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What is a ‘simulcast’?

Our digital TV expert says...

Put simply Allison, a HD simulcast is a high-definition (HD) version of a channel that broadcasts the same content at exactly the same time as its standard definition counterpart.

For example, BBC1 HD is a high-definition simulcast of BBC1. The HD version shows all the same programmes as BBC1, but in super sharp high-definition. So if you’ve got a HD ready TV and a digital TV service that offers access to HD channels, you’ll be able to watch all your favourite shows in the best detail.

Below is some more information about the HD channels available in the UK…

Why should I watch HD?

There are a number of advantages to getting a high-definition television. Most noticeably, HD programmes and films have:

• Better picture quality - Images are brighter and clearer. HD programmes have up to five times more detail than ordinary standard definition TV
• Better sound quality - Programmes made with surround-sound are better in HD as sound is clearer and sharper.

The sound and picture quality of high-definition broadcasts is around five times better than standard definition programmes. HD broadcasts are particularly suited to flat TV screens (LED, LCD and plasma).

If you haven’t made the switch to high-definition yet, now’s the perfect time - there are over 50 high-definition channels available, spanning a variety of genres, including sports, films and nature documentaries.

Popular channels available in high-definition

When it comes to high-definition channels, both Sky (www.sky.co.uk) and Virgin Media (www.virginmedia.com) offer a bigger selection than those available on Freeview.

Whatever it is you’re looking for, a subscription TV package will give you a much wider selection of HD channels to choose from. Some of the most popular channels, including BBC1 and ITV1 have HD simulcasts shown on different channels. Take a look at the table below for their positions on Virgin Media and Sky:

HD channels with Virgin Media

Virgin Media currently offers 17 HD channels - these are available to all XL TV customers at no extra cost, providing they have either the V+HD or V HD set-top box.

If you take the M+ or L TV packages, you will have to pay an additional £5 a month to watch the HD channels.

Subscriptions to Sky Sports and Sky Movies in high-definition are also available, though these are extra.

HD channels with Sky

Sky has a much larger range of HD channels, with over 50 available - though the exact number will depend on your subscription.

To watch the HD channels on Sky you must subscribe to the Sky HD pack and have a Sky+HD set-top box. The Sky HD pack costs an extra £10.25 a month on top of your standard Sky subscription, which starts from £19.50 a month.

Again, subscriptions to Sky Sports and Sky Movies in high-definition are also available, but will cost more on top of your standard Sky package.

If you’re looking for more HD channels, use the price comparison calculator on Digitalchoices.co.uk to compare TV packages and find the best deal for you Allison.

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If you have a general switching or provider query please email us at ourexpert@digitalchoices.co.uk