TVs: Flat Panel? LCD? Plasma? HDTV? What's the deal?

[Ben E Lou]

So we're 4 weeks away from moving into our brand-new home, and we've decided to make a room configuration change, one that sets us up to justify the purchase of a new television for the den. There's a recessed space for the TV that's just a hair over 40" by 40". I'd like to spend $1,200 or less, but am in a position to go over that amount if it's worth it, but certainly wouldn't be upset to spend much less than that. I haven't followed the newer technology AT ALL, so I don't know what I'm looking to get. A few questions:


Since I have a recessed space for the TV, is there a reason to spend what I presume will be more money for a flat screen of some sort?
It sounds like most stuff isn't broadcast in HDTV yet. Is it projected to be the norm in the not-too-distant future, meaning I should probably get a TV that is HDTV-ready (or whatever the term is)?
Am I correct in assuming that pretty much any new TV these days is going to have the proper output for surround sound?
It's not going to be in a huge room (roughly 18' by 18'), but it would be nice to be able to see it well from the kitchen, which overlooks the den. Our current 27-inch TV is ok (not great) for that purpose in our current floor plan, which has a den and kitchen of slightly smaller size. Is there a compelling reason to go with anything larger than 30 inches or so?
I've heard some talk that the nicer-resolution TVs don't really make a big difference until you get into the larger sizes. (I assume I'm looking at what would be considered a medium-sized TV these days.) Is it even worth getting something that's HDTV-enabled at this size?
Any other thoughts, words of wisdom?Thanks in advance for any advice.

--Ben

[lordscarlet]

First, I have a Samsung 46" DLP and I absolutely love it.




Since I have a recessed space for the TV, is there a reason to spend what I presume will be more money for a flat screen of some sort?

IMO, no. The only reason for Plasmas and LCDs are because of limited space (such as hanging on walls). The DLP has a better picture, better lifetime, no burn-in and simpler repair.



It sounds like most stuff isn't broadcast in HDTV yet. Is it projected to be the norm in the not-too-distant future, meaning I should probably get a TV that is HDTV-ready (or whatever the term is)?

Depends on what you mean by "most stuff". I have around 30-40 programs with "season passes" on my tivo. I believe 3 of them are not in HD. All prime time programming on the 4 networks is in HD (well, a few things like The Simpsons and Survivor are not). ESPN is in HD. HBO and Showtime are in HD. The off-shoot cable networks are mostly not in HD, but DirecTV is claiming 100 channels within the year.



It's not going to be in a huge room (roughly 18' by 18'), but it would be nice to be able to see it well from the kitchen, which overlooks the den. Our current 27-inch TV is ok (not great) for that purpose in our current floor plan, which has a den and kitchen of slightly smaller size. Is there a compelling reason to go with anything larger than 30 inches or so?

my living room is about 14' wide and I think my 46" is the perfect size.

[Edward64]

Since I have a recessed space for the TV, is there a reason to spend what I presume will be more money for a flat screen of some sort?
I have a 42 inch plasma, not sure about the others ... my flat screen TV in HD channels/dvd is fantastic.

It sounds like most stuff isn't broadcast in HDTV yet. Is it projected to be the norm in the not-too-distant future, meaning I should probably get a TV that is HDTV-ready (or whatever the term is)?
I have Comcast and we get the regular ABC/NBC/CBS/ESPN/Discovery etc in HD (they are the higher 200-280 channels). Not all channels have an HD equivalent but there is alot ... yes, you should get HDTV tuner already embeded.

Am I correct in assuming that pretty much any new TV these days is going to have the proper output for surround sound?
Don't know.

It's not going to be in a huge room (roughly 18' by 18'), but it would be nice to be able to see it well from the kitchen, which overlooks the den. Our current 27-inch TV is ok (not great) for that purpose in our current floor plan, which has a den and kitchen of slightly smaller size. Is there a compelling reason to go with anything larger than 30 inches or so?
I think I read in Consumer Reports that one of the biggest regrets people have is not buying a large enough HDTV. My wife and I considered a 32 plasma/lcd but finally decided on a 42 inch (got a great deal on Black Friday).


I've heard some talk that the nicer-resolution TVs don't really make a big difference until you get into the larger sizes. (I assume I'm looking at what would be considered a medium-sized TV these days.) Is it even worth getting something that's HDTV-enabled at this size?
I agree with this. My 42 inch is 720 (vs 1080 or is it 1024?). My 720 is very nice ... I think coming from a regular TV to a HDTV, you will be satisfied. The premium is significant on the next level up.

Any other thoughts, words of wisdom?
No regrets at all, go for it. You should be able to get a 32 inch easily below $800, maybe a 42 inch < $1500 nowadays. My 42 inch was $950, we passed on the extended warranty since I bought it on my AMEX (doubled warranty). Also, suggest you consider the 32 inch off brands that are going for $600-$800.

[stevew]

In that price range 1200ish , these are pretty good sets. You may be able to save more by buying online. Really, the really good sets are at 2000ish, give or a take a few hundred.

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&pid=05754606000&cat=Televisions&subcat=Projection+TVs&vertical=ELEC&ihtoken=1

46" LCD Projection. 1299. Will push the limits of your space probably.

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Televisions&pid=05771036000&vertical=ELEC&subcat=Plasma+%26+LCD+TVs&BV_SessionID=@@@@0670385088.1172545540@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccdiaddkfejidekcefecemldffidfmg.0

40" LCD Samsung

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Televisions&pid=05775046000&vertical=ELEC&subcat=Plasma+%26+LCD+TVs&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes

42" Samsung plasma.....pricematch this bad boy down to 1299 using circuit city's price, and you'll get it for 1250 at sears.

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&pid=05746676000&cat=Televisions&subcat=HDTVs&vertical=ELEC&ihtoken=1

34" sony Tube TV, 949. Cons, weighs about 200 pounds. Pros, arguably the best TV picture wise out there.

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&pid=05742056000&cat=Televisions&subcat=HDTVs&vertical=ELEC&ihtoken=1

Samsung slimfit 30" HDTV. Good TV for the price, but very small.

I'll only recommend models that I see, but there are probably others out there in that range that are good as well. All bulb type sets(DLP and LCD/SXRD projection) require new bulbs every 2-3 years, and run from 150-250.

I would avoid the warranty on most plasmas or LCD's(maybe pick up a 3rd party one for cheapeR), but consider it for the projection sets, especially if you watch a lot of TV. Bulb replacement is costly, and some of the plans if you're getting unlimited bulb replacements, can actually be worthwhile. On that 46" sony, it's 319 for 5 years, probably cheaper than the 2 bulbs(400ish) you will buy in that time, plus home service if the set craps out.

[Vinatieri for Prez]

When deciding between flat panel and DLP, also think about the future. While you may have plenty of space for a DLP now, if you may be moving in the near future, then you may want to consider the flat panel to maximize your viewing options in your new home. Just a thought.

Oh, yeah, and always buy as big as you can afford and that will fit in the room properly.

[14ers]

And, don't forget that all sports are now broadcast in HD. Even the local channel that broadcasts regional games are available in HD.


* IF you live above 2,500 feet do not buy a Plasma TV. You must either buy a traditional set or an LCD. Glass Plasmas do not work well in altitude because of the pressure.


I prefer LCDs because I am over 2,500 feet and my house is full of windows. Unlike their CRT and Plasma TVs they can be placed in areas that have direct sunlight with no reflections. The Sharp Aquos line even offers an additional black coating on their TVs. I have used my smaller Aquos outside on the deck and it still looked great.

[ausonny]

To answer your question about surround sound, the answer is no, most tv's will not have true surround sound built in. You'll need an av reciever for that.

The TV will probably have something it calls surround, but it is no substitute for the real thing.

[Daimyo]

You can pick up a decent 32" 720p LCD for ~$700. That price won't get the best quality, but it will still look great with a HD signal and save you $500.

[Ben E Lou]

To answer your question about surround sound, the answer is no, most tv's will not have true surround sound built in. You'll need an av reciever for that.

The TV will probably have something it calls surround, but it is no substitute for the real thing.
That wasn't the question. I'm asking would it have *outputs* for it. We had surround speakers built into the house, and already have a receiver for it.

[Ben E Lou]

And, don't forget that all sports are now broadcast in HD. Even the local channel that broadcasts regional games are available in HD.Forget? I didn't know that. Do I have to subscribe to the HDTV channels, or is it broadcast in the regular feed?


* IF you live above 2,500 feet do not buy a Plasma TV. You must either buy a traditional set or an LCD. Glass Plasmas do not work well in altitude because of the pressure.Not exactly an issue in the Lowcountry. I'm not sure I live above 25 feet.


I prefer LCDs because I am over 2,500 feet and my house is full of windows. Unlike their CRT and Plasma TVs they can be placed in areas that have direct sunlight with no reflections. The Sharp Aquos line even offers an additional black coating on their TVs. I have used my smaller Aquos outside on the deck and it still looked great.Our den has a high ceiling with transom windows, to boot. However, it only gets the morning sun, a time when our TV is very rarely used.

[Ben E Lou]

IMO, no. The only reason for Plasmas and LCDs are because of limited space (such as hanging on walls). The DLP has a better picture, better lifetime, no burn-in and simpler repair.That's good to know. Thanks!

[Ben E Lou]

When deciding between flat panel and DLP, also think about the future. While you may have plenty of space for a DLP now, if you may be moving in the near future, then you may want to consider the flat panel to maximize your viewing options in your new home. Just a thought.I doubt it. It's a brand new home, and there's not much that we dislike about it, our subdivision, our community, our work situations, etc. I wouldn't be surprised if we are in this house long enough to replace whatever new TV we buy.

Oh, yeah, and always buy as big as you can afford and that will fit in the room properly.Yeah. That's what I figured.


One general question: I've noticed that several have mentioned TVs up to 46". The space is 40" by 40". Are the measurements of TVs still diagonal, even though many are no longer roughly square?

[Vinatieri for Prez]

Are the measurements of TVs still diagonal, even though many are no longer roughly square?

Yes.

[Vinatieri for Prez]

Here's the basic skinny on Plasma v. LCD, after all the research I did a couple of months ago before I bought a 42-inch plasma Toshiba after Christmas.

1. The differences between LCD and Plasma can be overcome by quality of TV (i.e. a higher quality LCD is better than low quality Plasma and vice versa)

2. Generally, Plasma has better contrast and ability to show fast speed (like sports events)

3. LCD is better if you play lots of video games because of screen burn-in for Plasma. However, don't be so afraid about what you hear for burn-in for Plasmas. Unless you are always leaving a DVD menu on overnight or playing video games for 4 hours every day, it usually is not a problem.

4. LCD is better in a bright room, Plasma the choice for darker rooms with less light (because LCD shows no light reflection, and I mean no reflection). Again, though, I have a Plasma in a medium-light room and it is fine.

You really can't go wrong with either. If your high quality picture enthusiast, go with Plasma. If you're not, then go with LCD because it is more functional. Or like I did, there was just a phenomenal price on the Toshiba Plasma that was less than other equivalent Plasmas or LCDs, that I bought it.

Of course, if you go for DLP, then the above is moot.

[lordscarlet]

And, don't forget that all sports are now broadcast in HD. Even the local channel that broadcasts regional games are available in HD.


This is patently untrue. Most local broadcasts for college sports are not in HD (partiuclalry basketball). In addition, as was heavily mentioned on this board during the season, a large portion of CBS football broadcasts are not in HD. I wouldn't be surprised if they're only at about 70%.

SkyDog posted later and I didn't quote it, but... NBC, CBS, FOX, ABC and The CW I pickup OTA and in HD. I could technically do it without my DirecTV service (although I would need a converter, as my TV is only HD Ready) and pay nothing for HD service. I've thought heavily about it, but I love my Tivo and ESPN.

[lordscarlet]

You really can't go wrong with either. If your high quality picture enthusiast, go with Plasma. If you're not, then go with LCD because it is more functional. Or like I did, there was just a phenomenal price on the Toshiba Plasma that was less than other equivalent Plasmas or LCDs, that I bought it.

Of course, if you go for DLP, then the above is moot.

DLP also has no reflection, and everything I've ever read has said that DLP has a better picture as well.

[Vinatieri for Prez]

DLP also has no reflection, and everything I've ever read has said that DLP has a better picture as well.

That could be. I didn't have the space for DLP so didn't even really bother to find out much about or compare to the flat screens.

[Ben E Lou]

That could be. I didn't have the space for DLP so didn't even really bother to find out much about or compare to the flat screens.I haven't measured the depth of our media cabinet, but it's more than big enough for a good ol' tube TV, so that shouldn't be an issue for us.

[Bee]

Rip open that space and put in a 12 ft screen and projector. Real men can measure their screens in feet. :D Plus you'll be able to see it from the kitchen! ;)

Seriously though, definitely go HD. The amount of content is pretty good right now and sports is just amazing in HD. About the only network shows not in HD are the various reality and game shows.

The cable/satellite box will have outputs for your surround sound, so you most likely won't have to go through your tv at all for sound. Just be sure if you get a HDTV, to get a HDTV box. I don't know how many people in my family have run out and bought a HDTV and complain it's not any better than the old tv. When I go check it out, they still have the old set top box hooked up to it. Don't be one of those people. ;)

[lordscarlet]

The cable/satellite box will have outputs for your surround sound, so you most likely won't have to go through your tv at all for sound. Just be sure if you get a HDTV, to get a HDTV box. I don't know how many people in my family have run out and bought a HDTV and complain it's not any better than the old tv. When I go check it out, they still have the old set top box hooked up to it. Don't be one of those people. ;)

I didn't think about this. Also, if you get a "new" receiver you can have all of your video go into it as well. Did the builder provide the receiver?

[Ben E Lou]

RThe cable/satellite box will have outputs for your surround sound, so you most likely won't have to go through your tv at all for sound. Just be sure if you get a HDTV, to get a HDTV box. I don't know how many people in my family have run out and bought a HDTV and complain it's not any better than the old tv. When I go check it out, they still have the old set top box hooked up to it. Don't be one of those people. ;)We'll definitely be getting Direct TV, so I don't have to go to bars to watch half of the Falcons' games any longer. Thanks for the HDTV tip there. :)

[lordscarlet]

We'll definitely be getting Direct TV, so I don't have to go to bars to watch half of the Falcons' games any longer. Thanks for the HDTV tip there. :)

You need to be specific with DirecTV as well. Make sure you get the newest dish that gets HD locals and the upcoming package of HD channels as well as a box (maybe the DVR) that handles it. You may not want all that HD stuff now, but you don't want to pay to have the dish switched out down the road.

[Ben E Lou]

I didn't think about this. Also, if you get a "new" receiver you can have all of your video go into it as well. Did the builder provide the receiver?No, but the receiver I have takes the video stuff. I forgot about the fact that the sound comes from the satellite box and DVD player, so that's a complete non-issue.

[Ben E Lou]

You need to be specific with DirecTV as well. Make sure you get the newest dish that gets HD locals and the upcoming package of HD channels as well as a box (maybe the DVR) that handles it. You may not want all that HD stuff now, but you don't want to pay to have the dish switched out down the road.Good info. Thanks!

[Bee]

This is patently untrue. Most local broadcasts for college sports are not in HD (partiuclalry basketball). In addition, as was heavily mentioned on this board during the season, a large portion of CBS football broadcasts are not in HD. I wouldn't be surprised if they're only at about 70%.

SkyDog posted later and I didn't quote it, but... NBC, CBS, FOX, ABC and The CW I pickup OTA and in HD. I could technically do it without my DirecTV service (although I would need a converter, as my TV is only HD Ready) and pay nothing for HD service. I've thought heavily about it, but I love my Tivo and ESPN.


Yep, but HD sports coverage is improving. I saw this at another forum:

ESPN Dramatically Increases HD Production

In its February 19 issue, Sports Business Journal reports that “In a nod to the growing popularity of its high-definition broadcasts, ESPN plans to produce all game coverage from seven sports entirely in HD this year.

The commitment means that ESPN’s event programming of the NFL, NBA, MLB, NASCAR, MLS, college football and the National Hot Rod Association will be completely in HD this year.

College basketball will not get the 24-7 HD treatment, although its 150 planned HD telecasts — out of 400 games — is the biggest amount of HD games for a single sport on ESPN….”

Also, my understanding of the NFL TV agreement says all NFL games have to be broadcast in HD by 2008. It will be interesting to see if CBS and Fox increase their HD broadcasts this upcoming season.

[lordscarlet]

Yep, but HD sports coverage is improving. I saw this at another forum:



Also, my understanding of the NFL TV agreement says all NFL games have to be broadcast in HD by 2008. It will be interesting to see if CBS and Fox increase their HD broadcasts this upcoming season.

I've never seen a Fox NFL broadcast that wasn't in HD. However, the majority of CBS games I see are not in HD. But that's great to hear!

[Bee]

I think Fox was the only other network that didn't show every game in HD last season. They weren't nearly as bad as CBS though. Fox had maybe 1 game a week not in HD, CBS had 2 or 3 games in SD.

edit: BTW, there is a website that tracks various sports broadcasts and let you know what's in HD and what's not. I have it bookmarked at home, but I think it's something like hdsportsguide.com or something like that. Good source of info for sports fans who have HD.

[John Galt]

Rip open that space and put in a 12 ft screen and projector. Real men can measure their screens in feet. :D Plus you'll be able to see it from the kitchen! ;)


As usual, I second the recommendation of Bee. Projectors are cheaper and create a true home theater experience. I'm in the market to upgrade my old projector and right now is a great time to get a great HD projector for cheap.

[lordscarlet]

As usual, I second the recommendation of Bee. Projectors are cheaper and create a true home theater experience. I'm in the market to upgrade my old projector and right now is a great time to get a great HD projector for cheap.

But is it true that they're not good in high light situations? I have 3 8ft windows that get evening sun straight at my TV.

[John Galt]

But is it true that they're not good in high light situations? I have 3 8ft windows that get evening sun straight at my TV.

You definitely need some light control. If you don't have drapes, it will be a problem. However, a lot of the newer entry-level projectors do quite well with ambient light (which is why I am upgrading). Light control and room setup are necessary for a good projector setup, but if you have them, I don't think there is a better option on the market.

[Joe Canadian]

Can someone explain to be what sets get the best picture? I'm currently looking at either an LCD flat panel, a LCD projection, or a DLP projection. Any benefits or negatives to any of them versus the others?

[lordscarlet]

You definitely need some light control. If you don't have drapes, it will be a problem. However, a lot of the newer entry-level projectors do quite well with ambient light (which is why I am upgrading). Light control and room setup are necessary for a good projector setup, but if you have them, I don't think there is a better option on the market.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/9/12825045_3c4b54e91a.jpg?v=0 (http://flickr.com/photos/lordscarlet/12825045/in/set-235515/)

Can someone explain to be what sets get the best picture? I'm currently looking at either an LCD flat panel, a LCD projection, or a DLP projection. Any benefits or negatives to any of them versus the others?

My understanding has always been that DLP projection is the best of the three. Sony makes a good LCD projection TV, though.

[CU Tiger]

With my company we install both the infastructure (cabling) and hardware for probably a dozen homes per week.
We meet with every homeowner pre-cnstruction and design home theater,distributed audio, built in surround sound set ups etc.

Having saiid that I have been approached and had teh opportunity to become a dealer for every equipment manufacturer on the market and choose to stay unaffiliated.

My advice to everyone,is find what works for you. Yes there are differences, and there are classes. Within a given class if you ask 10 "techies" which of 5 TVs is best you will get a fairly normal distribution. And I am referring to so called experts.

One piece of advice I will strongly give you. Don't jump for what looks best in the store. Often tims manufacturers will offer promos for moving their product in a given month/quarter. One of the deceptive techniques many retailers (yes even big box types) will do is place the promo brands TV next to a competitor that is usually slightly more expensive. Then tedious time is spent tuneing the picture on the promo brand and fuzzying the competition. Go back next month, depending on promo you may see exact opposite results.

PERSONAL opinion. In the 30 and under class I Love the Aquos. I have 3 in my house. I also have a prjector room, but rarely is anything watched there, I'm not a fan. I install amny for customers who LOVE them, but I do not like the color transitions.

Bottom line to me, A good LCD is better than a cheap plasma. A good plasma is better than a cheap LCD. Granted DLP will provide a cheaper option, but I am not fond of the image, maybe its just me but thy appear to have softer lines than a high end LCD.

Having said that if you capped me at under $1500, I would almost exclusively go DLP (assuming I am buying a >30" set)

[stevew]

One piece of advice I will strongly give you. Don't jump for what looks best in the store. Often tims manufacturers will offer promos for moving their product in a given month/quarter. One of the deceptive techniques many retailers (yes even big box types) will do is place the promo brands TV next to a competitor that is usually slightly more expensive. Then tedious time is spent tuneing the picture on the promo brand and fuzzying the competition. Go back next month, depending on promo you may see exact opposite results.



I got some amazing spiffs from Sony around christmas time for a few weeks, too bad the company quickly decided they would take the spiff instead of letting the sales floor get them. I don't know personally about the whole fuzzy'ing thing, but I don't doubt that it exists. We have several models on the floor that pay ZERO commision and there's no chance I would recommend one. If someone wants to buy one bad enough, yeah, I'll sell it. But they fuck up your sales numbers badly.

[Ben E Lou]

Thanks for all the help, guys. We ordered the HP LC3760N (http://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/product_detail.do?product_code=EL515AA%23ABA) just a few minutes ago. It should be delivered longabout Friday. Saturday will be our first night spent in the new home. Perfect!



<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td align="center">HP LC3760N 37-inch High Definition LCD TV</td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center">http://hpshopping.speedera.net/www.shopping.hp.com/shopping/images/products/el515aa_400.jpg</td> </tr> <tr> <td>http://hpshopping.speedera.net/www.shopping.hp.com/shopping/images/redesign/buttons/button_close.gif (javascript:window.close())</td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!-- seeBigger.jsp END -->

[14ers]

My understanding has always been that DLP projection is the best of the three. Sony makes a good LCD projection TV, though.
Who exactly told you this? Were they trying to sell you a DLP at the time?

Generally DLPs are the bottom of the 3. That is , if money is no object. DLPs are generally your cheaper choice, but not your better choice.



My personal list would be.

1) LCDs
2) Plasma
3) Projector in a home theater setting.
4) DLP
5) CRT
6) Rear Projection

[Vinatieri for Prez]

Who exactly told you this? Were they trying to sell you a DLP at the time?

Generally DLPs are the bottom of the 3. That is , if money is no object. DLPs are generally your cheaper choice, but not your better choice.



My personal list would be.

1) LCDs
2) Plasma
3) Projector in a home theater setting.
4) DLP
5) CRT
6) Rear Projection


Can't really see that. In my experiences, on just pure picture quality in optimum circumstances, Plasma is better than LCD. And I can also say that on many things, my old rear projection (2002) throws up an HD picture as good as my plasma (2006) (they are both the same brand and middle of the road quality).

[Eaglesfan27]

Yeah, I've seen some great Rear Projection HDTV's. I just don't think you can make blanket statements that Plasma > LCD or whatever. It depends quite a bit upon specific models.

[SteveMax58]

Can't really see that. In my experiences, on just pure picture quality in optimum circumstances, Plasma is better than LCD. And I can also say that on many things, my old rear projection (2002) throws up an HD picture as good as my plasma (2006) (they are both the same brand and middle of the road quality).

Yep...that is the truth in regards to Rear projection HDTV's.

Not that I have any surveys or anything more than anecdotal examples, but I am still not sold on Large LCD (>40") or Plasma TV longevity. Almost everybody I've talked to that has one has stated some problem with a variety of components within or around 2 years of owning the TV.

My parents 42" Sony LCD has something wrong (waiting on a quote) and they've owned it for 2 1/2 years now. I also dont believe it provides a better picture than my 55" Sony RP HDTV...which I've owned for the same time period.

Somebody mention CRT's above RP??? Come on.

[lordscarlet]

CRTs certainly have better picture quality than anything listed, they're just bulky as hell.

[MizzouRah]

I get PC mag and they had an issue dedicated to HDTV's. They said LCD's are finally surpassing plasma's as far as picture quality.

[14ers]

I get PC mag and they had an issue dedicated to HDTV's. They said LCD's are finally surpassing plasma's as far as picture quality.
This is what I heard too.

I like LCD over Plasma because.

1) Altitude
2) Screen Brurn
3) Non-Reflective Coating.

Truth be told; I would of probably had Plasma listed last because of my Altitude. Funny, I had the same problem when I was trying to order my windows for my new house. I wanted the gas filled windows, but was told they would not survive the trip over the mountains.

All my LCD TVs now hang on walls, the house was prewired for wall hanging TVs, so I consider size to be a major factor now.

[stevew]

Repair rates on LCD's are also relatively low, as compared to RPTV's and plasmas. I suppose the newer "bulb less" dlp types should reduce the rates somewhate.

[stevew]

CRTs certainly have better picture quality than anything listed, they're just bulky as hell.

Man, I was looking at this 34" hi-scan sony at an outlet the other day, and even though the tv was an older model, the picture was still amazing. But the TV was so bulky and heavy, there's no way I would want to deal with having to move it every 6 months when my wife wants to redecorate.