WS-65869 - Quad-Field Focus?

[dustindw]

I recently purchased a WS-55411 Gold+, and felt I got a fairly good deal on it. I went back to the place I purchased mine from with my Dad so he could look at some of the set too, and they have some incredible deals on last year's models.

For roughly $400 more, I could return my set, and go with the WS-65869 and gain another 10", PLUS integrated HD.

My question is, does the lens system on the WS-65869 compare to what I have in my WS-55411 Gold+? I have the "Quad-Field Focus" lenses in mine now, and I wouldn't want to go down a notch lens wise (if it would even matter...). I did all the research I could, and I could never find anywhere that says the WS-65869 has the same lenses (Quad-Field).

I have heard great things about the WS-65869, but at the same time I really like my WS-55411. The 55" fits my room well, and the 65" would almost be too big, but I won't be in my current house forever, and will probably move up to a larger house.

So, long term, I'd gain 10", PLUS integrated HD (which I kinda wish I had now).

What do you all think?

Thanks for any and all input!

[dustindw]

Well, I was able to speak with the sales person that sold me my WS-55411, and it turns out the lens system on the WS-65869 isn't as good (doesn't have Quad-Field Focus). Granted, I saw the WS-65869 sitting right next to the same year Diamond 65", and it looked VERY similar.

So I don't know what to think at this point. For the price difference, it is almost worth it to me.

If my main concern was adding HD capabilities through a STB, what would anyone recommend? I guess my next step would be to research the different STBs and see what everyone has to say about them.

I may still consider exchanging my WS-55411 for the WS-65869 though. It is such a tough call!

[AdminJoe]

you cannot lose it seems going both routes..
1. Return it, get 10" more, and a built in Tuner..

or

2. Keep it, better picture, and get a external tuner that is most likely more advanced than the integrated one..

Most of the new stb's that are coming out are pretty slick, like the sony hd200

[dustindw]

AdminJoe,

Thanks for the info! I think I may do some research on some of these STBs. I may end up being happier that way!

I am wondering though, how much better are my current lenses (Quad-Field) really going to be over the EDF lenses that were in that set last year? I'm not sure I'd really even notice, especially if they weren't sitting side by side. In the store, the WS-65869 was sitting right next to the Diamond model, and they both looked gorgeous - making me think there wouldn't be a HUGE difference.

[dmaluchnik]

Are you close enough to HD signals to take advantage of an intergrated tuner? I have the 65869 and it's beautiful. Besides, the 4:1 ratio (feet from TV to viewing area) can be thrown out when viewing an HD broadcast. The picture is so crisp, it's more like 5:1. That make's it 13 feet. The diamond series 65511 I think is a grand more. I got the 65869 for $3,400.

[dustindw]

dmaluchnik,

I'm positive I could easily pick up HD signals. That is really what I wish I had right now was the integrated tuner to pick up the evening HD broadcasts. The 55" I have now fits the wall perfectly, and the viewing distance is just right. The 65" would be a little too close, but I'm also thinking ahead to when I move into a bigger house (which could very well happen here in a couple of years).

I also have the opportunity to pick up the set for $2800... which is why I'm considering the exchange. They have last year's Diamond 65" for $3300 (my dad got that one).

[dmaluchnik]

If you could swing it, get the diamond. You will have the best of all worlds. Best lens and integrated tuner. That's a great deal! Just the fact they would swap after usage blows me away.

[dustindw]

dmaluchnik,

Well, the Diamond would be nice, but that would definitely put me above where I wanted to be budget wise. ;-)

The place I got it from has a *60* day satisfaction gaurantee and price match! I was quite happy when I heard that.

I'll probably make my decision this weekend though, because I don't think those Platinum Plus models will last too much longer at that price.