720p or 1080i

[cwhiatt]

I currently own a Panasonic PT-43LC14 which I've had for a while now and have fully enjoyed. This particular TV is 1080i. Since this television is a few years old now, I've been out of the loop on how things have changed since then. I recall at the time how helpful some of you were in helping us make that decision then. Thank you for that.

Here's my question now. We're looking into getting a 32" HDTV for the bedroom with an HD Tuner built in (as we have no immediate intentions of hooking it up to cable/ directv etc.).

I've recently noticed that a great many of the 32" sets are all shown in the ads as being 720p. It was my impression that this is a lesser resolution than my 1080i. A guy at Circuit City told me that is not the case.

Obviously there are many factors which dictate picture quality (I get that) but in general terms, is a 720p comparable to a 1080i??

Again there are other factors which can affect picture quality but it seems to me the pictures I've seen on the 720p televisions weren't quite as crisp as they were on the 1080i sets (that is before it seemed they phased them out).

A little clarity on the issue would be much appreciated. Thanks guys

[57U]

720P is considered to be at least equivalent to 1080i. In the smaller TVs this issue is even less important. The TVs you're looking at are probably 768P. See the following post on the matter.

http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/showthread.php?t=33975


Your current TV is not 1080i, it's 720P.

http://reviews.cnet.com/projection-tvs/panasonic-pt-43lc14/4507-6484_7-31050630.html

http://www.plasmaconcepts.com/plasma-tv-store/Panasonic-PT-43LC14/PD299.html

Maximum Resolution: 1280 x 720

[Rick-F]

Your PT-43LC14 is a 1280 X 720 RP LCD; it may accept a 1080I signal but the native resolution is 720 . Any new LCD you will will by will probably be 1366 X 768 (or perhaps full 1920 X 1080)-- but it will not have less resolution than your current set.

[cwhiatt]

I knew I could count on you guys! Since my current set is set at the 1080i signal, hence my previous assertion.

I guess I stand corrected. Thanks again

(now what to buy.....)

[kevinw]

(now what to buy.....)Vizio 32 inch

[Rick-F]

With respect to your current TV: It is actually somewhat uncommon for newer TV to be TRUE 1280 X 720 resolution (found on many DLP and other rear projection)-- most current LCD & Plasma panels are 1366 X 768 and most of these actually look better with cable/sat. box set to 1080i-- howver with a true 720P set no conversion at all is necessary with a 720P signal. You may try this and see if there is any difference.

As kevinw indicated, a VIZIO is a good value TV. I've had a Vizio 32" for over a year in my bedroom -- not one single problem or issue with it. Very nice picture. Lots of features (QAM tuner, PIP, etc). good price. I've been very peased with mine.

[cwhiatt]

Vizio 32 inch

I don't know that I've seen any Vizio sets. I presume they've got them at BB or Circuit?

At present, I've been eyeing a Magnavox and a Samsung (and there might even be a Phillips in there). Though given that our Panny has been good to us, we probably shouldn't rule that out.

[Ratman]

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Vizio-32-LCD-HDTV-VX32L/sem/rpsm/oid/185075/catOid/-12867/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

http://www.kmart.com/shc/s/p_10151_10104_018W769122110001P

[Rick-F]

Take a look at www.vizio.com
Circuit City carries Vizio (as does Costco, Sams) I'm not sure about BB. If you have no adversion to buying on line, several on line sellers carry them; but check one out in person. Good value.

I own a Panasonic plasma also; I certainly like plasma better than LCD-- but in the 32" size range LCD is the way to go. I agree Panasonic quality is top notch-- but for a smaller LCD, I think Vizio is considerably lower in cost than a like Panny.

[kevinw]

Add Sears and Walmart to the Vizio providers. Ignore Magnovox. Samsung is Ok but the best bang for the buck is still Vizio for the bedroom.