World Cup dreams in high definition can cost dearly
The 2010 World Cup is just a few weeks away and the one thing that every football fan is dreaming of is a crystal clear HD picture viewed on their HD-ready television.
However, armchair fanatics are being warned that it is not quite as simple - or cheap - as they may think to enjoy all the action in HD.
Michael Phillips, product director, Digitalchoices.co.uk commented: "Broadcasting the World Cup in HD is an historic moment for BBC and ITV, but we are concerned that thousands of viewers are ill prepared to receive a HD signal. Having a HD-ready TV set isn't enough - area availability, service provider and set-top-box are all crucial when it comes to HD viewing.
"Freeview, Freesat, Virgin Media and Sky all have the potential to provide World Cup match coverage through BBC HD and ITV HD but each has its own cost, content and coverage considerations.
"HD enquiries have risen sharply in the lead up to kick-off as consumers prepare for the World Cup but a large number of viewers may have to fork out extra money for the correct set up. Anyone who is unsure of what they need should follow our step by step guide below:"
Digitalchoices.co.uk's top tips to ensure you are HD World Cup ready:
Check your postcode - this is the starting point since a number of HD services are area-dependent. Freeview HD and Virgin Media are only available in certain areas of the country. Whilst Freeview is being lauded as the "free" way to watch the World Cup in HD, only 50% of the country will be able to receive a Freeview HD signal by the time the first game kicks off.
Choose your set top box - If you are in a Freeview HD-ready area, a Freeview HD set-top box will cost around £100 for a basic model - significantly more if you want a digital recorder built in. Freesat HD set-top boxes start from around £70 for a basic model but again, prices rise for added functionality. The benefit of both of these solutions though is no ongoing monthly subscription cost. Virgin Media offers a choice of two HD boxes and Sky's Sky+HD box has an impressive specification - both are very reasonably priced as part of a TV package but remember you will have a monthly subscription to pay.
Splash out - If you think you'll want HD beyond the World Cup and with a greater choice of channels, then Virgin Media and Sky are the only real options at the moment. Each provider offers additional HD packages and HD movies and Sky has an unrivalled range of HD sport coverage. But remember - these all come at a cost so ensure you use a price comparison site to check the best deals available in your area.
Don't forget the HDMI - Whichever option you choose, you will need a HDMI cable to connect your set-top box to your HD TV set. This will set you back around £10 and will ensure you don't miss a single detail of the World Cup coverage in all its HD glory.