HDTV

[c_hernandez32]

If you watch a regular 4:3 VHS tape on a widescreen TV, will the image be stretched, cropped from the top and bottom, or window boxed (black bars on the left and right)?

Some shows, especially on NBC, say they are in HD, but are still in 4:3 aspect. Will you see the whole picture on a wide screen or will it still be 4:3?

On last question, if you watch widescreen VHS or LaserDiscs, will they display as true 16:9 or a letterboxed 4:3?

Thanks for the help!

[thayne]

I think you can view in the correct aspect by having black bars added to the sides.

[Marco33]

If you watch a regular 4:3 VHS tape on a widescreen TV, will the image be stretched, cropped from the top and bottom, or window boxed (black bars on the left and right)?

Yes & No, Most Widescreens have a function to stretch the picture to your likeing. I watch it stretched or like thayne said you can view it with bares on the side to keep the right aspect ratio.

Some shows, especially on NBC, say they are in HD, but are still in 4:3 aspect. Will you see the whole picture on a wide screen or will it still be 4:3?

It say's HD but unless you are set up to recieve it in HD (Box, etc) you are still getting it in regular definition at 4:3. If you are set up for HD then it will be Widescreen. I believe HD on a 4:3 screen will cut off the sides to keep the aspect ratio.

On last question, if you watch widescreen VHS or LaserDiscs, will they display as true 16:9 or a letterboxed 4:3?

Not all movies are shot in the same format so while Terminator 2 takes up my whole screen on my Widescreen TV Superman does not ( there are still small bars at the top and bottom). It's hard to answer the question without delving into the different formats. I suggest you grab a couple of DVD's and VHS tapes in both aspects and head to the local video store. Seeing is believing

Thanks for the help!

Why do you ask?