Digital cable has nothing to do with anything, as most of the channels broadcast are still ANALOG. A decent set will still make analog broadcast look a little better, but it isn't going to look like HD by any stretch. There are also some OTA HD channels available in most major areas (via an antena), and another great reason would be that your DVDs will look great on an HDTV with a progressive scan player, possibly an upconverting one. IMO, you the money is not wasted.