To begin with the “p” in 720p indicates progressive. Progressive images are “painted” vertically consecutively line 1, and then line 2, followed by line 3, etc. Computer Monitors are always progressive allowing users to sit very close with minimal eye strain.
The “i” in 1080i indicates interlaced. Interlaced images are drawn vertically line 1, and then line 3 to the bottom of the screen, followed by a second sweep filling in line 2, followed by line 4, etc. This is done quick enough to fool the eye / brain into seeing a coherent image. American television (standard definition) has been interlaced since 1941.
Despite what a salesman tells you - it’s doubtful anyone can tell the difference between the two high definition standards 1080i and 720p. The standards apply to both display devises (televisions) and broadcast networks.
To further demonstrate the equality of the two standards only the ABC networks (including ESPN) broadcasts in 720p. All others broadcast in 1080i. A 1080i television seamlessly converts ABC channels into 1080i. A 720p television effortlessly coverts NBC, and HBO into 720p.
I left the explanation of 1080p to last.
Currently there is no 1080p source. IF High Definition DVD survives, someday the players may include a 1080p output. No 1080p television on the market today will be able to connect to that player. The 1080p standard has not been finalized.
Today a 1080p display “Line Doubles” the 1080i image.
Theoretically a 1080p image should be twice as sharp as 1080i. That is not the case.
Historically line doublers have been very expensive ($20K to $30K). Most 1080p television cost less than $10K.
I have yet to see a 1080p television that impressed me.
My recommendation – read evaluations on the internet from enthusiast websites – do not trust the image you see in a store. It’s common for salesmen to make the television with the highest commission project the best image.
After purchasing your set get it ISF calibrated. You will not believe the improvement you get after a professional calibration.
Good luck.
The “i” in 1080i indicates interlaced. Interlaced images are drawn vertically line 1, and then line 3 to the bottom of the screen, followed by a second sweep filling in line 2, followed by line 4, etc. This is done quick enough to fool the eye / brain into seeing a coherent image. American television (standard definition) has been interlaced since 1941.
Despite what a salesman tells you - it’s doubtful anyone can tell the difference between the two high definition standards 1080i and 720p. The standards apply to both display devises (televisions) and broadcast networks.
To further demonstrate the equality of the two standards only the ABC networks (including ESPN) broadcasts in 720p. All others broadcast in 1080i. A 1080i television seamlessly converts ABC channels into 1080i. A 720p television effortlessly coverts NBC, and HBO into 720p.
I left the explanation of 1080p to last.
Currently there is no 1080p source. IF High Definition DVD survives, someday the players may include a 1080p output. No 1080p television on the market today will be able to connect to that player. The 1080p standard has not been finalized.
Today a 1080p display “Line Doubles” the 1080i image.
Theoretically a 1080p image should be twice as sharp as 1080i. That is not the case.
Historically line doublers have been very expensive ($20K to $30K). Most 1080p television cost less than $10K.
I have yet to see a 1080p television that impressed me.
My recommendation – read evaluations on the internet from enthusiast websites – do not trust the image you see in a store. It’s common for salesmen to make the television with the highest commission project the best image.
After purchasing your set get it ISF calibrated. You will not believe the improvement you get after a professional calibration.
Good luck.
