Buying Plasma TV

[Parkbandit]

So.. I've finally talked the Mrs. into buying a new TV for the family room. A high-definition plasma TV. Time to retire the 12 year old Sony Trinitron with the on/off switch that doesn't work and the broken menu that always reverts to spanish.

So.. anyone have any experience with these things? I'm probably looking at the 50ish inch range and one that either goes right on the wall or is on it's own stand.

The good, bad and ugly.. gimme some advice!

[Suppa Hobbit Mage]

Fuck Plasma, get a DLP like I got. 61' HD Samsung. I love it. Paid under 4k for it, and it's 80 lbs I think (I picked it up and moved it around by myself). I posted pictures of it here...

http://forum.gsplayers.com/viewthread.php?tid=11467

[Edited on 12-29-2004 by Suppa Hobbit Mage]

[GSTamral]

Comparing prices, I thought the best option was actually the 70 inch Sony Grand Wega LCD projection TV.

Picture Tube TVs have a viewing angle of 180 degrees, but they cannot exceed 40 inches in diagonal size.

Projection TV's have a viewing angle of less than 90 degrees and can be of any size.

Projectors have a size limit of 120 inches (largest) and have a viewing angle of 180 degrees, but this requires a seperate screen on a wall, a ceiling stand, and they are not of the highest quality in picture.

LCD Projectors have a viewing angle of 160+ degrees, have good picture quality, and they are not much heavier than plasma. They also have a much lowe chance of burning out, and are about 1/3 as expensive. (60 inch LCD projector TV is 21 inches deep, a similar plasma TV would be 14 inches deep.)


Plasma TVs are the thinnest and lightest, but the most expensive, and have a 180 degree viewing angle.

70 inch Sony Grand WEGA with DLP is fairly cheap at around 8 grand with stand and home theatre system.

The 60 inch Sony Plasma, the best on the market, runs around 21 grand for the TV alone. The average 50 incher plasma runs around 8-10 grand, depending on resolution and brand name.

One danger in buying a plasma TV. DO NOT buy an EDTV. They are not High Definition compatible, being their max resolution is less than 1280*960

[GSTamral]

My home theatre system is the following:

Sony Grand Wega 70 inch LCD projector.
BOSE in house 1250 Watt 6.1 system with digital receiver (450 Watt Sub)(200 Watt Center Left and Right) (100 Watt outside back and front)
5 disc DVD changer
VCR/DVD-RW with Tuner
Stand
Switchbox

Total Cost <15000.

[Jorddyn]

Originally posted by GSTamral
Total Cost <15000.

Um, your "TV" cost more than my car.

Jorddyn, stingy (or just poor)

[GSTamral]

It cost nearly half as much as my car as well. I'd rather have the souped up Honda and the nice home theatre system than a Porsche but nothing to drive home to. But that's just me.

[Wezas]

Me just happy with 51" HD Widescreen.

Sure it's big (tall, deep, etc), but we bought an entertainment center that fits around it.

I paid about $1700 for it, looks like it's down to $1600 now.

And everyone in my den can view the TV just fine.

[peam]

27 inches of entertainment, baby.


http://www.echotrademarketing.com/productPics/RCA_27inch_27V530T.gif

[Parkbandit]

I'm not getting a big tv just to have a big tv.. I want to experience the true HD TV experience.. especially watching sports. I don't believe an LCD projector will give me that.

Still looking.....

[peam]

Hit up a retail store, Circuit City or Best Buy, and have a look around. Most stores have their HDTV models set up with a running demo or local HD channel. You should be able to find a set that pleases the eyes, wallet and living room.

[GSTamral]

I watch more sports than anyone I know. Hell, I fly out to whatever games I can. A good LCD projector will give you a damn good experience. The 61 inch plasma is even more crystal clear, but I don't know if it warrants 13000 more dollars worth. In the end, it's your call.

[Parkbandit]

Originally posted by GSTamral
I watch more sports than anyone I know. Hell, I fly out to whatever games I can. A good LCD projector will give you a damn good experience. The 61 inch plasma is even more crystal clear, but I don't know if it warrants 13000 more dollars worth. In the end, it's your call.

Actually.. in the end, it's the wife's call. :(

[GSTamral]

What you should have done is buy the TV as a christmas present for her, and buy yourself the NCAA football and NFL package as your own present.

[Skeeter]

do you have cable or DTV?

There aren't very many high def channels available for cable yet, so don't expect to watch a whole lot of HD sports. Also the current cable can't keep up with the high def signal being shot through so most channels will only give you half a screen to watch. Pissed me off so much I finally just canceled all the HD channels.

dish I'm not familiar with. YMMV

[Parkbandit]

Originally posted by GSTamral
What you should have done is buy the TV as a christmas present for her, and buy yourself the NCAA football and NFL package as your own present.

Already switched from cable to Direct TV and got the NFL Sunday Ticket. I bought "her" a TiVo for Christmas. The great part is that it's HER idea for the plasma TV.. and I'm insisting that it's HD.. so I need to strike while the iron's hot before she realizes what she got herself into.

Going to BestBuy after work tonight to look.

[Artha]

Actually.. in the end, it's the wife's call.

I don't have a whip, so just pretend there's a file called whipcrack.wav attached.

[Jorddyn]

Originally posted by Parkbandit
Actually.. in the end, it's the wife's call. :(

:blndwhip:

Jorddyn

[Parkbandit]

Originally posted by Artha

Actually.. in the end, it's the wife's call.

I don't have a whip, so just pretend there's a file called whipcrack.wav attached.

Wait until you are married and you will feel my pain.

And just so you know.. I wear the pants in the family...

She just picks them out. :(

[Skeeter]

:whipit:

[Rutilcaper]

Originally posted by peam
Hit up a retail store, Circuit City or Best Buy, and have a look around. Most stores have their HDTV models set up with a running demo or local HD channel. You should be able to find a set that pleases the eyes, wallet and living room.

While smart using this to browse, your best bet is to hit up online retailers who often offer significant discounts as compared to your normal Circuit City or Best Buy. Could end up saving yourself a coupel thousand bucks, at least a could hundred. A simple Froogle search, once you've found your product, is all you need.

[Edited on 12-29-2004 by Rutilcaper]

[Doughboy]

Im rockin the LCD Sony Grand Wega...JVC surround...and if you thought it wasn't the good for like sports...it rocks. I love it. I actually thought it had as good or a better picture than the plasma's I was looking at

[peam]

I'm curious as to the best route of obtaining HD channels too.

I know when I worked for DishNetwork, we had a HD-Package, which was like $10 a month and had 8-10 channels included.

I've heard that cable companies don't offer much in the way of HD, but a lot of local channels, NBC/CBS/FOX/ABC, broadcast an HD picture through an off-air antenna.

Anyone with a nice setup know the best way to obtain the maximum amount of channels for the lowest cost?

[Mistomeer]

I've been looking as well, and from what I know the Plasma TV's are nice, but only last around 7 years. If you're going to spend the money, and want something thin, you might as well go with the LCD as they practically last forever.

[Latrinsorm]

You can't play video games (they're like arcades, PB, only in your house) on projection TVs. That's all I know.

[Soulpieced]

It took about 2 or 3 weeks before the signal at my house stopped being fuzzy for DirectTV. Though now I have no complaints, so the picture is good. I was about ready to get pissed we had not gotten cable.

[Wezas]

I pay an extra $7 a month for HD through Cox Cable.

Right now it's only NBC, FOX, ABC, CBS, ESPN, Discovery HD (seperate channel from regular cable Discovery), and two "INHD" channels.

The INHD channels rock - there's HD concerts and movies on there all the time.

There's also HBO & Showtime in HD, but I decided I don't watch the movies on there enough to warrant paying for the new tiers.


On a side note - I just got my bedroom furniture delivered today... and my girl mentioned how our 27" tv doesn't quite "fill out" the armoir. So I'll be looking for something wider to fit in there sometime soon. :bouncing:

[kheldarin]

I work at Circuit City and lemme say this...plasma tv's are MUCH heavier than LCD's.

[Mistomeer]

LCD's are much better, just more expensive.
Allegedly, LCD's will continue to drop in price this year so I'm giving it some time to see if that holds true.

[Drew]

Plasma TVs are generally rated for 5000 hours of viewing before they are effectively kaput. Either wait for an LCD you like or pay a little more and get one now.

[BigBadBonar]

Go go LCD! WOOT! And why wouldn't games work on a projection TV? I've played soul caliber 2 at college(booyah to having a projection screen in each class room and playing in empt rooms) and it's just been an amazing experience.

Finally, I'd never buy a TV that would burn out in < 10 years, talk about worthless.

[kheldarin]

TV's dont' "burn out". They just lose some brightness after awhile. They just don't die out.

[Back]

I’m looking into this also. From what Consumer Reports says, the tubes still have the best clarity, but as Tamral posted earlier, max out at 40". Pricing is pretty low compared to the others.

I know I don’t want to go Plasma... and I’m not sure I like the clarity on some of those large projection TVs. Best Buy has a sale right now until this Saturday. That Sony Wega (Consumer Reports consistently says its the best bang for the buck) is around $2700.

For audio I am pretty sure I’m going Yahmaha reciever, Bose low-profile speaker package.

[Latrinsorm]

Originally posted by BigBadBonar
And why wouldn't games work on a projection TV?All I know is it says in big letters in the NES manual that using them on a front or rear projection TV is VERY BAD. At least I think it did.

[Parkbandit]

It is done.

After an extensive and exhausting search.. we've chosen this model TV:

Toshiba 62HM94 62-inch Integrated HD DLP

All around the best bang for the buck. Plasma screens were just so expensive for the size and this model actually looked MORE clear than most of the plasma screens. I just couldn't justify the additional 10 grand.

And we saved about $1500 from the entire package when we purchased online compared to Best Buy.

Now.. to purchase a stereo system that will go with this. My wife "HATES" surround sound (god.. don't ask me why...) so I need to get a CD/DVD/Tuner system that will be inexpensive (Like $300-500) and give me some semblance of a surround sound.

Any suggestions?

[Back]

Where did you purchase it? I’m looking to buy one as well. Thanks.

[AnticorRifling]

Originally posted by Latrinsorm

Originally posted by BigBadBonar
And why wouldn't games work on a projection TV?All I know is it says in big letters in the NES manual that using them on a front or rear projection TV is VERY BAD. At least I think it did.

NES manual did say that, and it's because old projection TVs had a problem with "burning" the picture into the screen and the NES was known to do it. It came from any picture being displayed for a long period of time, like the score bar on Mario, it's always there so it would slowly burn into the screen. When you'd change the channel or turn off the NES you'd see a ghost of the score bar or whatever. I don't think it's such a huge issue now adays anyway.

Hell my families first projection screen TV had an 8 burned into the bottom right corner from the news station always having it on, it happens.

[Parkbandit]

Originally posted by Backlash
Where did you purchase it? I’m looking to buy one as well. Thanks.

DTV City. We looked at price, service plans, return policy and reputation. I'm not sure what service we used to do the searching.. but it was amazing that it came up with all the prices and their reputation. From there it was a matter of either viewing the website or calling the service to find out more specifics.

Bestbuy was pwned.

[Wezas]

Originally posted by Parkbandit
Now.. to purchase a stereo system that will go with this. My wife "HATES" surround sound (god.. don't ask me why...) so I need to get a CD/DVD/Tuner system that will be inexpensive (Like $300-500) and give me some semblance of a surround sound.

Does she hate the thought/sound of it - or does she just dislike the visual of having speakers on an opposite wall?

If it's the sound - then you can set up different modes - one of which is just plain stereo where it only comes out of the front speakers.

I have a Sony DVD Dream system HTIB (Home Theatre In a Box). 5.1 Surround, 5-disc changer, progressive-scan, AM/FM, etc.

650W version (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1077628263097&skuId=6421703&product CategoryId=pcmcat40200050002&type=product)

I have the 400W version and a pretty good sized basement, and that shit can get loud. If she doesn't mind the visual of having speakers around the room (they're itty bitty cubes!), then get it. You'll kick yourself for not getting surround later.

[Parkbandit]

I've put in the request. We'll see if she approves it.

:(

[Parkbandit]

Wow.. she approved it and ordered it online. Got it for $265 something with shipping.

Everything should be here by Monday at the latest. I'll let you all know how it works.

[hectomaner]

i'd keep it and wait for the OLED (http://displays.engadget.com/entry/1234000270025865/) TVs get up to the 50"mark

[Keller]

Originally posted by GSTamral
My home theatre system is the following:

Sony Grand Wega 70 inch LCD projector.
BOSE in house 1250 Watt 6.1 system with digital receiver (450 Watt Sub)(200 Watt Center Left and Right) (100 Watt outside back and front)
5 disc DVD changer
VCR/DVD-RW with Tuner
Stand
Switchbox

Total Cost <15000.

I can make my penis twice the size of yours.

Total cost > 15000

[hectomaner]

Originally posted by Keller

Originally posted by GSTamral
My home theatre system is the following:

Sony Grand Wega 70 inch LCD projector.
BOSE in house 1250 Watt 6.1 system with digital receiver (450 Watt Sub)(200 Watt Center Left and Right) (100 Watt outside back and front)
5 disc DVD changer
VCR/DVD-RW with Tuner
Stand
Switchbox

Total Cost <15000.

I can make my penis twice the size of yours.

Total cost > 15000


my dad can beat up your dad

total cost - priceless

[Wezas]

Originally posted by Parkbandit
Wow.. she approved it and ordered it online. Got it for $265 something with shipping.

Everything should be here by Monday at the latest. I'll let you all know how it works.

She'll love it. Just make sure you're there with her for any scary movies.

My girl watched a *trailer* for the remake of Texas Chainsaw Masacre. All you heard was a girl screaming and her feet running on hardwood floors starting at your front left, then to your back left right, then right behind you, your back right, your front right, and then *SLAM* goes a door.

Surround sound is indeed awesome.

[Parkbandit]

Ok.. couple more questions:

First of all, everything is in except the TV which arrives today between 1 and 4.

1) Is running “Monster” (brand name) for the Sony HTIB really going to make any noticeable difference for me? The system comes with it’s own wiring and special plugs for the back of the system that I don’t think I can simply pick up at a place like Radio Shack. The damn Monster wire is $30 for 50 feet and I’ll need about 120 feet, so that’s about $100 there JUST FOR COPPER WIRE??? I’ve used Monster brand wiring from the dish to the DirectTV box and from the box to the TV, but I’m not sure it’s worth the $100 for the sound if I really won’t be able to tell the difference.

2) Any pitfalls that I need to make sure I pay attention to or avoid? I’m going to start tonight or tomorrow morning and MUST HAVE THE SYSTEM WORKING by the 4:30pm game.

[Suppa Hobbit Mage]

I wire with Monster PB. I used to go with stock factory stuff, but I'll honestly tell you there is a performance difference with Monster. Picture clarity, and DEFINATELY sound is better. It's expensive, but I think worth it. I will say I do NOT go with the top of the line monster stuff, I go with middle. Cost is just too exhorbitant for me for the top line.

[Wezas]

Originally posted by Parkbandit
1) Is running “Monster” (brand name) for the Sony HTIB really going to make any noticeable difference for me? The system comes with it’s own wiring and special plugs for the back of the system that I don’t think I can simply pick up at a place like Radio Shack. The damn Monster wire is $30 for 50 feet and I’ll need about 120 feet, so that’s about $100 there JUST FOR COPPER WIRE??? I’ve used Monster brand wiring from the dish to the DirectTV box and from the box to the TV, but I’m not sure it’s worth the $100 for the sound if I really won’t be able to tell the difference.


Yeah, Monster's expensive as crap. And I don't think it's going to sound 2x better. I use the stock Sony HTIB wires and it sounds just fine.


2) Any pitfalls that I need to make sure I pay attention to or avoid? I’m going to start tonight or tomorrow morning and MUST HAVE THE SYSTEM WORKING by the 4:30pm game.

Lets see.... Check the "Sound Field" and find one you like. I picked Theater B, but there's like a dozen options.

If you have multiple components that you want to hook up to the surround sound (or your TV) I suggest getting an Audio Authority 1154a (http://www.copperbox.com/lite/popinfo.php?lc_code=1154A&uneek=375633333).

http://www.copperbox.com/images/1154A.jpg

You'll notice your TV only has 2 component inputs. That sucks if you want to hook up your DVD, PS2, Cable/Satelite, etc. This will let you hook up to 4 components (and optical audio) to one TV component input. It works on a priority basis (I have it set up so that if the PS2 turns on, it overrides my cable box and the TV shows the PS2 screen). There's a manual override button on the actual switch if you need it. It's $150, but it's the most inexpensive thing I've found that does this type of job.

It has:

4x Component (G/B/R) inputs
4x Coaxial audio (Orange) inputs
4x Optical Audio (toslink) inputs
4x Stereo (R/W) inputs

and outputs just one signal.

[Tsa`ah]

For the patch cables and speaker wire, stock is fine, monster is over priced.

Going with a better grade of speaker wire, not monster, will do as well, if not better. Monster's gauge is just too thick for the power. I could understand pumping 300 plus watts per channel, but let's face it ... that's not happening.

If you're concerned about cosmetics, get invisawire. Similar cost to monster, but flat. 14 - 12 gauge should be adequate. Around 20 - 35 bucks for 25 feet of it. Clean around your base board real good, adhere the wire along the base board and wall to the point you placing the surround speakers, spray a primer over it and paint. Good stuff.

Any S-video cable will work fine. A 50 dollar cable doesn't work noticeably better than a 10 dollar cable.

RCA patch cable. Gold leads and no more length than you need. Phillips, Sony, RCA brand ... doesn't really matter. If it feels cheap, it probably is.

[Wezas]

Tsa'ah, the problem is the Sony HTIB has certain speaker connections that aren't standard. I'm not sure how he'd "replace" the existing speaker wires.

I agree with the S-video (though I'm thinking he'll probably use component for most things). Just look for an inexpensive name brand you've heard of.

[Tsa`ah]

This TV comes equipped with amplified surround sound?

I meant from his receiver to the speaker.

Unless you're talking about RCA patch cables ... then disregard my babble and stick with what comes in the box.

[Wezas]

Originally posted by Tsa`ah
This TV comes equipped with amplified surround sound?

I meant from his receiver to the speaker.


I was referring to his Sony HTIB Surround Sound DVD receiver. The speaker output connections on the unit itself are custom. So they make you use the stock wire.

[Tsa`ah]

Eh ...

[Parkbandit]

Originally posted by Tsa`ahIf you're concerned about cosmetics, get invisawire. Similar cost to monster, but flat. 14 - 12 gauge should be adequate. Around 20 - 35 bucks for 25 feet of it. Clean around your base board real good, adhere the wire along the base board and wall to the point you placing the surround speakers, spray a primer over it and paint. Good stuff.


Is that how you guys would do it? My plan was to pull the wire through the attic and bring it down the other wall behind the sofa. The stock wire that comes with the HTIB is clear so it won't be that noticeable I suppose.. just never thought of running it around the room. How would you adhere it to the baseboards? Staples will be noticeable I would think...

[Tsa`ah]

Well as Wezas pointed out, the speakers are proprietary ... well the connections are. So I'm not going to suggest you cut the inputs and splice in invisawire.

Invisawire is flat and clear with an adhesive strip on one side. I did this with my home system because I didn't have the foresight to wire in an audio distribution block and run speak wire and connecting blocks to each outlet.

Your stock wire (with proprietary connections) is probably best run under the base boards (out of sight), under carpet, or like you had planned on.

And keep the staple gun away, you'll pinch the wire and cause shorts. If you're going to drop it from the ceiling, just get some clear plastic wire retainers with nail holes on either foot and find some way to camouflage if it bugs the wife.