[Brad]

Also, keep in mind that DTV does not broadcast in 1080p. They downconvert HD content to "HD-Lite", which is about 1/3 less resolution. You can still get full resolution, however, from local OTA (off-the-air) channels with a mounted HD antenna.

I doubt they'd have to bandwidth to do that even if they wanted to. I've noticed my picture (SD) has gotten worse over the years as they compress things more and more to fit more channels in. Our equipment is old though so I'm guess that's got a lot to do with it.

One of our receivers just gave out on us so I'm in the market for a new one. Are the new receivers better at handling the (aggressive) compression DTV uses these days?

I'm not looking to upgrade to HD yet, don't even own a set. I'm planning on holding off on that until I move and have cable installed (plan on getting internet with them anyway, plus I like the on demand content).

I now upgraded my package directly with DIRECTV ... not really what I wanted to do 'cause installation is after the SUPER BOWL. Oh well, at least now I know that all future NFL games and TV shows will be CRISP, CLEAR, DIGITAL picture.

We're all still invited to watch the game at your house though right!? I'm sure your picture will be better than ours, for the last 3 years we've watched the super bowl at a friend's place. No cable, no sat, just bunny ears wrapped in tin foil.