High Definition TV in the UK

[mac]

Hi everyone,

Currently thinking about buying a HDTV, however am hoping to find out what HD channels are available before spending (& don't want to go with S*y)

I've read several of the posts which mention BBC HD and other European HD channels that can be picked up by Satellite.

Using satellite, does anyone have a list of the HD channels that are available and a suggestion of the kit I'd need to receive them?

I live by the sea east of Southampton.

Thanks in advance. ( sorry if this is a common question)

MAC

[Jimdefruit]

Hi mac, welcome to the forum. The Lyngsat website lists the channels transmitting HD TV and you can find it HERE

You should be able to get all of the satellites from about 30 east to 30 west, as long as you dont have any obstructions to your line of sight.

Have a look at the list and if you are interested, let us know and we will see what we can do to help you.

[mac]

Hi Jim,

Thanks for the prompt response.

I've had a look at the site and see that they have BBC HD as well as ITV and the S*Y channels, as well as discovery.

If the Encryption says DVB-S2, MPEG-4/HD, Videoguard, does this mean i need to get a card for the set top box or do i still have to subscribe to S*Y.

Again apologies if this is a FAQ.

Many thanks
MAC

[BGonaSTICK]

If you don't want to subscribe to Sky, then you should get something like the Humax HDCI-2000

It will do all DVB-S2/MPEG-4

Spec:

Originally Posted by Humax

DVB-S2 and DVB-S compliant
MPEG-2 MP@HL Video Decoder
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 HP@L4 Video Decoder
Multi-format Audio Decoder
High Definition and Standard Definition
DVB Common Interface (2 slot) support
HDMI with HDCP
Format resolution: 1080i, 720p, 576p
DiSEqC 1.0, 1.2, USALS
Automatic software updating
Programs may be sorted numerically, alphabetically, by TV or radio, satellite group, or FTA (free-to-air, freely receivable broadcasts)
Timer function (coupled with EPG) for pre-programmed switching on and off, among other functions
Adheres to laws protecting minors
Expanded display with complete program information
Parental control function (blocking system or individual channels)
Sorting programs into individualized categories
Simple program search
Perfect combination with a HUMAX LCD-TV
Common Interface
Two Common Interface (CI) slots are available for Pay-TV channels.

or have a look at our list of HD satellite receivers here

To this, you could also add a T-Rex CAM and a programmable card, and open all of the Premiere HD channels on Astra 19.2E. Depends what you're into.

[mac]

Hi,

Thanks for this; seems like a good route to go.

Can you give a recommendation for the dish; from the lyngsat site, hopefully 80cm should be big enough - bit worred about it being blown off the roof and maiming someone as I live by the sea.

I've found a number of sites that do adult cards etc, however can't seem to track down a genral premier HD card; any recommendations (to get me started)

seems like an excellent chrismas present to myself...

Cheers
MAC -

[BGonaSTICK]

LOL, yes a good time of year to 'lose' some extra cash.

These are the bargain of the moment and are aluminium, so won't rust. This is a cracking dish.

90Cm's will get you most anything in the sky. As long as it's not way above the roofline, you can run this dish on a DiSEqC motor like the Moteck SG2100A. A pair of galvanised T&K brackets and some cable from somewhere like TLC-direct and a 2" steel scaffold pole, then all you need is an LNB and your CAM or CAM/card combo.

I think the T-Rex and the Diablo CAMs open Premiere without a card at the moment (and a vast number of channels in SECA2 if memory serves, well - at least the Diablo). I've fallen a bit out of touch in the last couple of weeks.

It depends if you want to stay legal or not. A valid Premiere subscription is very difficult (for difficult, read expensive) to get hold of in the UK.

[london-guy]

if you thinking about a HDTV then Sony Bravia is the best choice i have an LCD Sony Bravia 42 inch the picture incridible