Need some help with picking out a 30" CRT HDTV (exnay on the SONY)

[Niche]

Hi, I have a couple months before I need to purchase my HDTV, and was wondering if you all could assist me in choosing one. It must be $700 or less (flexibility may be in reason), and an HD-Tuner does not need to be built in... My area does not support HDTVs. It does although need HDMI connections with HDCP. I will use it soley for consoles. And for people offering Sony advice, yes... I've read it, I own a Trinitron Wega, but I don't plan on paying $300 more than the other brands.

Now, here are some TVs I have been looking at, please give me some input if any of you know of the reputation or hands-on experience with any of these TVs or ones similar.

30" Panasonic Tau Series PureFlat HDTV
Model: CT-30WC15
---|---Click Here---|--- (http://www.samsclub.com/eclub/main_shopping.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&n=0&mt=a&coe=0&oidPath=0:-23542:-23589:-24298:-25203:921093)

30" Philips Widescreen TV
Model: 30PW8420/37
---|---Click Here---|--- (http://www.samsclub.com/eclub/main_shopping.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&n=0&mt=a&coe=0&oidPath=0:-23542:-23589:-24298:-25203:925635)

These are just some examples of what I could get, please leave feedback on these and suggesting more models would be appreciated.. Just not Sonys!

[kd4ao]

Take a look at Best Buy house brand, I think it is called Insignia or close.

[Niche]

Wow, the Best Buy brand is actually good quality? As in better than Panasonic and Philips?

[Ratman]

If your area does not 'support HDTVs', then why is HDMI with HDCP a concern?

If you want a 30" TV that solely supports "consoles" (assuming game stuff), then either brand will suffice.

What's your 'beef' with Sony?

[Niche]

I will be buying a PS3, which will have a Blu-Ray drive. I heard that Blu-ray only will allow HD with HDMI with HDCP. Also, I do not have any beef with Sony, as a matter of fact I LOVE Sony TVs(Have one sitting in my room right now). I just know that if I didn't say to not mention sonys then that is all I would hear about. I know Sonys dominate, but I don't have the money to spend on one right now :boo2:

I know you think since I am just going to be using it for gaming in 1080i, it's not a big deal.. But it is, I want the best TV I can possibly get for $700!

[Niche]

Okay, wow I've stumbled upon this off etronics.com

--|--Click Here--|-- (http://www.etronics.com/product.asp?stk_code=sonkv30hs420&store=&catid=6149)

A Sony 30" HDTV for only $749.99 Does anyone know if there is any issues with this model? I think I may consider this one, looks great!

[Matt27]

Looks good to me, that's an excelent tv set.

I have the 34" version myself and once calibrated it produces a truly beautifuly picture.

[wizzyman]

All the ones you've listed so far are good. Why not save $150 and go for the Philips you listed first. Those are good monitors. Everyone preaches the virtues of Sony, but they are not superior in my opinion. Personally, I think that Panasonic and Philips' top TVs are better than Sony's top offering - and are usually for thousands less.

Sam's may not be a good place though, because you'll pay shipping and tax.

[Niche]

Nah, I work at Sams and I believe they have these models at my store.

[Niche]

Bah, I bought a 32" Philips refurbished for 399.99 from Philips Outlet. They had a big special on it so I had to give in, just pray I get don't get a lemon! :bow: