1080i vs. 720p

[NewVista]

Originally Posted by Adlershof

..The point is that all ARD studio outputs and internal feeds are 1080i. Only in the last stage they convert their video to 720p, thus combining the disadvantages of both formats.

You are right to suspect that you're getting ripped-off, because 1080 is patently better than 720 - especially when displayed at 4k. And interlace is not a problem because today, better broadcast cameras & telecine now output PsF which nicely complements 2k/4k progressive home displays.