Inexpensive Hi Def options?

[mxyzptlk77]

I bought a computer last year with a widescreen monitor thinking this might be an inexpensive option for viewing Hi Def (as opposed to buying a new TV) - (I needed a new computer anyway)

I've been able to download Hi-Def video and playing on my computer just fine, but downloading the large files is quite cumbersome, and would like to be able to watch Hi-Def DVD movies - whether on my computer or on a TV if that is the cheaper option. (I don't currently have a HI-Def TV or Hi-Def player for my TV or computer)

I am wondering what my most affordable option would be. I am only using the integrated graphics chip on my computer but it seems fine for viewing downloaded Hi-Def videos. However, both Vista and Cyberlink tell me I need to upgrade my graphics chip. And of course, I would need a drive for my computer too which looks like it's going to run several hundred dollars. So any suggestions as to what my most affordable option would be?

(I am on a budget!)

[videopoo]

HD DVD

[Krispy Kritter]

Either way, you are looking at spending money.

PC - Depending on your monitor specs (widescreen doesn't mean HD quality/resolution), you are likely looking at a new monitor, video card, and HD-DVD/Blu-Ray disc player. You are also borderline on your cpu and RAM.

TV - Again, depending on your TV type/specs, you are likely looking at a new TV and a HD player (HD-DVD or Blu-Ray).

The best place to spend your money is on a TV and TV related hardware. Unless you are viewing on a big screen (40+ inches), HD isn't really needed anyway. With a quality TV, standard DVD's can look excellent.

[Video Head]

If you use a TV you will need the standalone HD player and an HDTV with an HDCP compliant input - HDMI.

If you use an HD Optical drive in your computer you will require a video card with HDMI or DVI with HDCP out. Your monitor will require either HDMI or DVI with HDCP. The rest of your system must also be up to the task.

HDCP is the copy protection portion. Both the player and display must be compliant to play original HD media in true HD.