School me on LCD vs Plasma

[ColoradoSkier]

My wife was asking me the difference between LCD and plasma the other day. I get the principle, but I can't really explain it well. What should I tell her? And which do you recommend (for use here in Denver)?

[sweater]

Let me first say that I don't know the difference.

However, I did just listen to a tech podcast while walkin' the dog from the Economist that pretty much said:

Wait to buy into HDTV.

Basic points? That 1080 is the standard now, and that 6 months will produce many more affordable sets. Also, they mentioned that plasma burn-in has been pretty much eliminated, and longevity should rival high-end CRT displays. Granted, I was only half paying attention, but the basic message was "people who buy into HDTV during the holiday season are going to end up kicking themselves 6 months from now." (I think I got that quote word-for-word, actually...)

- mike

[Snotty]

Thissite has some very good information on the two:

http://www.plasmatvbuyingguide.com/

[Snotty]

http://www.plasmatvbuyingguide.com/plasmatvreviews/plasma-vs-lcd.html

[ColoradoSkier]

Thanks for the link Snotty. Sweater - that is true of any technology...

[Snotty]

Skier, this one is a little more current: http://www.cnet.com.au/tvs/0,239035250,240036500,00.htm

[Big Dave]

Sweater - that is true of any technology...

x2

If you're in need of a TV, the only reason I could see waiting for is for th 1080p prices to come down, but frankly 1080i is good enough for me.

[Clint]

x2

If you're in need of a TV, the only reason I could see waiting for is for th 1080p prices to come down, but frankly 1080i is good enough for me.

Yup. In 6 months there will ALWAYS be something better, something newer, something cheaper. Im thrilled with my 1080i plasma. No burn, picture is great, looks awesome hanging on the wall.

[lilgreenjeepyj]

If you are dropping the cash, look for a 1080P TV as that is the standard resolution for the High Def movies, HDDVD and BRay. DON"T buy a TV without it. Yes, the difference between 1080i and 1080p is almost non exsitant, but there is a difference.

Also be sure that it has HDMI support as that is also the soon to be standard connection for HD content.


Me, Im ok with 1080i, but I wish I had gone 1080p for the new movie content.

Plasma traditionally has a better picture, but doesn't work as well at real altitudes.

That said, go take a look at a bunch and go from there. Remember most stores have the brightness turned WAY WAY too high to make the picture look better.

Best advice is cruise the AVS forums.

We run a 1080i LCD on the wall, and love it. 1080p would have been nice, but the wife said no... :(

The bigger the TV, the easier it is to see 1080i vs 1080p. Under 60in is hardly noticeable to most.

[ColoradoSkier]

I am pretty sure we'll be staying under 60"...

It's funny though. Ever since I went on a retreat in Beaver Creek and my room had 2 40" LCD's, the 27's at home seem so small... :(

[SPY]

Didn't Timothy Leary invent the LCD?

[lilgreenjeepyj]

I am pretty sure we'll be staying under 60"...

It's funny though. Ever since I went on a retreat in Beaver Creek and my room had 2 40" LCD's, the 27's at home seem so small... :(

The economics of the flat panels have come down significantly in the last 12-24 months. The big question is how much if any will they drop from here on out??? My guess is probably not a whole lot more. Though there is a "40 for 1K on black friday so things look to be continuing on the down path.

The other thing to look at is contrast ratio. Higher is better.

[ColoradoSkier]

Speaking of which... wait - that's a new post.

[Alpine Spirit]

Whoa... ummm can you enlighten me on this. I am looking to buy in the next couple of months.

Plasma traditionally has a better picture, but doesn't work as well at real altitudes.

I live at nearly 10,000 feet so should should I not even bother to look at plasma?

[Snotty]

Whoa... ummm can you enlighten me on this. I am looking to buy in the next couple of months.



I live at nearly 10,000 feet so should should I not even bother to look at plasma?

Based on all the reports and reviews I have read, Plasma is the better choice below 6500 feet. LCD is the better choice 6500 feet and above.

It has to do with how the plasma gas reacts at elevation.

[ArloGuthroJeep]

From what I hear 10,000 is kind of the magical altitude...The sales guy from Listen Up suggested staying away from Plasma over 10,000 ft...:dunno:

[Oscar]

Wow glad I didn't buy yet I am at just over 9200 so might be to close to call

[Yota]

When is the deadline for all TV signals (or is it just broadcast) to be in HD? 2008 or something like that isn't it?

When my CRT TV no longer works without a converter box, that's when I'll switch. Because that's when prices on these things will start to become reasonable. Right now it's priced more as a premium luxury item and prices are not reasonable to me.

[Snotty]

From what I hear 10,000 is kind of the magical altitude...The sales guy from Listen Up suggested staying away from Plasma over 10,000 ft...:dunno:

That is why I go to unbiased review sites. There are very few sales people that I would trust to tell me the truth. Both the sites I linked to above say the same thing. 6500 feet is the magical mark.

[bulldozer]

I'm close to buying a new LCD set. One major consideration might be screen glare. If you have the TV in a room with a lot of light, LCD is probably the better way to go. The LCDs are much better at handling glare. My friend has a plasma sitting directly across from a window and the glare is pretty bad during the day.

[Steve]

When is the deadline for all TV signals (or is it just broadcast) to be in HD? 2008 or something like that isn't it?
They have to convert to 100% digital signals by then, not HD. Digital doesn't always mean HD.

[bulldozer]

Oh - and why are HDMI cables so fawking expensive? It's ridiculous the prices they want for these things.

Don't forget also that you may need a new receiver with HDMI switching if that's how you run your set now.

[lilgreenjeepyj]

When is the deadline for all TV signals (or is it just broadcast) to be in HD? 2008 or something like that isn't it?

When my CRT TV no longer works without a converter box, that's when I'll switch. Because that's when prices on these things will start to become reasonable. Right now it's priced more as a premium luxury item and prices are not reasonable to me.


2009 is the new deadline, and Ill believe that when I see it. Though, you should be able to pick up a digital to analog box if needed.


As for the prices being reasonable, well it doesn't get more reasonable that a 20" widscreen LCD for $220 from a major brand...:shrug:

[lilgreenjeepyj]

I'm close to buying a new LCD set. One major consideration might be screen glare. If you have the TV in a room with a lot of light, LCD is probably the better way to go. The LCDs are much better at handling glare. My friend has a plasma sitting directly across from a window and the glare is pretty bad during the day.


Depends largely on any screen coating/ anti glare coating also.

[lilgreenjeepyj]

Oh - and why are HDMI cables so fawking expensive? It's ridiculous the prices they want for these things.

Don't forget also that you may need a new receiver with HDMI switching if that's how you run your set now.

That is a good question. My 12ft was almost $100...:shrug: its a digital signal though so much less important than transfering an analog signal. That said, you can easily find them for MUCH cheaper online.


One other thing to think about it HDCP. Its the DRM of the video world and hdmi. Currently they aren't making use of it, but if they turn it on, things will go haywire quickly as a lot of the equipment isn't capatible.


Oh, and HDMI is DVI extended with the audio tacked on. So HDMI is VIDEO AND AUDIO on one cord.

[Alpine Spirit]

Wow thanks... that eliminates alot of comparing and what could be a terrible decision.

[ArloGuthroJeep]

2009 is the new deadline, and Ill believe that when I see it. Though, you should be able to pick up a digital to analog box if needed.
And even that'll probably get pushed back out further is my guess...I think the rule (law?) states that 65%(probably more) of consumers have to have a digitally capable TV...wasn't the original deadline 2006?

[lilgreenjeepyj]

Another thing to think about is content...

Broadcast OTA and direct signals are at 720p/1080i

Video Games, Blue Ray and HD DVD are at 1080p

[team D.A.T.A.]

Oh - and why are HDMI cables so fawking expensive? It's ridiculous the prices they want for these things.

Don't forget also that you may need a new receiver with HDMI switching if that's how you run your set now.


The cables at Walmart are just as good as the Monster cables at Best Buy. You can pay $49 or $160. The choice is yours. There isn't a difference. Check out the specifications before buying.

[ColoradoSkier]

Does 720p = 1080i then? Are they interchangeable when you see them in product descriptions?

[Clint]

Does 720p = 1080i then? Are they interchangeable when you see them in product descriptions?

Something (http://alvyray.com/DigitalTV/Naming_Proposal.htm) to read over :)

[PhantomD AKA Zach]

The cables at Walmart are just as good as the Monster cables at Best Buy. You can pay $49 or $160. The choice is yours. There isn't a difference. Check out the specifications before buying.

I love it when people say they bought such and such expensive cables... with analog there is an argument... but with a digital signal... you ether get the whole thing or nothing at all...

Zach

[lilgreenjeepyj]

Does 720p = 1080i then? Are they interchangeable when you see them in product descriptions?

1080p requires a huge increase in bandwith so I doubt we will see broadcast 1080p any time soon. That was my point above. If you are more concerned with TV than its not as big of a deal to go 1080p. If movies are your thing, then its a bigger deal.




To answer the question, it's important to understand the difference between 720p vs 1080i. A 720p signal is made up of 720 horizontal lines. Each frame is displayed in its entirety on-screen for 1/30th of a second. This is know as progressive scan (hence the 'p')The quality is like watching 30 photographic images a second on TV. A 1080i signal comprises 1080 horizontal lines but all the lines are not displayed on-screen simultaneously. Instead, they are interlaced (hence the 'i'), ie every other lines is displayed for 1/60th of a second and then the alternate lines are displayed for 1/60th of a second. So, the frame rate is still 30 frames per second, but each frame is split into two fields, which your brain then puts together subconsciously.
Most of the time interlacing works fine, but for fast moving images, such as sports like baseball and hockey it can cause problems which manifest themselves as a 'stepping' effect on-screen. Progressive scan signals don't have this problem and so are better suited to sports.

[ColoradoSkier]

Something (http://alvyray.com/DigitalTV/Naming_Proposal.htm) to read over :)

Nifty, thanks!

[lilgreenjeepyj]

I love it when people say they bought such and such expensive cables... with analog there is an argument... but with a digital signal... you ether get the whole thing or nothing at all...

Zach

X10 Million....


Speaking of that, OTA can be frustrating for this very reason. You don't get a snowy picture with OTA HD. You get pixles, then nothing at all when you loose the signal. Frustrating at times.


There is a lot of uneducated and less educated info out there. You really owe it to yourself to do your own research and NOT be educated by the salesman.

And remember the TVs are often turned up to blinding brightness levels at the shop to "Improve" the picture. Calibrating the TV is also worth wile.

[Yota]

2009 is the new deadline, and Ill believe that when I see it. Though, you should be able to pick up a digital to analog box if needed.


As for the prices being reasonable, well it doesn't get more reasonable that a 20" widscreen LCD for $220 from a major brand...:shrug:

20" is tiny. My computer monitor is bigger than that.

I'm willing to throw down about $600 but I can't get the good stuff for that price yet.

But if 2009 is the new deadline (and it's a moving deadline) then I probably can't hold out that long.

But I refuse to pay >$1000 for a flippin' TV especially when most signals are not HD anyway. That's like driving a Ferrari but never exceeding 30 MPH. I have to pay extra to get HD right now. And although HD is sweet, I'm not sure it's that sweet.

Honestly the one thing that might push me to get HD is gaming. When I play XBox I can't see things well enough - especially when I play Splinter Cell, which is dark as hell. So HD would help with that I think but only if I get the 360 (read: extra $400)

But still the price point is too high right now.

[Steve]

But I refuse to pay >$1000 for a flippin' TV especially when most signals are not HD anyway.
All HD signals are digital, but not all digital signals are HD. Just because an OTA station switches to digital doesn't mean that programming will be HD.

And to add to the original thread question, there are other options beyond plasma and LCD. Don't limit yourself to just those two options.

[lilgreenjeepyj]

Well as of now, $1k gets you into 40 inch territory so that is MUCH better than a year ago when $1k barely got you into 30 inch territory.

Right now each of our local stations already broadcast over the air in HD of some variety, 720 or 1080. I watch them all the time in HD for Free ;) So right now you can get it all for free.

But altimately you are right gaming has push HD for a while. However DVDs are 480p. The new HD discs are both 1080p so that has the chance to push HD also.

Oh and ESPN HD has also done a nice job pushing HD too...


As for over the air though. Here in Denver its already here and free. And really nice... :drool:



20" is tiny. My computer monitor is bigger than that.

I'm willing to throw down about $600 but I can't get the good stuff for that price yet.

But if 2009 is the new deadline (and it's a moving deadline) then I probably can't hold out that long.

But I refuse to pay >$1000 for a flippin' TV especially when most signals are not HD anyway. That's like driving a Ferrari but never exceeding 30 MPH. I have to pay extra to get HD right now. And although HD is sweet, I'm not sure it's that sweet.

Honestly the one thing that might push me to get HD is gaming. When I play XBox I can't see things well enough - especially when I play Splinter Cell, which is dark as hell. So HD would help with that I think but only if I get the 360 (read: extra $400)

But still the price point is too high right now.

[dptdawg]

Well as of now, $1k gets you into 40 inch territory so that is MUCH better than a year ago when $1k barely got you into 30 inch territory.

Right now each of our local stations already broadcast over the air in HD of some variety, 720 or 1080. I watch them all the time in HD for Free ;) So right now you can get it all for free.

But altimately you are right gaming has push HD for a while. However DVDs are 480p. The new HD discs are both 1080p so that has the chance to push HD also.

Oh and ESPN HD has also done a nice job pushing HD too...


As for over the air though. Here in Denver its already here and free. And really nice... :drool:

But once you leave the metro area you can not pick up the HD signals without purchasing an expensive outdoor antenna. Ask me how I know...

[ArloGuthroJeep]

Not sure if you consider me in the metro area but in Boulder I have a $30 antenna and get most of the HD channels...2, (not CBS:(), 6, 7, 9, 31...stupid hole in Boulder, why do most of the Broncos game have to be broadcasted on CBS:(:(:(

[Oscar]

They broadcast the doncos...well aint that a waste of time?

[Yota]

All HD signals are digital, but not all digital signals are HD. Just because an OTA station switches to digital doesn't mean that programming will be HD.

And to add to the original thread question, there are other options beyond plasma and LCD. Don't limit yourself to just those two options.

Not familiar with the other options besides HD CRT... school me :)

[Yota]

Yeah I know all the local stations broadcast HD and that definitely is nice.

Ultimately I'm sure I'll do it. And it is true that the prices have been falling.

But... at Best Buy 42" flat panel plasma HDTVs are still $1400 and up (if you want an Insignia brand). You don't get into the $1200-$1300 range until you talk EDTV (??) or "HD-ready."

For LCD screens you can get down closer to $1000 for 40" to 42".

[Steve]

Not familiar with the other options besides HD CRT... school me :)
We looked around a LOT, at different brands and types, before buying the JVC HD-ILA. (http://www.jvc.com/product.jsp?modelId=MODL027316&pathId=114&page=2&archive=true) It was clearly better than the LCD and Plasma sets we looked at.

[ColoradoSkier]

Froogle shows a low price of ~$1200 for that.

[lilgreenjeepyj]

Yeah I know all the local stations broadcast HD and that definitely is nice.

Ultimately I'm sure I'll do it. And it is true that the prices have been falling.

But... at Best Buy 42" flat panel plasma HDTVs are still $1400 and up (if you want an Insignia brand). You don't get into the $1200-$1300 range until you talk EDTV (??) or "HD-ready."

For LCD screens you can get down closer to $1000 for 40" to 42".

I was refering to the Black Friday sales with my prices. Sorry for the confusion, but they are an indicator that the prices are still dropping.

[lilgreenjeepyj]

But once you leave the metro area you can not pick up the HD signals without purchasing an expensive outdoor antenna. Ask me how I know...


That is where, Comcast/Dish/Direct come into play... With the HD box, I get my HD locals for free direct broadcast. Crystal clear...

Oh and once Golden gets out of the stone age and lets them replace the old towers with the new tower, even more people will get free HD OTA...

[Yota]

I was refering to the Black Friday sales with my prices. Sorry for the confusion, but they are an indicator that the prices are still dropping.

Gotcha. Black Friday scares the b'jebus outta me. I try not to even leave the house that day. Whatever it is, I don't need it that bad. :D

[Yota]

For that JVC...

Manufacturer's suggested retail price: $5499.95

:eek:

The list of features is a mile long on that one tho.

[oleblue]

This helps, I've got from this:

HDTV 720(i/p) 1080(i/p) Bray, HDDVD, plasma, lcd, crt, hdmi. ota, hdcp, drm.

Makes sence.:rolleyes:

Now what I'm still confused about is the aspect ratios, 16:9, widescreen letterebox. 4:3 pillar box...:shrug:


I think I will still wait until I'm forced to buy one. maybe there will be a standard by then.:D

[Jeffro600]

Plasma = BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Sounds like a REALLY annoying flourecent light. :rolleyes: Several friends of mine have them...and even the high dollar ones still buzz up here at 6000+ feet. I find it extremely distracting and is the main reason why i would never own one. The viewing angle on the LCD's isnt quite that of the plasmas but they dont make the noise and IMO, the better quality oens look every bit as nice as the plasmas.

[lilgreenjeepyj]

This helps, I've got from this:

HDTV 720(i/p) 1080(i/p) Bray, HDDVD, plasma, lcd, crt, hdmi. ota, hdcp, drm.

Makes sence.:rolleyes:

Now what I'm still confused about is the aspect ratios, 16:9, widescreen letterebox. 4:3 pillar box...:shrug:


I think I will still wait until I'm forced to buy one. maybe there will be a standard by then.:D


Just to clarify a bit more...:D

EDTV/HDTV/HDTV Monitor
480i/p 720i/p 1080i/p
Blue Ray vs HD DVD for the current high def movies
Plasma/CRT/LCD/
HDMI/DVI/Component
HDCP is the DRM
Mpeg2 vs Mpeg 4

Finally Aspect ratios
4:1 16:9 2.35:1 <-The last is true movie aspect ratio.

BTW, there are already replacements in the works for LCD and Plasma...;)
NED,SED,OLED,etc...

Bottom line, Do your homework, look at a bunch of TVs, and enjoy the one you buy without looking back...:thumbsup: HD really is nice once you see true HD content.

One last thing to think about, If you want PC to TV, the easist way, is a TV with VGA in. Mine has one, and its a NICE option, especially for the PC gamer crowd...:drool:

[ColoradoSkier]

One last thing to think about, If you want PC to TV, the easist way, is a TV with VGA in. Mine has one, and its a NICE option, especially for the PC gamer crowd...:drool:

Hippie plays BF2 on his every once in a while. I'd love to do that... :)

[Hippie]

Plasma = BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Sounds like a REALLY annoying flourecent light. :rolleyes: Several friends of mine have them...and even the high dollar ones still buzz up here at 6000+ feet. I find it extremely distracting and is the main reason why i would never own one. The viewing angle on the LCD's isnt quite that of the plasmas but they dont make the noise and IMO, the better quality oens look every bit as nice as the plasmas.

Sorry but this is inaccurate now - the sets are either old or not high end. I have one at 6k and no buzz, now if you try taking one up around 7k or higher you probable will get the buzz. The buzzing comes from the power supply being overworked at the altitude which causes the cooling fan to be over worked trying to keep the power supply cool. the higher end models and high altitude models now come with higher end power and cooling units to compensate.

Ski'er one of the biggest things to look at with Plasma is how much R&D is being put into the glass and does the manufacturer make their own or buy from someone else. Last time I checked Panasonic was the only one that owned their own factory for the glass. I know some of the others own part of factories.

The web sites Snotty posted are very informative.

[Big Dave]

One thing I found when I was researching LCD's in the mid 30's range is that for the most part, as long as you stuck with a solid reputable manufacturer like Sony, Panasonic, JVC, Samsung, etc, you were pretty much okay. I went in to several stores with a list of models that I liked and picked the one that looked the best (and yes, I know about how the stores tweak their TV's, I sold this stuff right up until the LCD/Plasma craze started). I found a lot of great prices on some no name brands, and up and comers, but didn't want to take the risk. I still consider LG and an up and coming brand, but that's mainly because of their appliances and my refusal to give any money to a company that builds appliances the way they do.

Basically, there's LOTS of great PRICES out there, just make sure it's a great VALUE too.

[Snotty]

We'll be looking at Panasonic Plasma when the time comes.

LGJ, do you know of any Plasma TV's that allow you to adjust the ratio? I knew a couple did, but that was 4:1 to 16:9.

And the wife would kick my arse if I bought a tv of this magnitude and hooked my pc or a gaming console up to it. Which was some of my argument in the console vs pc debate.

[ColoradoSkier]

For that JVC...



:eek:

The list of features is a mile long on that one tho.

Overstock.com had it at ~$1300.

[dptdawg]

Not sure if you consider me in the metro area but in Boulder I have a $30 antenna and get most of the HD channels...2, (not CBS:(), 6, 7, 9, 31...stupid hole in Boulder, why do most of the Broncos game have to be broadcasted on CBS:(:(:(
I don't consider Boulder the metro area (but it is getting awfully hard to tell anymore). I also tried a relatively cheap antenna (I think it was $40) and I all could get in was the local spanish channel and some po-dunk channels out of WY, oh, and channel 12. I was unable to pick anything else up. After doing some research I discovered that all of the local channels are only being broadcast from a small tower in Denver and at low power levels. This will continue to be the case until the dipsute is resolved on the tower on Lookout Mt. between the local residents and the rest of CO.

[Big Dave]

This will continue to be the case until the dipsute is resolved on the tower on Lookout Mt. between the local residents and the rest of CO.

Don't forget the local stations that don't want to spend the extra cash! Channel 9 is currently the only station that does its newscasts in HD.

[ArloGuthroJeep]

Don't forget the local stations that don't want to spend the extra cash! Channel 9 is currently the only station that does its newscasts in HD.
They are also broadcasting two HD channels over the same frequency...more compression, lower quality...BAH! They need to get rid of 9.2 - their stupid weather channel...

[Hardcor4x4]

Me and my girlfriend have been looking at plazmas for a couple months now. Building a built-in wall unit in my living room to accomidate 42-50in screen. The ones were finding with best color and sharpness have consistantly Samsung, Panisonic, Phillips & Hitatchi. Those Vizio brand ones that I never heard of till we starting looking at plasmas have a pretty decent picture also and are a pretty good value. But I know nothing about Vizio so don't realy know about them and their longevity. Don't know why but I have yet to see a Sony plasma screen come even close to a picture quality and sharpness of the Samsung, Phillips or Panisonic. Their screens are always fuzzy looking and the detail isn't there. Even looking at them side by side in the store when their playing the same movie on several screens at the same time.

I remember in another thread about plasmas vs DLP screens and some people said DLP is the way to go? Some said DLP's can be viewed at most angles? I have to say anything rear projection sucks at any angle other then dead straight on in front of it. Go to Circuit City or Ultimate electronics and look at their wall of TV's with plasmas or LCD's along with rear projection tv's like DLP's and stand off to the side and look at all of them, Which screens do you still see clearly? To me it doesn't even look like the DLP and rear LCD projector screens are even turned on. Is it just me? :shrug:

[Clint]

Me and my girlfriend have been looking at plazmas for a couple months now. Building a built-in wall unit in my living room to accomidate 42-50in screen. The ones were finding with best color and sharpness have consistantly Samsung, Panisonic, Phillips & Hitatchi. Those Vizio brand ones that I never heard of till we starting looking at plasmas have a pretty decent picture also and are a pretty good value. But I know nothing about Vizio so don't realy know about them and their longevity. Don't know why but I have yet to see a Sony plasma screen come even close to a picture quality and sharpness of the Samsung, Phillips or Panisonic. Their screens are always fuzzy looking and the detail isn't there. Even looking at them side by side in the store when their playing the same movie on several screens at the same time.

I remember in another thread about plasmas vs DLP screens and some people said DLP is the way to go? Some said DLP's can be viewed at most angles? I have to say anything rear projection sucks at any angle other then dead straight on in front of it. Go to Circuit City or Ultimate electronics and look at their wall of TV's with plasmas or LCD's along with rear projection tv's like DLP's and stand off to the side and look at all of them, Which screens do you still see clearly? To me it doesn't even look like the DLP and rear LCD projector screens are even turned on. Is it just me? :shrug:

I am thrilled with my Vizio. I took a chance on it and saved ALOT of money. One of the main reasons I went plasma was for the room it freed up in my living room. It looks nice hanging on the wall, and the picture has been excellent. Its got 2 HDMI ports on it, most only have one, and it does a good job at switching for the components. It works well with the PS2, and with the upconverting DVD player I got.

I didnt care for the DLPs we looked at as much as the plasmas and LCDs. Im not sure why, but the picture on the different sets didnt seem as crisp as they LCDs and plasmas. Might have been wishful thinking as I really wanted something that would free up some space...

[Hippie]

The ones were finding with best color and sharpness have consistantly Samsung, Panisonic, Phillips & Hitatchi. Those Vizio brand ones that I never heard of till we starting looking at plasmas have a pretty decent picture also and are a pretty good value. But I know nothing about Vizio so don't realy know about them and their longevity. Don't know why but I have yet to see a Sony plasma screen come even close to a picture quality and sharpness of the Samsung, Phillips or Panisonic. Their screens are always fuzzy looking and the detail isn't there. Even looking at them side by side in the store when their playing the same movie on several screens at the same time.

I remember in another thread about plasmas vs DLP screens and some people said DLP is the way to go? Some said DLP's can be viewed at most angles? I have to say anything rear projection sucks at any angle other then dead straight on in front of it. Go to Circuit City or Ultimate electronics and look at their wall of TV's with plasmas or LCD's along with rear projection tv's like DLP's and stand off to the side and look at all of them, Which screens do you still see clearly? To me it doesn't even look like the DLP and rear LCD projector screens are even turned on. Is it just me? :shrug:

The ones you mention above are the ones that own all or part of there own glass factories as well as make most of their own components - Visio was not around when I bought but (sorry Clint) I would not buy them.

Also - Sony is walking away from the plasma market completely the have focused on LCD only so I would not get a Sony Plasma. We chose the plasma over the LCD because at the time LCD's had just came out in larger than 37 inches and they where pricey. We chose plasma over DLP because we wanted it hanging on the wall :D

Snotty - that is why it only happens when she is out of town :D

[Jeffro600]

Sorry but this is inaccurate now - the sets are either old or not high end. I have one at 6k and no buzz


Well maybe your the lucky one... :shrug:

EVERY single one from 1000 bucks up past 6000 at circuit city all had a buzz here in Cheyenne(i think were at 6200 feet give to take a hundred), some less noticable then others but it was still there. If im gonna be paying that much for a TV, it had better be perfectly silent and bring me a beer while im sitting on the couch too.

[Pilot]

LCD? Plasma? Guess I should sell my vaccum tube RCA Victor TV console with the built in turntable on top, housed in a very snazzy mediteranean style cabinet. It still get's McHale's Navy, but not re-runs, the original broadcasts. :eek:

[Oscar]

I saw a new Lucy show today

[Clint]

The ones you mention above are the ones that own all or part of there own glass factories as well as make most of their own components - Visio was not around when I bought but (sorry Clint) I would not buy them.

Also - Sony is walking away from the plasma market completely the have focused on LCD only so I would not get a Sony Plasma. We chose the plasma over the LCD because at the time LCD's had just came out in larger than 37 inches and they where pricey. We chose plasma over DLP because we wanted it hanging on the wall :D

Snotty - that is why it only happens when she is out of town :D

There are different options for different folks. Im not a video or audio guru. I have a decent setup that works very well for the money. The picture is WAY better than anything Im used to, and the price was right. It got great reviews, showed up as one of the best products of the year, etc. I know you are not bashing Hippie, but I feel like I have to defend this as not just some dumb choice to save money. Also, just for my info, why would you not buy them? I have recommended them to friends who have all ended up happy with theirs. I feel like the choice and difference in these TVs comes down to if you are happy with polk speakers or require Klipsch speakers :) They all sound good but in the end, it has to be worth it to the individual to spend the extra cash.

[otisdog]

We just bought a Sony rear projection LCD - 46". Looked at the 1080P stuff but more money than we wanted to spend.
This Sony is awesome. It's nicer than even expected and was $1439.
Got a 2 year service plan to deal with any problems.
Jim

[lilgreenjeepyj]

We'll be looking at Panasonic Plasma when the time comes.

LGJ, do you know of any Plasma TV's that allow you to adjust the ratio? I knew a couple did, but that was 4:1 to 16:9.

And the wife would kick my arse if I bought a tv of this magnitude and hooked my pc or a gaming console up to it. Which was some of my argument in the console vs pc debate.


My wife is ok with the PC to TV hook up...:D But I prefer the console right now...:shrug: Besides the Dish box is handling DVR duty.

That said, I don't know off hand of Plasma as I run an LCD. However, I would guess that the vast majority are capable of both ratios. Generally the ratio is determined by the source material and then the TV can either strecth it or not. I know Ill often stretch out a 4:1 image to 16:9. Also you may notice some "widescreen" movies still have black bars, but this is due to movie widescreen still being a bit different than 16:9. Most HDTVs will stretchh content, but usually the content determines the ratio.

Brand wise, it varies with the opinions. We run a westy and it is almost of the same quality as Samsung/Sony, close to the same picture from my eyes, but much less $$$. There are bargins to be had, and there is also crap. Common judgement goes a long way.

Ill say it again, when buying an HD set, you REALLY owe it to yourself to do some solid research and then check out a variety of TVs, Content, Brands, Sets, and sizes to get a good idea of what is really out there. There are many less than educated opinions out there, myself included with TV salesmen being the worst starting point. With the expection of the truly high end. There is a TON of miss information out there sadly due to the lack of real solid standards. HD movies are 1080p while HD TV is usually 1080i.

A lot to think about from TV providers too. Comcast vs Direct vs Dish vs OTA.... But that is a topic for another thread.

[Hippie]

There are different options for different folks. Im not a video or audio guru. I have a decent setup that works very well for the money. The picture is WAY better than anything Im used to, and the price was right. It got great reviews, showed up as one of the best products of the year, etc. I know you are not bashing Hippie, but I feel like I have to defend this as not just some dumb choice to save money. Also, just for my info, why would you not buy them? I have recommended them to friends who have all ended up happy with theirs. I feel like the choice and difference in these TVs comes down to if you are happy with polk speakers or require Klipsch speakers :) They all sound good but in the end, it has to be worth it to the individual to spend the extra cash.

I just can't trust something that new that is priced that far below the norm but I hear ya different strokes and all.. BTW I have Klipsch's for my surround sound :D so yea I am a little picky about my home theater set up

[ColoradoSkier]

OK, re-opening this can of worms as I will be in the market for a new TV this weekend. Thinking 42", which means LCD or Plasma are both viable. I have some friends who went through this recently, and indicated that locally, Circuit City has the best pricing. On top of that, I get 10% off there as a AAA member, so I am inclined to shop there.

Biggest question is, has anything changed in the 9 months since this question was last presented? The models I am looking at from Hitachi, Sharp and LG look comparable on paper. I intend to go to a store this week and actually look at them of course.

[Hardcor4x4]

Go with LCD. Plasmas are kinda fading away because LCD's are brighter, clearer, sharper and cheaper to make and thats what everyone is buying these days. If you look at the current market theres more LCD flat panels then plasmas now.

Once i'm finished building the wall unit in my living room this is what i'm getting.
http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=361629&pCatg=5883
Standing in Sams Club looking at that one side by side next to a ANY plasma the LCD is brighter, colors are much more vibrant and the sharpness is much better then plasma.

Basicaly though LCD is much cheaper now especialy at 42" then plasma and IMO LCD is far better image then plasma nowadays.

[cheftyler]

The residential and corporate sales guys where I work tell me LCD all the way.

[Rhino95]

I went throught this process about a montha ago and was told LCD all the way. Also...granted he was a Sound Track(new name now) employee... he told me that name brands don't matter with LCDs, they're solid no matter the brand, just look into the resolution part. Mine has a lesser res, but when sitting 10 feet away I see it clearly and probably wouldn't b able to tell the difference in res unless i was upclose...perhaps using it as a comp monitor.

[Gunter]

mine is a 32 inch--from a well known computer store.PM me and i'll tell who.
it was 1200.00 marked down to 450.00!! i use it for movies in my room,and gaming,and computer stuff.
i went with something big(ger) and a great bargain!

:thumbsup:

[WhtJeep]

Man my eyes must be different cause I freaking hate LCD's. Put next to a plasma and it looks duller to me.

Whats the response time on the LCD's? DO they get the ghosting still or is that pretty much a thing of the past?

[Gunter]

Man my eyes must be different cause I freaking hate LCD's. Put next to a plasma and it looks duller to me.

Whats the response time on the LCD's? DO they get the ghosting still or is that pretty much a thing of the past?
i can play unreal tournament full screen at max video settings just fine.no trouble with tv or dvd either.mine is 32 in lcd.

[Hippie]

Quality Plasma or LCD you will be fine. Picture quality/brightness/Color/ half life/ etc. are all comparable. The current market trend is LCD. I have had my Panasonic plasma for over 2 yrs now and it shows a picture comparable to any LCD I have looked at in the stores recently.

The one advantage LCD has is that it is less likely to have an image "burn in" then plasma. This is a non-issue unless you intend to do alot of gaming on it;)

[ColoradoSkier]

Quality Plasma or LCD you will be fine. Picture quality/brightness/Color/ half life/ etc. are all comparable. The current market trend is LCD. I have had my Panasonic plasma for over 2 yrs now and it shows a picture comparable to any LCD I have looked at in the stores recently.

The one advantage LCD has is that it is less likely to have an image "burn in" then plasma. This is a non-issue unless you intend to do alot of gaming on it;)

I don't know about that. I'd like to, but it'd be kind of a hassle from where the gaming rig is now.

[RebelRescuer]

I'm not a fan of plasma at all.

I'm no techie, but my hubby (who's all into this stuff) said that if something-or-other goes out on a plasma, you're screwed. But if something-or-other goes out on LCD, then you just get a new bulb(?).

We have three big screen LCD's and have never had a problem (all three are about two years old).

Plasma's also hum a lot it seems. I know from having them here at work that if you turn them upside down, sideways, etc it can really mess them up. :idea:

[salsashark]

I scored an incredible deal on my 50" plasma, but if I had to go out and buy another TV today, I would go for LCD.

The biggest problem w/ my plasma is that it has a high pithed whine. Barely noticeable, but when it's real quiet, I can hear it.

[ArloGuthroJeep]

Man my eyes must be different cause I freaking hate LCD's. Put next to a plasma and it looks duller to me.

Whats the response time on the LCD's? DO they get the ghosting still or is that pretty much a thing of the past?

Response times are generally all under 10ms now with 8ms being "normal" last I looked...

[ArloGuthroJeep]

Plasma's also hum a lot it seems. I know from having them here at work that if you turn them upside down, sideways, etc it can really mess them up. :idea:

That hum is caused from the transformer having to work harder (produce more energy) at higher altitudes which is needed to produce the plasma. Higher end units (hell even some low end ones it seems) have since put in beefier transformers which have quieted them down. Parents 52" Plasma doesn't hum at all, is about 1.5 years old.

[bulldozer]

Beyond the high-pitched whine, there is also an issue of heat. Plasmas put out a ton of heat. You can warm your hands up by placing them a few inches from the screen. My close friend has had his shut down without warning due to heat build up. He had to keep it off for a while to let it cool down. He also had the picture go out on him in the first year but it was covered under warranty. He was without the TV for a week. I vote LCD.

Here is the LCD that I bought before the end of the year. It has been a great set.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Sony-40-BRAVIA-V-Series-HDTV-KDL-40V2500/sem/rpsm/oid/160778/catOid/-12869/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

[ColoradoSkier]

Is the difference in 720p vs 1080p that noticeable?

[bulldozer]

Is the difference in 780p vs 1080p that noticeable?

Yes, it is noticeable. On the other hand, a 1080p set won't get used to it's fullest capacity unless you have a HD or BluRay DVD player. Those are the only things that are commonly found in 1080p. The Sony that I linked to "upconverts" 780 signals to 1080i so I'm either watching standard def or 1080i.

[ColoradoSkier]

I believe the DVD player I was looking at does an "upconvert", but that isn't critical to me at the moment. On the other hand, the 1080p sets are just a few hundred $$ more, so might be better in the long run.

Does Comcast HD come in at 720p or 1080p?

Drat, none of the 1080's in my price range have PiP. Had that on a TV once a few years ago and really liked it...

[bulldozer]

Comcast is 780p. All broadcast HD signals are in 780p. I wouldn't hold your breath waiting for cable or satellite channels to come in 1080 due to costs involved. The biggest reason for getting a 1080p set is the HD DVD. I don't have the HD DVD but will once a single format evolves.

[OrangeCrush]

just wanted to add high altitude and plasma dont mix (I had to get LCD at 9.850 alt.) and also if you are buying and plan to upgrade to either hd-dvd or blu-ray anytime soon you want 1080p for those disc formats.


Edit: Dozer, Expect a single player for both formats soon as broadcom has already developed a Chip to handle both formats with 1 laser. THe issue will be in licensing both techs in one device.

[ColoradoSkier]

I am sure I would be happy with 720 then, especially if I can get Picture in a picture again

[vb]

last fall i had some spare cash and went crazy at best buy. bought 2- 42 inch plasmas and a bunch of sound stuff. 2-360s as well. anyway,

i never have time to sit down. one of the tv's is dedicated to one of the 360s . that set has been on 4 or 5 times for maybe 2hours tops. the other set has been on more often since its attached to all my other gadgets.

both sets are 720p and have all the cool ports. id make you a screeming deal on a set of your choice. seriously, i dont use either of em and they just sit there. both are good units.

[ColoradoSkier]

Anyone have experience with Vizio?

vb - tell me what the make and models they are...

[ArloGuthroJeep]

My roommate says they look great for their price. I am most likely going to be picking one up in the next month or so.

[Clint]

Anyone have experience with Vizio?

vb - tell me what the make and models they are...

I own a 50" Vizio, but its a plasma...not sure if anything I have to offer would help?

[jredmond]

I just had the same delima as you a few months ago, did alot of studied everything I could, and I bought a new Samsung 50" 1080p Slim-Depth DLP HDTV for 2k. If I had to do it all over again I would still go with what I bought. It is just awsome. I bought a HD Dish receiver, new Harmon Cardon stereo receiver, a hd-dvd player, and HDMI cables for everything. Here is what I found.

LCD - This was what I wanted but I hear they loose 50% of brightness after 60,000 hours of use and after about 100,000 hours of use they go out about like a light bulb (60,000 hours is about 12-15 years of use). These now also cost the most. Buy this one if your TV will face an open window.

Plasma - This is supposed to be the most reliable of the three. From what I hear you also loose clarity after 60,000 hours and are worthless after 100,000 hours (60,000 hours is about 12-15 years of use). The have much blacker blacks and due to a 0 refresh rate they look the best for action seens. Also I think they have the best pic. Only a few hundred dollars less then LCD. Buy this one if you dont have to worry about glare.

DLP - WAY more bang for the buck the LCD and Plasma. You will need to change out a bulb every 4 years which cost $200 (very easy just open a flap and it is like changing a bulb in a lamp). This does not have a glare problem. The pic is very close to a LCD. This does look better in a dark room but in the middle of the day with all shades open it still is awsome. Also these dont have as wide of a viewing angle as plasma or LCD. Buy this one if you wont have to watch the TV way off to the side.

Also dont trust everything you read on those review sites. Buy a name brand and you will be happy with your tv for a long time. Go to several stores and ask alot of questions.

Hope this helps.

[ColoradoSkier]

Where did you get this from?

[vb]

toshiba 42hp66

hp cpto4o6o2

[ArloGuthroJeep]

I disagree with some of what jredmond posted.

Glare totally depends on the manufacturer. Mitsubishi is pretty well known for having hi-glare screens (ironically, it is the anti-glare shield they put on there that produces the glare, remove it and it looks better in light). You can't group them together like that.

[Jeffro600]

Anyone have experience with Vizio?

vb - tell me what the make and models they are...

Alot of people badmouth them cuz their inexpensive but i have a 50" Plasma(P50) from them and its far and beyond nicer than a friends 50" Pioneer that he paid more than twice for last year. The picture quality is fantastic, the built in speakers are decent and they dont buzz at all. Check out the home theater forums around....most give excellent reviews on most Vizio products.

[ColoradoSkier]

Apparently Vizio is just another name for Westinghouse. Personally, I'd trust the latter name more than the former, for an impulse buy. I mean, I can understand why Goldstar became LG, but Westinghouse has been around forever...

[Clint]

Apparently Vizio is just another name for Westinghouse. Personally, I'd trust the latter name more than the former, for an impulse buy. I mean, I can understand why Goldstar became LG, but Westinghouse has been around forever...


Where did you get that info from? Just curious...

[ColoradoSkier]

Never mind, I made an incorrect assumption.

New question - if I am not mounting it on the wall, is there any reason to go with a flat LCD vs a LCD projection?

[jredmond]

I disagree with some of what jredmond posted.

Glare totally depends on the manufacturer. Mitsubishi is pretty well known for having hi-glare screens (ironically, it is the anti-glare shield they put on there that produces the glare, remove it and it looks better in light). You can't group them together like that.

What I wrote is just a run down of what I learned from all my online searching. I agree with ArloGuthroJeep that some manufacturers are better much then others as far as glare goes, but LCD and DLP have a matted screen(I think this is what they call it). Plasma does not but some of the plasma companies do much have some more advanced screens that greatly reduce glare (I still think LCD and DLP have less glare).

When you look at a plasma screen look for the glare caused by the lights at the store then try the same thing with a LCD. I see a big differance.

Be an educated shopper. Go to more then one store and ask alot of questions. Also form you own opinion and buy what you like not what they try to push you into buying.

[ColoradoSkier]

Jen and I are going to go look tonight, but I have found that often times I walk in the door knowing more than the sales people do. So I came to you guys, who have that special blend of tech-geekiness and practicality... :D

[jredmond]

Never mind, I made an incorrect assumption.

New question - if I am not mounting it on the wall, is there any reason to go with a flat LCD vs a LCD projection?

LCD does better in a bright room then the LCD projection does. Also LCD has a little better picture then LCD projection. LCD projection does cost WAY less for the same size screen then LCD. They will both kick a$$:D

[Hardcor4x4]

Consumer Reports rates Vizio among the top ten best buys for LCD flat panel TV's. I've looked and looked at a lot of models in their picture quality and compaired them to the Vizio's and Vizio IMO right up at or near the top of them and then factor in the price tag of them at they get my vote. Like my earlier post on that one from Sams Club, A 47" 1080p for around $1500?? That'll be the one I go with.


I have a Symphonic 32" LCD in the bedroom I got from walmart the day after thanksgiving during their mad sale for $598 and it's worked flawlessly and even has a better picture at 480p then most big name brand LCD's out there i've seen in stores. But I did find out later that Magnavox makes those Symphonics so it's actualy a rebadged Magnavox.

[ColoradoSkier]

Thanks Brad, that does help.

And vb, given the lighting conditions in the room this is going into, I need to go with LCD.

A 42" plasma would make a killer computer monitor in my basement office though!

[bulldozer]

I forgot about the glare issue. The same friend I mentioned before has his plasma placed opposite of a large window. Even with the shades drawn, there's a lot of glare and you end up on either side of the couch with your head at a weird angle. Our house has cathedral ceilings, four windows (2 of which are uncovered) and lots of light year 'round. That really limited our choice to an LCD or DLP.

[ColoradoSkier]

I think I'll stick to looking for aflat screen as opposed to a projection model. I can't imagine needing more than a 42" screen for the room it is going into anyway.

The Hampton Inn I stayed at in Greeley last weekend had a nice LCD made by LG. Not sure of the size, but it was nice being able to view it from 170 degrees...

[cheftyler]

FWIW, I just ordered a 42" Magnavox 1080p from Costco, on sale for $999 came to just over $1,100 with tax and ~$60 shipping. 1500:1 contrast ratio not too bad considering the one I was looking at for $1090 + tax was only 1300:1 and it was only 720p :D

[ColoradoSkier]

FWIW, I just ordered a 42" Magnavox 1080p from Costco, on sale for $999 came to just over $1,100 with tax and ~$60 shipping. 1500:1 contrast ratio not too bad considering the one I was looking at for $1090 + tax was only 1300:1 and it was only 720p :D

Wow, good to know!

Now, as far as the HDMI cables go, if I saw one at $80, is the perceived quality that much less than one going for $110?

One more thing - if I want to listen to the regular TV audio via the stereo, does the HDMI cable facilitate this, or do I need to go from the component out on the TV to the component in on the stereo?

[bulldozer]

Wow, good to know!

Now, as far as the HDMI cables go, if I saw one at $80, is the perceived quality that much less than one going for $110?

One more thing - if I want to listen to the regular TV audio via the stereo, does the HDMI cable facilitate this, or do I need to go from the component out on the TV to the component in on the stereo?

If you have comcast, you won't need the HDMI cable. Their boxes don't have an HDMI ouput.

[ColoradoSkier]

If you have comcast, you won't need the HDMI cable. Their boxes don't have an HDMI ouput.

The home theater/ dvd player I have does.

[Pioneer]

If you have comcast, you won't need the HDMI cable. Their boxes don't have an HDMI ouput.

What about if you upgrade to HD? I want to get the HD upgrade from Direct TV but have been draging my feet.... I have the TV Brad has been pushing and it is sweet! I have 0 glare issues and the picture quality is a awsome. I love playing the PS3 on it, the graphics are unreal.....

[bulldozer]

What about if you upgrade to HD? I want to get the HD upgrade from Direct TV but have been draging my feet.... I have the TV Brad has been pushing and it is sweet! I have 0 glare issues and the picture quality is a awsome. I love playing the PS3 on it, the graphics are unreal.....

even if you upgrade to HD, the box doesn't have and HDMI output. I have their HD box with the DVR and didn't realize it didn't have HDMI until I had bought my new TV. I just returned the cable and went with component video.

[bulldozer]

The home theater/ dvd player I have does.

Cool. Just wanted you to know that you won't have HDMI from the comcast box.

[longboy]

...60,000 hours is about 12-15 years of use...

What I would like to know...is who watches 11-13 hours of TV a day? That's just nucking futs :eek:

[ColoradoSkier]

Eventually I will probably upgrade Comcast to HD, but right now I am on digital basic, so I don't have a box at all anyhow. I am excited to use the PiP though. Looked at the Vizio last night, and I am happy with it. With my AAA discount, it comes to $998 before taxes.

[ColoradoSkier]

What I would like to know...is who watches 11-13 hours of TV a day? That's just nucking futs :eek:

Amen.

[Hardcor4x4]

What about if you upgrade to HD? I want to get the HD upgrade from Direct TV but have been draging my feet.... I have the TV Brad has been pushing and it is sweet! I have 0 glare issues and the picture quality is a awsome. I love playing the PS3 on it, the graphics are unreal.....

Direct TV has HDMI hookups on there HD receivers. :flipoff2:

[bulldozer]

Direct TV has HDMI hookups on there HD receivers. :flipoff2:

I'll be switching to DirectTV soon. Cheaper and they will have over 100 HD channels in September. Comcast has something like 20.

[ColoradoSkier]

I'll be switching to DirectTV soon. Cheaper and they will have over 100 HD channels in September. Comcast has something like 20.

I get Internet from Comcast, don't anticipate changing anytime soon.

I do have to admit though, this past weekend was the first time I had done a comparison of HD to non-HD (with ESPN) - I was suitably impressed.

[jredmond]

What I would like to know...is who watches 11-13 hours of TV a day? That's just nucking futs :eek:

This is what I thought but when I was doing all of my research these were the to figures that I kept finding. :shrug: I believe the 12-15 year part but I think 60,000 hours is a load of crap.

[Hardcor4x4]

Now, as far as the HDMI cables go, if I saw one at $80, is the perceived quality that much less than one going for $110?

Theres a huge miss conception on these HDMI cables. HDMI is a pure digital signal. It either gets there or it doesn't. If the HDMI cable you need only needs to be 6-8 feet in length then buy the cheapest you can find. I'm still hunting for this website that did testing on high end HDMI cables like Monster cable brand and then the cheap stuff and they found absolutly no difference in signal quality and picture quality untill after nealry 200 feet through HDMI cable. If the HDMI cable you need can be less then 200 feet buy the cheapest you can find. There is no difference in high end vs. cheap stuff when using a 6 foot long HDMI cable.

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5855137

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4810666

[Hardcor4x4]

I'll be switching to DirectTV soon. Cheaper and they will have over 100 HD channels in September. Comcast has something like 20.

According to Direct TV's website they have 150 HD channels right now with more coming later this fall/winter.

[ColoradoSkier]

Theres a huge miss conception on these HDMI cables. HDMI is a pure digital signal. It either gets there or it doesn't. If the HDMI cable you need only needs to be 6-8 feet in length then buy the cheapest you can find. I'm still hunting for this website that did testing on high end HDMI cables like Monster cable brand and then the cheap stuff and they found absolutly no difference in signal quality and picture quality untill after nealry 200 feet through HDMI cable. If the HDMI cable you need can be less then 200 feet buy the cheapest you can find. There is no difference in high end vs. cheap stuff when using a 6 foot long HDMI cable.

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5855137

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4810666

Right on Brad - thanks. I don't think I'll need more than 200' :eek:

[cheftyler]

Monster Cables are not worth the expense...we have clients ask us that all the time, and we ask them why would they want a Monster Cable 3' RCA for $15 when we can make them one of equal or greater quality for $3.

[bulldozer]

According to Direct TV's website they have 150 HD channels right now with more coming later this fall/winter.

????

http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/packProg/channelChart2.jsp?assetId=1100084

[Hardcor4x4]

????

http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/packProg/channelChart2.jsp?assetId=1100084


ahhhhHH, I've been seeing this page (http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPage.jsp?assetId=900034) for months now and just thought they'd have it in place by now. Didn't know "soon" means a year down the road in Direct TV world. :P

[Hardcor4x4]

Cheapest yet that i've found.
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10240&cs_id=1024004&p_id=2412&seq=1&format=2&style=
Even has gold plated connectors.

[ColoradoSkier]

If I weren't bringing this stuff home today, I'd do the mail order. But I am ok spending $30 at wally world.

[Hardcor4x4]

If I weren't bringing this stuff home today, I'd do the mail order. But I am ok spending $30 at wally world.
Check Lowes and Home Depot I know they carry Phillips brand and RCA brand audio stuff and HDMI cables too and might have it even cheaper.

[oleblue]

What I would like to know...is who watches 11-13 hours of TV a day? That's just nucking futs :eek:
We do at work, they are on 24/7.

This is what I thought but when I was doing all of my research these were the to figures that I kept finding. :shrug: I believe the 12-15 year part but I think 60,000 hours is a load of crap.

The 60,000 hours is crap, that is just under 7 year continues. Those at work, Samsungs are said to last 50,000 hours, we think it means 6 to 7 weeks, not years. They die after only 6 weeks of 24/7 use.

[j5]

Didn't Timothy Leary invent the LCD?

I thought it was Al Gore...

[ColoradoSkier]

Check Lowes and Home Depot I know they carry Phillips brand and RCA brand audio stuff and HDMI cables too and might have it even cheaper.

Home Depot was $40. Not a wasted trip though, needed some other stuff there.

Picked up a TV and everything from Circuit City on Friday. These people are WAY better at customer service than Best Buy, and the prices were better!
Got a Vizio 42LHDTV10A 42" LCD TV for $999 with my AAA discount. Also picked up a Panasonic all in one home theater unit, with HDMI out, to replace my ancient Sony setup. Much slimmer than the old Sony faux-component unit, and the sound quality is really good (had to do my standard test of watching the Air Cav scene from Apocalypse Now).

Saturday we went to American Furniture and picked up a new entertainment center piece to put it all in/ on.

Still need to run the wires for the surround, but here it is:
http://static.flickr.com/1168/828149759_abc836aad6.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bullockfam/828149759/)

We have already watched a few movies on it, and we are VERY pleased with our purchase. And the wife has already said that we need to get the HD upgrade from Comcast.

[Clint]

Its about time! I didnt think you could drag this out any longer :flipoff2:

TV looks good too!

[ColoradoSkier]

I did just learn that the "basic" HD boxes from Comcast come with component out, but no HDMI. To get HDMI, you need the HD box with DVR.

[ArloGuthroJeep]

My comcast box has HDMI an output

[ColoradoSkier]

My comcast box has HDMI an output

Does it have the DVR? If not, maybe this is their policy moving forward...

[ArloGuthroJeep]

Yeah, DVR HD dual duner. Has Component, S-Video, RCA, HDMI, Optical Audio, and Coax Audio connectors. ie: All of them:D

[ColoradoSkier]

OK, that makes sense, given what I said earlier about needing the DVR to get the HDMI. The non-DVR has all the outs except HDMI. All good though, I'll just take all the component video into the TV, and the component audio into the stereo receiver.

[bulldozer]

I did just learn that the "basic" HD boxes from Comcast come with component out, but no HDMI. To get HDMI, you need the HD box with DVR.

Fark. I guess it has been about a year since I last asked them about an HDMI output. I have their HD channels and the DVR but no HDMI. Oh well. We'll be switching soon anyway.

[ColoradoSkier]

Fark. I guess it has been about a year since I last asked them about an HDMI output. I have their HD channels and the DVR but no HDMI. Oh well. We'll be switching soon anyway.

Since my box only has component out, I am using that. The quality is pretty farking good on the HD channels. Not sure how much better the HDMI would be.

Now I have to figure out a way to get the VCR in the loop without jacking up On Demand and all that. I am thinking a simple splitter should work.

[Hardcor4x4]

Since my box only has component out, I am using that. The quality is pretty farking good on the HD channels. Not sure how much better the HDMI would be.

Now I have to figure out a way to get the VCR in the loop without jacking up On Demand and all that. I am thinking a simple splitter should work.
Component is still analog. HDMI is of course Digital. Difference?? ehh probably some is picture quality and color.

How come you didn't go with a DVR tuner? Once you start using a DVR you'll never know how you managed without one. PAUSE live TV, rewind live TV, record 2 shows at once, watching the LIVE football game and it's tied score, 4th and goal in the 4th quarter with 20 seconds left and your about to piss or crap your pants or the phone rings? DVR you can pause it then resume when your ready. :cool:

[ColoradoSkier]

Component is still analog. HDMI is of course Digital. Difference?? ehh probably some is picture quality and color.

How come you didn't go with a DVR tuner? Once you start using a DVR you'll never know how you managed without one. PAUSE live TV, rewind live TV, record 2 shows at once, watching the LIVE football game and it's tied score, 4th and goal in the 4th quarter with 20 seconds left and your about to piss or crap your pants or the phone rings? DVR you can pause it then resume when your ready. :cool:

Because I wasn't thinking about all that useful stuff. Still getting used to the fact that I bought my first new TV and such in a VERY long time (8-10 years maybe?). :flipoff2:

[cheftyler]

Since my box only has component out, I am using that. The quality is pretty farking good on the HD channels. Not sure how much better the HDMI would be.

Now I have to figure out a way to get the VCR in the loop without jacking up On Demand and all that. I am thinking a simple splitter should work.

Maybe I haven't thought about this yet, but how is putting a VCR in line going to fawk with On Demand?

[ColoradoSkier]

Maybe I haven't thought about this yet, but how is putting a VCR in line going to fawk with On Demand?

Putting it inline does something to it. I don't know the technical terms, but when I took the VCR out of the loop, On Demand suddenly started working. I already have one splitter on the side of the house, feeding cable to 4 rooms and my office (for da interweb), so I am not thinking that adding one more splitter should do any harm. I'll split the line before it goes into the box, and just run the VCR to the TV with the RCA in. Then my PiP will work too (except for HD channels of course).

The next big question I need to answer is do I keep the Harmony 670 and try to get it to play with everything, or do I return it and make the Comcast all in one work?

[cheftyler]

Neither...well sorta both. Return the Harmony and get an Universal RF remote :D