Vizio TVs

[JS19]

Curious if anyone has an experience or may know a thing or two about purchasing/owning a Vizio. I've narrowed it down to either a Vizio or Phillips. Both are equal in size, the Vizio supports 1080i and is about $200 cheaper. I know Phillips is a name brand and I trust buying one. I've only recently been hearing about Vizio and not so sure if it would be a wise purchase.

[Raiders Army]

I'd get a Sony even though they're way more expensive.

[terpkristin]

Curious if anyone has an experience or may know a thing or two about purchasing/owning a Vizio. I've narrowed it down to either a Vizio or Phillips. Both are equal in size, the Vizio supports 1080i and is about $200 cheaper. I know Phillips is a name brand and I trust buying one. I've only recently been hearing about Vizio and not so sure if it would be a wise purchase.

1080i or 1080p?

/tk

[Raiders Army]

IMHO, 1080i is good enough at this point. If you're getting your TV for 10+ years, get it. If you're looking to trade it out in a few years, get a 1080p because there will probably be some better resolution in the future that you'll "need" to get.

[Logan]

I know a couple people who have Vizios and they love them. Also, they're well-spoken of on the AVSforums, and those people are generally hard to please.

Get 1080i unless it's either 60+ inches or if it's a smaller size, sitting around 6-7 feet away.

What size/price point are you looking for?

[JS19]

Vizio:
http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=367875&pCatg=5884

Phillips:
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5633687

I actually really don't know all that much about tvs these days. All i've been told is that 1080 is better than 720, no clue what the difference is between i or p.

[Logan]

One thing...all the stuff I heard about Vizios was for the LCDs. I'm not sure how the plasmas fare, but I'm guessing they're liked since I haven't heard anything specific.

Glad you posted those though...do yourself a favor, forget about those. No clue about how good Phillips plasmas are, but in my opinion, and from my research, the plasmas to get are 1. Pioneer (but much more expensive), 2. Panasonic (nearly the same quality, but cheaper) and 3. Samsung.

This (http://www.vanns.com/shop/servlet/item/features/463999845) is your TV. I have the 42" model, it's fantastic.

edit: No tax, no shipping...you'll be coming out way ahead on the Phillips, and probably still ahead on the Vizio. Add in the quality difference (and the Vizio TV physically looks terrible, IMO...I wouldn't want it as the focal point in my living room) and it's a no-brainer.

[Logan]

Also, 720p and 1080i are essentially the same thing. 1080p is the "extra" resolution which most people won't be able to see from a typical sitting distance at this size.

[JS19]

Thanks for that post, that has become my new top choice. You are right about the Vizio, it does look terrible, which is why I didn't buy it yet. I am curious though, do they offer an extended service agreement?

[Logan]

Are you talking about the store, Vanns? I'm actually not sure, but you'll have the one-year warranty from Panasonic. What kind of credit cards do you have? Part of the "benefits" of many cards now is an extension of the warranty on anything you purchase with the card. I used my Amex to buy the TV, so I'm covered for 2 years now. Typically, if anything goes wrong with a TV like this, it'll happen pretty quickly.

[CU Tiger]

The Vizio(s) we have encountered (prolly ~ 20 at this point) have been very surprising. I expected much worse when they first started marketing them. Unfortunately their price has now caught up with the rest of the industry and they are no longer the no brainer they once were for me.

Having said all that, my advice is always the same. Look at the individual sets you are considering, check out what you want to watch (if football is your primary focus go on a Sunday and ask to see the game if its not on, if you are a movie buff check out a DVD etc.) as everyone's eyes/brain process light individually. Its really neat to see how people's opinion will differ (albeit slightly) about a given picture.

Then again, my company sells, installs and integrates these everyday and I have a Sony rear projection....its all in what you like I suppose.

[Logan]

It's a good point about making sure YOU like what you see...but if you do decide to go into a store to see them, keep in mind that you don't know what kind of feed is going into the TVs, the cables, and most importantly, what kind of settings its on. People move shit around all the time and the picture can suffer easily. Do some research ahead of time for the models you want to see. Go online and find out what the consensus settings are for the best picture, and then ask the guys in the store to set them up like that.

[stevew]

The Vizio(s) we have encountered (prolly ~ 20 at this point) have been very surprising. I expected much worse when they first started marketing them. Unfortunately their price has now caught up with the rest of the industry and they are no longer the no brainer they once were for me.

Having said all that, my advice is always the same. Look at the individual sets you are considering, check out what you want to watch (if football is your primary focus go on a Sunday and ask to see the game if its not on, if you are a movie buff check out a DVD etc.) as everyone's eyes/brain process light individually. Its really neat to see how people's opinion will differ (albeit slightly) about a given picture.

Then again, my company sells, installs and integrates these everyday and I have a Sony rear projection....its all in what you like I suppose.


Agreed.

Vizios are okay, but they haven't gotten cheaper, and you could get something quite a bit better for a few hundred more.


Dude, you could get a 720p Panasonic plasma for $1599 at sears with 24 months financing or another 250 off, as long as you use their card.

Like logan said, that's a great TV and the one I would buy.

The 42" version is 1099 with either 18mths, or 150 off on the card.

Phillips stuff is questionable quality IMO.

[Logan]

In case anyone else needs it, the 42" model is also available online from Fry's for $999 with free shipping/no tax, or $1092 from Amazon, again no tax/no shipping. Personally, I spent the extra money to get it from Amazon because they were shipping it with one of those freight services that will schedule your delivery a few days ahead, whereas Fry's was going to ship it DHL, since they only use the freight companies for TVs over 100 lbs. I've had problems with DHL in the past and I'd rather it go through someone who specializes in large items.

[Swaggs]

I once swore by Phillips/Magnavox, but their reliability ratings have gotten pretty bad over the past few years.

[14ers]

Check out this 46" Sharp Aquos for only $1,699.

http://www.amazon.com/Sharp-Aquos-LC46D62U-1080p-HDTV/dp/B000HKHLPA

Currently $1,100 off and with free shipping and no tax this is a great buy.

This is easily the best LCD TV on the market for a room that has windows.

[Eaglesfan27]

Check out this 46" Sharp Aquos for only $1,699.

http://www.amazon.com/Sharp-Aquos-LC46D62U-1080p-HDTV/dp/B000HKHLPA

Currently $1,100 off and with free shipping and no tax this is a great buy.

This is easily the best LCD TV on the market for a room that has windows.

I'd second this recommendation. We have its 42 inch brother downstairs in our living room and it is a great TV in that price range and size.

[gstelmack]

Just bought a 32" Vizio for the bedroom. Yes, I know why the Sonys, Sharps, etc are better, but when you're putting one in the bedroom the $600 price for a decent TV becomes overwhelming. I'd never make one my primary TV, but it makes a cheap way to get HDTV on a second TV.

Still fiddling with the color to get it right (it's pretty close, but the red is a bit saturated), but it's pretty decent quality for the price. And 2 HDMI ports means the upconverting DVD player and the HD-DVR both get full-digital to the TV. I was well pleased with the number of inputs, although I'd want 3 HDMI ports (as more and more TVs are finally getting now) on a primary living room TV.

[Logan]

Check out this 46" Sharp Aquos for only $1,699.

http://www.amazon.com/Sharp-Aquos-LC46D62U-1080p-HDTV/dp/B000HKHLPA

Currently $1,100 off and with free shipping and no tax this is a great buy.

This is easily the best LCD TV on the market for a room that has windows.

Backing up EF's agreement, that is a really nice TV. Looks like you have a couple solid options, and it should come down to whether you want a little extra size for slightly less money, or more importantly, if you prefer LCD to plasma. 14ers hit on one of the big differences...if your TV will have a lot of exposure to large windows, and your primary viewing time will take place when the strongest sun is going through the room, you'll either want to go LCD or consider spending a couple hundred more on a plasma with the anti-glare coating (Panasonic's 77U model has it).

If you need some more info on plasma vs. LCD just ask. But a pretty simple guideline -- typically, LCDs will get you brighter colors, while plasmas will give you deeper, truer blacks (even on some very highly-rated LCDs, blacks appear more like gray).

[flere-imsaho]

Tangent question here.

When a network broadcasts HD content (such as Fox showing an NFL game in HD), does it come over the "usual" channel (i.e. 12 in the Chicago area) or do you tune to another one?

[Eaglesfan27]

Tangent question here.

When a network broadcasts HD content (such as Fox showing an NFL game in HD), does it come over the "usual" channel (i.e. 12 in the Chicago area) or do you tune to another one?

For most (all?) situations, you need to buy a HD antenna (for about 40-50 dollars) unless, you get local HD from your cable, sat. etc provider. If you get it over the air via antenna, it is usually a sub channel such as 12.1 for the HD content.

[stevew]

I also like those sharp's, but I have heard of some of them having some "banding" issues. Probably just leet technophiles bitching though.

If you don't have to upgrade right away, this Christmas season is going to be brutal for retailers, and awesome for customers. Keep that in mind.

[14ers]

If you don't have to upgrade right away, this Christmas season is going to be brutal for retailers, and awesome for customers. Keep that in mind.
Since it is already October you might want to start thinking about those Black Friday sales in November!

[gstelmack]

One thing I will say about my 32" Vizio: I'm getting a MUCH better picture (color wise) from the HDMI inputs than I was from either the S-Video or Component inputs. Apparently it's analog signal handling stinks. The digital stuff is fantastic, though.

[gkb]

This thread has a lot of good advice and recommendations...it may even top the annual Consumer Reports electronics issue. Thanks guys.

[CU Tiger]

One thing I will say about my 32" Vizio: I'm getting a MUCH better picture (color wise) from the HDMI inputs than I was from either the S-Video or Component inputs. Apparently it's analog signal handling stinks. The digital stuff is fantastic, though.


Damn I cant believe I missed this first time through.
Greg is EXACTLY right.
Vizio has very good display properties but its upconvert and process capabilities leave much to be desired.

[14ers]

Any good Columbus Day sales this weekend?

[Chubby]

Since it is already October you might want to start thinking about those Black Friday sales in November!

This is what I'm looking at. I'm getting $1300 ($1500 but $200 is for my gf's camera that broke) from the old man that hit me's insurance company to not sue them in the future so I'm looking for a new tv that will last a while. I have no problem camping (i'm a dork I know) out for a great deal.

[Galaxy]

How much do you think prices will fall over the next 12-18 months?

[stevew]

Offhand, i'd guess between 33-50%, that seemed to be the difference in store cost between similar last years and this years models, anyways. I would think a 720p 42" Panasonic plasma(retail pricing) will probably be in the 700 dollar range, but it's hard to say.

Someone else probably(CU?) has more exact figures, I'm just going off of similar models between this year and last what the cost was at our location.

It's possible that they will like their price points, however, and cram more "features" in there and try to defend them. As the cost goes down, they make less profit per unit and more through volume.

I'm really not sure what the next big thing is going to be, I think the 81 series from Samsung with it's adjustable backlighting and sick contrast ratios is the new big thing, but generally that's not necessarily something that everyone will actually need.

Regardless the TV's available 12-18 months from now(basically 2 more generations down the road) will be pretty sick spec wise, and blow away 95% of what is out there right now.

[Schmidty]

I have a TV. I think it cost like $400 at Costco 3 years ago. It's sort of big, and shows movies and games and stuff. It works well.

I've looked at HD TVs many times while visiting my wife at work, and I just don't see the big deal, especially considering the cost.

Out.

[Galaxy]

I have a TV. I think it cost like $400 at Costco 3 years ago. It's sort of big, and shows movies and games and stuff. It works well.

I've looked at HD TVs many times while visiting my wife at work, and I just don't see the big deal, especially considering the cost.

Out.

Is the HD TV on a HD channel?

[Galaxy]

Offhand, i'd guess between 33-50%, that seemed to be the difference in store cost between similar last years and this years models, anyways. I would think a 720p 42" Panasonic plasma(retail pricing) will probably be in the 700 dollar range, but it's hard to say.

Someone else probably(CU?) has more exact figures, I'm just going off of similar models between this year and last what the cost was at our location.

It's possible that they will like their price points, however, and cram more "features" in there and try to defend them. As the cost goes down, they make less profit per unit and more through volume.

I'm really not sure what the next big thing is going to be, I think the 81 series from Samsung with it's adjustable backlighting and sick contrast ratios is the new big thing, but generally that's not necessarily something that everyone will actually need.

Regardless the TV's available 12-18 months from now(basically 2 more generations down the road) will be pretty sick spec wise, and blow away 95% of what is out there right now.


The range is about $700-$900 for a 32'' LCD HDTV right now at the stores I looked at yesterday. It is tough to shop for the HD TV because you have so many features and stats. In a year or so, when they become even more affordable, I might start looking at picking one up. I hate that you get charged extra to have HD channels on your cable/dish provider.

[Logan]

The range is about $700-$900 for a 32'' LCD HDTV right now at the stores I looked at yesterday. It is tough to shop for the HD TV because you have so many features and stats. In a year or so, when they become even more affordable, I might start looking at picking one up. I hate that you get charged extra to have HD channels on your cable/dish provider.

You might, but not all of us.

[Galaxy]

You might, but not all of us.

What's that?

[Logan]

Sorry...my HD channels are free, as they also were when I was in Jersey.

[Galaxy]

Sorry...my HD channels are free, as they also were when I was in Jersey.

Yeah. Here, unless it's changed, you have to buy them extra (I believe through digital cable or a higher-tier package).

[14ers]

The 46" Aquos is $1,499.99
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2604784&CatId=2815


Check out this 52" Sharp for $1,795.00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000HKJKBS/ref=pd_bbs_sr_olp_4/105-8653692-4493214?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1192190249&sr=8-4

Seller: elsolutions2 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/at-a-glance.html/ref=olp_offerlisting_6/105-8653692-4493214?ie=UTF8&asin=B000HKJKBS&marketplaceSeller=1&seller=A20HHG751G8N5I)
Rating:http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/detail/just-launched-en._V47082248_.gif (Seller Profile (http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/at-a-glance.html/ref=olp_offerlisting_6/105-8653692-4493214?ie=UTF8&asin=B000HKJKBS&marketplaceSeller=1&seller=A20HHG751G8N5I))

Shipping: In Stock. Ships from NV, United States See shipping rates (http://www.amazon.com/Marketplace-Shipping-Times-Rates-Help/b/ref=olp_offerlisting_6/105-8653692-4493214?ie=UTF8&node=537734)
Comments: brand new in box full warranty


How much of a guarantee do you get by ordering this TV from Amazon from this seller?

[Galaxy]

That's a little too risky for me.

[Crapshoot]

I'd get a Sony even though they're way more expensive.

Samsung. Easy. My days of paying the Sony premium are over, when Samsung makes better TV's.

[Galaxy]

Samsung. Easy. My days of paying the Sony premium are over, when Samsung makes better TV's.

The Bravia series is pretty nice.

[14ers]

The 46" Aquos is $1,499.99
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2604784&CatId=2815

People over at Fatwallet are saying this TV will be $899 on BF at SEARS.

[Galaxy]

Looks like Best Buy is taking a big step here:

http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Investing/Extra/BestBuyPullsPlugOnAnalogTVs.aspx

[Galaxy]

I've heard that post-Super Bowl (February/March) is the best time to buy. Is this true?

[Atocep]

The plan right now is to get a HDTV this holiday season. I'll be out on black friday for general christmas shopping so I'll probably check out some deals then, if I don't find anything I like I'm willing to wait.

From what I've read my optimal screen size is 42" and resolution is best for 720p, but 1080p would be fine for my viewing distance as well. The TV will be used for watching movies and sports. No video games at all on it.

With this in mind and the fact that my wife would prefer that I keep this at about $1k, my questions are; LCD or Plasma? I've been told LCD for my viewing habits, is that true?

What specific models would you recommend?

Any other tips?

[Logan]

When you say viewing habits, do you mean the "watching movies and sports?" If so, LCDs generally won't have the best blacks (some end up looking gray) which can hurt for movies, and can also have trouble with some fast-moving images (like sports). Of course there's LCDs out there that don't have those issues.

At that price point and your desire for 42", I'd go plasma. Your options will be pretty limited in LCDs under a grand.

[Atocep]

When you say viewing habits, do you mean the "watching movies and sports?" If so, LCDs generally won't have the best blacks (some end up looking gray) which can hurt for movies, and can also have trouble with some fast-moving images (like sports). Of course there's LCDs out there that don't have those issues.

At that price point and your desire for 42", I'd go plasma. Your options will be pretty limited in LCDs under a grand.

Yeah, viewing habits are mostly sports, some movies, and the occasional TV show.

I can go over $1k, I'd just have to convince my wife that it was worth it.

[Logan]

Can you go up to $2k? A $1500 TV for you and, I don't know, a $500 bracelet for her? :)

[Atocep]

Here are the BF deals I've found from various places so far:

Sharp Aquos 46" LCD - $999
Sharp LC-42D43U 42" Widescreen LCD HDTV with NTSC/ATSC Tuners - $799
Sharp 42" LCD HDTV w/ HDMI & PC Inputs - $799
Panasonic 42" Plasma HDTV - $999
Olevia 37" 1080i Widescreen LCD HDTV - 1080i - $549
Panasonic 42" 720p Plasma HDTV - $899

I'm assuming that these are 720p unless they specifically state otherwise.

[stevew]

we've been running the panasonic 1080p plasma for 1399 quite a bit lately, and it was 1199 tonight. I believe the model number is 42pz77u, it's not the best 1080p one they make, but it's pretty damned good. non glare screen, etc.

[Atocep]

we've been running the panasonic 1080p plasma for 1399 quite a bit lately, and it was 1199 tonight. I believe the model number is 42pz77u, it's not the best 1080p one they make, but it's pretty damned good. non glare screen, etc.

Where's this?

I planned on hitting Sears and Circuit City on BF. Those are the definites.

Anyone have in comments on the brands I have listed up there?


EDIT: since it falls on the other page I list them again here

Sharp Aquos 46" LCD - $999
Sharp LC-42D43U 42" Widescreen LCD HDTV with NTSC/ATSC Tuners - $799
Sharp 42" LCD HDTV w/ HDMI & PC Inputs - $799
Panasonic 42" Plasma HDTV - $999
Olevia 37" 1080i Widescreen LCD HDTV - 1080i - $549
Panasonic 42" 720p Plasma HDTV - $899

[14ers]

Sharp Aquos 46" LCD - $999


Sorry charlie this isn't your Dad's Sharp Aquos.

This is the junk LC46D43U that someone is making for Sharp to sell to discount stores. The refresh rate is twice as slow, The contract is half as much, and the speakers are 3/4 as loud.

I have no idea why Sharp has decided to alow some 3rd party to slap a Sharp sticker on this TV and try to compete against the discount Tvs of the world. I watched both RCA and Magnavox destroy their Brand Names by trying to come out with a cheaper model.

[stevew]

Where's this?

I planned on hitting Sears and Circuit City on BF. Those are the definites.

Anyone have in comments on the brands I have listed up there?


EDIT: since it falls on the other page I list them again here

I work at Sears.
the 1080p plasma is item # 75597 on sears.com. Right now it's 1199 in stores, and if you put it on your sears card, you can do an additional 150 off thru 11/17 for a total price of 1050 plus tax. Or take 18 months to pay 1199. It's not a BF sale item, it's a regular promo price you could get right now.


http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_05775597000P?vName=Computers+%26+Electronics&cName=Televisions&sName=Plasma+TVs

46" Sharp is meh, it's not horrible but it's the barebones aquos all the way.
42" Sharps are just cousin models of the 46", same pretty well applies. I think those panasonics are either the 720 model that is pretty good, or a slightly cheaper version of it(the BB one for 899 is a promo item w/ less features).

[Atocep]

Thanks a ton. I convinced the wife to go with me to check it out today and we'll make a decision from there.

Quick questions for anyone that can answer; I know nothing about HDTV installation, should I get their cheapest installation plan or is it easy to set up? What cables or extras am I going to need?

[Atocep]

Need to throw in a newb question about Plasmas; Is burn-in still an issue? I watch a lot of ESPN news and things like their ticker used to cause burn in.

[Logan]

Keep the settings down for the first couple weeks you have it (odds are, it'll be preset to blast the picture, which will be way brighter than you'll even end up using once you're good to go). Literally, everything down to 0. The picture will still look very nice, just a little on the dark side. After that, find the best settings online and you'll be fine.

You can also download a break-in DVD that you can pop in and let run whenever you're not watching the TV/not home. It'll cycle the screen gradually with different colors and you'll accomplish your "break-in" period faster.

[stevew]

Thanks a ton. I convinced the wife to go with me to check it out today and we'll make a decision from there.

Quick questions for anyone that can answer; I know nothing about HDTV installation, should I get their cheapest installation plan or is it easy to set up? What cables or extras am I going to need?

For cables, don't buy any at the store, go to monoprice.com, and you'll be set. For an install, it really depends on what the hell you want to hook up. I probably wouldn't pay for an install, i feel confident that if you can surf the internet to here, you can probably do a basic install. If you want speakers hung, and all that shit, then maybe you'd want it. Wall mount install is going to be like 400 bucks, plus the bracket.

Anyways, what are you hooking up, i could probably give you an idea of what cables you'll need.

Offhand I'd think it'll be 2 HDMI's, a fibre optic.....that'd be about 110 at a store, or about 25 bucks shipped at monoprice.com.

[Atocep]

I'll only be hooking up a HD box, a DVR, and a VCR for now. I should be able to handle it on my own, my main concern was just getting the TV setup and on my entertainment center which I was told the delivery guys would do for me.

[Chubby]

I'm looking at the 42" Sharp Aquos at CC for $799.

I'll try and use my 10% off AAA coupon on top of that.


I don't need the latest and greatest. This will be a big upgrade for my tv (current one is a 29" I've had forever)

[Passacaglia]

Found this on fatwallet:

http://www.fatwallet.com/t/18/781433/

It's a Zenith 42" plasma TV for $550.

Any thoughts on this, that can help out someone that knows nothing about new TVs (my current TV is a 21" from 1997)?

[Chubby]

Found this on fatwallet:

http://www.fatwallet.com/t/18/781433/

It's a Zenith 42" plasma TV for $550.

Any thoughts on this, that can help out someone that knows nothing about new TVs (my current TV is a 21" from 1997)?


Thread deleted

[Passacaglia]

Thread deleted

Thanks. If I recall, the deal was at K-Mart, selling it for 6 hundred something, than a 20% off coupon (which apparently they give out at the store) would make it $550. But I called the K-Mart nearest me, and they said it was "ninety nine ninety nine ninety nine," then "over a thousand" -- after a bit of wrangling, I got her to say it was $999.99.

Oh, I just realized though, the deal is supposed to begin Sunday. So maybe it will work.

Anyway, here's another site that describes the TV: http://www.electronicexpress.com/product?prod_id=12185

[Passacaglia]

Features of Zenith Z42P3:
Slim and Simple Design
Elegant Two Tone Matte finish
Integrated ATSC Tuner
1366 x 768 Resolution
16:9 Aspect Ratio
Contour Noise Compensation
SRS True Surround XT
15,000:1 Contrast Ratio
Brightness 1,500 cd/m2


So I can figure out slim and simple design, and I know what Two Tone Matte finish means, but after that, I'm lost. If I can get this for $550, it seems way cheaper than any other 42" plasma TV out there. Am I wrong -- can I get other plasma TVs that cheap? Or is there something about this that makes it far inferior quality?

[Kodos]

Well, it is made of cheesecloth...

[gstelmack]

The important ones are:

Integrated ATSC Tuner: you can hook up an antenna to it and get digital TV over the air (OTA when reading elsewhere), which is likely to be HD depending on your local broadcasters.

16:9 Aspect Ratio: widescreen. Awesome for DVDs, games, and most HD viewing.

1366x768 Resolution: handles 720P (1280x720) HD signals just fine. Will downsample 1080 (1960x1080) HD signals to fit the screen. You probably won't really notice all that much. The confusion (768 vs 720 vertical lines) is because all the LCD makers are computer geeks and took their old 1024x768 panels and widened them a bit rather than adapting to the TV standards...

Everything else is just noise, as you can't really trust brightness and contrast ratios, and who cares about audio since you're hooking it up to a 5.1 surround sound receiver anyway (and if you aren't, well, audio quality isn't the most important thing to you, so who cares?).

[Passacaglia]

The important ones are:

Integrated ATSC Tuner: you can hook up an antenna to it and get digital TV over the air (OTA when reading elsewhere), which is likely to be HD depending on your local broadcasters.

16:9 Aspect Ratio: widescreen. Awesome for DVDs, games, and most HD viewing.

1366x768 Resolution: handles 720P (1280x720) HD signals just fine. Will downsample 1080 (1960x1080) HD signals to fit the screen. You probably won't really notice all that much. The confusion (768 vs 720 vertical lines) is because all the LCD makers are computer geeks and took their old 1024x768 panels and widened them a bit rather than adapting to the TV standards...

Everything else is just noise, as you can't really trust brightness and contrast ratios, and who cares about audio since you're hooking it up to a 5.1 surround sound receiver anyway (and if you aren't, well, audio quality isn't the most important thing to you, so who cares?).

Thanks -- that helps! I'm thinking this will be perfect for us -- we want a new TV, but we're also thinking that if we buy a house this summer, we'll want a new TV then, too. While that probably means we should just wait and get a new TV then, we also figure this can be a good 2nd TV at that time.

[stevew]

It's very hard to make a bad plasma TV, as long as it's been made in the last year or so. It may not be the best TV out there, but generally a cheaper plasma will out-perform a cheaper LCD.

Worst case, it'll still be good for a bedroom TV.

[stevew]

I *think* Zenith is an offshoot brand of LG now, and generally they make solid plasma tV's. It may even have a 2 year labor warranty.

[Passacaglia]

I *think* Zenith is an offshoot brand of LG now, and generally they make solid plasma tV's. It may even have a 2 year labor warranty.

Yeah -- the deleted thread said something about the UPC confirming that it was made by LG -- a 42PC3DB. But I couldn't find anything by googling that number.

[flere-imsaho]

Speaking of brands, is there any reason to avoid Westinghouse for LCDs?

[damnMikeBrown]

I'm looking to purchase this Aquos in the near future. Sharp Aquos LC-46D64U

I've seen a couple reviews that include banding, but for the most part people are raving about it. I found online the cheapist(with shipping) being $1750 from a reputable place.

I'm looking for BF deals, but I'm not quite as adroit as some of the bargain hunters here. If anybody stumbles past a deal on this, let me know?

[FrogMan]

It's very hard to make a bad plasma TV, as long as it's been made in the last year or so. It may not be the best TV out there, but generally a cheaper plasma will out-perform a cheaper LCD.

Worst case, it'll still be good for a bedroom TV.


and what better than a 42" plasma TV for the bedroom, huh? ;)

FM

[stevew]

I'm looking to purchase this Aquos in the near future. Sharp Aquos LC-46D64U

I've seen a couple reviews that include banding, but for the most part people are raving about it. I found online the cheapist(with shipping) being $1750 from a reputable place.

I'm looking for BF deals, but I'm not quite as adroit as some of the bargain hunters here. If anybody stumbles past a deal on this, let me know?

I'll see if we're running anything on it at Sears then. 36 months no interest on a sears card thru 11/17 on a sharp 42" or larger is the only promo we're running now though. 60 day price match guarantee, but you have to match a brick and mortor's price on it.

[stevew]

Speaking of brands, is there any reason to avoid Westinghouse for LCDs?

http://hdguru.com/your-new-disposable-flat-panel-hdtv/107/

I think they were on this list. Interesting read, if you haven't seen it.

[stevew]

and what better than a 42" plasma TV for the bedroom, huh? ;)

FM


A 58" panasonic 1080p model?

[flere-imsaho]

So, if a Tier-2, Tier-3 HDTV breaks, you're basically SOL? Aarrgghh. Of course, how often do they break?

Based on this, what are the can't-miss, Tier-1 brands? Sony, Sharp & Samsung? Those seem the most expensive, anyway. Sadly, none seem to have a 30"+ LCD for under $1000, which is my target. :(

[FrogMan]

A 58" panasonic 1080p model?


sure, but I'll start by someday do better than my already satisfying 27" JVC CRT we have in the living room before thinking about putting some plasma screen in my bedroom, heh. :)

FM

[14ers]

It's very hard to make a bad plasma TV, as long as it's been made in the last year or so. It may not be the best TV out there, but generally a cheaper plasma will out-perform a cheaper LCD.

Worst case, it'll still be good for a bedroom TV.
Do not buy a Plasma if you live over 2,500 feet, or in a room with multiple windows . A Plasma in a bedroom is a good idea since you will be watching the TV at night with the lights off.

The light reflection in a Plasma drives me nuts.

[14ers]

Help, Is this a real or a fake feature on the 47" JVC LCD. Do all HD TVs do this and not advertise it as a feature? I am looking at this TV, because it is the only wall mount TV in its size range that people rave about the sound quality. I have a place in my house where I am not going to be able to hook this TV up to any additional speakers, so sound is important to me, and most reviews on high end systems assume you will also be installing a home theater system.
32bit GENESSA Image Processor w/D.I.S.T. 1080p The D.I.S.T. engine (Digital Image Scaling Technology) is a unique I/P scaler that upconverts all signals to display at 1080p. JVCs GENESSA, a dedicated 32bit turbo powered CPU, combines all of our core image processing circuits together in a single chip that allows for faster communication between circuits.
I have never hear about this upconverting on a TV before. I have seen this on DVD being up-scalers. Will this actually make non HD channels look better on an HD TV?


I have seen the 47" JVC online for under $1,600 at Circuit City on sale.

[gstelmack]

No, most of them will do upconverting like this. They HAVE to, as most LCDs only run at a single resolution anyway. It can make lower res content look a bit better, but no 480i upconverted to 1080p will not look as good as a straight 1080p source. Assuming a decent scaler, it certainly won't look any worse than the original 480i source, and may smooth out some jaggies.

[14ers]

No, most of them will do upconverting like this. They HAVE to, as most LCDs only run at a single resolution anyway.
What do you mean?

MY TV tells me that my CBS channel is 1080i, my FOX channel is 720p, and so on. According to my TV I have like about 50% 1080i, 40% 720p and 10% 480i for my HD channels. My PS3 is 1080P according to my TV. So, I do not understand what you mean by single resolution?

[stevew]

What do you mean?

MY TV tells me that my CBS channel is 1080i, my FOX channel is 720p, and so on. According to my TV I have like about 50% 1080i, 40% 720p and 10% 480i for my HD channels. My PS3 is 1080P according to my TV. So, I do not understand what you mean by single resolution?

The TV displays content at one set resolution, an LCD is a fixed pixel display. If your tv is 1080p, it would display everything at a 1920x1080 resolution. You're always looking at 2 million pixels, but the more resolution there is on the source material, the better the image on the screen will look. Lower end tv's will generally not handle 480i content as well as higher end ones. Because generally the higher end TV's will upscale the content quite a bit better. It's not "true" 1080p content because if you ran a 1 to 1 mode on the TV(pixel for pixel) on a SD source, it would only fill the area of 640 by 480 pixels(interlaced). If you ran a 1080p source on 1 to 1, it would use every pixel.

[Chubby]

It looks like Sams Club is going to have a 42" Sharp Aquos 1080p for $866.52 on Black Friday.

Now I have a choice to make between this one and the CC 720p

[lighthousekeeper]

I'm still not drinking the cool aid about HD. Tube TVs for eva!

[gstelmack]

I'm still not drinking the cool aid about HD. Tube TVs for eva!

The first HDTV I bought four years ago (that is still going strong as our primary living room TV) is a Tube ;)

[JeffNights]

PC World magazine just came out with thier best of 2007 lists..

that vizio 42" came in third, it retails for $900...Great, not I'm thinking of one too.. :)

[ISiddiqui]

I'm still not drinking the cool aid about HD. Tube TVs for eva!

I also have a Tube HDTV, so :p

[Raiders Army]

You know LaDanian Tomlinson is shilling for Vizios. Go get one.

[stevew]

If anyone wants a good buy on a fairly good 720 LCD, you can get a 37" LG model for 810 right now by putting it on the sears card. If you don't get approved, or can sweet talk someone, you can put it on whatever card you want. No BF baby punching required.

[Passacaglia]

What do you guys think of rear projection TVs? I'm looking at a Mitsubishi WD-65831 now.

[CU Tiger]

Its a matter of taste, Im a HUGE RP fan.
In fact despite owning a Home Tech company and being a distributor for 3 brands, my main TV is a SONY RP...

[Philliesfan980]

I'm in the market for a second TV for my bedroom. The main TV in my living room is a 32inch Samsung RP HDTV (slimfit). I'm looking to get something in the 32-37 inch range from about 599 - 799.

My girlfriend's parents main TV is a 37 inch Viewsonic LCD HDTV, and I must say that my Samsung RP produces a much better picture. It's a shame that the market never really gave the Slimfit RP HDTV's a chance. I suppose I'm answering my own question in a way, but can anyone point out a LCD in the 32-37 inch range (low end price range - $599 - $799) that has a better picture than a RP HDTV?

[stevew]

What do you guys think of rear projection TVs? I'm looking at a Mitsubishi WD-65831 now.

I'd be wary of Mitsubishi's and how they can eat light bulbs.
But they do have an amazing picture, and their 6 color settings for color are nice.

[stevew]

What do you guys think of rear projection TVs? I'm looking at a Mitsubishi WD-65831 now.

I'd be wary of Mitsubishi's and how they can eat light bulbs.
But they do have an amazing picture, and their 6 color settings for color are nice.

[Kodos]

Methinks me wants this TV:

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-th-50px77u/4505-6482_7-32317316.html?tag=prod.txt.1

[Logan]

Methinks me wants this TV:

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-th-50px77u/4505-6482_7-32317316.html?tag=prod.txt.1

Everything under the hood of that TV is very similar to my 42" 75U model. Primary difference is the anti-glare coating. If you'll have the TV in a room with a lot of sunlight during your prime viewing areas (or better yet, direct sunlight on the TV if it's facing windows), definitely go for it. If you don't think light would be a problem, you can spend less on the 75U. Personally, I haven't noticed any glare at all -- but while the windows in my bedroom total to be about 6 ft tall x 5 feet wide, they're on the side of the TV so the light doesn't go directly on it.

[stevew]

Methinks me wants this TV:

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-th-50px77u/4505-6482_7-32317316.html?tag=prod.txt.1

That was a really nice TV. I'm sure you'll be happy with it.