Looking an HDTV Recommendation

[kempersbh]

Hi all,

I've never purchased any kind of HDTV, but I would like to get one for the upcoming NFL season. I will use the TV mostly for sports watching (football, hockey, basketball, etc.). I'd also like to watch DVDs and some time down the road use it for gaming like the Xbox360 or PS3 or whatever.

I have DirecTV, not cable. I'd like the TV to be in the 40-49inch range. My budget is between $2000-$3500. Obviously I'd prefer to be on the lower end of that, but I'd be willing to spend more for something perfect.

So picture quality is the most important thing for me. I want something that will make my viewing experience the best possible when watching games. The only TV I have really looked at is the Sony Bravia XBR 40 inch. I liked it, but I wanted to know if there were better options. Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[skylolow]

Well the Sony Bravia XBR is an excellent TV. One of the better units out there.

I would first figure out if you want LCD, Plasma, or RP LCD/Lcos. Then we can give you some suggestions and point you in the right direction.

[abeas]

Or if you are not bothered by rainbows, which some people see, perhaps a DLP HDTV.

[kempersbh]

Well, my biggest problem is deciding between LCD and Plasma for the most part. I'm pretty sure I want a flat panel tv that is one of those 2 types.

So a flat panel that is LCD or Plasma that would be good for watching sporting events, DVDs, and playing games. Along with the other specifics I mentioned earlier.

[kevinw]

My new favorite is the Samsung HLS5086W. It can be had delivered for 1400. What interested me, beside game mode, was the ability to adjust each color independently.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F2P35K/ref=nosim/104-7702003-8183120?n=172282

[newf]

just went thru the manual for the 1080p model http://www.samsung.com/ca/support/productsupport/download/Model_Select2.aspx?type=TV&subtype=DLP+TV&model=HL%2DS5087W&fileType=UM&LSSI=%2Fca%2Fmodule%2Fssi%2Fleft%2Flmenu%5Ftv%5Fdlptv%2Esec&RSSI=%2Fca%2Fmodule%2Fssi%2Fright%2Frmenu%5Fdlptv%2Esec this TV looks sweet,I wonder if rainbow effect is noticable to me or the wife.

[kevinw]

just went thru the manual for the 1080p model http://www.samsung.com/ca/support/productsupport/download/Model_Select2.aspx?type=TV&subtype=DLP+TV&model=HL%2DS5087W&fileType=UM&LSSI=%2Fca%2Fmodule%2Fssi%2Fleft%2Flmenu%5Ftv%5Fdlptv%2Esec&RSSI=%2Fca%2Fmodule%2Fssi%2Fright%2Frmenu%5Fdlptv%2Esec this TV looks sweet,I wonder if rainbow effect is noticable to me or the wife.
I also read some reveiws that the 1080p model is is only slightly better in PQ, otherwise identical but at about 400 dollars more. I could then use the extra money towards a stand.

[Adam77]

Well, my biggest problem is deciding between LCD and Plasma for the most part. I'm pretty sure I want a flat panel tv that is one of those 2 types.

So a flat panel that is LCD or Plasma that would be good for watching sporting events, DVDs, and playing games. Along with the other specifics I mentioned earlier.
http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?sHist=18-2022%24LCD%2c6-419&showAdvanced=true&id=31169

http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?sHist=18-2022%24LCD%2c6-419&showAdvanced=true&id=31175

http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?sHist=18-2022%24LCD%2c6-34&showAdvanced=true&id=31019

http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?sHist=18-2022%24LCD%2c6-34&showAdvanced=true&id=33763

http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?sHist=18-2022%24LCD%2c6-2&showAdvanced=true&id=31319

http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?sHist=18-2022%24LCD%2c6-2&showAdvanced=true&id=31320

[newf]

I also read some reveiws that the 1080p model is is only slightly better in PQ, otherwise identical but at about 400 dollars more. I could then use the extra money towards a stand.
I agree ,I would for sure get the model you showed, but some people want the 1080p thing,I was intending to get a Sony LCD projection in the spring but now I'm pulling the wife and kid to the stores to make sure there's no problems with this TV ,thanx man ,I love HDTV shoping. :cheers:

[damondlt]

Sony Bravia !!! My brother just bought one and the picture is fantastic! I'm thinking of buing one for my bedroom if they still make a 26" model.

[kempersbh]

Thanks for the help so far guys...

I've decided on purchasing an LCD. My biggest concern is now ghosting. I want to purchase a 40-42 inch that has the least blurring during fast motion. The problem is, I don't see in the product specs where this issue is addressed. Does anyone know what might be the best current 40-42 inch LCD for minimal ghosting?

[newf]

I think paragraph 5 kinda refers to ghosting, plus Samsung is working with M$ as far as gaming hence the GAME MODE most ot thier TV's have.http://www.samsung.com/PressCenter/PressRelease/PressRelease.asp?seq=20060901_0000284318

[bored28]

Game Mode is useless on these Samsung Sets. I have the HLS5087W and all the games on my 360 look and play great. As per the differences in PQ, I would suggest you go see it for yourself rather than listening to other's opinions on the matter. Everyone perceives different things in different ways.

[newf]

doesn't game mode allow the TV to speed up refresh rate to match the game play,if you find no diff I guess it's one of those "but this tv has things"