Questions re: HDMI input

[Project Director]

I am looking at buying a new LCD TV, and am struggling through the vast amount of information, reviews and details available before making my decision. I am inclined towards a Sony Bravia 32", but I am not sure if I should go for the model with the HDMI inputs. It is way more expensive, and I am not sure if it is worth it. I only watch cable TV and free to air - no game consoles etc. My questions:

(1) The Sony's resolution is 1366x768 - not sufficient to get the maximum benefit of HDMI, (I think you need 1080 horizontal lines). Why pay more for HDMI inputs if the TV's resolution is not high enough anyway?

(2) What appliances are available (or will soon be available) which play in HD mode? I know my cable TV box does not, nor does my DVD player. Will these appliances be affordable for the average consumer in the near future, or will it be years?

Thanks

[Krispy Kritter]

DVI and now HDMI is a means of connecting devices. It is irrelevant whether or not the signal is HD. Your connection options, from best to worst are, DVI/HDMI, component, S-Video, COAX, composite.

Most current hardware, at least here in the US, is using DVI/HDMI. Units include Tivo, DVR, DVD players, cable boxes, SAT boxes (DirectTV etc.). With the current push of HD (TV and DVD), all new units will be using it. It isn't necessary for non HD signals, but can be for HD content. It varies by hardware, but HDMI often has better picture quality than other inputs.

I would do a little reading on HDMI and/or HD. Also, if high quality video and/or HD are in your future (say the next few years or before you replace your new LCD TV), then I would get a unit with HDMI.

edited for links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-definition_television

http://www.hdmi.org/consumer/faq.asp