Buying a Big Screen TV

[Geekyfanboy]

Well I going to be buying a big screen TV in the near future and really would like the here from those who have them now on which one is the best. There are so many different types Plasma, LCD, Digital, DLP (the ones with the mirrors).  I heard Plasma are best but they tend to burn out in five years, is this true? Any help would be appreciated.

[Ktrek]

Kenny,

One thing about TVs is that everyone has their preferences and what they can afford. That said I would definitely look closely at the Panasonic models. They are used extensively at airports and other public places with continuous operation and without fail.

Most Plasma TVs are now rated at 60,000 hours. Now whether they will actually last that long who knows. I do know that they will likely last at least 30,000. If you watch 5 hours of TV a day at 365 days a year that would be approximately 16 years of life and by then you'll want whatever is the latest.

I personally own a Nakamichi 50 inch plasma and I have had it for around 3 years now with no problems. I got a great closeout deal at Sams Club when they were liquidating them from their inventory. They originally sold for around $10,000 but I got mine for $3,000. Now you can get a pretty nice Panasonic for around $2,000. One thing for sure is that I would never go back to a tube TV nor could I ever go back to something smaller than a 50 inch! LOL

Kevin

[Geekyfanboy]

Thanks for the advise Kevin...  I glad to hear the rumors of five years for a Plasma are false. Since TV and Movies are such a big part of my life/entertainment I really want to enjoy them. I plan on getting nothing smaller then a 50" and I'll take a look at the Panasonic ones. Thanks

[Rico]

They all have their pluses and minuses.  I've been casually researching and reading up on them for years now.  Getting closer to a decision.  One thing I've been noticing is they are all getting more close in performance.  Lately, I've actually been leaning a bit in favor of DLP.  I think a lot of bang for your buck there.

Here is the best place around to read up on different types and get a lot of great information from buyers/users:

http://www.avsforum.com/

[Bryancd]

For plasma, I agree Panasonic makes the best for the price. I'm still conflicted on plasma vs. LCD. Love the brightness of plasma but like the no glare quality of LCD screens.

[Geekyfanboy]

Yeah my big issue it that you have to be able to watch TV from the side, alot of those big screens look darker from the side view. I saw a DLP screen and it looked great. So many choices...

[Bryancd]

Plasma and LCD will look good from an angle, it's just plamsa screens are very light reflective and if the room has a lot of ambient light, it can make it hard to see. LCD doesn't have that same issue, but the colors aren't as vibrant. DLP is a great bang for the buck option, but I think only in a true dedicated home theater in a windowless room and staright on viewing.

[moyer777]

What are your thoughts on projection?  I can get a 2000 lumen projector and shine it as big as I want on the wall.. for under $1000.  Does anybody do that?

[Geekyfanboy]

I have thought of that also.. but I heard you lose picture sharpness.