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Lower-end HDTV help/ buying suggestion
by Redavi - 4/9/09 12:36 PMHey there,
So I realize I am rather new to understanding the technological aspects of HDTVs. I could be completely wrong but from what I have gathered through reading and watching various reviews, it seems that 1080p really starts kicking in the larger size you go. I mean it can be in smaller models of course too, but really gets its noticeable affects in larger HDTVs.
So that being said, it leads into my question. I am about ready to buy a lower-end 32" HDTV. I am currently looking at these two Vizio models and attempting to make a decision between the two.
1080p Model: http://www.vizio.com/product.aspx?id=2715&pid=1506
720p Model: http://www.vizio.com/product.aspx?id=2720&pid=1506
Each are about $70 less at my local Costco Warehouse where I would be buying it.
So any help making a decision between the two would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Vizio
by Dan Filice - 4/9/09 1:34 PM In reply to: Lower-end HDTV help/ buying suggestion by RedaviSome people have had great luck with Vizio TVs and some haven't. Definitely purchase it at Costco where you get a 90 day return policy and they extend the MFG warranty to 2 years. Depending on the price difference, I'd go with 1080p only because you may end up connecting a Blu-Ray DVD player, which is native 1080p. Why view anything less?
Thanks!
by Redavi - 4/9/09 2:51 PM In reply to: Vizio by Dan FiliceGreat, thanks for the information and help!
Yeah, I will definitely make the purchase at Costco. Their return policy is quite excellent.
consider size and viewing distance!
by HD-Dave - 4/10/09 1:15 PM In reply to: Thanks! by Redavihow far away are you sitting? to benefit from a 32" Flat Panel at 1080P, you should be sitting no further than 64" (5'4") away. This is called the "rule of 2".
this article explains the relationship between size , viewing distance , and resolution (1080 vs 720)
http://www.homeappliancegallery.com/FE_Display_Article.aspx?Content_ID=7
If you are sitting further than 5' away, i suggest you buy the 720P set.
Be within 5 ft
by Redavi - 4/10/09 4:57 PM In reply to: consider size and viewing distance! by HD-DaveI would be within 5 FT I am pretty sure as its not a very big area where I will be putting it.
Though I will make sure as I don't want the 1080p to go to waste.
Thanks for the information, I appreciate it!
Vizio 32 inch 1080
by jrap30 - 4/17/09 10:14 AM In reply to: Be within 5 ft by RedaviOK...you appear to be too quick. I brought my TV last year...and hear are comments on read on subject
1. 1080 difference will be notice proably on 50 inches or larger
2. 1080- if there is wood paneling in back ground, you may notice the woodgrain
3. Forget it if you wear glasses or do not have 20/20 corrected vison
4. THE BIG ONE...Only Blu Ray disks are 1080 p..broadcast is in 720 p
Finally..I was leaning toward Vizio...but bad quality problems, little documentation for repairman and UNIQUE hard to get parts.
So my point is NOT wahy not 1080 p BUT why DO IT.
I brought the Pansonic 720 p which was considered one of the BEST sets last year next to Panasonic 1080 and Pioneer high end sets
purchase of LCD HDTV
by jaqpc1 - 4/26/09 2:54 PM In reply to: Be within 5 ft by Redavii highly recommend TIGERDIRECT.COM (non-caps) better $$$ than BJ's, COSTCO and SAM's!!!
wide variety of LCD sizes i have purchased a new Sharp 52in @ $1000, a refurbished Vizio 46in $400, and a new Lg 37in $400. viewing distances are about 14', 8' and 5' respectively!!!
all of the sets are 1080 and have at least 2 HDMI ports.
i have 'shopped' tiger for many, many years; buying new, refurbished and open box items never, never have i been disappointed with a product or delivery or any service...... i have purchased PC's, PRINTERS.
CARDS, CAMERAs SOFT and other HARDWARE!!
i go to a "lot" of PC shows since late 80s and TIGER is almost as good as the shows for PC's and anything involving them!!!
jaqpc1
Costco warranty...
by Redavi - 4/26/09 7:22 PM In reply to: purchase of LCD HDTV by jaqpc1But the Costco warranty/return policy beats anything. Not doubting TG at all, I have purchased PC parts from them in the past but Costco is so good about returns and their warranty.
90 Returns (on electronics and such, other is unlimited) no questions asked pretty much and they extend the manufacture warranty by a year. Its just incredible.
Thanks for all the input guys, hopefully going to make my purchase this next weekend!
Best foot forward
by porsche10x - 4/12/09 7:36 AM In reply to: Vizio by Dan FiliceIf you're set an a Vizio, getting it at Costco is a great idea for reasons already mentioned. Also note, Vizio makes their best models available at Costco. Other manufacturers, e.g., Sony, makes special models for Costco which are not as good as their standard models, have degraded specs, "last year's" technology, and, surprisingly, are no cheaper than the better current models elsewhere.
I nearly bought a Vizio at Costco. It's a great set, but I found the contrast lacking, with blacks looking a little too grey. I ended up getting a Sony KDL-40Z4100 at Vann's online for a great price. I thought the picture on the Sony was much better, but it was considerably more expensive than the Vizio, so I still think the Vizio is a good bargain.
You'll also be happier with the 1080p, even in a set that small. The price difference isn't that significant.
Oh, and as for the suggestions below about the Panasonic plasma, I agree that their plasmas are truly great, and an incredible bargain, but a 42" plasma is not the same animal as a 32" LCD and doesn't serve the same needs. With the plasma, you'll burn three times as much electricity, the unit will weigh three times as much, and just try fitting it in your kitchen. Recommending a 42" plasma, albeit with a better picture, when someone wants a cheap 32" LCD is like recommending a pickup truck to a minivan shopper. It's a better solution to a different problem.
PS - after your purchase, let us know what you decide and if you're happy with it.
I shall
by Redavi - 4/12/09 10:16 AM In reply to: Best foot forward by porsche10xI will be sure to keep it touch after I make my purchase.
Thanks much for the reply. Appreciating all the information!
.
by jostenmeat - 4/9/09 4:55 PM In reply to: Lower-end HDTV help/ buying suggestion by RedaviI hate to be "that guy", and blow your budget to bits, but here goes. Can you possibly consider doubling your budget? IMO, Panasonic plasma is the best value in mid-sized HDTV's. The only display I own is a very nice front projector, but I feel pretty strongly about this opinion.
Dan is one of the regular videophiles who contributes here, and he has had good experiences with LCD. OTOH, I really, really prefer plasma, and I think plasma wins at every price point. I also think Panasonic is a much better performer than Vizio.
People have landed a 50" 1080p Panasonic plasma from Costco at double that 32" Vizio display you linked. You would be very far from the point of diminishing returns. 50" represents 244% of the 32" display size.
http://tvcalculator.com/index.html?fbc4570d23ec251b56a8ec73a37dc679
Even a 42" is 172% the 32" display size, and those have been had at the SAME price as that vizio.
http://tvcalculator.com/index.html?fbc4570d23ec251b56a8ec73a37dc679
Do you need the larger size? Well, how far do you sit? You have to be within 5 ft of display of a 32" to even begin appreciating 1080p. With a 50" you start noticing subtle differences at 9 ft.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v471/tha_trixta/resolution2.png
Here is a bonus link, viewing angle calculator
http://myhometheater.homestead.com/viewingdistancecalculator.html
Again, my personal vote is Panasonic plasma. Whether 42 or 50". Good luck.
bad link on the 42" comparo
by jostenmeat - 4/9/09 4:56 PM In reply to: . by jostenmeathttp://tvcalculator.com/index.html?5c56358b17fb4e62f54f9d6d46226ccd
Appreciate the input
by Redavi - 4/9/09 5:15 PM In reply to: . by jostenmeatI can consider doubling it. Means I wouldn't get it quite as soon but patience for a better screen is never a bad thing.
Anyway, I very much appreciate your input and help. Those viewing angle (and distance) graphs and links are quite helpful indeed. I wouldn't need anything above a 42" as my viewing distance isn't that far. And can't be any farther due to the size of the area in which it would be in.
So I will definitely take your thoughts and suggestions to heart. Very much appreciate the input!
you're very welcome
by jostenmeat - 4/9/09 5:31 PM In reply to: Appreciate the input by RedaviIMHO, you are doing well to heed my advice. I think a 42" Panasonic plasma is a bazillion times better than a Vizio LCD. Not worlds apart, but galaxies apart. JMO. and the best part is that costco sells them.
More on Vizio
by Dan Filice - 4/9/09 6:01 PM In reply to: you're very welcome by jostenmeatJosten is correct on all accounts. I love the Panny Plasma too but I took the lazy way out and bought LCD. I didn't see the $599 price of the 1080p Vizio you were looking at. If you didn't want (or could) double your budget, take a look at the Toshiba Regza 42" 1080p LCD at Costco. It's only a couple hundred more than the Vizio. I bought the 46" Toshiba at Costco for the bedroom, and it's a stunning set. Way better than the Vizio. It has a 10-bit color processor, the setup menus for picture, etc. are very deep and detailed, and the remote is excellent.
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