(SAN DIEGO) January 27, 2009 – Are you ready to reinvigorate your football experience? Forget about the fish tacos and hot wings and let’s talk high-definition television (HDTV) - the must have for a crystal clear viewing experience.

If you’ve decided to make your football party the best on your block by getting a new HDTV, don’t leave home without these savvy shopper tips:

Tip #1: Shop Wisely for Equipment
Before heading out, look for promotions that stores are holding in conjunction with the game. Electronics manufacturers and retailers including Sony, Samsung, Best Buy, Wal Mart and others, as well as your local communications provider, such as Cox Communications, are your best source for special incentives. Websites such as eBay (www.ebay.com) and craigslist (www.craigslist.com) have also become popular destinations for electronics purchases. If your search leads online, make sure to always read the fine print and fully understand the purchasing terms between you and the seller.

Keep in mind that picture quality can be very subjective, so look closely at options before making your purchase. There are two main HD resolutions in use today by HD broadcasters and other sources: 1080i and 720p. One is not necessarily better than the other. 1080i has more lines and pixels, but 720p is a progressive-scan format that should deliver a smoother image that stays sharper during motion, such as with sports programming. Another format is also becoming better known: 1080p, which combines the high-quality resolution of 1080i with the progressive-scan smoothness of 720p. However, true 1080p programming is extremely scarce today. The bottom line – buy what looks good to you.

Tip #2: Make Sure You’re Connected
Just because you have an HDTV doesn’t mean that the channels will be in high-definition. To receive a true HD picture on the most popular broadcast and cable channels, it’s easy to sign up for HD service from your cable provider.

With Cox, HDTV service is available through an HD receiver or CableCARD if your HDTV is compatible. If you already have a cable receiver, be sure to contact a provider like Cox to swap it out for an HD receiver.  In most cases, you can lease an HD receiver for the same price or for only a few dollars more per month. Plus, Cox offers free HD programming for your favorite local and cable channels that bring you sports, primetime shows, movies, concerts, documentaries, and access to an On DEMAND library and thousands of HD choices! Unlike Cox, other providers may charge additional fees for HD programming, so do your research.

Tip #3: Enhance the HDTV Experience
With the vast array of HD options available on popular channels from ESPN and HBO to Discovery HD, you can enhance your HDTV experience with a high definition digital video recorder (HD DVR) and make sure you don’t miss a minute of the HD programming you want to see. A DVR lets you maximize your HD viewing by making it easy for you to record programs in high definition with the touch of a button. DVRs also allow you to pause, rewind live TV, and create your own instant replays (another must for any Super Bowl party).

About Cox Communications San Diego:
Award-winning Cox Communications is a full-service telecommunications provider of voice, video and data services. Operating in San Diego County since 1961, Cox offers the latest in digital and high definition cable television, high speed Internet, local and long distance telephone service, digital video recorder service and On Demand programming.  Commercial voice and data services are offered via Cox Business; advertising and promotional opportunities are available through Cox Media; and Cox Communications San Diego owns and operates award-winning Channel 4 San Diego, television home of the San Diego Padres and local programming including:  Postgame Show; Sam the Cooking Guy; San Diego Insider Magazine; Shades of San Diego; Brainwave; One on One with Jane Mitchell; High School Football. In 2008, Cox was honored in J.D. Power & Associates 2008 Major Provider Business Telecommunications Study; J.D. Power & Associates 2008 Residential Regional Telephone Customer Satisfaction Study in the West; Cox Internet Voted No. 1 by the San Diego Union Tribune Reader’s Poll; and voted as one of San Diego’s Best Places to Work by the San Diego Business Journal. For more information, visit www.coxsandiego.com.


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