OK, this is SD channels that show 16:9 shows. Since those channels broadcast in 4:3, they letterbox the show. The TV doesn't automatically upscale to 16:9 in this case, so I end up with letterboxes and pillars. Now, I can switch to various aspect modes on the TV, but they're pretty universally bad.

If I watch similar 16:9 content on the Oppo (which is obviously SD, but doesn't come through 4:3), it looks great and apparently is upscaled.

Real HD content on the TiVo looks great.

I am the Doctor, and THIS... is my SPOON!