Whether we are looking forward to it or not, HD will be a reality in our television viewing by 2009. While many have already taken the plunge and are enjoying the viewing experience, others are reviewing price tags and questioning why this change has to occur at all.

DIRECTV is fully aware of the skepticism, as well as the challenge of figuring out just what to look for in a HD television. The company is attempting to provide HD buyers with a sneak preview of what they will enjoy once they decide that HD really is the better way to go.

In a recent survey commissioned by the satellite TV provider, 400 HDTV owners were asked to reveal their favorite reasons for choosing HD. The survey yielded a variety of answers, some of which take on a unique feel:

--The top sports moment that most would want to see in HD if possible was the Muhammad Ali vs. George Foreman boxing match held in Africa. In second place was Hank Aaron’s 755th home run;

--The best looking holiday turkey in HD was awarded to Rachel Ray, followed closely by chef Emeril Lagasse;

--The best Superbowl beer ad ranks above football as the most important thing to see when watching sports in HD;

--The number one animal to watch was sharks on Animal Planet in HD. Humans reached the third spot. Fleas, monkeys and whales also received write-in votes;

--Finally, more than half of customers surveyed said that watching HD is better than their mom’s cooking. (We better not tell mom.)

"A new HDTV seems to be at the top of everyone's shopping list this holiday season," said Jon Gieselman, senior vice president, DIRECTV Marketing, in a Thursday statement.

"Hopefully this survey will give customers an interesting glimpse into how their viewing experience can dramatically improve if they make sure that their new flat screen is connected to the best television source available."

Online Testing eXchange (OTX), a global consumer research and consulting firm, conducted the interviews. DIRETV offers a full programming lineup that includes 87 national HD channels.

At the end of the day, when January 2009 arrives, HD will no longer just be a choice of luxury. For anyone wishing to watch any type of broadcast, satellite or cable television, HD will be the only choice. Given the quality of the picture, why would anyone want to watch anything else?

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Susan J. Campbell is a contributing editor for TMC (News - Alert) and has also written for eastbiz.com. To see more of her articles, please visit Susan J. Campbell’s columnist page.

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