For compatibility with conventional and high-definition video sources, an internal scalar upconverts or downconverts all incoming signals into images that match the display’s rate. How well this is done is a function of the quality of the internal scalar and whether or not it features 3:2 pulldown and other picture-enhancing technologies. The 3:2 pulldown feature avoids creating jagged diagonal edges and other picture anomalies that might appear in movie-originated programming from DVD, regular TV, satellite or videotape. HDTV and progressive-scan DVD signals bypass the set’s 3:2 processor.

Displays come in two shapes, or aspect ratios: the familiar, nearly square 4:3 shape and the newer 16:9 widescreen shape. Since you’ll be living with your new set for a while (hopefully), I recommend choosing a 16:9 widescreen set, as most DVD movies and HDTV programs are or eventually will be presented in the widescreen format. However, Digital TV Editor Mike Wood points out that some 4:3 sets can display a 16:9 image (albeit with black bars at the top and bottom of the screen). This may be a better choice if the bulk of your TV watching is 4:3 programming, such as daytime TV and non-widescreen movies. Regardless, you’ll be watching a mix of 4:3 and widescreen 16:9 programs, so look for automatic 16:9 recognition, which detects widescreen-encoded DVDs and automatically switches to the correct screen shape. Sets with-out this feature require you to manually select the appropriate aspect ratio.