something I really don't like is for example sometimes ER is shown in letterbox high definition format this really sucks I have a 16:9 screen why am I forced to watch this in letterbox screen having to look at black bars along the top and bottom above the pictures. It should be the full 16:9 screen. Another problem like on Showtime or HBO they will show a movie or boxing in high definition but only 4:3 aspect ratio I want it 16:9 or I don't even bother watching it would rather watch the standard definition in 16:9
Different HDTV signals?
When I tune into HDTV movie channels, the picture fills the entire screen on my 51" widescreen rptv. However, when I put on some of the HD major network channels, like CBS, NBC and Fox and some others, there are bars on the sides of the screen regardless of the picture setting. I'm using cable to receive the signal. Are there two (or more) different HDTV signals being broadcast?