OT: Idiot buying HDTV (yes, another one of those threads)

Captain Erv · Post #1 » by **Captain Erv** » Mon Apr 7, 2008 3:50 am

I apologize for having to do this, but I'm having a real hard time deciding between a couple of tv's and I'm not exactly a "tech" guy. I know Olevia and Vizio are not top notch brands, but give me a break, I'm a college kid just wanting to watch some sports in HD. Right now these are the top three on my list:

http://www.target.com/Olevia-32-LCD-HDTV-232T/dp/B000OY3L4E/ref=cm_reviews_dp_seemore/601-7183442-0033734?ie=UTF8&coliid=&frombrowse=1&alt%5Fview=custReviews
Olevia 32" LCD HDTV - 232T

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_05771927000P?vName=Computers+%26+Electronics&cName=Televisions&sName=LCD+TVs&filter=Brand%7CVizio
Vizio VX32L

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000RO7G6A/ref=ord_cart_shr?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=A13BNE3P7C8THK&v=glance
LG 32LC7D 32" 720p LCD HDTV

Both of those are $630 and the other is $695 and I'm probably not looking to go over $700 because I have to buy a wall mount and a few other accessories.

Any help would be appreciated and if there are any other options that you might suggest, that would also be appreciated.

Thanks guys.

jeremyd236 · Post #2 » by **jeremyd236** » Mon Apr 7, 2008 3:55 am

If you want to maximize the potential and longevity of your HDTV, I wouldn't get anything that can't put out 1080p. Currently, you won't find much use for it but if you want to prepare yourself for Blu Ray, etc. I would definitely make sure your TV has that.

Don't get plasma, get LCD.

Serge28 · Post #3 » by **Serge28** » Mon Apr 7, 2008 4:03 am

Jeremy, what's wrong with plasma?

dunhill · Post #4 » by **dunhill** » Mon Apr 7, 2008 4:10 am

at 32" 1080p is not going to matter. No manufacturer makes a 1080p 32". Ok Sharp does but it's a 1k and you're better off spending $100-$200 more for a 40" 1080p nearly double the size.

Mags FTW · Post #5 » by **Mags FTW** » Mon Apr 7, 2008 4:52 am

If you are dead-set on one of those 3, you have to go with the LG. Superior product.

TJ_Ford_11 · Post #6 » by **TJ_Ford_11** » Mon Apr 7, 2008 5:43 am

I prefer the picture on a plasma over LCD. When I look at LCD tv's at an angle, the picture gets messed up.

Also, definitely don't worry about getting a 1080p tv that is less than 50 inches, unless you plan on watching your tv using a telescope to marvel at the extra pixels.

If you really want to experience sports in HD, buy a decent projector and a 113" screen.

jeremyd236 · Post #7 » by **jeremyd236** » Mon Apr 7, 2008 1:00 pm

Serge28 wrote:Jeremy, what's wrong with plasma?

Nothing's wrong with plasma, I just think LCD is a better technology (it uses less power and has longer lifespans). I suppose it's all just preference though.

A Diddy2231 · Post #8 » by **A Diddy2231** » Mon Apr 7, 2008 1:10 pm

I bought a Vizio and Im happy with it. I dont have HD Sat though so I cant watch sports in HD, but I have PS3 and a HD player, and the HD content looks good on Vizio tvs. You def would like to get a TV with 1080p but for 700 that might be tough to find unless you go the refurbished route.