HDNet Named “BEST HDTV CHANNEL”
by Greg Gibson

For the year 2002, NextGenElectronics has viewed all HDTV channels, and has named HDNet as the “Best HDTV Channel” for the year 2002.

HDNet provides a wide variety of programming - HDNet is the first all high definition national television network. HDNet broadcasts on channel 199 on DIRECTV, and includes professional and amateur sports, documentaries, and special events.

HDNet presented 80 Major League Baseball games, 40 NHL hockey games, and extensive Winter Olympic coverage during the 2002 season. HDNet also has an excellent series of special travelogues and concerts. Of note, HDNet has been a pioneer in developing and enhancing HDTV sports coverage.

The HDNet NHL hockey was the programming most improved by HDTV. The hockey picture in widescreen and 1080i is stunning - as you can actually see the puck and follow/enjoy the game!

The HDNet broadcast of the Winter Olympics was more extensive than NBC, and it appears that HDNet benefited from the strategic alliance with NBC in providing the expanded HDTV coverage. Amazingly, HDNet still doesn’t have a significant number of commercials – wonderful to watch but we would accept some “national” ads in order to pick up NFL and other events.

HDNet edged out HBO-HD largely on the basis of their sports coverage and innovations (it is not very hard to broadcast movies). Importantly - HBO-HD still has significant HDTV programming in the 4x3 format – resulting in the annoying sidebars for the widescreen sets (note: true HDTV includes not only a 1080i picture but the full 16x9 format). HDNet is 100% true HDTV.

The final ranking of the top 4 HDTV channels are:

1. HDNet
2. HBO HD (East Coast Feed)
3. CBS (OTA – prime time lineup)
4. Showtime HD

It should be noted that other networks have had very limited HDTV, and those were therefore disqualified from further consideration.

Commentary By: Greg Gibson - email