The Official "I need help with a new TV purchase" thread

[helix139]

OK, since there have been several of these questions recently, I decided to make a short questionaire for anyone who needs help deciding on a new TV. Those of us who know TVs end up asking all these questions anyways and it will help us narrow down the choices for you. If anyone has any additional criteria that should be added to the questionaire, let me know and I'll put it in.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. (If you already have a surround system and do not wish to buy a new one, answer 1 here)

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?

4. Any restrictions on size?

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?

[SteelGator]

Great idea, and a thorough list of questions. I'm sure LakeGator won't have a problem making it sticky for you.

[uflawyer]

Great idea, and a thorough list of questions. I'm sure LakeGator won't have a problem making it sticky for you.

With respect to budget, give a total budget for the whole system, not just the TV. I have a $70K media room and my TV and screen was only $19K. My sound system/DVD/speakers etc were about $12K, the rest of the budget was chairs, install and build out. My remote cost $1K for crying out load.

My everyday system (60in plasma) was about $5k for the TV and about $2500 for the rest. That remote only cost $100 and does basically the same thing. I installed this system my self.

So-- we need to know:

1. Total budget.
2. Do you prefer big TV or Big sound or balance of the two
3. Do it your self or pro installed

[GatorGamer]

This thread couldn't of come at a better time. Anybody know where I can get a bracket to mount my flat screen tv in the corner of two walls?

Thanks,
gamer

[helix139]

With respect to budget, give a total budget for the whole system, not just the TV. I have a $70K media room and my TV and screen was only $19K. My sound system/DVD/speakers etc were about $12K, the rest of the budget was chairs, install and build out. My remote cost $1K for crying out load.

My everyday system (60in plasma) was about $5k for the TV and about $2500 for the rest. That remote only cost $100 and does basically the same thing. I installed this system my self.

So-- we need to know:

1. Total budget.
2. Do you prefer big TV or Big sound or balance of the two
3. Do it your self or pro installed

The issue i have with this is twofold:

Many people using this questionaire are probably simply looking for just the TV, as they don't know enough about home theater, and those who do know enough to want a sound system aren't going to need the help

[helix139]

This thread couldn't of come at a better time. Anybody know where I can get a bracket to mount my flat screen tv in the corner of two walls?

Thanks,
gamer

I think what you are looking for is a cantilever mount. You will have to mount it on one of the walls, but the TV can pull out from the wall and be positioned at an angle. As long as you have 2 studs for a larger TV or 1 stud for a smaller (32" or less) TV, you'll be fine

[uflawyer]

The issue i have with this is twofold:

Many people using this questionaire are probably simply looking for just the TV, as they don't know enough about home theater, and those who do know enough to want a sound system aren't going to need the help

A TV without sound is like a girlfriend without lips. You could have one, but why??:joecool:

I speak with experience as I have helped many people pick out "Home theater" equipment. I have never had a buddy happy with his purchase when he blows his whole wad on a TV. You are doing a great disservice if you do not include the topic. Just take a look at all the threads on the subject.

[helix139]

A TV without sound is like a girlfriend without lips. You could have one, but why??:joecool:

I speak with experience as I have helped many people pick out "Home theater" equipment. I have never had a buddy happy with his purchase when he blows his whole wad on a TV. You are doing a great disservice if you do not include the topic. Just take a look at all the threads on the subject.

Point taken. I'll add it.

[flpanic]

This is great. We are remodeling our house and at the end of this, just before football starts, I am replacing all of the TVs in the house.

The family room has space for a 50-60". My A/V guy wants me to go with the 52" Sharp Aquos LCD.

I have a covered patio that needs an all-weather tv. This one should be at 21".

Masterbedroom should be 36-42".

Kids playroom 32".

My playroom, which is now setup for 3 side by side tv's. I was thinking a 60" and 27s.

Take price out of the equation, not that it doesn't matter, but I would like to hear what people think is best for the situation.

[helix139]

This is great. We are remodeling our house and at the end of this, just before football starts, I am replacing all of the TVs in the house.

The family room has space for a 50-60". My A/V guy wants me to go with the 52" Sharp Aquos LCD.

I have a covered patio that needs an all-weather tv. This one should be at 21".

Masterbedroom should be 36-42".

Kids playroom 32".

My playroom, which is now setup for 3 side by side tv's. I was thinking a 60" and 27s.

Take price out of the equation, not that it doesn't matter, but I would like to hear what people think is best for the situation.

Does your wife have a younger sister? lol

Seriously though, 52" aquos or Sammy should be awesome in the family room. Also consider rear projection. SXRD's and the new LED DLP's are amazing in PQ.

Dunno about all-weather TVs, but I'm sure you can find something.

For the master bedroom, if you want to wait, get something that is 120hz with LED backlighting. If not, I highly recommend the Phillips 7432. It's a 42" 1080p with Ambilight. I just bought one myself over Samsung, Sony, Sharp, and LG. I thought the picture on the Philips was the best of all of them.

For the kids playroom, I'd go with any Philips, Sammy, Sharp, LG, or Sony in that size. They all do 32" really well, and you said to take price out of the equation. Realistically though, I'd just go with an Olevia or Vizio for them. They wouldn't know the difference.

For the 3 TV setup, go with a 60" pioneer or Panasonic 1080p plasma in the center with a couple 32" Sony, Sammy, Sharp, or LGs on the side. You won't pay much of a premium for 32" as opposed to 27," if you can fit them.

[FrankGator627]

Dang lawyer, does that remote make you food and drinks, too?

[uflawyer]

Dang lawyer, does that remote make you food and drinks, too?

I wish. It is a color screen pronto that controls everything with a single push of a button. It nice, but if I had known it was $1K when I bought my system, I would opted for something a little less flashy. Since I had my system installed (and during the process) I have become quite familiar with good and bad choices and where to spend the money. I should write a book.:laugh: That is why I am so adamant about sound. I have a huge screen which is awesome, but the sound system gives me goose bumps.

[SRQGator1]

I had my mind made up to get a 46 inch samsung 720p lcd for just over $2200 but saw I could get a 50 inch Samsung 720p for about $2000, I think i might get the plasma

[Aardvark]

size matters?

[SRQGator1]

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11225836&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US

what do guys think of this tv, nice set or cheap?

[uflawyer]

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11225836&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US

what do guys think of this tv, nice set or cheap?

Decent price but it does not have any HDMI inputs, which tells me it is an old model. Looks like a bargain.

[helix139]

Decent price but it does not have any HDMI inputs, which tells me it is an old model. Looks like a bargain.

Definitely. You're gonna want a TV with at least 2 or more HDMI inputs, the more the better

[helix139]

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11225836&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US

what do guys think of this tv, nice set or cheap?

fill out the questionaire at the top and we'll be able to steer you toward something you'd like

[RealDeal]

I need a 32 inch TV for my office. Someone recommended the vizio 32L, available for less than $600---is this a good tv for the money?

[helix139]

I need a 32 inch TV for my office. Someone recommended the vizio 32L, available for less than $600---is this a good tv for the money?

See the first post in thread. Not to be a dick, but the questionaire is there for a reason people!

[SRQGator1]

nm

[uflawyer]

I need a 32 inch TV for my office. Someone recommended the vizio 32L, available for less than $600---is this a good tv for the money?

I just bought that TV last month for my son's bedroom and it has a great picture. I recommend it.

[SRQGator1]

My girl just bought me a 52 inch LCD Sharp, 1080p and 120h, she paid 3200. I was looking for a nice tv but not top of the line, all i will use it for is just typical tv watching, not movies or anything. I have direct tv. My question is this, should I just keep it, or look for something not so expensive

[helix139]

My girl just bought me a 52 inch LCD Sharp, 1080p and 120h, she paid 3200. I was looking for a nice tv but not top of the line, all i will use it for is just typical tv watching, not movies or anything. I have direct tv. My question is this, should I just keep it, or look for something not so expensive

well if you don't want it you could always donate it to me :)

[uflawyer]

My girl just bought me a 52 inch LCD Sharp, 1080p and 120h, she paid 3200. I was looking for a nice tv but not top of the line, all i will use it for is just typical tv watching, not movies or anything. I have direct tv. My question is this, should I just keep it, or look for something not so expensive

Keep it and go get yourself a HD DVD player or blue ray and enjoy watching a movie like you have never seen before. Have you seen a gator game in HD yet? If not, you will be very happy with that as well.

[FrankGator627]

What happens to TVs that dont get sold? Like a model they bring out but after a year take down....do they leave them up until they get sold or what happens to them?

[helix139]

What happens to TVs that dont get sold? Like a model they bring out but after a year take down....do they leave them up until they get sold or what happens to them?

they usually become refurbs

[ufrulz2]

OK, guys, here goes:

1. We want to spent in the ballpark of $2K (can go a little over) for a flat-screen TV to hang on the wall in our family room.

2. Not concerned with surround sound, as it's not a theater room -- just basic TV. So I'd value sound as around a 3 or 4 out of 10 (I want the sound from the TVs speakers to be decent, but I don't need a fancy Bose surround system for the audio).

3. I have a membership at Sam's.

4. As I mentioned, we want it wall mounted, predominantly to save space in the family room and to keep my 2-year-old's fingers off of it. ;)

4(a). No restrictions on size, other than budgetary constraints, although I don't think the room is big enough for, say, a 60".

5. The TV will be across the room from an L-shaped sectional couch with recliners on either end. One recliner will be pointed directly at the TV, and the other will be at pretty significant angle to the TV (perhaps 70 degrees). I am not terribly worried about the view from this recliner, only from the one directly across from it. The distance from that recliner to the wall is approximately 13 feet.

6. I will not use it as a computer monitor.

7. I will not be gaming on it.

8. I am willing to sacrifice a few inches for a great picture, as long as it meets the minimum required size, so I'd answer 1 or 2 here.

9. I'd prefer to go with one of the major brands (Philips, Panasonic, Sony, Samsung, Sharp) rather than one of the cheapies (Vizio, Olevia, eye-fly, etc.), although I am not set in stone if the picture is good enough.

10. I definitely want to buy my TV at a store rather than online.

11. The TV will be hung on a wall with no windows. The wall immediately adjacent and perpendicular to this wall has two overhead recessed lights that are aimable and will be aimed away from the TV. There are also two small windows on that wall (on either side of a fireplace) that are about 7 feet off of the floor and are approximately 30" wide by 24" high. One of these windows will be fairly close to the TV (within about four to six feet), but because of the direction our house faces, I don't think it's likely to allow significant light onto the screen of the TV (although there will be some). No other windows, lights, etc. will affect the picture.

12. I don't want a front-projection tv.

13. No aesthetic requirements.

14. I have no discounts.

15. We will be viewing typical TV fare -- shows on broadcast networks, HBO, and sports over the air (including Gator games, of course). Occasionally we'll watch a DVD, but rarely. Oh, and there will be plenty of Elmo on, thanks to my 2 year old. :)

16. We want someone to install it for us.

17. I think a typical fixed mount will be fine. No need to pull the TV out from the wall, although we may need the TV to be mounted on an angle pointed slightly downward so that it's aimed at our couch (rather than aimed above the couch).

18. Nothing else.

OK, guys, with all that said: recommendations, please!!! Thanks.

[helix139]

OK, guys, here goes:

1. We want to spent in the ballpark of $2K (can go a little over) for a flat-screen TV to hang on the wall in our family room.

2. Not concerned with surround sound, as it's not a theater room -- just basic TV. So I'd value sound as around a 3 or 4 out of 10 (I want the sound from the TVs speakers to be decent, but I don't need a fancy Bose surround system for the audio).

3. I have a membership at Sam's.

4. As I mentioned, we want it wall mounted, predominantly to save space in the family room and to keep my 2-year-old's fingers off of it. ;)

4(a). No restrictions on size, other than budgetary constraints, although I don't think the room is big enough for, say, a 60".

5. The TV will be across the room from an L-shaped sectional couch with recliners on either end. One recliner will be pointed directly at the TV, and the other will be at pretty significant angle to the TV (perhaps 70 degrees). I am not terribly worried about the view from this recliner, only from the one directly across from it. The distance from that recliner to the wall is approximately 13 feet.

6. I will not use it as a computer monitor.

7. I will not be gaming on it.

8. I am willing to sacrifice a few inches for a great picture, as long as it meets the minimum required size, so I'd answer 1 or 2 here.

9. I'd prefer to go with one of the major brands (Philips, Panasonic, Sony, Samsung, Sharp) rather than one of the cheapies (Vizio, Olevia, eye-fly, etc.), although I am not set in stone if the picture is good enough.

10. I definitely want to buy my TV at a store rather than online.

11. The TV will be hung on a wall with no windows. The wall immediately adjacent and perpendicular to this wall has two overhead recessed lights that are aimable and will be aimed away from the TV. There are also two small windows on that wall (on either side of a fireplace) that are about 7 feet off of the floor and are approximately 30" wide by 24" high. One of these windows will be fairly close to the TV (within about four to six feet), but because of the direction our house faces, I don't think it's likely to allow significant light onto the screen of the TV (although there will be some). No other windows, lights, etc. will affect the picture.

12. I don't want a front-projection tv.

13. No aesthetic requirements.

14. I have no discounts.

15. We will be viewing typical TV fare -- shows on broadcast networks, HBO, and sports over the air (including Gator games, of course). Occasionally we'll watch a DVD, but rarely. Oh, and there will be plenty of Elmo on, thanks to my 2 year old. :)

16. We want someone to install it for us.

17. I think a typical fixed mount will be fine. No need to pull the TV out from the wall, although we may need the TV to be mounted on an angle pointed slightly downward so that it's aimed at our couch (rather than aimed above the couch).

18. Nothing else.

OK, guys, with all that said: recommendations, please!!! Thanks.

Here are a couple recommendations:

Look for something 50" and above. I think you'd be well suited with a plasma screen in your case. Excellent picture and no reason not to get it, especially since at 40" and above it becomes cheaper than LCD. Just make sure you get a blackout curtain to pull over that window.

Pioneer and Panasonic are great brands for plasma, and Panasonic just upped their rated lifetime considerably. Samsung is also very good.

As far as wall mounting it, circuit city has a large tilting wall mount on sale for $89.99, which is exactly what you're looking for and the cheapest option you'll find. I just picked one up myself. Plan to spend at least another $300-400 to have your TV installed. If you don't want to run cables in the wall and know how to use a drill and a studfinder, I'd say mount the TV yourself, as it really isn't that hard to do. Considering installation cost and your sound system (which I'd say put around $200-300 into for a decent HTIB), we're looking at around $1200 for your TV. In that price range, Vizio is about the only company that puts out a 50" plasma. If you can afford to bump your budget up to allocate $1600-1700 for just your TV, you can find a decent samsung or possibly panasonic, or a 47" philips 1080p LCD (walmart has these). The other option is to hunt around for open box deals in your local sams, best buy, etc, but with Plasma I wouldn't go that route, as these TVs have been running at full contrast for who knows how long

[ufrulz2]

Here are a couple recommendations:

Look for something 50" and above. I think you'd be well suited with a plasma screen in your case. Excellent picture and no reason not to get it, especially since at 40" and above it becomes cheaper than LCD. Just make sure you get a blackout curtain to pull over that window.

Pioneer and Panasonic are great brands for plasma, and Panasonic just upped their rated lifetime considerably. Samsung is also very good.

As far as wall mounting it, circuit city has a large tilting wall mount on sale for $89.99, which is exactly what you're looking for and the cheapest option you'll find. I just picked one up myself. Plan to spend at least another $300-400 to have your TV installed. If you don't want to run cables in the wall and know how to use a drill and a studfinder, I'd say mount the TV yourself, as it really isn't that hard to do. Considering installation cost and your sound system (which I'd say put around $200-300 into for a decent HTIB), we're looking at around $1200 for your TV. In that price range, Vizio is about the only company that puts out a 50" plasma. If you can afford to bump your budget up to allocate $1600-1700 for just your TV, you can find a decent samsung or possibly panasonic, or a 47" philips 1080p LCD (walmart has these). The other option is to hunt around for open box deals in your local sams, best buy, etc, but with Plasma I wouldn't go that route, as these TVs have been running at full contrast for who knows how long

Thanks, Helix. Question (and excuse my naivete): what is HTIB? Home theater something something? Do I actually need any type of home theater or speakers to go with the TV, or can I just use the speakers that come with the set? Or are the speakers really that bad?

[helix139]

Thanks, Helix. Question (and excuse my naivete): what is HTIB? Home theater something something? Do I actually need any type of home theater or speakers to go with the TV, or can I just use the speakers that come with the set? Or are the speakers really that bad?

Home theater in a box. It's basically a receiver, amp, and speakers all in one package ready to go. You could just use the TV speakers, but to quote UFLawyer, "it would be like kissing a woman with no lips."

HTIB can be adequate, but is almost never superb, so your other choice is to buy the TV now and buy a better sound system later, but with just the TV speakers, you'll be missing out on surround sound in addition to low frequencies. You'll appreciate the above with OTA HD and movies.

[ufrulz2]

Home theater in a box. It's basically a receiver, amp, and speakers all in one package ready to go. You could just use the TV speakers, but to quote UFLawyer, "it would be like kissing a woman with no lips."

HTIB can be adequate, but is almost never superb, so your other choice is to buy the TV now and buy a better sound system later, but with just the TV speakers, you'll be missing out on surround sound in addition to low frequencies. You'll appreciate the above with OTA HD and movies.

Thanks. Assuming I am able to go upwards of $1700 (or a little higher) just for the TV, are there any particular brands or models that you would recommend?

[helix139]

Thanks. Assuming I am able to go upwards of $1700 (or a little higher) just for the TV, are there any particular brands or models that you would recommend?

For plasma (what I would recommend for you, since you have no real reason why it wouldnt work for your purposes):

Panasonic and Pioneer are the absolute best, with Pioneer typically more expensive. Samsung and LG are a close second.

LCD:

Philips, Sony, Samsung, and Sharp are all equivalent in PQ. you'll pay a premium for Sony.

Look for at least a 46 or 47" LCD or a 50" plasma in any of those brands and I think you'll be happy. Make sure it has at least 2 HDMI inputs, also. My best advice is to go into the store and view some TVs side by side. Find some models in your price range beforehand online and look through the threads dedicated to that TV on avsforum.com. Users on there will post picture settings that seem to work well. Adjust the picture in the store according to those settings to get a better idea of what the TVs are capable of looking like. Most showroom TVs are set really bright because bright tends to grab your attention first. When I get home from work today I'll do a little research and post some model numbers for you to help narrow it down further.

You stated you have a membership at Sam's, so I would definitely go down there and see what models they have on hand. Also check Sam's online, as I believe you would be able to return your TV in store if anything is wrong with it.

[ufrulz2]

For plasma (what I would recommend for you, since you have no real reason why it wouldnt work for your purposes):

Panasonic and Pioneer are the absolute best, with Pioneer typically more expensive. Samsung and LG are a close second.

LCD:

Philips, Sony, Samsung, and Sharp are all equivalent in PQ. you'll pay a premium for Sony.

Look for at least a 46 or 47" LCD or a 50" plasma in any of those brands and I think you'll be happy. Make sure it has at least 2 HDMI inputs, also. My best advice is to go into the store and view some TVs side by side. Find some models in your price range beforehand online and look through the threads dedicated to that TV on avsforum.com. Users on there will post picture settings that seem to work well. Adjust the picture in the store according to those settings to get a better idea of what the TVs are capable of looking like. Most showroom TVs are set really bright because bright tends to grab your attention first. When I get home from work today I'll do a little research and post some model numbers for you to help narrow it down further.

You stated you have a membership at Sam's, so I would definitely go down there and see what models they have on hand. Also check Sam's online, as I believe you would be able to return your TV in store if anything is wrong with it.

Thanks, helix, this is really helpful stuff. And I appreciate you looking up some model numbers for me. One more dumb question: what exactly is the "HDMI" input? I assume that's how the TV gets the HD signal from the box or whatever other input source (DVD player, etc.)? Why do I need more than one?

[helix139]

Thanks, helix, this is really helpful stuff. And I appreciate you looking up some model numbers for me. One more dumb question: what exactly is the "HDMI" input? I assume that's how the TV gets the HD signal from the box or whatever other input source (DVD player, etc.)? Why do I need more than one?

pretty much right on the mark...HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) a digital connection used to transfer audio and video. Not having enough of them means you either have to spend money on a somewhat pricey external switch or you will have to reach around the back and swap cables. With a TV on the wall, that isn't something that will be very easy. It is the direction most audio and video sources are headed. Cable and Satellite Boxes, DVRs, DVD players, PS3, all newer XBox360's, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, and newer computer video cards all currently use them, and it is starting to appear in camcorders and digital cameras also.

As for model numbers, here are a few:

Plasma:
Samsung HPT5034
Philips 50PFP5332D/37
Panasonic TH-50PX6U
Samsung HPT5054

LCD:
Philips 47PFL5432D/37

[ufrulz2]

Thanks, Helix. I saw the HPT5034 at Sam's tonight for $1700. Do you know the difference between that one and the HPT5054? (Other than the fact that one digit is different, lol)

[helix139]

Apparantly some kind of movie mode or something is the only difference. It's not worth paying extra for IMO. If you can find the Panasonic I recommended at your Sam's though (they're showing it online), I'd recommend that one, as Panasonic has twice the rated life (120,000 hours vs. 60,000 hours) and Panny has a reputation for making a superb plasma

[ufrulz2]

Helix, what do you know about Hitachi plasma TVs and, in particular, the P50H401?

[helix139]

Helix, what do you know about Hitachi plasma TVs and, in particular, the P50H401?

Nothing specific that I can recall off the top of my head but I've not heard a lot good about them. They have some weird resolutions and do a TON of scaling, which isn't a good thing. Stick with Pioneer, Panasonic, Samsung, LG, or Philips for plasma, in that order.

[uflawyer]

OK, guys, here goes:


2. Not concerned with surround sound, as it's not a theater room -- just basic TV. So I'd value sound as around a 3 or 4 out of 10 (I want the sound from the TVs speakers to be decent, but I don't need a fancy Bose surround system for the audio).


Bose is a lot of things, but I would not use the word fancy as an adjective to describe it. I prefer: "no highs, no lows, it must be Bose"

Spend about $1K and get a Klipch in the box system and you will be blown away by the difference surround sound makes compared to ordinary tv speakers. I don't necessarily agree that you should blow your whole wad on a TV and forget sound. By the time you get around to buying an A/V system your TV will be obsolete. Even watching the Gators in surround is an experience. (Surround Sound is not just for Movies)

[Aloy]

Helix, what do you know about Hitachi plasma TVs and, in particular, the P50H401?

http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-P50H401-HD1080-Plasma-HDTV/dp/B000MTCJPI

The Hitachi P50H401 looks like a promising HDTV for the spring of 2007. The P50H401 is the 50-inch model from the PH401 series, which also offers a 42-inch P42H401, and the larger 55-inch P55H401 model.

The 50-inch Hitachi P50H401 is a plasma display in 16:9 widescreen format which features a new way of energizing the displays pixels and enhances the image quality and increased resolution to a total of 1.3 million pixels with a 1280 x 1080 resolution.

Hitachi call the P50H401 the worlds first 50-inch 1080 HDTV flat panel for under $2,500. All sets include 1080p PictureMaster IV video processor that analyzes and optimizes the picture with dynamic histogram processing and 16-bit clarity and new for 2007 MPEG noise reduction, and features three HDMI inputs.

http://www.hdtvlounge.net/hitachi/p50h401-ph401/

[helix139]

http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-P50H401-HD1080-Plasma-HDTV/dp/B000MTCJPI



http://www.hdtvlounge.net/hitachi/p50h401-ph401/

Keep in mind 1280x1080 is not full 1080i or 1080p resolution. That would be 1920x1080. This means for 1080i or 1080p sources, there will be horizontal downscaling and for 720p sources there will be vertical upscaling.

[ufrulz2]

Hey, Helix, just thought I'd follow up with you. After analyzing the costs, the size of the room, and several other factors, we decided to buy a 42" plasma. We ultimately bought the 42" Samsung HPT4234 for about $1150 at Sam's Club. So far, we've been very very happy with it. I'll know more once we get our HD cable boxes later today.

Thanks again for all of your help!!!

[uflawyer]

Hey, Helix, just thought I'd follow up with you. After analyzing the costs, the size of the room, and several other factors, we decided to buy a 42" plasma. We ultimately bought the 42" Samsung HPT4234 for about $1150 at Sam's Club. So far, we've been very very happy with it. I'll know more once we get our HD cable boxes later today.

Thanks again for all of your help!!!

Now you have about $1K left in your budget to get some sound with that 42 incher.

Check this system out: http://www.klipsch.com/products/details/cinema-6.aspx

The only thing you need to add is a decent A/V receiver which I have choosen for you as well

http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/productDetail.do?oid=148425&WT.mc_n=92&WT.mc_t=U&cm_ven=COMPARISON%20SHOPPING&cm_cat=NEXTAG&cm_pla=DATAFEED-%3EPRODUCTS&cm_ite=1%20PRODUCT&cm_keycode=92

Now, get er done!

[Gatorbone7]

I am looking for a new TV for my apartment. Here are my answers to the questions.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
$2,500 ish. 1,800 for the TV is in my price range. Not much more.
2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. 3. I much more care about TV than sound.

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)Nope

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? I'm in an apartment so I can NOT wall mount it.

4. Any restrictions on size? No. I'd like 50ish that seems to be in the price range depending on what brand I go with.

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
16 feet with almost all of the viewing being in front of the TV (not much side seats).
6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
Nope
7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
Yes, some with a PS3
8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
5. I want 50 ish and would rather have bigger as long as picture is still good.
9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? No but I don't want to go the bargain basement models. I'd rather pay a little more now than pay later when the thing blows up.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? I would rather buy from a brick and mortor store but I would be willing to order it from a brick and mortor's website (circuit city or bestbuy.com).

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
Room is 16 by 13. TV will be on one far wall with couch on extreme opposite of room. One window with covering. No light gets through if I don't want it to. Small table lamps with covers at the couch (don't shine on tv).

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? No, not an option

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
None.
14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
Nope
15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
HD will be sports but other than that a little bit of everything. Obviously I would like better quality for sports and action cause that's when it matters.
16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY
17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
Needs to fit on an entertainment center, NOT wall mount. Entertainment center isn't included in the budget above.
18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
Nope.

Any help you guys can provide would be great. I'm really trying to figure out what kind to get in my price range. I've been looking at Circuit city and they have a good amount of 50ish inches in my price range. I'm really confused on if I want rear projection and if some LCD rear projection or DLP. I don't want to save a couple hundred bucks now only to spend it in a year or two replacing a bulb.

[helix139]

I am looking for a new TV for my apartment. Here are my answers to the questions.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
$2,500 ish. 1,800 for the TV is in my price range. Not much more.
2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. 3. I much more care about TV than sound.

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)Nope

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? I'm in an apartment so I can NOT wall mount it.

4. Any restrictions on size? No. I'd like 50ish that seems to be in the price range depending on what brand I go with.

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
16 feet with almost all of the viewing being in front of the TV (not much side seats).
6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
Nope
7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
Yes, some with a PS3
8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
5. I want 50 ish and would rather have bigger as long as picture is still good.
9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? No but I don't want to go the bargain basement models. I'd rather pay a little more now than pay later when the thing blows up.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? I would rather buy from a brick and mortor store but I would be willing to order it from a brick and mortor's website (circuit city or bestbuy.com).

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
Room is 16 by 13. TV will be on one far wall with couch on extreme opposite of room. One window with covering. No light gets through if I don't want it to. Small table lamps with covers at the couch (don't shine on tv).

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? No, not an option

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
None.
14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
Nope
15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
HD will be sports but other than that a little bit of everything. Obviously I would like better quality for sports and action cause that's when it matters.
16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY
17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
Needs to fit on an entertainment center, NOT wall mount. Entertainment center isn't included in the budget above.
18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
Nope.

Any help you guys can provide would be great. I'm really trying to figure out what kind to get in my price range. I've been looking at Circuit city and they have a good amount of 50ish inches in my price range. I'm really confused on if I want rear projection and if some LCD rear projection or DLP. I don't want to save a couple hundred bucks now only to spend it in a year or two replacing a bulb.

Rear projection is an excellent option. With the right rear projection TV you'd be getting the best picture possible (better than any flat panel) in addition to a lower price. Sony's SXRD is one I can highly recommend, as are Samsung's LED DLPs. At that viewing distance, you'd want to look at a 55-60 inch. Additionally, if you're worried about bulb replacements, look at Panasonic's new LCZ (1080p) and LCX (720p) lines, which feature their new LIFI bulbs. Supposedly these bulbs will never need replacing. I'd look at the 56" LCZ model if I were you.

You can read about them below:

http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/22/panasonic-ships-lcz-lcx-lifi-rear-projection-hdtvs/

[FrankGator627]

Im thinking about buying a 26" Vizio from Wal-Mart. I just want to know if it is a quality company or if i should steer clear. Its a HDTV for under 400 bucks.

[helix139]

Im thinking about buying a 26" Vizio from Wal-Mart. I just want to know if it is a quality company or if i should steer clear. Its a HDTV for under 400 bucks.

At that size, you can spend a little more and do much better quality-wise

[Swamper]

Costco has the 37 inch Vizio LCD (37L) for $750, plus tax. Does anyone know anything about this set--whether that's a decent deal?

[helix139]

Costco has the 37 inch Vizio LCD (37L) for $750, plus tax. Does anyone know anything about this set--whether that's a decent deal?

The bad thing I have heard about Vizio is that their sets have an undefeatable overscan and tend to stretch an image slightly horizontally. This means that circles will be more like ovals. Again, I would suggest paying a little bit more and getting something of better quality. My first HD set was a budget set (Olevia, who was fairly good when i bought it) but compared to sony, samsung, philips, lg, and sharp, it is no contest.

[Swamper]

Helix: thanks for the info!

[ufrulz2]

Hey Helix,

More follow-up. After about two days with the 42" Samsung, my wife -- my wonderful wife! -- said to me, "I think the TV is too small." So we returned the set and replaced it with the 50" Samsung HPT5034. We're really pleased we did -- the set fits much better in our family room. The picture, by the way, is phenomenal; it was great watching a lot of college football on it over the weekend.

Did I marry well, or what?!

Thanks again for all of the advice!

[helix139]

Hey Helix,

More follow-up. After about two days with the 42" Samsung, my wife -- my wonderful wife! -- said to me, "I think the TV is too small." So we returned the set and replaced it with the 50" Samsung HPT5034. We're really pleased we did -- the set fits much better in our family room. The picture, by the way, is phenomenal; it was great watching a lot of college football on it over the weekend.

Did I marry well, or what?!

Thanks again for all of the advice!

Does she have a sister? :laugh:

[FrankGator627]

At that size, you can spend a little more and do much better quality-wise

any suggestions? we are looking for a 26 inch for the bedroom.

[helix139]

any suggestions? we are looking for a 26 inch for the bedroom.

Frank,

32" isn't that much more than 26" nowdays. That said, what kind of budget are you looking at?

[FrankGator627]

Probably no more than 600. thats why the Vizio was so enticing.

[helix139]

Frank-

check out the Samsung LNT2642H and the Toshiba 26HL67

[uflawyer]

Helix--make sure you leave some $$$ in the bank for audio when you are doling out advice.:yes:

Remember, a TV without good audio is like sex without a woman....it may seem nice at the time, but it is just missing something!:joecool:

[helix139]

Helix--make sure you leave some $$$ in the bank for audio when you are doling out advice.:yes:

Remember, a TV without good audio is like sex without a woman....it may seem nice at the time, but it is just missing something!:joecool:

For just a bedroom set of that size, my guess is they have another room for their theater when they want something really immersive.

[Bushmaster]

Not a question, but I finally pulled the trigger.

A mitsubishi 65733 dlp from best buy (price match with circuit city) for $1899. I did spring for a klipsch speaker package similar to what uflawyer posted above, but the fronts and center are bigger. I bought a Pioneer vsx1016 receiver for $500. Have about as much in the surround sound as the tv when you throw in cables and a harmony remote. (Can someone program this damn thing??)

Overall, the SD channels absolutely rock on this tv. And I have yet to tweak the settings. Surround sound (saw a trailer for Fantastic Four) and was speechless. And that was on an old dvd player (480p).

HD with no surround sound is like kissing your sister. HTIB can be had for much cheaper. Don't skimp on the receiver though. Speakers can be replaced much easier.

[uflawyer]

Surround sound (saw a trailer for Fantastic Four) and was speechless. And that was on an old dvd player (480p).

HD with no surround sound is like kissing your sister. HTIB can be had for much cheaper. Don't skimp on the receiver though. Speakers can be replaced much easier.

Welcome to the Club! Now, that you enjoy the sound, take a look at this beauty http://www.seatsandchairs.com/transducer.html

I installed these in my media room and they are AWESOME. You get the sensation of about 5x the bass, without the need of tons of power. And if you live in an apartment, your neighbors won't call the cops on you while you watch your action flicks. Best of all, they are pretty damn cheap.

[FrankGator627]

I think Im going to grab this one at Costco.

Sharp’s SH12U Series of HDTV LC-TVs provide a slim, versatile high-definition television solution with a distinctive design. Featuring a high-performance LCD panel for high brightness, a high contrast ratio, low-reflection glare protection and wide viewing angles, as well as Sharp’s Emmy® Award-winning LCD technology.



It sounds nice. Helix, those you pointed out were a little expensive for me. Im just a college kid with a part time job.:nervous smile:

[helix139]

I think Im going to grab this one at Costco.

It sounds nice. Helix, those you pointed out were a little expensive for me. Im just a college kid with a part time job.:nervous smile:

Can't go wrong with Sharp. I forgot to look at those

[atlzamgator]

ok, been lurking for a while-checking prices and such:

What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
<$2500

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.

4 to 5

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)

no

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?

nope

4. Any restrictions on size?

none, but budget may play a role



5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?

no more than 6-8 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?

no
7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
no
8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

1-quality
then size

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?

olivia and the lower ends don't impress
10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?

brick and mortar

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).

tv would against a wall, the front of the room has floor to ceiling windows with wood blinds and black out curtains

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?

no

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?

none
14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
none
15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?

sports
16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY if possible ...

Saw this one and it may work best ...

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Philips-47-LCD-HDTV-47PFL7422D/sem/rpsm/oid/185705/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

and this one ... @ best buy

Westinghouse - 47" 1080p LCD Flat-Panel HDTV
Reg. Price: $1,499.99
You Save: $100.00
Sale: $1,399.99TX-47F430S



any and all help/comments/snickers are appreciated!

[helix139]

ok, been lurking for a while-checking prices and such:

What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
<$2500

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.

4 to 5

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)

no

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?

nope

4. Any restrictions on size?

none, but budget may play a role



5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?

no more than 6-8 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?

no
7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
no
8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

1-quality
then size

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?

olivia and the lower ends don't impress
10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?

brick and mortar

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).

tv would against a wall, the front of the room has floor to ceiling windows with wood blinds and black out curtains

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?

no

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?

none
14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
none
15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?

sports
16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY if possible ...

Saw this one and it may work best ...

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Philips-47-LCD-HDTV-47PFL7422D/sem/rpsm/oid/185705/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

and this one ... @ best buy

Westinghouse - 47" 1080p LCD Flat-Panel HDTV
Reg. Price: $1,499.99
You Save: $100.00
Sale: $1,399.99TX-47F430S



any and all help/comments/snickers are appreciated!

At 6-8 feet, you could easily go as small as 42" and still appreciate the HD quality.

As for the two sets you posted, I can attest to the Philips. I have a the 42PFL7432, which is the 42" equivalent to your set with amibilight added. The only other difference is a backlit remote. I chose it over comparable Samsung, Sharp, and Sony sets and the picture is absolutely stunning. Make sure you go into a store and view the 47" philips you are looking at from 6-8' to be sure the set isn't too big for your viewing distance. You can't go wrong with either the 42" or the 47" philips, however. One thing i should point out is that at that size (50" and under) and your usage (No gaming or computer monitor), you don't have any need for 1080p, so you could save yourself some money by going with 720p. check out Panasonic and Pioneer plasmas in the 42-50" range, in addition to 720p LCDs by Sony, Samsung, Philips, Sharp, and LG. Put the rest into sound and you can't go wrong.

[atlzamgator]

thanks helix, i appreciate you taking the time to reply ... great advice!

[helix139]

thanks helix, i appreciate you taking the time to reply ... great advice!

Anytime! Let everyone know what you end up going with and your opinions of it.

One more thing I should add: Make sure your prospective TV has at least 2 HDMI ports and go on avsforums and find threads for the particular model you're looking for. Browse them for panel settings (color, sharpness, brightness, etc) and use these when you go into the store to compare them to get a much better idea of what the set is capable of, rather than which one can appear the brightest. I've seen a couple older panasonics around that only accept component inputs. This is more of a factor if you decide to go with a cheaper plasma or lower end LCD. Remember: You generally get what you pay for (Except Sony. They are overpriced IMO and Philips, Sammy, LG, and Sharp are just as good).

[LeafUF]

Anytime! Let everyone know what you end up going with and your opinions of it.

One more thing I should add: Make sure your prospective TV has at least 2 HDMI ports and go on avsforums and find threads for the particular model you're looking for. Browse them for panel settings (color, sharpness, brightness, etc) and use these when you go into the store to compare them to get a much better idea of what the set is capable of, rather than which one can appear the brightest. I've seen a couple older panasonics around that only accept component inputs. This is more of a factor if you decide to go with a cheaper plasma or lower end LCD. Remember: You generally get what you pay for (Except Sony. They are overpriced IMO and Philips, Sammy, LG, and Sharp are just as good).

Second this advice. I would also recommend that if you are comparing two tvs and they are not set up next to each other ask the store clerk to place them side by side. They will do it and it is the only way to get a real good feel for them side by side with the optimal adjusted settings. HDMI (I only have one) is also one of the things I overlooked and am kicking myself for it now.

[helix139]

Second this advice. I would also recommend that if you are comparing two tvs and they are not set up next to each other ask the store clerk to place them side by side. They will do it and it is the only way to get a real good feel for them side by side with the optimal adjusted settings. HDMI (I only have one) is also one of the things I overlooked and am kicking myself for it now.

Leaf-

just an FYI...monoprice.com has HDMI switches of both the powered and unpowered variety for very reasonable prices.

[LeafUF]

Leaf-

just an FYI...monoprice.com has HDMI switches of both the powered and unpowered variety for very reasonable prices.

Thanks I will check that out.

[nphgator]

Here we go:

1. Would like to spend around $500, but if not possible I could try and save up more.

2. 1, just want a tv no surrond sound necessary

3. I get an employee discount with Dell, but it is small (under 10% I believe)

4. It doesn't have to be wall mounted, but a flat panel would be cool.

4. No restrictions on size, but I don't want anything too big (is that even possible...lol)

5. Approx 5-10 feet.

6. No.

7. This tv will be used mainly for playing my Xbox 360.

8. 3, I mainly want a good quality image with good response time for the gaming.

9. No preference on brands.

10. I'd buy it online to save money.

11. The tv will be setup in a corner between a fireplace and a sliding glass door, the slider has black out curtains and the backyard is very shaded with trees.

12. Don't have that much available wall space.

13. No requirements here.

14. No other discounts.

15. Sports and gaming.

16. Either.

17. Not necessary to wall mount, actually prefer not to.

18. No other requirements.

[helix139]

Here we go:

1. Would like to spend around $500, but if not possible I could try and save up more.

2. 1, just want a tv no surrond sound necessary

3. I get an employee discount with Dell, but it is small (under 10% I believe)

4. It doesn't have to be wall mounted, but a flat panel would be cool.

4. No restrictions on size, but I don't want anything too big (is that even possible...lol)

5. Approx 5-10 feet.

6. No.

7. This tv will be used mainly for playing my Xbox 360.

8. 3, I mainly want a good quality image with good response time for the gaming.

9. No preference on brands.

10. I'd buy it online to save money.

11. The tv will be setup in a corner between a fireplace and a sliding glass door, the slider has black out curtains and the backyard is very shaded with trees.

12. Don't have that much available wall space.

13. No requirements here.

14. No other discounts.

15. Sports and gaming.

16. Either.

17. Not necessary to wall mount, actually prefer not to.

18. No other requirements.

Given your viewing distance, you'd be happiest with a decent quality 32" LCD, but given your budget, you can afford a nice 26" or a budget 32". I'd save up an extra $100-200 and go with a 32" philips, sharp, or sammy. I started with a black friday budget 26" Olevia and i was happy with it at first, but the more you look at budget TV's, the more you can tell their colors just arent as vibrant and the blacks aren't that deep and are more gray and blob-like rather than detailed. Additionally, they lack adequate inputs and usually do a terrible job with any sort of scaling. Standard def TV looks better on my 42" 1080p Philips than my 26" 720p Olevia. All things equal, the opposite should be true.

[nphgator]

Thanks for the info Helix.

[helix139]

Thanks for the info Helix.

One other thing: If you don't mind the cabinet or the weight, you could always look into CRT.

[ufrulz2]

What is this CRT thing of which you speak? Methinks you're referring to another era. ;)

My 50" Samsung plasma is still rockin' 4 weeks later!! :-)

[ReefDonkey]

Thanks for all of your expertise! I am oufitting a 6 x 12 enclosed cargo trailer for tailgating. Considering a 32-40 inch HDTV run by directv.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)? 1500???

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. 5

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.) Sam's and Costco

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? Must be wall mountable.

4. Any restrictions on size? I would think anything over 42 would be too heavy for my application.

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be? 6-10 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor? No

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)? PS3 occasionally

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible). 5

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? Open

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? Prefer brick and mortar

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds). See above

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? No

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? No

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? No

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? Sports

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? DIY

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? Ideally, but not sure it would work.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)? No

[helix139]

Thanks for all of your expertise! I am oufitting a 6 x 12 enclosed cargo trailer for tailgating. Considering a 32-40 inch HDTV run by directv.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)? 1500???

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. 5

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.) Sam's and Costco

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? Must be wall mountable.

4. Any restrictions on size? I would think anything over 42 would be too heavy for my application.

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be? 6-10 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor? No

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)? PS3 occasionally

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible). 5

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? Open

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? Prefer brick and mortar

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds). See above

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? No

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? No

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? No

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? Sports

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? DIY

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? Ideally, but not sure it would work.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)? No

Interesting project. Are you going to have seating, etc. within the trailer or will people be sitting outside? Is the TV going to be on a short wall or a long wall? Given any thought to air conditioning and power for everything in the trailer?

I can already tell you you'll want an LCD, due to lower energy requirements and less risk of glare. A Samsung, Sharp, Philips, or Sony in the 37-42" range should do you nicely. Put whatever you don't spend on that into a decent HTIB. in Remember that a wall-mount will run anywhere from $100-450 depending on how extensive its features. Also remember that a 40"+ LCD will run upwards of 60 lbs, and trailers don't have studs to mount through.

[ReefDonkey]

Interesting project. Are you going to have seating, etc. within the trailer or will people be sitting outside? Is the TV going to be on a short wall or a long wall? Given any thought to air conditioning and power for everything in the trailer?

I can already tell you you'll want an LCD, due to lower energy requirements and less risk of glare. A Samsung, Sharp, Philips, or Sony in the 37-42" range should do you nicely. Put whatever you don't spend on that into a decent HTIB. in Remember that a wall-mount will run anywhere from $100-450 depending on how extensive its features. Also remember that a 40"+ LCD will run upwards of 60 lbs, and trailers don't have studs to mount through.

No seating within. I will be setting up a tent at the back doors. My idea is to mount a piece of plywood on heavy duty hinges to swing the TV from the sidewall out to the door opening at the rear. The mount will be attached to the plywood and there will be some sort of device to pin the plywood in place once it is swung and also when it is against the wall for travel. For now, a/c is for later. I will try fans and see how it goes. The only advantage of a/c would be to have a place to go cool off, but I don't think much time will be spent in the trailer. I bought a 2000 watt Honda generator yesterday and it should run everything I need such as tv, receiver, surround, fans, lights, kegerator, etc... Walmart has a Samsung T3732HX with free mount for $1078. I will be using a Sony HTIB from my home as it is about 5 years old and would not cry if/when it gets ruined. There are some metal studs to use, but I am goiing to try and avoid using them if I can come up with a better mounting solution. Thanks again fro your recs...

[helix139]

No seating within. I will be setting up a tent at the back doors. My idea is to mount a piece of plywood on heavy duty hinges to swing the TV from the sidewall out to the door opening at the rear. The mount will be attached to the plywood and there will be some sort of device to pin the plywood in place once it is swung and also when it is against the wall for travel. For now, a/c is for later. I will try fans and see how it goes. The only advantage of a/c would be to have a place to go cool off, but I don't think much time will be spent in the trailer. I bought a 2000 watt Honda generator yesterday and it should run everything I need such as tv, receiver, surround, fans, lights, kegerator, etc... Walmart has a Samsung T3732HX with free mount for $1078. I will be using a Sony HTIB from my home as it is about 5 years old and would not cry if/when it gets ruined. There are some metal studs to use, but I am goiing to try and avoid using them if I can come up with a better mounting solution. Thanks again fro your recs...

Should be fairly easy to adapt, though I would recommend something a little more rigid than plywood for your mounting surface. You'll be able to run the wires right through the panel though for a clean appearance. As far as the TV, check Sam's and Costco. There are better deals to be had than that Samsung.

[Bushmaster]

I want to hang with Reefdonkey.

[uflawyer]

Interesting project. Are you going to have seating, etc. within the trailer or will people be sitting outside? Is the TV going to be on a short wall or a long wall? Given any thought to air conditioning and power for everything in the trailer?

I can already tell you you'll want an LCD, due to lower energy requirements and less risk of glare. A Samsung, Sharp, Philips, or Sony in the 37-42" range should do you nicely. Put whatever you don't spend on that into a decent HTIB. in Remember that a wall-mount will run anywhere from $100-450 depending on how extensive its features. Also remember that a 40"+ LCD will run upwards of 60 lbs, and trailers don't have studs to mount through.

Once again Helix blows his whole wad on looks (TV) without caring one bit about what comes out of her mouth (sound).:joecool:

This is a case where I don't think surround sound is necessary. But if you want to pump the volume I would look for to buy some Klipsh Tower speakers with a simple amp (about 120 watts). That will make the trailer rockin' so people will come a knockin'.

[helix139]

Once again Helix blows his whole wad on looks (TV) without caring one bit about what comes out of her mouth (sound).:joecool:

This is a case where I don't think surround sound is necessary. But if you want to pump the volume I would look for to buy some Klipsh Tower speakers with a simple amp (about 120 watts). That will make the trailer rockin' so people will come a knockin'.

Not hardly. 37's can be had for well within the price range he mentioned, even leaving some leftover for sound. Even 42's can be had if you know where to look

[Swamper]

The Panasonic 42 inch plasma is on sale for $999 right now! What a deal!!!

[helix139]

The Panasonic 42 inch plasma is on sale for $999 right now! What a deal!!!

Which one and where?

[RealDeal]

Helix:

I saw the 42 inch PX75U at Frys for $999, which Best Buy and Circuit City will match. Plus, Panasonic currently has a $200 installation rebate.

http://shop4.outpost.com/product/5184066

[demosthenes]

My father likes the prices of Vizios and is looking to get their 47" 1080p LCD. I personally do not know anything about them.

Does anyone know how reliable Vizios are? Quality?

My father is looking Vizio's 47" 1080p LCD tv. I saw the model side by side with a Sony XBR and there was no comparison. Black levels were completely different and Vizio seemed blurry compared to the Sony. Is this just because I was comparing it to the best LCD out there or are Vizios not worth spending money on?

I think my dad can get the Vizio for 1350 whereas a 46" 1080p Sony (not the xbr) would cost him ~2250.

[LeafUF]

I am no expert on specific TVs but I have not heard many good things about the Vizio other than price. I would guess there is a reason they are so cheap. I would advise your dad to either sacrifice a little size and get a better television or try to find a brand priced somewhere in between the two. I have heard good things about the Samsung, Phillips, Sony and Sharp Aquos. Also, if you are not set on a LCD you can find better prices in that size range with Plasma. Of course Plasma does not work in all rooms so this may not be an option.

[helix139]

My father likes the prices of Vizios and is looking to get their 47" 1080p LCD. I personally do not know anything about them.

Does anyone know how reliable Vizios are? Quality?

My father is looking Vizio's 47" 1080p LCD tv. I saw the model side by side with a Sony XBR and there was no comparison. Black levels were completely different and Vizio seemed blurry compared to the Sony. Is this just because I was comparing it to the best LCD out there or are Vizios not worth spending money on?

I think my dad can get the Vizio for 1350 whereas a 46" 1080p Sony (not the xbr) would cost him ~2250.

Vizio TVs have an undefeatable overscan that actually stretches out the picture slightly unevenly. They've got a good price and other than that, their picture is decent, but your dad would be much better served going with something else. Check Sam's and Costco. Both have 1080p 47" Philips TVs that I can highly recommend for <300 more than the Vizio. Also, keep in mind that at that size, unless he plans to use it as a computer monitor, 1080p is barely noticeable to a well-trained eye. He can save some money by looking at 720p sets

[G8trPM]

OK, here I go....please include a link to your recommendation if possible.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?

$500-$600 (Only looking for a TV in the bedroom)

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.

1 - I just need a TV

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)

Sams

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?

Looking to mount it on the wall…..so I guess flat panel. Would also consider a stationary mount on the dresser.

4. Any restrictions on size?

The wall/dresser the TV will be on is about 15-17 feet away from where my head will be laying. So I’m guessing 32-36 inch TV will be sufficient. I know bigger would be better, but it’s not important for me to have a large TV in my bedroom. Just something with a very good picture so I can see the scores without squinting.

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?

15-17 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?

No

7. Do you plan to game on it? If so, what system(s)?

No

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?

No preference

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?

Brick and mortar

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).

Large window to the left with blinds, currents soon. TV will be on a wall in a niche over dresser

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?

Yes

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?

No

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?

No

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?

Typical TV including sports.

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?

DIY

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?

Would like to wall mount it or have a stationary mount on top of the dresser

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?

[g8tr93]

uflawyer, what it better choice when choosing screens, plasma, lcd or none of the above?

[LeafUF]

uflawyer, what it better choice when choosing screens, plasma, lcd or none of the above?

Lots of factors to consider. Size, the room its going to be in, what you are using it for, amount of light possibly reflecting on it. If you fill out the questionnaire in the first post or at least the questions relative to screens someone can provide a better answer.

[helix139]

OK, here I go....please include a link to your recommendation if possible.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?

$500-$600 (Only looking for a TV in the bedroom)

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.

1 - I just need a TV

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)

Sams

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?

Looking to mount it on the wall…..so I guess flat panel. Would also consider a stationary mount on the dresser.

4. Any restrictions on size?

The wall/dresser the TV will be on is about 15-17 feet away from where my head will be laying. So I’m guessing 32-36 inch TV will be sufficient. I know bigger would be better, but it’s not important for me to have a large TV in my bedroom. Just something with a very good picture so I can see the scores without squinting.

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?

15-17 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?

No

7. Do you plan to game on it? If so, what system(s)?

No

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?

No preference

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?

Brick and mortar

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).

Large window to the left with blinds, currents soon. TV will be on a wall in a niche over dresser

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?

Yes

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?

No

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?

No

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?

Typical TV including sports.

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?

DIY

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?

Would like to wall mount it or have a stationary mount on top of the dresser

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?

A couple of points-

At 15-17 feet you really need a 42-50" TV to be able to see any difference between SD and HD. I used to have a 26" at 12 feet and it was completely inadequate. My advice to you would be to save up a couple hundred more and look for a good deal on a 42" plasma or LCD. At that distance you just may find yourself squinting with a 32-37" LCD. There will be deals to be had on 42" plasma and LCD TV's though, especially around black friday (bfads.net has ads in advance. Sears is already up).

I know lawyer will probably tell you that you need a sound system, but in your case, for simply a bedroom setup for watching sports and the news and such and with a limited budget, I don't think it is completely necessary.

[uflawyer]

A couple of points-

At 15-17 feet you really need a 42-50" TV to be able to see any difference between SD and HD. I used to have a 26" at 12 feet and it was completely inadequate. My advice to you would be to save up a couple hundred more and look for a good deal on a 42" plasma or LCD. At that distance you just may find yourself squinting with a 32-37" LCD. There will be deals to be had on 42" plasma and LCD TV's though, especially around black friday (bfads.net has ads in advance. Sears is already up).

I know lawyer will probably tell you that you need a sound system, but in your case, for simply a bedroom setup for watching sports and the news and such and with a limited budget, I don't think it is completely necessary.

Your damn right you need surround sound in the bedroom. You can't watch the spice channel with the misses with just those little TV speakers.:joecool:

Even a cheap $150 mini system is better than nothing.

I have come to realization that most people who do not have surround systems do so because they have never watched TV with a good system. I have superbowl party every year, and every year many of the new people who get invited inevitably ask me to design a system for them because they are blown away by the sound. To me, comparing TV speakers to good surround is the same as HD TV to analog antenna TV.

[helix139]

Your damn right you need surround sound in the bedroom. You can't watch the spice channel with the misses with just those little TV speakers.:joecool:

Even a cheap $150 mini system is better than nothing.

I have come to realization that most people who do not have surround systems do so because they have never watched TV with a good system. I have superbowl party every year, and every year many of the new people who get invited inevitably ask me to design a system for them because they are blown away by the sound. To me, comparing TV speakers to good surround is the same as HD TV to analog antenna TV.

The question is, for the purposes of watching sports, news, etc (mainly front loaded voice-centric sound), is the benefit worth the $150? Also, for many people a surround sound system simply is not possible or practical. I've watched plenty of TV and movies with and without a surround system. While a good system makes certain types of content unquestionably better, for other content the benefit is really negligible and not really worth the money, especially for those on a limited budget.

[uflawyer]

The question is, for the purposes of watching sports, news, etc (mainly front loaded voice-centric sound), is the benefit worth the $150? Also, for many people a surround sound system simply is not possible or practical. I've watched plenty of TV and movies with and without a surround system. While a good system makes certain types of content unquestionably better, for other content the benefit is really negligible and not really worth the money, especially for those on a limited budget.

It is obvious to me that Helix does not get the spice channel.:ninja:

[helix139]

It is obvious to me that Helix does not get the spice channel.:ninja:

Why pay for porn when you can get it free through p2p? ;)

[G8trPM]

Why pay for porn when you can get it free through p2p? ;)

Would you mind elaborating on this "p2p" option?!

:ninja:

[fastsix]

Would you mind elaborating on this "p2p" option?!

:ninja:


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peer-to-peer

[Icontacked]

forget 720p it's old technology and you will never be able to make use of full hd. from my experience the new sony bravia xbr4 is the nicest tv in terms of quality and features and style lol. let's just say it's the best...only tried the lcd tho im sure the dlp's are amazing too

[helix139]

forget 720p it's old technology and you will never be able to make use of full hd. from my experience the new sony bravia xbr4 is the nicest tv in terms of quality and features and style lol. let's just say it's the best...only tried the lcd tho im sure the dlp's are amazing too

Uh, not true. Icontacked, you've bought into the marketing hype about 1080p. On anything under 42" you will not be able to tell the difference in 720p and 1080p. 42-50" the difference is negligible and only apparant if you sit really close to the TV. Really, the only reason to pay extra for 1080p if you are buying something under 50" is if you plan to use it as a computer monitor.

[kito0712]

Here we go.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
$2500

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.
7

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)
Sam's

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?
Don't have to wall mounted

4. Any restrictions on size?
None

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
Viewing distance of 9'.

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
No

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
Yes, PS3 and lots of it

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?
Doesn't matter

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?
Not online

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
The room is 16X12. It has a large window, which is covered by curtains, on the left perpendicular wall that faces south and french doors across the wall from where the TV will be located.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?
Yes

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
None

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
None

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
Dramas, Sports and Action

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DYI

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
Stationary

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
None

And yes lawyer I do want to have some type of sorround system, not as pricey as the $1000 one you showed, but something around $300-$400 range. BTW, thank you both for your input.

[LeafUF]

I follow this thread because I find it very interesting seeing the suggestions and knowing that down the line I will be upgrading myself. So seeing the recommendations is great. But, I am shocked at how many people refuse to make these purchases online. And I am not sure I understand why. With shipping when I bought my last TV I still saved over $300 on store price. JMO but that turns your $400 sound budget into $700. Sorry for the rant and getting off topic. I am just curious as to why more people aren't willing to shop online for electronics.

[uflawyer]

Here we go.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
$2500

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.
7

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)
Sam's

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?
Don't have to wall mounted

4. Any restrictions on size?
None

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
Viewing distance of 9'.

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
No

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
Yes, PS3 and lots of it

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?
Doesn't matter

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?
Not online

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
The room is 16X12. It has a large window, which is covered by curtains, on the left perpendicular wall that faces south and french doors across the wall from where the TV will be located.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?
Yes

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
None

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
None

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
Dramas, Sports and Action

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DYI

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
Stationary

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
None

And yes lawyer I do want to have some type of sorround system, not as pricey as the $1000 one you showed, but something around $300-$400 range. BTW, thank you both for your input.

It is very difficult to get a decent surround system for $400. Here is a decent speaker system for $300.
http://www.acousticsounddesign.com/core/view_BigProduct.cfm?pid=249&sc=27
This does not include a subwoofer. Nor does it include a A/V receiver.

If your budget does not allow you spend about $600-$700 I would recommend that forego the Surround system until you get the $ together.

I know I sound like a broken record, but my surround system makes more people (especially myself) go "WOW" than my 165 inch HD TV. Sound turns a movie into an experience. Before you spend the $$ on a TV without Surround, go to home theater store (not Best Buy) and listen to a good system. I bet you are blown away.:joecool:

[helix139]

Here we go.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
$2500

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.
7

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)
Sam's

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?
Don't have to wall mounted

4. Any restrictions on size?
None

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
Viewing distance of 9'.

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
No

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
Yes, PS3 and lots of it

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?
Doesn't matter

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?
Not online

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
The room is 16X12. It has a large window, which is covered by curtains, on the left perpendicular wall that faces south and french doors across the wall from where the TV will be located.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?
Yes

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
None

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
None

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
Dramas, Sports and Action

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DYI

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
Stationary

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
None

And yes lawyer I do want to have some type of sorround system, not as pricey as the $1000 one you showed, but something around $300-$400 range. BTW, thank you both for your input.

There are going to be some great deals to be had on some LCD's in your size range (37-47") in the coming weeks. I know for a fact that Sears will have a 46" Sharp LCD going for less than $1000 (check bfads.net) on black friday. My recommendation is with that budget, spend $1000-1500 on an LCD (quality can be had in the price range easily) and put the rest into a decent sound system. Also take a look at the Philips models that Sam's carries. I have a Philips that I will put up against any comparable (1080p 60hz) LCD, and they run less than the Sonys and Sammys.

[veridicusgator]

MrsV and I would enjoy suggestions....

This Flick Photo of our Renovation Plans may be helpful... (http://flickr.com/photos/bobbyuggles/2041179442/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2269/2041179442_3c776a163b_m.jpg

1. Budget....

LOL... we need to see how much is left when this renno is done, but we'd be okay if we were around $3K. I know we don't want to climb over $4K.

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, sound to TV? .... 7 to 9... it isn't a deal breaker, but we are looking to do things right... within reason.

3. Discount Clubs? ... Nope.

4. Mounting and Size? The above flickr photo description will help frame what we have to consider. Something with a bulky base will not work.

5. Viewing distance? Most people will be watching it at a distance of probably four to eight feet.

6. Computer Monitor use? Probably not. There is another TV in another room that has that duty.

7. Gaming ... same answer as above really.

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate size to quality. Buy the criteria established.... probably a 1 or 2.... the quality is very important. I know that based on our first large TV that we bough at and love... a 34" Sony CRT HD WideScreen.

9. Brands? None that would deal break, but we have been most happy with our Sony.

10. Buying Location? I'd be willing to online based on what I have heard from others.... as long as returns/issues were comparable to Brick and Mortar.

11. What is the layout of your room? The flickr picture will definitely be good for this question. We don't like curtains except stuff that frames the windows. We had blinds up before that did a great job with light in that space so I am not as worried about this.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? This is not really what we are going for.

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? No freaky colors. Silver, Metal, Black... all okay.

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? -- Nope.

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? We watch pretty much anything.

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? Only if it needs some kind of wall mounting.

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? We would definitely consider this.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
Yeah... as mentioned in the flickr description it will be over a gas fire place.

[helix139]

MrsV and I would enjoy suggestions....

This Flick Photo of our Renovation Plans may be helpful... (http://flickr.com/photos/bobbyuggles/2041179442/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2269/2041179442_3c776a163b_m.jpg

1. Budget....

LOL... we need to see how much is left when this renno is done, but we'd be okay if we were around $3K. I know we don't want to climb over $4K.

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, sound to TV? .... 7 to 9... it isn't a deal breaker, but we are looking to do things right... within reason.

3. Discount Clubs? ... Nope.

4. Mounting and Size? The above flickr photo description will help frame what we have to consider. Something with a bulky base will not work.

5. Viewing distance? Most people will be watching it at a distance of probably four to eight feet.

6. Computer Monitor use? Probably not. There is another TV in another room that has that duty.

7. Gaming ... same answer as above really.

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate size to quality. Buy the criteria established.... probably a 1 or 2.... the quality is very important. I know that based on our first large TV that we bough at and love... a 34" Sony CRT HD WideScreen.

9. Brands? None that would deal break, but we have been most happy with our Sony.

10. Buying Location? I'd be willing to online based on what I have heard from others.... as long as returns/issues were comparable to Brick and Mortar.

11. What is the layout of your room? The flickr picture will definitely be good for this question. We don't like curtains except stuff that frames the windows. We had blinds up before that did a great job with light in that space so I am not as worried about this.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? This is not really what we are going for.

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? No freaky colors. Silver, Metal, Black... all okay.

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? -- Nope.

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? We watch pretty much anything.

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? Only if it needs some kind of wall mounting.

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? We would definitely consider this.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
Yeah... as mentioned in the flickr description it will be over a gas fire place.

Based on what you've told me I'd recommend something in the 37-42" range. You could get away with Plasma if you have something to cover up those french doors in 102 with, but otherwise I'd be worried about glare, and heat from the fireplace also concerns me with plasma. You could try blinds, but I've never had good luck with them. If not, go with an LCD by Sharp, Sony, Philips, or Samsung. You have no need for 1080p so I wouldn't pay extra for it. There will be some deals to be had on Black Friday. Sears has a great deal on a 50" 1080p Panasonic plasma (an absolutely stunning set) that you may already be able to take advantage of, but beware of glare and heat like I mentioned earlier. There is also a 46" Sharp LCD going for $899 as a doorbuster that will be available online to take a look at. I know I said you don't need something quite that big, but hey, since you have the money, the price is right, and the picture on them is phenomenal, why not? There are other deals to be had too, including home theater. Check out bfads.net for some good info on prices.

[veridicusgator]

Thanks for the great info... we'll keep folks posted. I've got a couple of good follow-up questions for our architect now and also some TVs to look at.

MrsV and I have our first scouting mission later this afternoon. :)

[capecodgator]

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
$1500

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.
2

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)
No

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?
No. Actually prefer not to wall mount (old house).

4. Any restrictions on size?
Nothing smaller than 37".

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
9'

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
No.

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
Yes. I have a PS2 and a Wii. Planning on getting rid of PS2 for an XBox 360.

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?
No preference.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?
Online is fine. Although I hate paying shipping fees.

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
Room is roughly 15'x30'. At one end of the 30' is a picture window with double-hungs on either side. At the other end is a sliding glass door. The TV will be closer to the slider. There is also a window opposite where the TV is currently situated that splits the room in half.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?
No.

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
No.

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
No.

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
Sports and sitcoms.

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY type.

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
No.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
No.

Any suggestions would be helpful. We are leaning towards a 42" plasma, but that is not based on anything scientific. Does anyone know anything about the 42" plasma Panasonic shown on the Best Buy black Friday ad?
Thanks.

[LeafUF]

Capecod,

I know nothing about that Plasma but based on this thread posted by Helix (http://www.gatorcountry.com/swampgas/showthread.php?t=33523) you can get it for $599 which is a ridiculous deal any way you look at it.

[helix139]

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
$1500

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.
2

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)
No

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?
No. Actually prefer not to wall mount (old house).

4. Any restrictions on size?
Nothing smaller than 37".

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
9'

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
No.

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
Yes. I have a PS2 and a Wii. Planning on getting rid of PS2 for an XBox 360.

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?
No preference.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?
Online is fine. Although I hate paying shipping fees.

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
Room is roughly 15'x30'. At one end of the 30' is a picture window with double-hungs on either side. At the other end is a sliding glass door. The TV will be closer to the slider. There is also a window opposite where the TV is currently situated that splits the room in half.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?
No.

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
No.

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
No.

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
Sports and sitcoms.

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY type.

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
No.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
No.

Any suggestions would be helpful. We are leaning towards a 42" plasma, but that is not based on anything scientific. Does anyone know anything about the 42" plasma Panasonic shown on the Best Buy black Friday ad?
Thanks.

I would absolutely be wary of plasma because of all the ambient light you have and the fact that you do a fair amount of gaming. If you go with Panasonic, that would eliminate the gaming concerns, but not the glare. I would be leaning toward LCD. Check out my thread on the $700 off any $999 HDTV at best buy. You can get a 42" 1080p panny plasma for $599 if you do indeed decide to go that way and are willing to do a little legwork, and that is a phenomenal set. Like I said though, try to look at LCD. You'll appreciate the lack of glare and I think you can find a pretty comparable picture to plasma also. The $700 off will work there too. You should still have a few hundred left for a sound system.

[fastsix]

I would absolutely be wary of plasma because of all the ambient light you have and the fact that you do a fair amount of gaming. If you go with Panasonic, that would eliminate the gaming concerns, but not the glare. I would be leaning toward LCD. Check out my thread on the $700 off any $999 HDTV at best buy. You can get a 42" 1080p panny plasma for $599 if you do indeed decide to go that way and are willing to do a little legwork, and that is a phenomenal set. Like I said though, try to look at LCD. You'll appreciate the lack of glare and I think you can find a pretty comparable picture to plasma also. The $700 off will work there too. You should still have a few hundred left for a sound system.

The new Panasonic Plasmas have an anti glare coating on the screen it does a good job. I have an older 50" Panasonic and my mom has a new 50" Panasonic, the difference is quite noticable. The newer screens have a matte finish, where as mine is very reflective. As for burn in, it's really not that big a deal. My TV is about 3 years old and probably spends half its life with gray bars on the side of the screen (i.e 4:3 shows) - no burn in whatsoever. And the newer plasmas are even less susceptible.

LCD's are okay - I have a Sharp Aquos 42", but they have their own set of problems. For starters the picture just isn't as good as a Plasma, or at least the Aquos isnt as good as my Panasonic. Maybe it's just personal preference or the just the two particular models, but the plasma is brigher and crisper. The LCD does have more accurate color though The other problem is that LCD panels often times have issues. Sharps have banding, Sony's have clouds etc. What this basically means if that if you put up a gray screen you'll see portions of the screen that differ, in the case of my Aquos there are bands that are darker/lighter. I'm sending it back for a replacement, but I've read stories of people having to go through 3 or 4 before getting a good one. Sending back 42" TVs is a pain.

You can test your TV using a free DVD you can download.

http://www.tvblink.com/

Be warned though, you might end up wishing you hadn't because it's sometimes difficult to notice the problems in regular viewing, but once you notice...you'll see it a lot more often.

[Aardvark]

http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,125816-page,2/article.html

[Aardvark]

http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,137447-page,1-c,televisions/article.html

[Aardvark]

http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,126398/article.html

[TimCasey67]

Geez, it's depressing to read this stuff. The tv in my living room went out, so I'm looking for something used on craigslist.com!

I hope somebody who's getting a nice system will invite us all over for the Superbowl! :)

[veridicusgator]

Geez, it's depressing to read this stuff. The tv in my living room went out, so I'm looking for something used on craigslist.com!

I hope somebody who's getting a nice system will invite us all over for the Superbowl! :)

If our house renos are done by then consider yourself invited. [smile]

[Matthanuf06]

Right now I have a 56 inch DLP but I am looking to upgrade my surround sound. Right now my budget is about $800 to start. Although I have no problem with just buying the receiver and a couple front speakers to start with this $800 and then in a few months add some rears/subwoofer/center etc with new funds. I'm a rookie in terms of what is good, what I need etc but I do plan on installing myself. Any suggestions? This is just for an apartment sized room

[G8trPM]

I think I just made a mistake. I just bought a Toshiba 40" Regza 40RF35OU for $1,599 at CC. The reviews on CNET are not very good, can anyone give me any advice on if I made a mistake and should trade it in for something else? Our entertainment cabinet can only fit 37.75" wide by 27" tall, so I had to go with this TV or a 37".

[uflawyer]

Right now I have a 56 inch DLP but I am looking to upgrade my surround sound. Right now my budget is about $800 to start. Although I have no problem with just buying the receiver and a couple front speakers to start with this $800 and then in a few months add some rears/subwoofer/center etc with new funds. I'm a rookie in terms of what is good, what I need etc but I do plan on installing myself. Any suggestions? This is just for an apartment sized room

Here is your receiver.

http://www.abesofmaine.com/item.do?item=PRVSX917V&id=PRVSX917V&GSID=73060543&GSESID=2twc1wumuhuqwxrigmccbcic&GSCID=23#tabs

Here is your speaker system.
http://www.acousticsounddesign.com/core/view_BigProduct.cfm?pid=1269&sc=27

You will also need a sub
http://www.acousticsounddesign.com/core/view_BigProduct.cfm?pid=1271&sc=28

This may me slightly over your budget, so if you have to skimp don't buy the sub until you save some some more $$

PM with questions.

[panamacitygator]

Here is your receiver.

http://www.abesofmaine.com/item.do?item=PRVSX917V&id=PRVSX917V&GSID=73060543&GSESID=2twc1wumuhuqwxrigmccbcic&GSCID=23#tabs

Here is your speaker system.
http://www.acousticsounddesign.com/core/view_BigProduct.cfm?pid=1269&sc=27

You will also need a sub
http://www.acousticsounddesign.com/core/view_BigProduct.cfm?pid=1271&sc=28

This may me slightly over your budget, so if you have to skimp don't buy the sub until you save some some more $$

PM with questions.

I agree with your selections uflawyer, good items.

Sounds similar to to my Harman Kardon avr-347 with Klipsch Synergy speakers and sub. All are very affordable. I have a little more than 2 grand in mine and iit sounds like a million bucks!

[thegator92]

Hi, I decided to take the plunge since I was surprised with a HD DVR by my wife for Christmas. I'm fine with whatever, I don't watch much, but she is jonesing for an HD set so what the heck.

I keep reading lots of conflicting stuff about plasma vs LCD vs DLP, what is better for picture quality, black colors, defects and artifacts in the screen, etc. I'm worried about making a mistake, there are so many out there and they all seem virtually the same.

OK, since there have been several of these questions recently, I decided to make a short questionaire for anyone who needs help deciding on a new TV. Those of us who know TVs end up asking all these questions anyways and it will help us narrow down the choices for you. If anyone has any additional criteria that should be added to the questionaire, let me know and I'll put it in.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)? I already have a surround sound system installed when the house was built. I have the DirecTV HD DVR I got for Christmas. All I need is the TV and the wires, and maybe a DVD player? I would like to spend no more than around $1500.

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. 3, but I already have the sound system.

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.) BJ's

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? I would prefer a wall mount, but it's not vital.

4. Any restrictions on size? It's a pretty small living room, so nothing too large, no 60".

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be? 9 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor? No

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)? Yes, we should be getting a Wii soon

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible). 1, definitely want picture quality.

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? I would prefer a name brand, and I hear Sonys are the best.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? No, I can do either, if shipping charges aren't ridiculous.

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds). The living room is half of a large area that spreads out into the kitchen/dining room. The couch is in the middle of the space, effectively the boundary between the two, facing one wall. To the right is a see-through fireplace and the foyer, to the left is a large window, and a glass door out to the deck. The wall where the TV goes is about 10 feet across. There is a fair bit of ambient light that comes from the left during the day and from behind at night with the kitchen fluorescents. Even with our old TV it's an annoyance. Due to the limited space, a wall-mount would be nice, but not vital, right now we have an entertainment center with a 36" old style TV stuffed into it.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? No projection

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? I would prefer it in black but not absolutely vital.

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? No.

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? Sports, DVD movies

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? DIY

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? I would like a wall mount, but it will be fixed, not moving.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)? No.

Thanks for any help!

[uflawyer]

Give me more detail about the "sound system" already installed. Do you mean in-wall speakers? If so, how many speakers are in the room you want to install you system. What type of A/V receiver do you have now?

[thegator92]

Yes, in-wall JBL speakers. there are two on the wall where the TV will be, and two in the ceiling above the couch. There is also a sub-woofer that sits on top of the TV we have now. The receiver is a Sony, about 7 years old.

[uflawyer]

Yes, in-wall JBL speakers. there are two on the wall where the TV will be, and two in the ceiling above the couch. There is also a sub-woofer that sits on top of the TV we have now. The receiver is a Sony, about 7 years old.

OK You will need a center channel. (Figure $125) What type of receiver do you have?

Looks like you can spend most your money on a TV.

No SAMS or Costco membership?

[thegator92]

What is a center channel? Is that another speaker? I have a speaker which has a lot of bass, I figure it's a sub-woofer type of thing, that is supposed to go in the middle. The receiver is a large Sony with tons of spaces for inputs and outputs on the back. I'm at work so I can't see the exact type right now. Are you asking because of HDMI inputs? Since it is 7 years old, I'm going to guess it does not have any.

I have a BJ's membership. which is like Sam's or Costco. I didn't think about them, I was just looking at Best Buy and H.H. Gregg.

For Tvs, what do the names like Bravia mean? I thought it was just the product name, but I see there are Bravias besides just a Sony Bravia, so I don't know if that indicates something else.

Thanks for answering!

[LeafUF]

BRAVIA is a Sony brand used to market its high-definition LCD televisions as well as front and rear projection TVs. The name is an acronym of "Best Resolution Audio Visual Integrated Architecture". All new Sony high-definition flat-panel LCD televisions in North America now carry the BRAVIA logo. The BRAVIA brand is also used on mobile phones, including the FOMA SO903iTV, developed by Sony Ericsson for NTT DoCoMo.[1][2]

The name BRAVIA replaces the "LCD WEGA" brand name which Sony LCD TVs used up until Summer 2005 (early promotional photos exist of the first BRAVIA TVs still bearing the WEGA name).

Thats the info on Bravia.

The center channel is another normal speaker of sorts. It is not the same as the subwoofer which it sounds like you have. Most surround systems today come with 5 satellite speakers and a sub but lawyer knows way more than I do. As for the receiver if it is 7 years old it most likely will not have the types of inputs you want for HD sound and picture so you might want to upgrade that at some point as well. I know I will be as my surround sound receiver has no HDMI inputs but I have a blu ray player and a High Def Cable box that I want to hook up now.

I have a Sony Bravia LCD and I love it for what its worth. Here is an example of something you might find in your price range if you insist on Sony.

http://www.bestbuyplasma.com/Plasma/Product.asp_X_Sku_Y_KDL40V3000

Thought you should know that Sony runs a bit high on the price spectrum and you could probably find a TV that is just as good and larger for the same price if you expand to other brands.

[helix139]

What is a center channel? Is that another speaker? I have a speaker which has a lot of bass, I figure it's a sub-woofer type of thing, that is supposed to go in the middle. The receiver is a large Sony with tons of spaces for inputs and outputs on the back. I'm at work so I can't see the exact type right now. Are you asking because of HDMI inputs? Since it is 7 years old, I'm going to guess it does not have any.

I have a BJ's membership. which is like Sam's or Costco. I didn't think about them, I was just looking at Best Buy and H.H. Gregg.

For Tvs, what do the names like Bravia mean? I thought it was just the product name, but I see there are Bravias besides just a Sony Bravia, so I don't know if that indicates something else.

Thanks for answering!

Your subwoofer does NOT have to be in the middle, as low frequencies are non-directional. A center channel speaker is the speaker that goes either above or below your TV and handles most of the spoken voice sounds for your system. A good center channel is one of the most important parts of a sound system.

As far as TV's, I've never seen any Bravias that weren't made by Sony. In your case glare is a problem, so I would go with a 42" or so 720p LCD from Samsung, Sony, Philips, or Sharp (all are pretty equal in PQ, but Sony carries a bit of a price premium), or one of the new Panasonic plasmas with an anti-glare screen. If you go plasma, absolutely go Panasonic as they are the top of the line where plasma is concerned in both picture quality and durability, and are very reasonably priced. Pioneer Elite is really the only other plasma that compares.

Alternatively, if you are willing to consider rear projection, Samsung LED projection TVs are great, as are Sony SXRDs. You might be able to get a good deal on the SXRD as Sony is getting out of the rear projection business altogether. Look for something in the 50-55" range.

Bottom line is go to Best Buy or Circuit City and take a look at the floor models to see what you like. Make a list of the best looking models in your price range, keeping in mind that you can get better prices elsewhere 9 times out of 10. If you don't mind doing a little legwork and possibly some receipt laundering, you can get up to $700 off of any TV over $999 at Best Buy, though YMMV. I posted a thread on this a month or so back, I'm sure you can find it if you search. There is also a giant thread on slickdeals.net about it where you can even see if it works in your area.

[thegator92]

Thanks for all the info!

I was curious why you recommend a 720p? I thought 1080p was where everything is going now. Is it because of glare problems, or the price range I specified?

[uflawyer]

What is a center channel? Is that another speaker? I have a speaker which has a lot of bass, I figure it's a sub-woofer type of thing, that is supposed to go in the middle. The receiver is a large Sony with tons of spaces for inputs and outputs on the back. I'm at work so I can't see the exact type right now. Are you asking because of HDMI inputs? Since it is 7 years old, I'm going to guess it does not have any.

I have a BJ's membership. which is like Sam's or Costco. I didn't think about them, I was just looking at Best Buy and H.H. Gregg.

For Tvs, what do the names like Bravia mean? I thought it was just the product name, but I see there are Bravias besides just a Sony Bravia, so I don't know if that indicates something else.

Thanks for answering!

in a 5.1 system the center channel is where all the dialogue comes from when you watch TV. If you have to plug in the speaker that you are confused about, then it is a sub woofer. Subs almost always have a separate power amplifies built in. Let me know which one you have (Center channel or Sub). I am going to guess you have a center channel (which may be larger than your other speakers) because it sounds like the previous home owners left the system for you.

If you A/V receiver is 7 years old, it may not be a 5.1 receiver. Can you give me the model number so I can look it up?

[uflawyer]

Thanks for all the info!

I was curious why you recommend a 720p? I thought 1080p was where everything is going now. Is it because of glare problems, or the price range I specified?

Price. Further, if your screen stays below 40 inches, you do not really need 1080p.

[panamacitygator]

I have a Pioneer Elite 60" and I'm telling you that 1080p will be years before there is any programming content that measures up. The only thing that you will have to watch is Blu Ray. 1080p still carries a price premium, most 720 sets will meet your needs if your budget dictates!

[helix139]

Thanks for all the info!

I was curious why you recommend a 720p? I thought 1080p was where everything is going now. Is it because of glare problems, or the price range I specified?

unless you sit ridiculously close to the screen, use your TV as a computer monitor, or have a tv over 50" it isn't worth paying extra for 1080p as the human eye cannot tell the difference.

[thegator92]

Okay. The consensus seems to be against the 1080p. Are stores just pushing it to make more money when the consumer doesn't need it? I don't make technology purchases all the time, but when I do, I'm always attracted to the shiniest and newest thing. But if it really doesn't make a difference, and won't 7 years down the road, then I'll go with the 720.

[panamacitygator]

Okay. The consensus seems to be against the 1080p. Are stores just pushing it to make more money when the consumer doesn't need it? I don't make technology purchases all the time, but when I do, I'm always attracted to the shiniest and newest thing. But if it really doesn't make a difference, and won't 7 years down the road, then I'll go with the 720.
It will likely be 5 years or more before there is any broadcast or cable/satellite use of the 1080p format. And like helix said unless you have over a 50" it won't matter anyway. However like I said I have a 60" and a friend who has a 50" 1080 and the difference is zilch!

What size are you looking for and what technology plasma, LCD or LCD projection? And of course what is your budget?

Those are the first questions that you'll need to answer and then you can start narrowing down the choices. There are plenty of us that can make suggestions on here but the ultimate decision is going to be yours. Some of your room's details can affect your choice such as ambient light, sunlight, wall space and so forth!

We'll be glad to help!

[thegator92]

Okay, I played hooky this afternoon and went shopping at BJs, HH Gregg and Circuit City. HH Gregg was only a little more expensive than BJs (which is like Costco or Sam's) but they are offering 12 months no interest which would be nice.

Talking to the sales guy there, looking at all the different TVs, it seems like LCD looks better to me than plasma and much better than projection. The picture seems brighter, the colors more vibrant or darker, and I can't see any difference in clarity. The sales guy mentioned that if something goes wrong, an LCD can be fixed, but it's much harder for a plasma and usually means replacement. I don't know if that's true, it's what he said.

Talking with my wife, the size she liked the best was a 46", or possibly 50". There were almost none in 720p at that size, only a Vizio I think. I've never heard of them. Maybe it was my imagination, but even looking at the 42" 720p vs 1080p, I could see a difference. I was watching the USF bowl game, and made sure to stand about 10 feet away. Not huge, but there seemed to be a difference in the sharpness of the edges when players were running. Maybe it's me, maybe imagination, but if they don't offer 720 in the 46" range, I guess it doesn't matter? :)

The sales guy at HH Gregg was telling us that Samsung is a little more popular than Sony right now. The one model I liked the most, a Samsung 46" 1080p with a matte finish on the screen, is always out of stock he said. They had it at $1569. People were buying the same model with a glossy screen which was $200 more, though they were giving people a discount. I don't know why it was more pricey, I liked the matte finish on the screen much better. Anyways, at BJs Sony had a comparable Sony for $1489, less than a hundred dollar diff, but no Samsungs, and like I said, BJs has no payment plan.

Another difference is that the Samsungs have 3 HDMI ports and the Sonys have 2. I figure I need one for the HD receiver, one for the DVD upconverter, and one for the Wii, right?

The budget is a little larger than I anticipated, about $2,000. Also, I generally keep stuff a long time, so if it's only 5 years for full 1080p broadcasts, that's fine by me. I hope this thing lasts 10 years. Does Samsung have a good reputation? They seem to get well-rated by customers on the bestbuy.com site I was looking at.

I'll take heed of the cable advice I've gotten and buy them online, they only have to be 3 feet long at most. Also, I can install it myself, the wall bracket looks easy compared to the 2,000 pound safe I recently bolted to the wall and floor.

So does that deal for about $1600 at HH Gregg sound okay?

Thanks for all the responses!

[uflawyer]

I am still waiting to hear about your speakers and A/V receiver.

[Gatormb]

www.consumerreports.org

[leahy]

Hi, thx for all the work

We are old but avid TV viewers but watch about 90% Tivo. Don't know how people watch Live TV. We are in LA but get East Coast stations and love getting all the shows 3 Hrs early.

We want to buy a 50 and a 70 or so thin screened TV sets. 70 could be thicker and bigger.
Money is not a concern as they will be a gifts from our heirs.
Only interested in best pictures and best recorders. No surround etc.
We couldn't tell good sound if were playing.

Thx Again

[fastsix]

Hi, thx for all the work

We are old but avid TV viewers but watch about 90% Tivo. Don't know how people watch Live TV. We are in LA but get East Coast stations and love getting all the shows 3 Hrs early.

We want to buy a 50 and a 70 or so thin screened TV sets. 70 could be thicker and bigger.
Money is not a concern as they will be a gifts from our heirs.
Only interested in best pictures

The Pioneer Elite Kuro looks like a nice TV

http://www.hometheatermag.com/plasmadisplays/907kuro/
http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/features/779/plasma-vs-lcd-round-ii.html

[uflawyer]

I have a 2 year old pioneer elite and it is awesome. The Elite KURO got some great reviews. You would not be disappointed with that choice. If you going for a nice HD picture you cannot ignore sound. A good sound system is 1/2 the enjoyment of watching HD TV and Movies. It will better than any movie theater you have ever been in. Do you enjoy music? Watch you favorite singer group in HD and Surround Sound and you will give up live concerts as well. Please trust me on this.

As for "recorders", how to you get your channels? Cable or Satellite?

[leahy]

Direct TV

[uflawyer]

So you will use the Directv DVR. The TV recommended is top of the line, so if $ is not a concern I would go for it. You can buy it on line for less than you would get it locally.

If you would like help designing an audio solution let us know. If you are unsure about audio go to a high end home theater store and listen to a good system. You will be in awe, trust me.

[thegator92]

I am still waiting to hear about your speakers and A/V receiver.

The receiver is a Sony STR-DE845. Looks like a 500-watt receiver. It's got a bunch of features that I don't know how to use. :) I have speakers set into the ceilings of the house. One set is surround sound in the living room, and there are 5 other pairs in different rooms. I use all the stripped wire twist things for going into the speaker jacks, which are all set in the wall in one area. The speakers, i don't know, they are metal grilles with "JBL" on them.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-STR-DE845-Surround-Receiver/dp/B00004VVUW

[thegator92]

The TV we liked the most at HH Gregg is the Samsung 46" 1080p LN-T4661F.

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/samsung-ln-t4661f/4505-6482_7-32385769.html

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-LNT4661F-1080p-LCD-HDTV/dp/B000N50S5Y

It is being offered at $1,577 with 12-month no interest. Seems to get very good reviews, is the size and price we want, and looked great on the showroom floor. What do you guys think?

[uflawyer]

Your receiver is 5.1 but it is 9 years old. Like computers, A/V technology changes quickly. It will work fine to give you decent sound now, but you may want to consider an update down the road. What about the center channel/ sub? Does it have an electrical jack or just speaker hook up?

[thegator92]

By speaker hook up do you mean the bare wire twisted around a post and then you screw down the cap? It has that.

Replacing it would be in the future, not right now. Given that, the sales guy I was talking to at HH Gregg was saying I could use an optical wire to hook up to the receiver, something like that. I wasn't sure what he meant, but I see input jacks for "Optical". I've never seen that kind of wire, though. I didn't ask for more info, as it was already time for kick-off of the Gator game and I wanted to get back home and watch, unfortunately.

[uflawyer]

By speaker hook up do you mean the bare wire twisted around a post and then you screw down the cap? It has that.

Replacing it would be in the future, not right now. Given that, the sales guy I was talking to at HH Gregg was saying I could use an optical wire to hook up to the receiver, something like that. I wasn't sure what he meant, but I see input jacks for "Optical". I've never seen that kind of wire, though. I didn't ask for more info, as it was already time for kick-off of the Gator game and I wanted to get back home and watch, unfortunately.

With respect to the stand alone speaker, I need to know if you have to plug into an electrical outlet. It sounds like no. If this is the case it is a center channel speaker and you will need to buy subwoofer. ($200 and up).

The optical wire the salesman is referring is the following:
http://www.cablesforless.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=921

you can buy them anywhere for under $10. Because it is optical (it uses light to transmit audio) you do not need gold plated or any other high priced gimmick.

You will also need component cables for your video. If I remember you will will have 2 video sources (1) Direct TV and (2) DVD player. Therefore you will need two sets of component cables. (Component cables are three cables which are red, blue and green). You can but them anywhere as well. In this case, because the signal is not analog (not digital) the quality of the cables will make a difference, but it is unlikely you could tell the difference. Therefore, just but the basic cables at Radio Shack or Best buy (The should be around $25)

[deebo65]

Ok so basically I watch sports, obviously Gator sports in particular, but just abotu everything but baseball, and cooking shows and movies thats about it. We have movie night with all the kids on friday nights where we watch a movie (kids are young so a lot of times its a pixar cartoon movie or somethign of that nature). We are getting a new tv 47 or 50 inch. My question is plasma, or LCD. Heard 1080p is best but until programing updates that isn't necessary for a while. So which should I get for what I watch?

[helix139]

Ok so basically I watch sports, obviously Gator sports in particular, but just abotu everything but baseball, and cooking shows and movies thats about it. We have movie night with all the kids on friday nights where we watch a movie (kids are young so a lot of times its a pixar cartoon movie or somethign of that nature). We are getting a new tv 47 or 50 inch. My question is plasma, or LCD. Heard 1080p is best but until programing updates that isn't necessary for a while. So which should I get for what I watch?

At that size, you will notice a difference between 1080p and 720p. If you plan on buying a blu-ray player, xbox 360, or PS3 sometime in the future, or if it simply doesn't cost much extra go for the 1080p. Otherwise, don't buy a set simply for 1080p. I can tell you that if you get a Blu-Ray player, the pixar films will look absolutely fantastic on it. You really can't go wrong with either plasma or LCD but you haven't said enough about where you're placing the TV to give you a solid recommendation either way. There is a questionairre on the first page of this thread. If you fill that out, we should be able to give you some solid recommendations.

[uflawyer]

Helix is an eye man, and I am a ear man.

[King8r]

Okay my turn :D

Narrowed it down to an LCD, 47-52", 1080 and I already have a good surround sound (Sony, less than a year old). Spending limit is about 3K

We're planning to go look at actual tv's this weekend. One of the nices pictures I've seen while out shopping was on a Pioneer and my wife is intrigued by the Philips Ambilight.

What are some other recommended brands? I see mention of LG, any good? My current big screen is a Toshiba and has been excellent for 5-6 years now. Who else to consider?

Thanks coach, I'll hang up and listen to your response. ;)

[panamacitygator]

In that size most all of the major brands are good. I would recommend the following:


You can never go wrong with a Sony Bravia, Samsungs are good as well as Toshiba Regza.

LG sets are usually ranked 4th in Consumer Reports. As a matter of fact Fry's has a LG 42LB5D 42" 1080p set right now for $997.00 at frys.com here is the link http://shop2.outpost.com/%7BWnile441OmNqme94+Q5TFQ**.node2%7D/product/5189396

Shipping should run about $30.00 and you will have a great lowpriced LCD tv. 47" version 47lb5d is $1679.00. In this size look to spend from $1300.00 to 2000.00 to get a quality set that will give you years of enjoyment.

I myself have a 40" Sony Bravia in the master bedroom and it is sweet! You might want to check out the other "big box" stores and your local Sam's Club to look at the sets. Don't be afraid to buy on-line to save major bucks.

[helix139]

Okay my turn :D

Narrowed it down to an LCD, 47-52", 1080 and I already have a good surround sound (Sony, less than a year old). Spending limit is about 3K

We're planning to go look at actual tv's this weekend. One of the nices pictures I've seen while out shopping was on a Pioneer and my wife is intrigued by the Philips Ambilight.

What are some other recommended brands? I see mention of LG, any good? My current big screen is a Toshiba and has been excellent for 5-6 years now. Who else to consider?

Thanks coach, I'll hang up and listen to your response. ;)

I have a Philips 42" with ambilight that has an excellent picture. You can't go wrong with Sony, Samsung, Philips, Sharp, or LG, for the most part, though you will pay a premium for Sony, and to a lesser extent, Samsung. You won't find Pioneer in an LCD, but their Plasmas are excellent.

Without knowing what your viewing habits, environment, etc. are, though, I can't make a moredetailed recommendation. If you'll fill out the questionairre on the front page I can get you some model numbers.

[King8r]

Thanks for the input guys. I never realized the Pioneers were plasma, great pictures though. Sorry Helix, I should have read page 1 first. Doh!!!

To answer some of the questions:

Viewing distance will be about 8-10 ft.

wall mounted, pivoting likely

tv will be facing a pair of french doors about 20 feet away.

picure quality is more important than size (47" minimum)

X Box gamer

Mostly television viewing (Comcast HDef), movies and college sports.

willing to purchase online or locally, Best Buy, Circuit City, Sams or Costco just about anywhere.

Pretty handy so I plan on DYI

Thanks again for the help and links.

Joe

[helix139]

Go with LCD or one of the Panny plasmas with the glare reduction surface. a 50" 1080p panny plasma would serve you well, as would a 46-52" 1080p 120hz LCD from Sony, Samsung, Sharp, Philips, or LG. A word of advice: Sony is going to be outsourcing their LCD panels from Samsung, so I wouldn't pay the extra premium from Sony.

I know you said you like LCD, but definitely consider the Panny plasmas. Whatever you do, go with 46-52" 1080p, and if you don't mind forking a little more cash, 120hz will look really good with 24fps film. Check out a couple models on the best buy or circuit city floor that look good to you within your price range and let me know the model numbers, then I'll tell you what I know about them and the best place to buy. Heres a starter or 2 though...

http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=369002

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11273898&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11227834&whse=BC&Ne=5000002+4000000&eCat=BC|79|2341|3316|74672&N=4018657%204294908732&Mo=10&No=6&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&hierPath=79*2341*3316*74672*&topnav=

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11250899&whse=BC&Ne=5000002+4000000&eCat=BC|79|2341|3316|74672&N=4018657%204294908732&Mo=10&No=2&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&hierPath=79*2341*3316*74672*&topnav=

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11227805&whse=BC&Ne=5000002+4000000&eCat=BC|79|2341|3316|74672&N=4018657%204294908732&Mo=10&No=4&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&hierPath=79*2341*3316*74672*&topnav=

[King8r]

Thanks again,
I'll check those out. we're going to go look at some screens this weekend.

I was looking at this Philips LCD online last night, but it looks like it only runsat 60Hz.

http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=372279&pCatg=5883


I'm not sold against plasma, but I assumed the LCD would handle glare better. I'm still trying to drink in the pros and cons of both.

"preciate it, Go Gators!!

Joe

[helix139]

Thanks again,
I'll check those out. we're going to go look at some screens this weekend.

I was looking at this Philips LCD online last night, but it looks like it only runsat 60Hz.

http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=372279&pCatg=5883


I'm not sold against plasma, but I assumed the LCD would handle glare better. I'm still trying to drink in the pros and cons of both.

"preciate it, Go Gators!!

Joe

My Philips is at 60hz and it is fine for me. 120hz really only makes a difference on 24fps Blu-Ray or HD-DVD movies (120hz/60fps, 120hz/30fps, and 120hz/24fps all come out as even numbers of refreshes per frame).

Also, the Panny plasma handles glare as well as any LCD. Honestly if I were buying a TV right now that would be my choice, and I was always an LCD proponent.

[King8r]

How do you like the Ambilight feature? My wife has always put a light behind our tv for a highlight anyway. That's one of the reason she is really intrigued by it. I haven't seen it in person yet, only on there online demo.

[helix139]

How do you like the Ambilight feature? My wife has always put a light behind our tv for a highlight anyway. That's one of the reason she is really intrigued by it. I haven't seen it in person yet, only on there online demo.

Definitely adds to the experience. I know Philips has sets coming out soon though with ambilight on the top and bottom in addition to the sides.

[King8r]

Well, we went to BB and looked at some screens today. Just pacing off distance I think we really want to go with a 52" screen. The three we really liked were..

Samsung LNT5271

Sony KDL52W3000

LG 52LB5D

Really like the Samsung alot, they had it for $3900 but I saw it on Amazon for $2700 delivered.

Then the Sony and LG were side by side and pretty comparable, with maybe a slight edge going to the Sony.

So whadaya thing?

[helix139]

Well, we went to BB and looked at some screens today. Just pacing off distance I think we really want to go with a 52" screen. The three we really liked were..

Samsung LNT5271

Sony KDL52W3000

LG 52LB5D

Really like the Samsung alot, they had it for $3900 but I saw it on Amazon for $2700 delivered.

Then the Sony and LG were side by side and pretty comparable, with maybe a slight edge going to the Sony.

So whadaya thing?

All great sets, but one thing I would urge is to be careful buying expensive electronics off amazon. Their return policy is a bit sketchy as a lot of times you are buying through a 3rd party. I would check out bestbuyplasma.com. I have had good experiences with them.

[LeafUF]

My roommate has that Samsung in the 40" and it is a fantastic TV. Granted I am not videophile but I think it looks really good. I would still try to see all three next to each other to see if the Samsung is really far and away better though. Also, I think that Amazon price delivered is a pretty good deal.

[LeafUF]

All great sets, but one thing I would urge is to be careful buying expensive electronics off amazon. Their return policy is a bit sketchy as a lot of times you are buying through a 3rd party. I would check out bestbuyplasma.com. I have had good experiences with them.

Ill second bestbuyplasma while I am here. I got my tv from them and so have a number of other people I know. No complaints yet. The Samsung on their site is $2599, not sure about the shipping cost though.

[King8r]

Their return policy is a bit sketchy as a lot of times you are buying through a 3rd party. I would check out bestbuyplasma.com. I have had good experiences with them.

Roger that on Amazon! I've purchased quite a bit from them and you do need to be careful who your actually buying from when placing the order.

I'll check out bestbuyplasma.com.

One final question, is the 120mhz vs 60mhz really that important? I was watching a couple of split-screen demo's today and I really couldn't tell a difference.

Thanks again for your help!!

[King8r]

The Samsung on their site is $2599, not sure about the shipping cost though.

Looks like standard shipping is free!!!


Now, what about mounts? They have a nice articulating wall mount for $250.

HDMI cables?? Do I rally need to spend $130 for one?

Should I try to run the cables in the wall, or just use a cable strip to hide them?

[helix139]

Looks like standard shipping is free!!!


Now, what about mounts? They have a nice articulating wall mount for $250.

HDMI cables?? Do I rally need to spend $130 for one?

Should I try to run the cables in the wall, or just use a cable strip to hide them?

Check out monoprice.com for cables and mounts. It will make no difference unless youre running well over 10 feet whether you use the monoprice or the $130 cable. Unlike a component video signal, a digital signal either gets there or it doesn't. You'll need to be sure on the mount that you pick one that mounts through at least 2 studs, and make sure that many are available on the wall you intend to mount through. As far as running cables, that is up to you.

For your 120hz question, it will make a difference watching Blu-Ray movies with the player set to 24fps (No 3:2 pulldown needed), but not on standard cable/sat programming or video games.

[LeafUF]

I dont know much about mounts but I would never pay for premium cables. I bought my HDMI cables from monoprice.com (http://monoprice.com/home/index.asp) for about $6 each.

[King8r]

I've been going back and forth between the Samsung and Sony, I may have to go look at them again. Reading reviews online I've read nothing bad about the Sony, but a few iffy ones on the Samsung.............decisions, decisions....

[panamacitygator]

You can't go wrong with either, however I prefer the Sony. I have never had a bad experience with a Sony product except for a Betamax in the early 80's!

[helix139]

what's the price difference? usually you pay a premium for sony and samsung has a fantastic picture. A friend of mine just bought a 40" and it is fantastic

[panamacitygator]

WOW!!! SONY is almost 800.00 cheaper. That is a surprise. Like Helix said Sony is usually priced at a premium.

According to the bestbuy website the Sony is 2699.00 and the Sammy 3509.00. The Sony has 24p True Cinema input capability. While the Sammy has dynamic contrast ratio of 25,000 and the Sony 16,000. It looks like it is up to individual preference!

Good luck with either selection. I'm sure you'll be happy with either.

[helix139]

WOW!!! SONY is almost 800.00 cheaper. That is a surprise. Like Helix said Sony is usually priced at a premium.

According to the bestbuy website the Sony is 2699.00 and the Sammy 3509.00. The Sony has 24p True Cinema input capability. While the Sammy has dynamic contrast ratio of 25,000 and the Sony 16,000. It looks like it is up to individual preference!

Good luck with either selection. I'm sure you'll be happy with either.

I will say this: 24p input is no good if your TV isn't 72 or 120hz. You'll just end up with a really choppy picture. It's better to turn this option off on your player.

[King8r]

Actually, on the site Helix and Leaf posted above the Sony is only $200 cheaper. The only real differnce I see is the Samsungs higher contrast ratio and 120hz.......man, I'm gonna have to take another look....

[King8r]

Never mind, I screwed up, it says on BestBuyPlasma.com that the Sony IS 120hz.....

[helix139]

Try and find the native contrast ratios of the sets. Dynamic contrast ratios can be tricky to judge

[King8r]

Try and find the native contrast ratios of the sets. Dynamic contrast ratios can be tricky to judge

I was thinking that maybe some of these things I'm pondering over may not even be visible to the naked eye, LOL :nervous smile:

[King8r]

Well, after another side by side comparison today, I went with the Sony!

Why? Comparing the overall stats they were virtually identical, but looking at the two tv's there was one noticeable difference. The screen of the Samsung reflected everything, like a mirror..... the Sony had very little noticeable glare at all, what little it had was just a vague non-distinct light.

Sony wins AND it's $200 cheaper. :D

Thanks again gentlemen for all you're help. Hopefully I'll have everything setup by the end of next week. I'll let you know how it goes.

Joe

[panamacitygator]

Good luck!

[Gatorbone7]

I am looking for a new TV for my apartment. Here are my answers to the questions.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
$2,500 ish. 1,800 for the TV is in my price range. Not much more.
2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. 3. I much more care about TV than sound.

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)Nope

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? I'm in an apartment so I can NOT wall mount it.

4. Any restrictions on size? No. I'd like 50ish that seems to be in the price range depending on what brand I go with.

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
16 feet with almost all of the viewing being in front of the TV (not much side seats).
6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
Nope
7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
Yes, some with a PS3
8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
5. I want 50 ish and would rather have bigger as long as picture is still good.
9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? No but I don't want to go the bargain basement models. I'd rather pay a little more now than pay later when the thing blows up.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? I would rather buy from a brick and mortor store but I would be willing to order it from a brick and mortor's website (circuit city or bestbuy.com).

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
Room is 16 by 13. TV will be on one far wall with couch on extreme opposite of room. One window with covering. No light gets through if I don't want it to. Small table lamps with covers at the couch (don't shine on tv).

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? No, not an option

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
None.
14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
Nope
15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
HD will be sports but other than that a little bit of everything. Obviously I would like better quality for sports and action cause that's when it matters.
16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY
17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
Needs to fit on an entertainment center, NOT wall mount. Entertainment center isn't included in the budget above.
18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
Nope.

Any help you guys can provide would be great. I'm really trying to figure out what kind to get in my price range. I've been looking at Circuit city and they have a good amount of 50ish inches in my price range. I'm really confused on if I want rear projection and if some LCD rear projection or DLP. I don't want to save a couple hundred bucks now only to spend it in a year or two replacing a bulb.

Hi Again, I posted this in August and settled on a Samsung (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Samsung-50-DLP-Rear-Projection-HDTV-HL-T5087S/sem/rpsm/oid/175658/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do) rear projection DLP with the LED lightsource. I had to return the first TV after one day because the screen had a problem (spot that was lighter than the rest of the tv). Now, a few months letter I'm having another problem. Whenever I watch something with a lot of black on the screen I get a circle around the center of the TV that is navy blue instead of black. I bought the circuit city protection plan and am calling monday to have the come out and take a look at it. Now I'm wondering if they don't fix this set should I just upgrade to and LCD or plasma? I'm really happy with the DLP except for this one issue. I'm wondering if anyone has a DLP and can tell me if they've had similar problems? Any help would be appreciated.

[helix139]

Hi Again, I posted this in August and settled on a Samsung (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Samsung-50-DLP-Rear-Projection-HDTV-HL-T5087S/sem/rpsm/oid/175658/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do) rear projection DLP with the LED lightsource. I had to return the first TV after one day because the screen had a problem (spot that was lighter than the rest of the tv). Now, a few months letter I'm having another problem. Whenever I watch something with a lot of black on the screen I get a circle around the center of the TV that is navy blue instead of black. I bought the circuit city protection plan and am calling monday to have the come out and take a look at it. Now I'm wondering if they don't fix this set should I just upgrade to and LCD or plasma? I'm really happy with the DLP except for this one issue. I'm wondering if anyone has a DLP and can tell me if they've had similar problems? Any help would be appreciated.

If you have to upgrade, go with the biggest Panasonic Plasma you can afford, or look for a Sony SXRD rear projection.

[panamacitygator]

Sony SRXD's are going for 1500.00 to 1800.00 dollars now for the 55" or the 60". A great value!

[King8r]

Well I received my Sony KDL52W3000 yesterday. It took me about two hours to set it up and it looks awesome!!!!! wooohoooo.....

Everything looks great and I'm very pleased. I'm still fine tuning the various settings on the tv and my components. So far so good except for one minor problem.

My Xbox 360 is connected via the component cables. Looks great, but it doesn't play through my surround sound (which is connected via the "audio out" jacks) it WILL play through the tv speakers, but not my SS speakers.

The cable and dvd, which is connected via the HDMI play fine through the SS system, but not the Xbox. Hmmmmmmmm.....can't figure that one out. I may have to run an RCA cable from the component audio out to another input on my surround sound system.

[helix139]

Well I received my Sony KDL52W3000 yesterday. It took me about two hours to set it up and it looks awesome!!!!! wooohoooo.....

Everything looks great and I'm very pleased. I'm still fine tuning the various settings on the tv and my components. So far so good except for one minor problem.

My Xbox 360 is connected via the component cables. Looks great, but it doesn't play through my surround sound (which is connected via the "audio out" jacks) it WILL play through the tv speakers, but not my SS speakers.

The cable and dvd, which is connected via the HDMI play fine through the SS system, but not the Xbox. Hmmmmmmmm.....can't figure that one out. I may have to run an RCA cable from the component audio out to another input on my surround sound system.

You'll need to use the optical out on the 360 as component doesn't carry a surround sound signal

[King8r]

Thanks again Helix. I was thinking I might give that a try, but couldn't figure out why it would make a difference. I'll let you know how it goes.

[King8r]

Well the bade news is the digital optical cable didn't work.

The good news is it's because I'm a moron. :laugh: when I hooked the component cable up I connected the extra video connection up to one of the audi in jacks, therefore no sound. So now, all is well.

Thanks again for everyones help, it looks awesome!! Can't wait for Rainbow Six Vegas II :grin:

[GatorGamer]

Uncle Sam has decided that he's overcharged me this year and is giving me a pretty big refund! Can any of you give me some advice on a good looking LCD flat screen, with good reviews and high quality that I can purchase for between $1000 and $1300?

Thanks!
~gamer

[helix139]

Uncle Sam has decided that he's overcharged me this year and is giving me a pretty big refund! Can any of you give me some advice on a good looking LCD flat screen, with good reviews and high quality that I can purchase for between $1000 and $1300?

Thanks!
~gamer

Check out the questionairre on the first page. Let us know some of your constraints and what you like in a TV and we can make some tailored suggestions.

[GatorGamer]

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
around $1200 for a TV

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.
8

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)
Costco, and Sam's

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?
I would like a flat panel but will use the stand for now and may mount it in the future

4. Any restrictions on size?
as big as it can get within these other constraints

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
10-12 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
occasionally

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
probably not

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?
I prefer brands that have good reputations...I've heard the Philips Outlet has good deals but don't really know anything about it.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?
Best deal that's available.

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
There shouldn't be any obstructions to worry about.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?
Looking for LCD.

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
black or silver frame is nice but not too worried as that's the case with most.

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
Heard about the philips outlet being a good place to look but no actual discounts.

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
Sports, Actions, Dramas, Sitcoms

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
Not worried about mounting right now.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
Would like a good warranty.

Thanks,
~gamer

[helix139]

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?
around $1200 for a TV

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.
8

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)
Costco, and Sam's

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?
I would like a flat panel but will use the stand for now and may mount it in the future

4. Any restrictions on size?
as big as it can get within these other constraints

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?
10-12 feet

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?
occasionally

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?
probably not

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).
1

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?
I prefer brands that have good reputations...I've heard the Philips Outlet has good deals but don't really know anything about it.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?
Best deal that's available.

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).
There shouldn't be any obstructions to worry about.

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?
Looking for LCD.

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?
black or silver frame is nice but not too worried as that's the case with most.

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?
Heard about the philips outlet being a good place to look but no actual discounts.

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?
Sports, Actions, Dramas, Sitcoms

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?
DIY

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?
Not worried about mounting right now.

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?
Would like a good warranty.

Thanks,
~gamer

A couple things: You indicated you have around $1300 to spend, but you also want a surround system. You will have a hard time getting a decent TV that is large enough for your viewing distance and of decent quality while still having enough cash to purchase a quality sound system. Do you already have an existing sound system? Are you just shopping for a TV? uflawyer will give me hell for recommending TVs that take up so much of your budget, but you indicated your $1300 is for a TV and not a sound system also, so I'll steer you toward the best ones for your situation.

Secondly, Philips makes a great TV. I own one and will attest to it, but I would be wary of refurbs from the outlet. Additionally, they are ceasing US LCD manufacturing. To me, it sounds like something in the 40-42" range would be a good start for you, as in that size you'll be able to really notice the HD difference at your viewing distance. I'd be wary of going smaller as you won't be able to appreciate the HD detail at that distance. You don't need 1080p, but if a 1080p tv has some other features you desire, you're not going to pay that much more for it. Samsung, Sony, Sharp, Philips, and LG have all gotten to the point where image quality is pretty much equal between them. You really can't go wrong with any of them. You will pay a premium for Sony, and I don't feel they have a superior picture. The Samsung LN40A550 is excellent and can be had for $1279 through bestbuyplasma.com, a retailer I and others here can attest to.

Also, are you averse to plasma? I would strongly urge you to take a look at Panasonic's plasmas. They are truly outstanding, and would be what I would buy if I were buying again right now. I believe they can be had in a 42" size within your price range or very close to it. BestBuyPlasma.com has several around $950-1000, and the excellent 42PZ77U for $1210. If it were my $1300, that is the TV I would go with. Burn-in and longevity on those things are really not much of an issue, and I believe the screen has an anti-glare coating.

If you're not averse to doing a little legwork to save several hundred dollars, consider doing the Best Buy HD Advantage discount/return strategy. There is a long thread on slickdeals.net about it if you search.

[Aardvark]

I've narrowed my search to these two:

http://www.mitsubishi-tv.com/j/i/18326/TelevisionDetails/LT46244.html?cid=5465

http://www.samsung.com/us/consumer/detail/detail.do?group=televisions&type=televisions&subtype=lcdtv&model_cd=LN46A650A1FXZA

[helix139]

I've narrowed my search to these two:

http://www.mitsubishi-tv.com/j/i/18326/TelevisionDetails/LT46244.html?cid=5465

http://www.samsung.com/us/consumer/detail/detail.do?group=televisions&type=televisions&subtype=lcdtv&model_cd=LN46A650A1FXZA

Between those two you really could just flip a coin. The Mitsubishi does have an extra HDMI on the side, but the Samsung has a slightly superior image quality, IMO (but that is personal preference). Specs are really similar on the two, with the only difference I could find is that Samsung has a 50000:1 dynamic contrast ratio whereas I couldn't find the Mitsubishi's. Apparantly some people have an issue with that particular Samsung randomly powering off, but my guess is that is an isolated issue and you can always exchange the TV if you find you have that problem. Both are excellent TV's. Pick either and you'll be happy.

[gtr2x]

First of all, this is a great service.

Sometime this month I will be buying a 32-37" Samsung, Sony or Sharp for the bedroom (tough decision). Any thoughts on the need to buy an extended warranty. When we bought our last hd tv, a 50+ Mitsubishi 7 yrs ago, I passed and I have had no problems.

Thanks.

[helix139]

First of all, this is a great service.

Sometime this month I will be buying a 32-37" Samsung, Sony or Sharp for the bedroom (tough decision). Any thoughts on the need to buy an extended warranty. When we bought our last hd tv, a 50+ Mitsubishi 7 yrs ago, I passed and I have had no problems.

Thanks.

If you are more risk averse, the extended warranty may offer some utility for you, but strictly from an expected value standpoint (that is, average cost of repair times probability of failure), there is no real value in them. Personally, I rarely buy them unless I know a product to have an unusually high failure rate and the factory warranty does not last very long (i.e. XBox 360, iPod). The other thing about these extended warranties is that they are YMMV when it comes to how individual stores interpret and implement them. I would buy an extended warranty from the manufacturer before I bought one from the store.

[Aardvark]

What is the rule of thumb for distance vs size?

[LeafUF]

http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-7608_7-1016109-2.html?tag=tnav

I think this link from CNet gives you a good idea on what size you need based on your viewing distance.

[Aardvark]

Merci beaucoup!

[GatorGamer]

A couple things: You indicated you have around $1300 to spend, but you also want a surround system. You will have a hard time getting a decent TV that is large enough for your viewing distance and of decent quality while still having enough cash to purchase a quality sound system. Do you already have an existing sound system? Are you just shopping for a TV? uflawyer will give me hell for recommending TVs that take up so much of your budget, but you indicated your $1300 is for a TV and not a sound system also, so I'll steer you toward the best ones for your situation.

Secondly, Philips makes a great TV. I own one and will attest to it, but I would be wary of refurbs from the outlet. Additionally, they are ceasing US LCD manufacturing. To me, it sounds like something in the 40-42" range would be a good start for you, as in that size you'll be able to really notice the HD difference at your viewing distance. I'd be wary of going smaller as you won't be able to appreciate the HD detail at that distance. You don't need 1080p, but if a 1080p tv has some other features you desire, you're not going to pay that much more for it. Samsung, Sony, Sharp, Philips, and LG have all gotten to the point where image quality is pretty much equal between them. You really can't go wrong with any of them. You will pay a premium for Sony, and I don't feel they have a superior picture. The Samsung LN40A550 is excellent and can be had for $1279 through bestbuyplasma.com, a retailer I and others here can attest to.

Also, are you averse to plasma? I would strongly urge you to take a look at Panasonic's plasmas. They are truly outstanding, and would be what I would buy if I were buying again right now. I believe they can be had in a 42" size within your price range or very close to it. BestBuyPlasma.com has several around $950-1000, and the excellent 42PZ77U for $1210. If it were my $1300, that is the TV I would go with. Burn-in and longevity on those things are really not much of an issue, and I believe the screen has an anti-glare coating.

If you're not averse to doing a little legwork to save several hundred dollars, consider doing the Best Buy HD Advantage discount/return strategy. There is a long thread on slickdeals.net about it if you search.

Thanks to graduation it looks like I'm going to be able to purchase a surround sound system as well. What would you recommend to go along with the 42PZ77U or a similar model from bestbuyplasma?

Thanks,
Gamer

[helix139]

Thanks to graduation it looks like I'm going to be able to purchase a surround sound system as well. What would you recommend to go along with the 42PZ77U or a similar model from bestbuyplasma?

Thanks,
Gamer

The advice I would give is to be sure to get a solid receiver to build around. Look for something with a good number of HDMI inputs and outputs. uflawyer will be able to make better recommendations than me, but don't skimp on the receiver. If you can't afford the whole surround system at once, get the receiver and 2 front surrounds and build from there as you save up.

Congrats on graduation! It's a great feeling. I had mine on Sunday. You'll love that TV.

[uflawyer]

Gamer--give me a budget and tell me what equipment you already own that you will use in you system (if any). I have designed several systems for posters on this board.

[GatorGamer]

Let's say max budget is $1000-$1500. Obviously the better the system for the cheaper the price would be ideal. ;)

[uflawyer]

Let's say max budget is $1000-$1500. Obviously the better the system for the cheaper the price would be ideal. ;)

Klipsch Speakers $896 (http://www.acousticsounddesign.com/core/view_BigProduct.cfm?PID=1166)

Denon AV receiver $456 (http://www.abesofmaine.com/item.do?item=DNAVR1908&id=DNAVR1908&l=PRICEGRABB)


I am a huge fan of Klipsch for your price range. I have had 6-10 people who have purchased these speakers and have PM'ed marriage proposals :angel: They are the absolute best bang for the buck on the market.

The denon I selected has HDMI switching and is a great buy. Abe's from Maine is a very reputable on-line store.

You will need speaker wire and mounting brackets for the speakers. Buy those as Radio shack. I would recommend 14 gauge wire. Also. look at buying a Universal Remote (http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-Advanced-Universal-Control/dp/B00093IIRA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1210216973&sr=1-2) for your system (you will thank me for it later). There is nothing like 1 touch on and off.

Let me know what else I can do for you. If you buy the system, post back how you like it.

[GatorNav1]

OK, since there have been several of these questions recently, I decided to make a short questionaire for anyone who needs help deciding on a new TV. Those of us who know TVs end up asking all these questions anyways and it will help us narrow down the choices for you. If anyone has any additional criteria that should be added to the questionaire, let me know and I'll put it in.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)? $1,200

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. Sound, about a 4.

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.) No

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? Thinking about wall mounting it.

4. Any restrictions on size? 37 to 40

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be? 10 Ft.

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor? No

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)? No

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible). 1 Quality is more important.

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? Sony, Sylvania, just a good quality one.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? Want to purchase at Navy Exchange

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds). No problem with lighting

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? No and No

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? No

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? Navy Exchange

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? Sports, dramas, comedy, home improvement programs, cooking programs...most everything LOL

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? Professional is wall mounted.

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? Yes, stationary

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)? Maybe over fireplace.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[helix139]

OK, since there have been several of these questions recently, I decided to make a short questionaire for anyone who needs help deciding on a new TV. Those of us who know TVs end up asking all these questions anyways and it will help us narrow down the choices for you. If anyone has any additional criteria that should be added to the questionaire, let me know and I'll put it in.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)? $1,200

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. Sound, about a 4.

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.) No

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? Thinking about wall mounting it.

4. Any restrictions on size? 37 to 40

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be? 10 Ft.

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor? No

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)? No

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible). 1 Quality is more important.

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? Sony, Sylvania, just a good quality one.

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? Want to purchase at Navy Exchange

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds). No problem with lighting

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? No and No

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? No

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? Navy Exchange

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? Sports, dramas, comedy, home improvement programs, cooking programs...most everything LOL

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? Professional is wall mounted.

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? Yes, stationary

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)? Maybe over fireplace.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have no idea what kind of prices the Navy Exchange has, but it sounds like you would do fine with any 40-ish inch LCD TV from Samsung, Sony, Sharp, Philips, or LG that you can find in your price range. You have no need for 1080p so I wouldnt make that a factor in which set you purchase.

[GatorNav1]

helix139,
Saw a Samsung LN40A450C1D 40" LCD 720p HDTV at the Navy Exchange today listed for $1,099.00. The screen really looked nice. By purchasing at the Navy Exchange, I won't have to pay any tax :) Thanks for your information.

[panamacitygator]

I picked me up a sweet 40" Samsung TV at Wal-Mart last week. It was a LNT4032HX. Regular $996.00 reduced to 696.00. They were resetting their TV sets and were discontinuing several sets.


* HD-grade 1366(H) x 768(V) pixel resolution
* Widescreen aspect ratio
* Wide Viewing Angle Panel
* 5000:1 dynamic contrast ratio
* 178°(H) x 178°(V)
* Built-in digital tuner (ATSC/Clear QAM)
* Fast 8ms response time
* Watts per channel: 10W x 2
* Game Mode
* SRS TruSurround XT™
* Side speakers
* 3D Color Enhancer
* Sound leveler
* 2 HDMI 14 High Definition Multimedia Interface
* 2 Component video inputs
* S-video and composite video inputs
* Side and rear A/V inputs
* PC input
* V-Chip System
* Trilingual on-screen displays
* Dimensions: 43.4" W x 28.8" H x 13" D; Weight: 52.2 lbs.


Bought it for my son who just built a new house. He wants to put it in his bedroom!

[helix139]

helix139,
Saw a Samsung LN40A450C1D 40" LCD 720p HDTV at the Navy Exchange today listed for $1,099.00. The screen really looked nice. By purchasing at the Navy Exchange, I won't have to pay any tax :) Thanks for your information.

You may want to look at what Panama posted below about the Samsung from walmart. It's a fantastic deal, even with tax

[GatorNav1]

Helix139,
I checked the two nearest Wal-Marts to me, and neither had the one panama was mentioning. So, I went ahead and purchesed the one I liked at the Navy Exchange. Thanks for your replies...

[uflawyer]

Helix gets all the luck because most posters don't appreciate a good sound system. :cry:

I think the reason people forget sound is because they have never really heard a good system. Sound is 50% of the Home Theater experience.

[gatored55]

1. Budget - $3000 - $4000 ($3000 for just TV)
2. sound - rate about 5 - 6
3. discount club - Sam's
4. Do not need or plan to wall mount at this time
4.4 No size restrictions
5. view distance - @ 14 feet
6. as computer monitor - not necessary, but might be nice
7. no gaming
8. picture quality more important than size (2 - 3) although Gator football games are a priority!!
9. Much prefer Sony!!
10. Would prefer to pick up, but willing to order
11. We have a lot of light. Room is rectangular with TV on shorter wall. Triple sliding 8foot doors to the right of television(with blinds) Room is very bright even with blinds drawn. 14 foot cathedral ceilings in room.
12. No front projection - ceiling too tall for mounting.
13. no aesthetic requirements
14. Maybe through Dell
15. Movies and Sports (GATOR football!)
16 DIY!!!
17. Wall mount not necessary at this time.
18. Really like the Sony Bravia LCD and Sony Rear projection

[helix139]

1. Budget - $3000 - $4000 ($3000 for just TV)
2. sound - rate about 5 - 6
3. discount club - Sam's
4. Do not need or plan to wall mount at this time
4.4 No size restrictions
5. view distance - @ 14 feet
6. as computer monitor - not necessary, but might be nice
7. no gaming
8. picture quality more important than size (2 - 3) although Gator football games are a priority!!
9. Much prefer Sony!!
10. Would prefer to pick up, but willing to order
11. We have a lot of light. Room is rectangular with TV on shorter wall. Triple sliding 8foot doors to the right of television(with blinds) Room is very bright even with blinds drawn. 14 foot cathedral ceilings in room.
12. No front projection - ceiling too tall for mounting.
13. no aesthetic requirements
14. Maybe through Dell
15. Movies and Sports (GATOR football!)
16 DIY!!!
17. Wall mount not necessary at this time.
18. Really like the Sony Bravia LCD and Sony Rear projection

If you can find a big Sony SXRD, you can get great bang for your buck. Other than that, look at Samsung LCD rear projections around 50" and up or a big LCD or Pioneer or Panasonic plasma 50" and up. I know you are a fan of Sony, but honestly I think you can get just as good a picture with a Panasonic plasma (with antiglare coating), Samsung LCD, Sharp LCD, Philips LCD, or LG LCD and you'll avoid paying a premium for the Sony name. My personal choice would be the SXRD or the Panasonic Plasma. There are plenty to be found in your price range. At that size, you're going to want to get a 1080p set, and you should have plenty of options with your budget. Here are a couple to get you started.:

http://www.bestbuyplasma.com/product-panasonic-th-50pz77u-50inch-1080p-plasma-hdtv.html

http://www.bestbuyplasma.com/product-samsung-ln52a650-52inch-1080p-lcd-hdtv.html

http://www.bestbuyplasma.com/product-sharp-aquos-lc52d82u-52inch-1080p-lcd-hdtv.html

http://www.bestbuyplasma.com/product-sony-bravia-kdl-52w4100-52inch-1080p-lcd-hdtv.html

[FrankGator627]

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)? 1,000

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. 3, sorry lawyer

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.) Costco's

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? NO

4. Any restrictions on size? NO

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be? 8-12ft

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor? negative

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)? yes, PS3

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

6, I like bigger but I still want a nice picture

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? No preference

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? prefer store but willing to use trusty online store

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds). not totally sure because I will be moving into a new apt

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? Maybe

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? Black

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? No

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? Sports,movies on DVD, PS3 games

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? Install myself

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? I dont need the pivot

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?

No fireplace. One bedroom Apt.

[helix139]

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)? 1,000

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality. 3, sorry lawyer

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.) Costco's

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? NO

4. Any restrictions on size? NO

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be? 8-12ft

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor? negative

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)? yes, PS3

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

6, I like bigger but I still want a nice picture

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike? No preference

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online? prefer store but willing to use trusty online store

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds). not totally sure because I will be moving into a new apt

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection? Maybe

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of? Black

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors? No

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)? Sports,movies on DVD, PS3 games

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type? Install myself

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle? I dont need the pivot

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?

No fireplace. One bedroom Apt.

Frank,

coming from someone who has had a wall-mounted flat panel in an apartment, get moved in and get an idea of your layout before you buy. You'll get a better idea of any quirks you may have.

That said, is this for the bedroom or living area? If living area, would rear projection be an option? I think that would be the best bang for your buck given your budget. Otherwise, you'll need a 40-50" TV from one of the major retailers. Your budget will limit you somewhat. If you can scrape together another $100-200 you'll find that some of those fantastic Panasonic plasmas will fall into your reach. If you can scrape together another $300, you definitely will want to look into the thread below, as at this price, a 50" 1080p Panasonic plasma is a steal. Heck, buy 2 and sell one on ebay and you'll easily make up the difference.

http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&t=829223

Otherwise, there are several 720p sets that run around a grand or under that you can find. Anything from Samsung, Sharp, Sony, Philips, or LG should be fine. There are great deals to be found on bestbuyplasma.com, and I would encourage you to see what your local costco has in stock in that size.

[capecodgator]

We finally pulled the trigger and purchased a 46" Samsung 1080 LCD HDTV (LN46A550) - the sound system questions will be forthcoming. I do have some questions about the setup. We are having Direct TV hooked up with the HD DVR service, plus we have a DVD/VCR combo, and I have both a PS2 and a Wii.
I know (think?) that the Direct TV will use HDMI cables, but what about the DVD/VCR and the gaming systems? Does it matter with gaming systems, especially the older PS2? And knowing that there will be a sound system in the future, do I need to leave an HDMI port available for that?
Thanks in advance.

[FrankGator627]

My Dad has owned 2 rear projection TVs. I love them. Two of the best pictures I have seen.... what do you suggest ?

[helix139]

We finally pulled the trigger and purchased a 46" Samsung 1080 LCD HDTV (LN46A550) - the sound system questions will be forthcoming. I do have some questions about the setup. We are having Direct TV hooked up with the HD DVR service, plus we have a DVD/VCR combo, and I have both a PS2 and a Wii.
I know (think?) that the Direct TV will use HDMI cables, but what about the DVD/VCR and the gaming systems? Does it matter with gaming systems, especially the older PS2? And knowing that there will be a sound system in the future, do I need to leave an HDMI port available for that?
Thanks in advance.

with a PS2, Wii, or standard DVD player, use component cables and 480p wherever possible. If not possible with the VCR, use S-video. Don't worry about leaving an HDMI port open for surround sound. When you get your surround system, everything will run through the receiver, opening up HDMI ports on your TV.

[helix139]

My Dad has owned 2 rear projection TVs. I love them. Two of the best pictures I have seen.... what do you suggest ?

Sony SXRD or Samsung LED projection are probably the top two.

[FrankGator627]

Sony SXRD or Samsung LED projection are probably the top two.

I checked those two out. The Samsung can be had for 999.99 at 56" while the Sony can be had for 1200 at 50". Which of the two would you go for based on what I provided above? The 6 extra inches seem nice and they come at 200 less. But, Sony (in my mind, no idea if it is justifiable or not) seems like the better product. I'd like to hear your opinion. Is it worth it or are they about the same TV?

Which one will last longer?

Which TV has the better quality?

etc.

[helix139]

I checked those two out. The Samsung can be had for 999.99 at 56" while the Sony can be had for 1200 at 50". Which of the two would you go for based on what I provided above? The 6 extra inches seem nice and they come at 200 less. But, Sony (in my mind, no idea if it is justifiable or not) seems like the better product. I'd like to hear your opinion. Is it worth it or are they about the same TV?

Which one will last longer?

Which TV has the better quality?

etc.

Go for the Samsung. I believe that the LED bulbs in the Samsung will not need replacing nearly as often (if ever) as the bulb in the Sony. Sony rates their SXRD bulbs at 5000-8000 hours, and from what I've read a lot of people are not getting that. I've seen reports of 20,000 hours without brightness degredation on the Samsungs, which is pretty amazing. The picture will be equivalent, if not better with the Samsung, as LEDs are naturally a brighter, cleaner source of light. Turn on time is supposed to be shorter also. I would NOT say the Sony is a better product, but an equivalent one in terms of picture quality.

[FrankGator627]

So, I was checking those two out again and I find in the description that the Samsung is refurbished and the Sony is used. I'm not against refurbished but I would rather buy something like this for brand new or get the ext. 2 year warranty but then it becomes a 1299 TV...

What do you think of this TV that is offered at Costco?

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11285621&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US

[helix139]

So, I was checking those two out again and I find in the description that the Samsung is refurbished and the Sony is used. I'm not against refurbished but I would rather buy something like this for brand new or get the ext. 2 year warranty but then it becomes a 1299 TV...

What do you think of this TV that is offered at Costco?

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11285621&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US

That is this year's equivalent of my TV, with some enhancements. I can highly recommend it, and it's a great buy too.

[GatorGamer]

uflawyer will give me hell for recommending TVs that take up so much of your budget, but you indicated your $1300 is for a TV and not a sound system also, so I'll steer you toward the best ones for your situation.


helix--

i'm about to make my purchase and i re-read your post and noticed this comment. what TV would you recommend in the 40-42 inch range that doesn't take up so much of my budget?

thanks,
~gamer

[uflawyer]

I am going to have to have a Byte party at my house so you guys can hear what you are missing. I get so much more pleasure out of my surround system than my 165in TV.

You can get a 1/2 decent sound system for about $1,800. Spend $3K and people will go oooohhhhhhhh. Spend $5K and women will remove their clothes experiencing such splendor. I spent more than $5K and I now have three kids :ninja:

[helix139]

helix--

i'm about to make my purchase and i re-read your post and noticed this comment. what TV would you recommend in the 40-42 inch range that doesn't take up so much of my budget?

thanks,
~gamer

You're looking at around a grand or more for an appropriately sized TV. If you can't afford to do that and a surround system now, buy the TV, then receiver, and front surrounds. Later, add the sub, center channel, and rear surrounds.

[penleydr]

helix--

i'm about to make my purchase and i re-read your post and noticed this comment. what TV would you recommend in the 40-42 inch range that doesn't take up so much of my budget?

thanks,
~gamer

Tiger Direct had a 47" 1080p Olevia for $1099 last week. Don't know if it's still up, but that's heck of a deal. It's got a detachable speaker too, which makes it look a lot more sleek. I should know, I have a 32" Olevia with that ugly bottom speaker but it doesn't come off. It's just a BR tv though, so it's not so bad.

If you can't go any bigger than a 42" look a tthe Westinghouse models. I've got a 42" 1080p in the living room that looks awesome (slight banding, but not nothing awful). I got it at BB for $979 and that was probably 9 months ago.

The LGs are coming down in price too. Every once in a while you can find a 42" for around $1000.

[helix139]

Tiger Direct had a 47" 1080p Olevia for $1099 last week. Don't know if it's still up, but that's heck of a deal. It's got a detachable speaker too, which makes it look a lot more sleek. I should know, I have a 32" Olevia with that ugly bottom speaker but it doesn't come off. It's just a BR tv though, so it's not so bad.

If you can't go any bigger than a 42" look a tthe Westinghouse models. I've got a 42" 1080p in the living room that looks awesome (slight banding, but not nothing awful). I got it at BB for $979 and that was probably 9 months ago.

The LGs are coming down in price too. Every once in a while you can find a 42" for around $1000.

Olevias are among the best of the budget brands. They offer fairly good image quality. I would NOT buy one of those Westinghouse TV's though. Their contrast ratio is absolutely terrible and their colors look washed out.

I would seriously consider the 42" Philips LCD Frank posted earlier in the thread, a page back or so. It is an excellent set and can be had for under $1000. I'd buy it before either the Olevia or the Westy and I consider LG to be about on par with Philips

[hogtowngator]

OK, since there have been several of these questions recently, I decided to make a short questionaire for anyone who needs help deciding on a new TV. Those of us who know TVs end up asking all these questions anyways and it will help us narrow down the choices for you. If anyone has any additional criteria that should be added to the questionaire, let me know and I'll put it in.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?

4. Any restrictions on size?

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?

What an awesome thread idea!! Thanks! Here are my answers and I would love any advice you can give me.

1. $2,500 or less

2. 7

3. No

4. no larger than 55 inches wide, 48 inches tall, or 18 inches deep.

5. 10 feet

6. No

7. No

8. 6

9. Samsung would be preferable but open to ideas

10. Willing to buy online

11. center of the room in a built-in. No real lighting issues but french doors nearby

12. No

13. No

14. No

15. Sports

16. DIY as I think I just need to plug it in to my Direct TV HD receiver and the wall.

17. Flat mount

18. Built-in space

Thanks!!

[helix139]

What an awesome thread idea!! Thanks! Here are my answers and I would love any advice you can give me.

1. $2,500 or less

2. 7

3. No

4. no larger than 55 inches wide, 48 inches tall, or 18 inches deep.

5. 10 feet

6. No

7. No

8. 6

9. Samsung would be preferable but open to ideas

10. Willing to buy online

11. center of the room in a built-in. No real lighting issues but french doors nearby

12. No

13. No

14. No

15. Sports

16. DIY as I think I just need to plug it in to my Direct TV HD receiver and the wall.

17. Flat mount

18. Built-in space

Thanks!!

Given your requirements, you only need a 40-42 inch 720p flat panel. Luckily Samsung makes plenty of these. Walmart has some excellent deals on Samsungs, so definitely check your local store. Additionally, check out the 42" Philips that Frankgator627 posted a page or so back. i believe that particular set to offer tremendous bang for the buck and comparable quality to Samsung's LCD. You may want to look at a 120hz or LED backlit display since your budget allows, as they can offer enhanced image quality. If you don't mind plasma, check out Panasonic's latest, as they are absolutely fantastic quality and there is no reason you shouldn't consider one. I could list a few specific sets, but honestly with your budget all you really need is to narrow it down as far as size goes and then to simply go look at some sets and decide what looks best to you. When you do this, make sure to view a variety of your viewing content and go on avsforums.com to get some image adjustment settings for specific sets. This is crucial as TVs in the store are designed to look bright, flashy, and catch the eye, not necessarily providing the optimal image quality. Once you've got a TV in mind, then compare prices online.

I'll let uflawyer chime in on surround sound, but you can sink around a grand into your TV and build or start building your home theater with the rest, depending on your desires.

[uflawyer]

Tell me what a/v equipment you already own. Generally for about $1500 I point you to a pretty decent 5.1 system (Speakers & A/V receiver) Also, I if you go with a 720p/1080i TV you do not need to go with Blue Ray DVD, but instead purchase a decent player that up converts the signal. If you want speakers, receiver and DVD player for $1500 you are going to have to settle a bit on quality (if you have never experienced really good sound than you would not even know)

[hogtowngator]

Thanks helix! I really appreciate it!

Regarding the sound, I'll be back to you. I need to figure out what I can/cannot do.

Thanks!

[Ericgraves]

OK, since there have been several of these questions recently, I decided to make a short questionaire for anyone who needs help deciding on a new TV. Those of us who know TVs end up asking all these questions anyways and it will help us narrow down the choices for you. If anyone has any additional criteria that should be added to the questionaire, let me know and I'll put it in.

1. What is your total home theater budget (TV and surround system)?

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you value sound as compared to your TV? 1 is you don't care at all about sound, you just want a TV, and 10 is you HAVE to have the best surround sound, even if it may cut back on your TV size and quality.

3. Do you have any specific discount club memberships? (i.e. Sam's, Costco, etc.)

4. Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection?

4. Any restrictions on size?

5. What is your typical viewing distance going to be?

6. Do you plan to use it as a computer monitor?

7. Do you plan to game on it? if so, what system(s)?

8. On a scale of (1) to (10), rate which is more important to you within your size restrictions, picture quality, or size? (1) being quality is most important (i.e. you are willing to sacrifice a few inches for the best picture possible as long as it meets your minimum needed size ), and (10) being size is most important (i.e. picture quality is not important at all if you can get the biggest screen possible).

9. Are there any brands you definitely prefer? Are there any you definitely dislike?

10. Do you have to buy your TV in a brick and mortar store (i.e. Best Buy) or would you be willing to buy it online?

11. What is the layout of your room, and where will your TV be situated? be sure to disclose any windows, lamps, or other ambient light sources that you would not be willing to cover with curtains (NOT blinds).

12. Do you have an available wall that is 60" or larger and are you willing to consider front projection?

13. Any aesthetic requirements we should be aware of?

14. Do you have any discounts with any retailers or vendors?

15. What is your typical viewing content? (dramas, sports, action, etc.)?

16. Are you planning on a professional installation, or are you the DIY type?

17. If you get a flat panel, will you want to wall mount it and will you want a stationary mount or something that pulls out from the wall and pivots your TV to an angle?

18. Anything else we should be aware of (i.e. mounting over fireplace, etc.)?

1.) Willing to spend around 4k, need both tv and surround sound.

2.) 3

3.) SAMs and Costco (prefer SAMs though)

4.) Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? No

4.) Any Restriction on size? No

5.) 10-15 feet

6.) No

7.) 360, wii, maybe ps 3

8.) 4

9.) Don't care, as long as they don't use shady parts to make a cheaper tv.

10.) Don't care as long as they don't stick me on shipping.

11.) Positioned right next to the outside door, thinking about getting curtains for that though.
............________
........... |....tv......|
_______|.............|
......................... |
.......................... \ Patio
.......................... / Door
...............couch...|
_______________|


12.) No

13.) Nope

14.) No

15.) Sports, Video Games, Movies, TV Dramas (namely Heroes)

16.) DIY

17.) Stationary Mount

18.) Nope, thanks for the help.

[GatorGamer]

Olevias are among the best of the budget brands. They offer fairly good image quality. I would NOT buy one of those Westinghouse TV's though. Their contrast ratio is absolutely terrible and their colors look washed out.

I would seriously consider the 42" Philips LCD Frank posted earlier in the thread, a page back or so. It is an excellent set and can be had for under $1000. I'd buy it before either the Olevia or the Westy and I consider LG to be about on par with Philips

I don't think that TV frank posted about it still available at COSTCO. What's your opinion on this one?

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11288678&whse=BC&Ne=5000002+4000000&eCat=BC|79|2341|3316&N=4001382%204294908733&Mo=12&pos=1&No=0&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&ec=BC-EC10605-Cat2341&topnav=

[helix139]

I don't think that TV frank posted about it still available at COSTCO. What's your opinion on this one?

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11288678&whse=BC&Ne=5000002+4000000&eCat=BC|79|2341|3316&N=4001382%204294908733&Mo=12&pos=1&No=0&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&ec=BC-EC10605-Cat2341&topnav=

Not bad but...

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_05775508000P?sid=I008440001000010038 3&aff=Y

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_05771067000P?sid=I008440001000010040 1&aff=Y&sid=I0084400010000100383&aff=Y

Both have free in store pickup. Additionally, there is a spectacular deal coming up on a 47" 120hz 1080p Philips at Costco...see thread here (http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&t=829272)

[helix139]

1.) Willing to spend around 4k, need both tv and surround sound.

2.) 3

3.) SAMs and Costco (prefer SAMs though)

4.) Do you need to wall mount it or have other reasons you would only consider flat panel and not rear projection or front projection? No

4.) Any Restriction on size? No

5.) 10-15 feet

6.) No

7.) 360, wii, maybe ps 3

8.) 4

9.) Don't care, as long as they don't use shady parts to make a cheaper tv.

10.) Don't care as long as they don't stick me on shipping.

11.) Positioned right next to the outside door, thinking about getting curtains for that though.
............________
........... |....tv......|
_______|.............|
......................... |
.......................... \ Patio
.......................... / Door
...............couch...|
_______________|


12.) No

13.) Nope

14.) No

15.) Sports, Video Games, Movies, TV Dramas (namely Heroes)

16.) DIY

17.) Stationary Mount

18.) Nope, thanks for the help.

Go for a 46-52" TV from one of the major brands. I'd suggest a 50" 1080p Panasonic Plasma. With your budget you can easily afford that (Best Buy has the TH-50PZ80U on sale for $1799 right now) and a good home theater system. If you would prefer to go LCD, go for a 120hz 46"+ 1080p LCD from Samsung, Sony, Sharp, LG, or Philips. Costco will have 52" 120hz Philips for $1799 referenced here (http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&t=829272) Either way you really can't go wrong.

Your turn uflawyer :joecool:

[FrankGator627]

I'm using the Summer Savings coupons at Costco to get a TV and new Dell Laptop. They have the Dell laptops at $400 dollars off with coupon.

[Ericgraves]

Go for a 46-52" TV from one of the major brands. I'd suggest a 50" 1080p Panasonic Plasma. With your budget you can easily afford that (Best Buy has the TH-50PZ80U on sale for $1799 right now) and a good home theater system. If you would prefer to go LCD, go for a 120hz 46"+ 1080p LCD from Samsung, Sony, Sharp, LG, or Philips. Costco will have 52" 120hz Philips for $1799 referenced here (http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&t=829272) Either way you really can't go wrong.

Your turn uflawyer :joecool:

Thanks a lot!
I would rep you but it says I need to spread to love around.

I don't know of a costco near gainesville so I will probably buy and have a tv shipped there. Right now, based on your suggestions I am looking at a few tvs. Toshiba has caught my eye with

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11291565&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|79|2341|3316|74672&N=4018657&Mo=10&No=1&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=74672&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&hierPath=79*2341*3316*74672*&topnav=

(toshiba 52 inch 120 Hz, 1080 p LCD. 2k)

Toshiba makes pretty good semi-conductors so I figure there tvs can't be that bad. But still the phillips you mentioned sounded really nice. But I can continue waiting for another 2 months to buy it, so I can wait on the deals.

Then also from costco
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11287131&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|93|77207|30479|30229&N=4031857&Mo=7&pos=1&No=4&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=30229&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&ec=BC-EC10580-Cat30479&topnav=

A nice new couch for about 2k.

Now I am looking at a good surround sound system for about 1k. Maybe more.


Again thanks for the help!

[helix139]

Thanks a lot!
I would rep you but it says I need to spread to love around.

I don't know of a costco near gainesville so I will probably buy and have a tv shipped there. Right now, based on your suggestions I am looking at a few tvs. Toshiba has caught my eye with

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11291565&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|79|2341|3316|74672&N=4018657&Mo=10&No=1&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=74672&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&hierPath=79*2341*3316*74672*&topnav=

(toshiba 52 inch 120 Hz, 1080 p LCD. 2k)

Toshiba makes pretty good semi-conductors so I figure there tvs can't be that bad. But still the phillips you mentioned sounded really nice. But I can continue waiting for another 2 months to buy it, so I can wait on the deals.

Then also from costco
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11287131&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|93|77207|30479|30229&N=4031857&Mo=7&pos=1&No=4&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=30229&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&ec=BC-EC10580-Cat30479&topnav=

A nice new couch for about 2k.

Now I am looking at a good surround sound system for about 1k. Maybe more.


Again thanks for the help!

I don't know if this is still the case, but when I bought my TV a year ago, I was looking at Toshiba and stayed away from them because their picture wasn't nearly as good as other TVs in their price range and I also read about some specific issues with being unable to accept a 1080p input over VGA (I think they were limited to 1024x768 stretched). I would definitely find somewhere to see it in action before you buy it and check AVSForums for any issues. Also, take a look at that Panasonic Plasma at Best Buy. IMO, Panasonic plasmas are second only to Pioneer in picture quality while costing a heck of a lot less and having double the rated lifespan (Not really a factor with either but nice to know nonetheless).

[gtr2x]

Well, it being father's day I am thinking about buying a new bedroom tv. It won't get a lot of use and actually my wife will be the primary user, but I would still like to get a quality tv.

Samsung LN32a330 on sale at Brandsmart for $648. Seems like a good deal to me, but anybody see any negatives to this tv or price? Thanks for the input.

[LeafUF]

Well, it being father's day I am thinking about buying a new bedroom tv. It won't get a lot of use and actually my wife will be the primary user, but I would still like to get a quality tv.

Samsung LN32a330 on sale at Brandsmart for $648. Seems like a good deal to me, but anybody see any negatives to this tv or price? Thanks for the input.

looks like a good tv and a good price. my roommate has the 42".

[gtr2x]

Thanks, quick response here. I like it.

[GatorGamer]

what do ya'll think about the Panasonic TH-42PZ80U 42" High-def 1080p Plasma TV?

[duvalg8r]

Good evening, fellow Gators -

I'm finally limping into the new millenium and am buying my first HDTV. I've got it narrowed down to a 40" Sony and a 42" Samsung, but I have a couple of basic questions that I've heard and read conflicting info about.

Let me preface this by saying I'm not a gamer, don't have a Wii, and don't have a home theatre system. I'm just looking to replace a 1995 Sony Trinitron (that I bought just before the UF/FSU game, incidentally). Here are the questions:

First, does an HDMI cable really make that much of a difference? I can get one cheaper from Brighthouse than Circuit City, but don't want to spend money I don't have to (if that's the case)

Second, is there really that big of a difference in watching sports on a set with a 60Hz frame rate vs. 120Hz frame rate? I'm primarily watching sports when I watch TV, but it basically tacks $500 or so onto a comparably sized set by having the 120Hz frame rate.

Thanks in advance for any comments, suggestions, and feedback - Go Gators!

[Ericgraves]

Second, is there really that big of a difference in watching sports on a set with a 60Hz frame rate vs. 120Hz frame rate? I'm primarily watching sports when I watch TV, but it basically tacks $500 or so onto a comparably sized set by having the 120Hz frame rate.

Thanks in advance for any comments, suggestions, and feedback - Go Gators!



120 Hz information (http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-6449_7-6792632-1.html)

[LeafUF]

Good evening, fellow Gators -

I'm finally limping into the new millenium and am buying my first HDTV. I've got it narrowed down to a 40" Sony and a 42" Samsung, but I have a couple of basic questions that I've heard and read conflicting info about.

First, does an HDMI cable really make that much of a difference? I can get one cheaper from Brighthouse than Circuit City, but don't want to spend money I don't have to (if that's the case)

Thanks in advance for any comments, suggestions, and feedback - Go Gators!

I am a Sony fan but you cant really go wrong with either brand. Are you looking at lcd?

As for hdmi cables you definitely will want a tv with hdmi inputs but dont spend premium on the cables themselves. Order online for $5 and you will get the same quality pictures as the more expensive ones.

[helix139]

what do ya'll think about the Panasonic TH-42PZ80U 42" High-def 1080p Plasma TV?

That is an excellent set. You can't do much better

[duvalg8r]

Yes, I'm looking at LCD sets in both.

Thanks for the responses ~ I'm looking forward to finally getting to watch my Gators in HD!

[helix139]

Good evening, fellow Gators -

I'm finally limping into the new millenium and am buying my first HDTV. I've got it narrowed down to a 40" Sony and a 42" Samsung, but I have a couple of basic questions that I've heard and read conflicting info about.

Let me preface this by saying I'm not a gamer, don't have a Wii, and don't have a home theatre system. I'm just looking to replace a 1995 Sony Trinitron (that I bought just before the UF/FSU game, incidentally). Here are the questions:

First, does an HDMI cable really make that much of a difference? I can get one cheaper from Brighthouse than Circuit City, but don't want to spend money I don't have to (if that's the case)

Second, is there really that big of a difference in watching sports on a set with a 60Hz frame rate vs. 120Hz frame rate? I'm primarily watching sports when I watch TV, but it basically tacks $500 or so onto a comparably sized set by having the 120Hz frame rate.

Thanks in advance for any comments, suggestions, and feedback - Go Gators!

The main thing 120hz does is enable you to watch 1080/24p movies. Unless you're getting a Blu-Ray player it isn't really necessary. For HDMI cables, you can find them online very cheap. The signal is digital so it doesn't really matter how high a grade the cable is. The signal either gets there or it doesn't.

[Aardvark]

I'm getting the following but I need suggestions for speakers(and any other suggestions would be most appreciated as well):


Samsung LN52A750 52" 1080p LCD HDTV

Yamaha RX-V663BL receiver

Panasonic DMPBD30K BLU-RAY Disc player

Toshiba HDA3 Upconversion DVD/HD-DVD Player

4X1 HDMI Switch w/Deep Color Support - 1440p Rated

Sirius Sportster 5 Dock + Play Radio with Homekit



:joecool: Thanks...

[helix139]

I bought this TV before the Super Bowl because I can't get over-the-air TV stations with my DirectTV and this let me get FOX HD. I rarely watch FOX or the 3 networks except for sports so I have been using this TV as my computer monitor ever since.

As a monitor it is freaking incredible! 32" and a bright screen! I am waaaay too spoiled, lol. Every time the Cetlics were on vs. the Lakers I put the game on this TV and used my older Dell 21" flat screen monitor as i watched the game and I felt as if I could barely see anything. And that was a $1,600 monitor!

The only reason I haven't upgraded DirectTV yet to the HD package is that I'll have to give up my monitor, lol. I just tell my wife & son I don't want to pay the extra $10 a month for HD but they don't buy it, lol.

I have two 21" monitors that cost me $3,000 combined and this sub $600 TV BLOWS THEM AWAY. When I finally do switch this to a full-time TV I am going to buy an HD TV to use as a monitor.

Anyone wanna buy a used top of the line monitor, lol?

The only thing about that is that computer monitors are higher resolution than HDTV's, especially when you get into that size. For word processing, email, or other text-heavy tasks, the dedicated monitor will be better.

[helix139]

Are you talking screen resolution? I'm running 1280 x 720 and it is fantastic. I do a lot of photo & graphics work and this blows away the top of the line monitors in EVERY way - for text or graphics. There is no comparison. Everything is much crisper. This TV was designed to be used as a monitor also as it has the plug for the monitor and an RGB setting for use as a monitor. What you are saying might be true of some brands of HD Tvs. I don't know. But it absolutely is not the case with this one.

What you are saying has always been the case for regular TVs. I know that well. I have connected computers to regular TVs before and that is okay for playing games (which is what I did it for - so my son could play games without tying up one of my monitors) but forget about text (or graphics work if you care about the results). They are completely different animals.

I was under the impression that all HDTVs, being designed for digital signals, were automatically good as monitors but you might be right and perhaps my brand is one of the only ones that work perfectly as a computer monitor. But, believe me, it does. My life is spent on the computer. I am on 14 hours a day doing graphics work and Web design. I know when an HDTV beats a dedicated monitor and this one does - hands down.

I'm not saying it won't work, and do a decent job, but there is a reason dedicated monitors of that size are much higher resolution. As you said, you do a lot of multimedia. For that it is fine. Most flat panel TVs do extremely well as monitors, but dedicated monitors usually do better, mainly due to the higher pixel count and the fact that you usually sit a lot closer to them. I should know...I run a 42" 1080p LCD as my secondary monitor. I've used a 26" 720p panel as a monitor also. They do some things amazingly well, but my 19" monitor does some things better.

[Aardvark]

thanks