Do some HDTVs show analog signals better than others?

[huskerNtexas]

I currently have a Panasonic LCD projection TV (40 inch). I've had it for about 3 years and we don't like the set at all, and for several reasons.

One reason is that programming from analog signals is horrible. The pictures are generally fuzzy and the colors are not sharp at all. Of course, most of the programming out there is still analog. I have two analog TVs in the house that produce a MUCH sharper picture.

My question is, is there an HDTV (either plasma or LCD panel) that does a better job with analog signals? And since I have Cox cable (with their HD DVR, etc.) will this nullify any benefit of paying more for a TV that has a better analog picture?

I have heard of "upconverters" ?? that help analog signals look more like HD. Can anyone offer some guidance on this issue?

[JU1CYFRU1T]

I don't know what your budget would be for a converter, but the DVDO iScan VP30 is fantastic.

This (http://www.dvdo.com/pro/pro_isvp30.php) is the site for VP30, but you can get it a lot cheaper on ebay (~$1500). From this link, you can get to any of the DVDO products, so if you don't need all of these features, get the VP20

This (http://www.ecoustics.com/secrets/volume_13_1/dvdo-iscan-vp30-video-processor-2-2006-part-1.html) is a review that might be helpful.

Hope this helps,
JU1CYFRU1T

p.s. for this much, you may just consider getting a newer set, but if you like everything about your set (except SD PQ), this may be an option (as opposed to getting a new set, only to have the same problem).

[57U]

Also, see the HDTV FAQ "Why does my HDTV have poor SD PQ". It doesn't need to.

[ruadmaa]

huskerNtexas,

Yes, there is most definitely a difference in Standard Definition picture quality between sets. I had Toshiba, Mits, and Hitachi sets in my living room (all 65 inch). The Toshiba was lousy, the Mits not much better. I kept the Hitachi which had a night and day difference in SD PQ compared to the other two I mentioned. The Mits only made it a week before I got the infamous flashing green light and the set was returned. Please keep in mind that I am referring only to Standard Definition PQ. The Hitachi I kept is a 65S700.

[kevinw]

Poor PQ often has to do with the source. You might try a cable signal amplifier as a cheap way to see if you can improve your picture.

Cable was bad for me but satallite is great.
http://www.smarthome.com/7749.html

[mikehbkwm]

Guys please do not purchase junky amps. Here is a good example of a cable amp. http://www.antronix.net/Products/category.php?page=amplifiers&i=5
This is what we use in the field. If you have VoIP with your provider make sure you purchase a amp that is certified for VoIP service. And do not ever put a amp behind your tv set. If you have crappy singal at that outlet then your going to have crappy signal outta the amp.