LCD or OLED? - The TV Thread

[55]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

50" is far too small to be my primary display though. I've had a 64" (PN64D7000) for 2.5 years now and could never imagine going smaller.

[SuperBowlNachos]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

With a $500 budget:
Samsung BD-F5900 3D Blu Ray Player ($115 Samsung--Amazon)
Pioneer VSX-822K 5.1 Receiver ($200--Amazon)
Yamaha 5.1 Speaker set ($149--Amazon)
200 ft. of speaker wire ($20--Amazon) $10 if you get by with only 100ft. of speaker wire. Not sure you big your room is.
------------------------------------------------
less than $500 shippped from Amazon

For the same $500 I KNOW this will sound better than the Samsung HTIB you plan on getting (you'll also have 6 HDMI inputs vs. only 2)


If you're dead set on buying the whole thing in one box, make sure you get one with a dedicated receiver and active sub. Just buy the 3D blu ray player separate. You really really really don't want your blu ray player having to also drive the speakers. That's just asking for headaches down the road.

I'd highly suggest getting one of these systems :
http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-HT-S3500...=operasport-20

http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-YHT-497...=operasport-20

http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-HT-S5400...=operasport-20

And whichever Samsung 3D blu ray player you want:
F5900 3D Player with WiFi http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-F59...=operasport-20

Don't forget $10 - $20 for speaker wire.


The picture below is the Problem I see with that system:


1) It uses proprietary inputs. You're stuck with what you have. Even if you don't plan on ever upgrading...you'll pay way more to replace a bad speaker because of the wiring. It will have to come from Samsung.

2) Only 2 HDMI inputs. Really? For almost 500? You get at least 4 from lower end $200 receivers.

3) It uses a passive sub. The sub in that HTIB is basically just another speaker. You really want a system that has a powered/"active" sub. Bass is important.

If you've read any of my older posts, you'll see I'm not against HTIBs as long as they have 3 things:
1) A dedicated receiver 2) Non-proprietary wiring 3) A active sub

The system you are considering fails on all 3 of those. And at close to $500 it seems like highway robbery for what you're actually getting.


Like you said, these are just suggestions. In the end, it's your money. Good luck.

I've been eyeing the S5400 with BF coming up. What are the disadvantages of it compared to the individual components at the top of the post? Other than it not having a blu ray player.

[GAMEC0CK2002]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

I've been eyeing the S5400 with BF coming up. What are the disadvantages of it compared to the individual components at the top of the post? Other than it not having a blu ray player.

The speakers are on the small side compared to having bookshelf or floorstanding speakers. But the speakers in that system can be upgraded if you ever got the itch to do so.

[SuperBowlNachos]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

The speakers are on the small side compared to having bookshelf or floorstanding speakers. But the speakers in that system can be upgraded if you ever got the itch to do so.

Think it'd be worth it to just bump up to
http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-HT-S9400.../dp/B004VK0IOS
or something else comparable? I think initially I want to stay close to $600 or under unless it's just worth it in the future to bump up now. I think when I upgrade I'd like to not have to change the receiver initially if that's possible. I need to research all this more when I get to a PC.

[GAMEC0CK2002]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

Think it'd be worth it to just bump up to
http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-HT-S9400...=operasport-20
or something else comparable? I think initially I want to stay close to $600 or under unless it's just worth it in the future to bump up now. I think when I upgrade I'd like to not have to change the receiver initially if that's possible. I need to research all this more when I get to a PC.

At your price point I'd go with buying the pieces separately.

[strawberryshortcake]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

Think it'd be worth it to just bump up to
http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-HT-S9400...=operasport-20
or something else comparable? I think initially I want to stay close to $600 or under unless it's just worth it in the future to bump up now. I think when I upgrade I'd like to not have to change the receiver initially if that's possible. I need to research all this more when I get to a PC.

I would skip the S9400THX system. I heard the entire set down at Fry's and was extremely disappointed. However, I must also give full disclosure. I was also looking at middle/higher end speakers (e.g. Bowers and Wilkins, etc.). However, I was also dead set on getting "a system" just to hold me over and the S9400THX aesthetically initially fit that bill. Heard it and decided against it immediately. Decided it would be best to fork out for a better system. Currently still on the look out (leaning toward a Bowers and Wilkins setup).

The primary reason why I suggest skipping the S9400THX system altogether is due to the center channel speaker, the sound was extremely boxy and confined. The vocals were not as crystal clear as I would have liked. All of your dominant on-screen vocals (voices, people speaking) will be coming from your center channel speaker.

Onkyo is also not a dedicated speaker manufacturer. They are predominantly manufacturer's of av receivers. Plus, Onkyo receivers tends to overheat if left in a confined area with no breathing room. Some of Onkyo's receivers also have HDMI 'handshake' problems. I would look toward either Denon, Yamaha, Pioneer, or even Harmon Karon receivers to start. However, Onkyo receivers do give the buyer the best bang for his/her bucks; they have a lot of features that other manufacturers would charge a premium for.

My buddy had the HT870 (I think that was the model), and it worked perfectly fine for him for about 3-4 years, until he decided to upgrade to Definitive Technology speakers (8060 towers, 8040 center, 8040BP surrounds). He kept the receiver that came with the HT870 onkyo system.

One aspect that may or may not be important when looking at receivers are their OSD (On-Screen Display), especially if you (like me) have any intentions to hide your components inside a closet of some sort, away from prying eyes plus to keep your entertainment center area clean of clutter.

If you are so inclined, you might consider looking at Best Buy's online clearance and open box sections (available for local pickup only). Great deals to be had.

[authentic]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

I would skip the S9400THX system. I heard the entire set down at Fry's and was extremely disappointed. However, I must also give full disclosure. I was also looking at middle/higher end speakers (e.g. Bowers and Wilkins, etc.). However, I was also dead set on getting "a system" just to hold me over and the S9400THX aesthetically initially fit that bill. Heard it and decided against it immediately. Decided it would be best to fork out for a better system. Currently still on the look out (leaning toward a Bowers and Wilkins setup).

The primary reason why I suggest skipping the S9400THX system altogether is due to the center channel speaker, the sound was extremely boxy and confined. The vocals were not as crystal clear as I would have liked. All of your dominant on-screen vocals (voices, people speaking) will be coming from your center channel speaker.

Onkyo is also not a dedicated speaker manufacturer. They are predominantly manufacturer's of av receivers. Plus, Onkyo receivers tends to overheat if left in a confined area with no breathing room. Some of Onkyo's receivers also have HDMI 'handshake' problems. I would look toward either Denon, Yamaha, Pioneer, or even Harmon Karon receivers to start. However, Onkyo receivers do give the buyer the best bang for his/her bucks; they have a lot of features that other manufacturers would charge a premium for.

My buddy had the HT870 (I think that was the model), and it worked perfectly fine for him for about 3-4 years, until he decided to upgrade to Definitive Technology speakers (8060 towers, 8040 center, 8040BP surrounds). He kept the receiver that came with the HT870 onkyo system.

One aspect that may or may not be important when looking at receivers are their OSD (On-Screen Display), especially if you (like me) have any intentions to hide your components inside a closet of some sort, away from prying eyes plus to keep your entertainment center area clean of clutter.

If you are so inclined, you might consider looking at Best Buy's online clearance and open box sections (available for local pickup only). Great deals to be had.

Bowers has some awesome speakers man. I would look into Bowers and Wilkins, MartinLogan, and Def Tech.

If you want a good receiver to power those, look into Arcam. They have the best DAC in the business and are so easy to use. Even for someone who installs and sells 10-20k sound systems for a living, easy is always better, especially when the receivers kicks butt.

Also, for anyone looking for great subs, check out REL. If you do Bowers with a REL powered by an Arcam, you'll be set for 15-20 years.


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[SuperBowlNachos]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

I read on AVSforum in reference to the Samsung F8500 that "Conn's had both 60 and 64 inch F8500 sets out as floor models for 1497 and 1997 respectively" and were giving the same deal for new in box.

[strawberryshortcake]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

Bowers has some awesome speakers man. I would look into Bowers and Wilkins, MartinLogan, and Def Tech.

If you want a good receiver to power those, look into Arcam. They have the best DAC in the business and are so easy to use. Even for someone who installs and sells 10-20k sound systems for a living, easy is always better, especially when the receivers kicks butt.

Also, for anyone looking for great subs, check out REL. If you do Bowers with a REL powered by an Arcam, you'll be set for 15-20 years.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Any thoughts on the Pioneer Elite SC77? Because that's actually the one I ended up going with. I currently don't have any speakers yet. Bought the receiver simply to cut down on cords to my HDTV and be more organized. Also chose the Elite SC77 because it is listed as able to power 4 ohm speakers (i.e. B&W CM series real world measurements).

Initially I considered DefTechs, but decided against them considering the center channel speaker (8040) sounded muffed compared to the B&W cmc2. Plus, not sure why Deftech would have a powered subwoofer in a center channel. Third, I have heard the powered sub inside the towers has the possibility to malfunction (small percentage).

I am leaning towards the CM9 front towers, CM2 combined with possibly the M1 for surround duty. Decided against the CM5 bookshelves considering the setup would be for a bedroom.

I'm also choosing the CM9 over the 684 and 683 due to aesthetic reasons. Glossy black on the CM9 plus the magnetic grill looks better than wooden black ash. THEN, found out that Bowers/Wilkins had released the CM10 (analogous to the Diamond lines with the tweeters on top of the cabinet).

What is your take on the CM10 vs CM9? Any idea when B&W will come out with a matching center for the CM10?

I also checked out the Martin Logan electrostatic including their newer Motion 40s. The electrostatics from what I heard (also based on reviews) seems to be very sensitive to one's seating position. Motion 40s sounded "boxy" "muffed" compared to the CM9--thus the Motions were scratched off the potential buy list. Sound is definitely important but aesthetics are too, thus the Martin Logan electrostatics were crossed off my list.

For someone who is not a "bass-head," or someone who actually likes to keep bass to a minimum (considerate to neighbors, and family members), would REL still be a good choice. I have also heard SVS mentioned.

[authentic]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

Any thoughts on the Pioneer Elite SC77? Because that's actually the one I ended up going with. I currently don't have any speakers yet. Bought the receiver simply to cut down on cords to my HDTV and be more organized. Also chose the Elite SC77 because it is listed as able to power 4 ohm speakers (i.e. B&W CM series real world measurements).

Initially I considered DefTechs, but decided against them considering the center channel speaker (8040) sounded muffed compared to the B&W cmc2. Plus, not sure why Deftech would have a powered subwoofer in a center channel. Third, I have heard the powered sub inside the towers has the possibility to malfunction (small percentage).

I am leaning towards the CM9 front towers, CM2 combined with possibly the M1 for surround duty. Decided against the CM5 bookshelves considering the setup would be for a bedroom.

I'm also choosing the CM9 over the 684 and 683 due to aesthetic reasons. Glossy black on the CM9 plus the magnetic grill looks better than wooden black ash. THEN, found out that Bowers/Wilkins had released the CM10 (analogous to the Diamond lines with the tweeters on top of the cabinet).

What is your take on the CM10 vs CM9? Any idea when B&W will come out with a matching center for the CM10?

I also checked out the Martin Logan electrostatic including their newer Motion 40s. The electrostatics from what I heard (also based on reviews) seems to be very sensitive to one's seating position. Motion 40s sounded "boxy" "muffed" compared to the CM9--thus the Motions were scratched off the potential buy list. Sound is definitely important but aesthetics are too, thus the Martin Logan electrostatics were crossed off my list.

For someone who is not a "bass-head," or someone who actually likes to keep bass to a minimum (considerate to neighbors, and family members), would REL still be a good choice. I have also heard SVS mentioned.

REL would be perfect dude. If you want me to write you a quote send me a PM. It will have model numbers and everything. I don't have time to type right now but I can definitely write up everything for you. Let me know.


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[strawberryshortcake]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

REL would be perfect dude. If you want me to write you a quote send me a PM. It will have model numbers and everything. I don't have time to type right now but I can definitely write up everything for you. Let me know.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

PM sent..

10char

[strawberryshortcake]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

Think it'd be worth it to just bump up to
http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-HT-S9400...=operasport-20
or something else comparable? I think initially I want to stay close to $600 or under unless it's just worth it in the future to bump up now. I think when I upgrade I'd like to not have to change the receiver initially if that's possible. I need to research all this more when I get to a PC.

Just for the sake of completion:

Some budget speaker set (with good/great reviews) that you might consider in no specific order (you will still need to buy an av receiver though):

Energy Take Classics - $349.99 (Reg: $599.99) Currently on sale, but this is usually the price tag that you'd see. Solid reviews for this product.

http://www.amazon.com/Energy-Classic...=operasport-20

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/take-classic-5-1-home-theater-speaker-system-with-200w-subwoofer/3628223.p?id=1218422888284&skuId=3628223&st=energy%20take%20classic&cp=1&lp=1

Klipsch HD Theater 600 - $299.99 (Reg: $599.99) Currently on sale at Best Buys, "pre black friday sale" somewhat. I would probably just place an online order for local pickup in case they run out, if you don't pick it up at Best Buy, the order will cancel after 7 days.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/hd-theater-600-5-1-channel-home-theater-speaker-system-with-powered-subwoofer/5061165.p?id=1218605827465&skuId=5061165&st=klipsch%20speakers&cp=1&lp=15

Jamo s426 - $199.99 (reg $399.99) budget starter set, no subwoofer, brown color, if you are looking for large tower speakers. This set looks to have good reviews. Aesthetically, not the best.
http://www.amazon.com/Jamo-426-HCS-W...ords=Jamo+s426

[lhslancers]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

Does a 60HZ set guarantee no gaming lag?

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sony-50-class-49-1-2-diag--led-1080p-60hz-hdtv/1724826.p?id=1219061769965&skuId=1724826#tab=specifications

[Blzer]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

Does a 60HZ set guarantee no gaming lag?


http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sony-50-...specifications

No, but that's not to say this particular TV doesn't have gaming lag. Unfortunately, I don't really know either way.

Did you read any of the reviews?

[lhslancers]

Re: Plasma or LCD? - The TV Thread

No, but that's not to say this particular TV doesn't have gaming lag. Unfortunately, I don't really know either way.

Did you read any of the reviews?

Yeah but it just people who are wowed by any HD panel really. The tech on this TV has got to be a few years old already. I have a 3 year old 47" Vizio that has no game lag at all and brings in my Fios 1080i signal as good as a TV costing much more and Blurays look great on it too. I need a medium size TV to bring South with me for the office and this looks decent enough for me. I'll check some other websites and see what I can come up with.