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jcarr · Aug 23, 2005, 12:56 PM

I'm looking for a new TV. Preferably HiDef, 16:9, in the 34" range.

I like the Sony 34" HiScan WEGA, but was also intrigued by the Olevia 37" LCD available on Amazon.com.

I'd like 2 or more component inputs, and at least one HDMI or DVI input (are there any w/ two?).

How about DLP or rear projection? Are these any good? Consumer reports said that the CRT HiDefs are still the best up to 36"

Thouhgts?

Scandalous Ion Cannon · Aug 23, 2005, 01:07 PM

Be sure to read the last posts. Turns out DLP was the worst decision.
Get the new Sony LCD rear projection 42 inch. The KDF-E42A10

http://forums.macnn.com/89/macnn-lounge/223497/i-gots-me-new-tv-if/

SVass · Aug 23, 2005, 01:24 PM

The CRTs usually have a higher resolution than LCDs. One other issue is whether to get a cable card set with a QAM tuner so that you don't have to rely on a cable company to provide you with a set top box that has lousy software. sam

jcarr · Aug 23, 2005, 01:53 PM

Originally Posted by SVass

The CRTs usually have a higher resolution than LCDs. One other issue is whether to get a cable card set with a QAM tuner so that you don't have to rely on a cable company to provide you with a set top box that has lousy software. sam

Do the CableCard sets work with HD signals also, or just standard def digital cable?

Scandalous Ion Cannon · Aug 23, 2005, 01:55 PM

Originally Posted by jcarr

Do the CableCard sets work with HD signals also, or just standard def digital cable?

Both, but not many people use cablecard as they already have digital cable/sat boxes.

The contrast ratio for the LCD I mentioned above is 6000:1 which is better than CRT's.

residentEvil · Aug 23, 2005, 01:56 PM

They work for both HD and SD; however they are still only one way; meaning you can't use them for PPVing and other interactive cable services. Don't bother right now until the cable companies, et al come up with a standard.

SVass · Aug 23, 2005, 02:39 PM

Originally Posted by residentEvil

They work for both HD and SD; however they are still only one way; meaning you can't use them for PPVing and other interactive cable services. Don't bother right now until the cable companies, et al come up with a standard.

Most people with HD sets have NO interest in PPV or VOD and the cards save a few dollars a month. The extra services are not in high definition. Netflix and Blockbuster rent movies that can be shown in wide 480p resolution which is better than the 480i available on standard tv and costs less than a premium cable channel subscription. (My county library lends them at no cost with a catalog online.) sam

Scifience · Aug 23, 2005, 03:25 PM

I got this for free: http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTE...p;Dept=tvvideo

Don't know how it compares, since it is the only HDTV I've ever owned. A bit outside your price range, however.

rickey939 · Aug 23, 2005, 03:33 PM

Originally Posted by Scifience

I got this for free...

10-finger discount?

residentEvil · Aug 23, 2005, 04:42 PM

Originally Posted by SVass

Most people with HD sets have NO interest in PPV or VOD and the cards save a few dollars a month. The extra services are not in high definition. Netflix and Blockbuster rent movies that can be shown in wide 480p resolution which is better than the 480i available on standard tv and costs less than a premium cable channel subscription. (My county library lends them at no cost with a catalog online.) sam

Several cable companies have HD InDemand. So yes, PPV is valid reason for not using cable cards. And even if a PPV event (like boxing) isn't in HD, i still want to get it. Just because you have no interest, doesn't mean others don't.

Scifience · Aug 23, 2005, 05:18 PM

Originally Posted by rickey939

10-finger discount?

No. Bonus from a client.

MaxPower2k3 · Aug 23, 2005, 05:36 PM

Comcast has about... three HD programs in their OnDemand catalog. Last i checked, it was a couple of IMAX movies and The Passion of the Christ. Not exactly worth it for six bucks apiece, but some of their SD stuff isn't bad to have (they've got tons of episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm on there)

wallinbl · Aug 23, 2005, 09:19 PM

I have a Sony 30" CRT. The tubes have the best picture by far. I could have had a 50" or so for what I paid for the 30", but the picture really is that much better. Plus, there is such a thing as a TV that is too big for the room.

euchomai · Aug 23, 2005, 09:41 PM

I just bought a 46" Sony HD Rear Projection, I really love it and it fits my room perfectly. I really thought this tv popped when I saw it in the store, even next to several more expensive one. I got it for $900 after my dad's retirement discount from Sears and a price match 10% they had to use for the price at Circuit City. Great deal for a great TV. My TV

jcarr · Aug 25, 2005, 07:03 AM

I just ordered today's WOOT, a Toshiba TheaterWide 44" DLP model 44nhm84.

Discontined in favor of the new 46" model, but 44" is even a little too big for my living room now. I think this will be fine for now. Eventually I'd like to finish the basement and include a home theater. Perhaps OLED or some other cool tech will be available by then.

Thanks for all of the input!

residentEvil · Aug 25, 2005, 07:07 AM

It is also a refurb, according to the page you linked. I wouldn't have done that; but it is your money