We’ve been focusing on the digital converter boxes recently and they will benefit a lot of folks since it will keep your present set useful until you decide to take the plunge and invest in a new HD set. But if you haven’t yet seen an HD television tuned to a broadcast station with an antenna feeding it, you’re in for a real treat.

Simply put, over-the-air HDTV is stunning. You will be amazed at the clarity, the richness of color, the texture and detail that HD delivers (not to mention the drama of the larger screen). Even via cable or satellite, the image quality is far and away better than anything you’ve ever seen on analog. And, of course, a lot of programming is available with surround (5.1) sound to heighten the experience.

Though you may not be in the market for a new TV right now, have a look at what’s available in the stores. You might want to make the jump to HD sooner than you thought.