erknjerk said:
I was told by my buddy who is very into hifi that HDTV is really only for television(you still have to have the right gear and channels). DVD with the right connectors will make it digital with or without HDTV. That's why I don't want it unless it comes at a good deal.
As to you Bowe I will be paying some upfront and no-interest finance the rest. Unless $800 is good enough
Your buddy may be really into "hi-fi", but he doesn't seem to know what he's talking about. Either that or he's not properly giving you the information you need to make an informed decision.
The ONLY way to get a pure digital path is to have a source with a DVI output connected to a DVI input on the TV. Anything else will be analog. Most new HD sets will have one DVI input. I only know of two DVD players that have DVI outputs.
While I couldn't say for sure, I'm willing to bet that a TV that is widescreen with a DVI input and is not HD capable, doesn't exist. If one did exist, then yes, theoretically you could put together a system that is digital end to end (with DVD at least), but I don't think such a TV exists.
Given that you've thrown out widescreen as the aspect ratio, you'll be hard pressed to find one that isn't HD capable. I've never seen one. If you're mainly using the TV for DVD and video games (Xbox especially) you'll be much happier with an HD capable TV. Or at the very least an EDTV (Enhanced Definition, usually capable of at least 480p). Though again, >40" and widescreen... good luck finding one that isn't HD.
Again, given your price range, you should easily be able to find a good quality HDTV in the 45-51" range. Just go out to the stores, take a look at everything. Write down which models you liked the looks of. Do a little homework and you'll be fine.