Make the most of high-def content

Tip 1: Choose the right discs

High definition may be great for sports and documentaries, but the main driving force behind the technology is set to be movies. The problem lies in the fact that there are two rival formats vying for the HD crown: Blu-ray and HD DVD. Both offer the same benefits -- a startling increase in picture detail, the ability to store movie and extra features on one disc plus far more interactivity than before. Each format also has its own technical differences, but they are of minor importance when compared to the matter of software support. The two formats have split Hollywood movie studios -- if you only choose one format you're going to lose out. The early adoptee won't be too fazed by spending more money on two separate players, but until there's one clear winner, the mass-market will stay away. We've heard plenty from both camps and here are how the stats match up:

At this early stage, there are some indications that Blu-ray may take the lead over HD DVD. On the hardware side, the format has the support of Sony, Panasonic, Philips and Samsung, which are the world's four top AV manufacturers. The software support also seems to be falling on Blu-ray's side -- Warner Brothers and Paramount started out as HD DVD exclusive but have since conceded dual support for both formats. In addition Sony, one of the biggest movie studios in the world, now owns the massive MGM back-catalogue that it can release on Blu-ray. The format also has the exclusive support of Disney, itself the owner of one of the most valuable back-catalogues in existence, in addition to motion-picture arms that include Miramax, Dimension Pictures, Touchstone and the newly acquired Pixar.

However, you shouldn't discount HD DVD. As HD DVD is an extension of existing technology, the players will cost nearly half the amount of Blu-ray equivalents. It's also possible to make DVD/HD DVD hybrid discs, meaning you'll be able to buy a HD DVD film and still watch it in your DVD player. If all goes to plan, you could end up with a pre-existing collection of films when you decide to make the HD DVD upgrade. This comes at the cost of capacity though -- HD DVD's limited capacity could haunt the format as manufacturers push the limit on interactive extra features.

Another important consideration is console support. The catalyst for DVD software sales came in 2001 when the DVD-enabled PlayStation 2 launched. The PS2 became the biggest-selling DVD player of all time by a considerable margin, and the PlayStation 3 could do the same for Blu-ray, given the popularity of past PlayStation consoles. The Xbox 360 will have a HD DVD add-on drive, but as a peripheral it is unlikely to take off to the same degree. Read more on next-generation consoles below.

Go to TIP 2 : Get high-def broadcasts