TV viewers are confused about high definition TV (HDTV) with one in five not realising they need to buy an HD ready TV set to receive the crystal clear pictures.

Half of those quizzed didn't realise they would also need a new HD set top box, while two thirds failed to twig they would also have to shell out for a monthly subscription.

This rather confused state of affairs comes as research from price comparison outfit uSwitch.com found that 2.6m UK households are planning on getting HDTV next year.

Researchers reckon punters are confusing Digital Television (DTV) with HDTV, while others who have already bought an HD ready TV may assume they're already watching high definition TV.

"Customers are confused - both as to what equipment they need to buy, and what the total cost will be," uSwitch.com's Chris Williams said.

"Although there has been a lot of publicity surrounding the HD broadcast of the BBC's and ITV's coverage of the World Cup on 'free-to-view' channels, viewers will still need to pay at least £10 a month to receive the HD service from either Telewest or Sky."

The research also figured out that the total cost of hooking up to HDTV - including an HD ready TV, set top box and subscription - could be around £1,900 in the first year. reg;