The usual response from a new HDTV owner is, "Wow, I had no idea what I was missing." If you're still missing out on the HD experience, we want to help.

If you're shopping for your first new TV in a long time, we have lots of informative articles and videos to get you up to speed. When you compare the latest HDTVs to old-fashioned tube TVs, it's obvious that a lot has changed. Even though HDTVs cost more than plain old "tubes" did, these new sets can do a lot more, and they continue to get better and cheaper.

Another reason to arm yourself with some TV knowledge is the upcoming completion of America's transition from analog to digital TV. A government mandate requires that all over-the-air analog TV broadcasts end by February 17, 2009.

Browse the links below, and if you have questions you can call our expert Sales Advisors at 1-888-955-6000, or e-mail them at solutions@crutchfield.com.

HDTV 101

• Read about how to get HDTV signals to your TV.
• Get the details on the digital TV transition in 2009.
• Make sense of terms like 1080p with our article on HDTV resolution.
• Watch a video on what to look for when shopping for an HDTV.
• Watch a video covering easy ways to get HDTV signals.

Screen size

• Learn about screen size, viewing distance and TV placement.

TV types

• A good starting point is our quick TV comparison chart.
• LCD vs. plasma: Which type of flat-panel TV is right for you?
• Explore the inner workings of the latest rear-projection TVs.
• Read about how front-projection TVs create the biggest home theater images available.

TV connections and setup

• Find out how to connect your TV for the best picture quality with these tips on video connections.
• Read our guide to choosing and installing an antenna for HDTV. Over-the-air HD broadcasts are free.
• Get familiar with HDMI connections — the most future-ready type of high-definition hookup.
• Watch our video on wall mounting your flat-panel TV to learn the basics of what's involved, and find more detailed instructions in our how-to guide.
• Do you own a CableCARD-ready TV? This short article clearly explains how CableCARDs work.

Getting the best picture and sound

• Learn how to optimize your TV's picture for a variety of video sources.
• By popular demand: additional tips focused on improving the look of non-HD sources on your HDTV.
• Troubled by the "black bars" that sometimes appear on your HDTV's screen? We'll explain why you see them and offer some solutions.
• Want to enjoy better sound with your TV? Learn about four ways to make it happen.

Earth-friendly TV tips

• Whether you're interested in keeping your energy bill down, or choosing an earth-friendly TV, we'll show you how to factor power consumption into your purchase decision.
• Be environmentally friendly when you get rid of old TV: re-use it or recycle it.

Want to learn more about TVs?

• Our extensive TV and HDTV glossary takes the mystery out of all those tech terms.
• Your questions may already be answered in our frequently asked TV questions section.