better than a cheap 1080-capable one.

[voodooflux]

It also depends a lot on size. Under 40" screen 1080 (i or p) won't make a perceptible difference to picture quality, but if you get a decent 720 it will be able to handle a 1080 signal well.

Once you get above 40" the difference between 720 & 1080 starts to be perceptible.

Viewing distance is also a major factor - as you move further away from the screen the resolution becomes less important.

And I really wouldn't buy anything before looking at it, with both HD and normal inputs - some 1080 sets look horrific with Freeview broadcasts.

WHS - a demo is essential. SD material on a 1080 screen requires more scaling which has the potential to degrade the picture quality.

[London75]

If it's any help, I've just ordered a Samsung LE40A556 which is a 40" 1080p screen for £499 on a 1 day only special from PC-world.

At that price, might as well have one of the best reviewed screens and 1080p to boot!

2.5% off using Quidco as well.