Buying a TV

**MNCyGuy** · 08-18-2010, 09:42 PM

Yes, I know I could probably search for previous threads about this. The now Mrs. and I are looking at spending some of our wedding gift money on a new tv. Doesn't need to be anything top-of-the-line, neither of us is that big of an electronics junkie. Just needs to be brand/model of decent quality that has a good picture and will last us a few years. Our place isn't huge so I'm thinking a 42" screen. Our tentative budget for the tv is around $800, but that is probably somewhat negotiable if we're only going to get a crap tv in that price range. Thanks for the help fanatics.

**herbicide** · 08-18-2010, 09:45 PM

Stay away from samsung. I've had 2, the first one was replaced under warranty (long drawn out struggle) and now the 2nd one is failing, and it is about 19 months old.

**JP4CY** · 08-18-2010, 09:52 PM

Wow, I've had a Samsung plasma for 2 1/2 years and use it a lot and its been nothing but great.

**ianoconnor** · 08-18-2010, 10:31 PM

Originally Posted by JP4CY

Wow, I've had a Samsung plasma for 2 1/2 years and use it a lot and its been nothing but great.

Same.

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-PN50C4...2188716&sr=8-2

**San Francisco Cy** · 08-18-2010, 10:46 PM

Here's what I got. My favorite feature is that you can instantly watch shows/movies on Netflix. You can also watch youtube videos on it. And it's under $800...

Amazon.com: LG 42LH50 42-Inch 1080p 120Hz Broadband LCD HDTV…

**farminclone** · 08-18-2010, 10:51 PM

Herbicide is about the only person I've heard complain about Samsung. Ours is great.

**dfwcy** · 08-18-2010, 10:54 PM

I just ordered an LG 42LD550. It gets great reviews and its only 699 on Amazon with free shipping. That price was about 200 less than I could find it anywhere else and there is no tax.

I just ordered it and have not received yet although I looked at it at Best Buy.

They had it "on sale" for 850.

**bstegs** · 08-18-2010, 10:55 PM

Samsung for LCD's and Panasonic for Plasmas. Also, if it will be in a bright room, get an LCD. If it will be in a basement or a room with good shades, get a plasma. If you like sports, plasma is superior. It better handles the fast motion of sports.

**dmclone** · 08-19-2010, 08:12 AM

Originally Posted by bstegs

Samsung for LCD's and Panasonic for Plasmas. Also, if it will be in a bright room, get an LCD. If it will be in a basement or a room with good shades, get a plasma. If you like sports, plasma is superior. It better handles the fast motion of sports.

This is the route I've taken. I have one of each. The Panasonic Plasma has been more reliable and better picture but the Samsung LCD has a pretty good picture as well.

Just remember that if you're not running HD into your new big TV it's not going to look good regardless of what you buy.

**GeronimusClone** · 08-19-2010, 08:14 AM

I bought a 42 inch LG plasma from American in Des Moines a month ago for $550 and love it.

**Cydkar** · 08-19-2010, 08:44 AM

Originally Posted by MNCyGuy

Yes, I know I could probably search for previous threads about this. The now Mrs. and I are looking at spending some of our wedding gift money on a new tv. Doesn't need to be anything top-of-the-line, neither of us is that big of an electronics junkie. Just needs to be brand/model of decent quality that has a good picture and will last us a few years. Our place isn't huge so I'm thinking a 42" screen. Our tentative budget for the tv is around $800, but that is probably somewhat negotiable if we're only going to get a crap tv in that price range. Thanks for the help fanatics.

42" Panasonic Plasma - 720p. No need for 1080p at that size (unless you sit right in front of it) and you will crush your budget $.

I have the 50" as does a friend of mine. Best bang for the buck.

**WalkingCY** · 08-19-2010, 08:47 AM

Uh, my samsung plasma has been dominant. Have had it for 2-3 years. No complaints....picture quality has been boss.

**CYKID** · 08-19-2010, 08:54 AM

Just bought the 42 inch Insignia LCD for $599 at Best Buy. 2 year warranty, 120 hz 1080, 4 hdmi and tons of other hookups. Had more features and a better warranty than any TV up to the $1000 price range. You'll spend another $50-$100 on hdmi cords so plan that into the budget.

**MNCyGuy** · 08-19-2010, 08:56 AM

Originally Posted by dmclone

This is the route I've taken. I have one of each. The Panasonic Plasma has been more reliable and better picture but the Samsung LCD has a pretty good picture as well.

Just remember that if you're not running HD into your new big TV it's not going to look good regardless of what you buy.

Is running a non-HD channel into a flat-screen really that big of a difference? I'm pretty sure my parents aren't running HD and I've thought everything has looked fine on their new screen.

How big is the difference for sporting events on Plasma vs. LCD? Obviously someone sitting on CF day in and day out watches a lot of sports, but the living room in our apartment does get a lot of sunlight in through the window during the day. What's my better bet?