Searching for a new TV.....

[Franko]

Well, it's been a good 7 years with my Sony Trinitron and it's starting to go, the tube that is. It's getting lines, bars and the brightness comes in and out at times. I guess they had a bad batch back then and we inadvertently picked one up, still, 7 years isn't bad for a CRT.

That being said, I'm looking to buy either an LCD or Plasma TV.

Figured I'd throw it out to the masses and see what you all recommend.

I'm still doing a bit of research on both technologies (about 2 weeks now) and know a few of the flaws of each IE: plasma can develop screen burn over time and LCD has an off set viewing angle.

Cost does matter, nothing over $2500 and nothing smaller than a 30". HDTV isn't a big concern at this time, but may come into play if the price is right.

Warranty concerns and the chain where you bought yours are also up for grabs. If you had a good/ bad experience tell me them.

Any thoughts or recommendations? I'm open for suggestions on brand names as well.

Regards

 

[navymich]

Well, with the kind of luck you've had with a certain item, I recommend that you make sure it isn't the cordless variety and that you do not get it at Cdn Tire. 

 

[Deleted member 9665]

Well well well...


I just bought a 32" inch LCD about a month ago after bugging my wife for over 2 years to change the TV which was around 12-13 years old.

I'm quite happy with it. I bought a Panasonic TC-32LX70 http://panasonic.ca/english/audiovideo/lcd/specs_lx70_700.asp

What I like about it
1- the price is good (I paid 1149$)
2- The quality is impressive (Specially on DVD and on my Nintedo Wii)
3- The warant y is nice (1 burned Pixel = a change of the set), (7 module inside the TV so its quite easy for the tech to solve the problem)
4- The sound is good (but If you like it loud, you might be disappointed)

What I dislike about it
1- the "ghosting" effect I sometime get when I have some close up
2- the fact that there is only one Component video input (Y, Pb, Pr) I could use 2-3 of these suckers
3- the fact that I have to "pivot" the base if I want to turn my TV


I was impress when I plugged in my Mac on it to make a photo show for my wife business, I also tried to browse on the web with my 32" and I was quited impress, all tought that It could be better (only 1,366 x 768) Its OK.

What you have to look before buying a TV (either LCD or plasma) are those point

• the size you need (Plasma = 42" and up) a good way to calculate if it will fit in you living room to get the best view is a simple math problem
  ( Size of the TV x 3 divided by 12 = the distance between you and your TV set) to get the optimal viewing experience
• The price you are looking to put (I paid like I said 1149$ for my 32" and I think its worth it
• What are you intending to plug in (DVD, digital cable box, Video, Video game) (you might count it to see if you have enough connectors

I have made allot of reading before deciding to go with Panasonic. And no regret you can go there if you want to read review. http://www.lcdtvbuyingguide.com/

If you have any questions, feel free to PM me.

After three years of bugging my wife to get one, I finally have my new TV ​

 

[Franko]

I actually have a box that automatically switches from whatever source is powered up and throws it into the TV via S cable and audio cables so there is no worries about only one cable input.

Bloody thing cost me $60 but it's worth it.

I'll be watching DVDs, playing my Playstation 2, and have satellite.

From what I've researched so far the lamps in LCD TVs can be replaced....haven't found out about the cost of the new bulbs though. The average lifetime bulb is about 60,000 so I wouldn't be worried about replacing it anyways, probably buy whatever is the "new" technology of the day or a new set.

Keep the information coming though. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Mich....got a new one and the other battery was garbage. I'm now happy again.

Regards

 

[Munxcub]

The biggest complaint I hear from people when they switch to LCD/Plasma is the picture quality. It's because they have an analog signal feeding the digital monitor. Just something to keep in mind. Especially if your satellite is digital, then converts it to analog for output, then the TV converts it back to digital for display... As you can imagine not the most ideal right?

My father-in-law started selling Panasonic TVs (used to be all RCA...) and they are quite sharp. Not sure if they are LCD or Plasma but these days theres not much difference from what I can tell... The viewing angles on LCD's are surprisingly good now, I don't see the same problems I used to on these. And all TVs will burn in if you leave a stationary image on it long enough.

 

[Flip]

You guys might want to know about another forum
which some people I know inhabit periodically.  

satellite forum link

I've had better experience with Best Buy than Future Shop which is now
owned by Best Buy.  I never take an extended warranty ( but I do my own repairs ).

I know, nothing much useful - PM me if you want to know about the posted link.