the "help me choose an LCD" thread - Page 136

I say the 7100 isnt worth the extra. Zone Dimming Edge Lit LED is highly problematic, as well. The Direct Lit 6000 is nice and so is the Vizio Edge Lit E601i-A3 with the Sharp X Gen ASV panel.

Isn't the ES6000 edge lit too? I thought regular backlit LED sets were far and few between these days?
Or am I wrong? I know it is not an ultra-thin edge lit LED but I thought it was an edge lit LED?

Whatever the case, it's too bad they left the UCP panel off the 6000 series sets this year (I also believe you need at least 6100 model not 6000 to get the full calibration controls).

You seem to be very well informed. The EH6000 is direct lit.

Yeah yeah yeah.

Anyway yes, you are right, I was wrong on that. They did switch the 6000 sub 6100-series to EH and regular direct lit this year (some places were still calling them edge-lit since the other 6100 and up are and I think the sub 6100 used to be). Sadly they then went and removed the UCP though from all the 6000-series sets and below 6100 (where edge lit mode begin) you don't get the 10pt calibration controls or the CMS.
Why on earth could they not have used UCP on the 6000 series and given color calibration to the direct lit LED models?

Well I dont see why Edge Lit isnt a niche at best and most sets going with Full Array and mid level and up Local Dimming. I favor Diffusion Filters on my sets but not heavy. I can live without advanced calibration adjustments, but they are nice.

Trying to decide among these models:

Sharp 60' 6400U
Samsung EH60xx 55'
LG LM6700 55'

After watching them at stores, I have some concerns for each model:

Sharp:
Likes: Very good blacks, color accuracy, Best matte screen among the three.
Concerns: Color gradient issue (color banding is visible at certain scenes). At one scene the picture has minor shaking.

Samsung:
Likes: Color is very vibrant. Very bright. Good matte screen.
Concerns: the image seems to be over-sharpened, the number of inputs is really limited.

LG:
Likes: Color is accurate. 3D is good. Motion is smooth.
Concerns: PQ is a tiny bit washed out compared to the Sharp and the Samsung.
The semi-glossy screen is not as good as the Sharp and the Samsung; also there is also noticeable distortion in its reflection, which I found to be very distracting.

Any advice is appreciated.

That sure would be nice.

And I don't know why they want you to have to pay for all sorts of needless facial and voice recognition just to also get their best image quality tech!

not me
Edited by skibum5000 - 11/22/12 at 1:19am

Looking to get a new LED TV.
Any recommendations?
I've got about $2000 to spend. Looking for a 55ish" TV.
Watch sports, and normal TV programming. Very few movies. Will watch them in my basement.

Please give me your OPINIONS please.

And why o why do they insist on putting Smart TV Internet Apps inside a TV, Ill never know. Quality display please, not bells and whistles. Especially bell and whistles that are better suited to set top boxes.

Hello Guys,

I'm on the market for a new LCD/LED TV that will be mostly used for PS3 online Gaming and watch movies...
So far a have looked in to this samsung models

UN55ES8000FXZA
UN55ES7500FXZA
UN55ES7100FXZA
Sony KDL55HX850

I would really appreciated if you guys guide me on what model to chose.
My only requirements are that the tv have 3D, 120hz+, 1080p, 50"~55" and excellent selection for ps3 gaming..

Budget is max $2400

Have a great Day....
Edited by maurib - 11/23/12 at 8:35am

Hey thanks, appreciate it. So close to going with the UN46EH6000, even have it in my cart. Then I saw the CNET review where they kind of dog the black level performance.

I understand everything's relative and CNET test's a lot of displays, I'm just trying to figure out if its going to be a downgrade from my 4 year old LNT4065F or not.

Gut tells me to go for it, wallet says hold on wait a minute.

Looking for something 50-60" with less than a frame of input lag? Does this exist?

For gaming, movies, and some use as a PC monitor.

Samsung PN51E530 or Vizio M3D470KD?

I'll be getting the Samsung new from Tiger Direct, or the Vizio used - good from Amazon. I don't care for 3D particularly, but the Vizio's extra features are appealing. I also really like the ability to use WiFi to watch Netflix without hooking up my computer. Gaming will be a big use, and I want great picture quality for movies. Sound quality is not an issue. Thanks!

I'd go with the Samsung. Vizio's can be questionable new, and I'd definitely steer clear of a used one. Gaming without lag and a great pq, compromises will have to be made. Smart tv, meh.

I just cant get excited about that Samsung plasma.

The Vizio M3D470KD is sweet, but I wouldnt buy one used.

PS - If you live in the South, avoid plasma unless your loaded and dont mind running up your electricity bill not only running the plasma but also the AC to counteract that heat radiator.

Hey guys, I'm looking to buy a great HDTV!
I really need your help!

Budget: < $800
Size: around 46", never over, and strongly preferable to be not smaller.
Resolution: 1080p
Rate: at least 120Hz
3D: Not a requirement. Would give up 3D any day over picture quality, features, etc. unless it comes nearly as a "freebie" in my price range.
HDMI inputs: at least 3
Usage: Gaming (360/PS3/Wii/WiiU), and movies (Bluray/PC video streaming)
Others: Would love if the speaker is at least decent. I don't have any plans on getting any sound system soon.


Thanks!

Bump...

Is there a place to find all the local dimming brands/models available?

I'm looking for a 55"-60" with local dimming.

Just got my UN46EH6000 setup and starting to get it dialed in. Solid all around, really happy with it so far.

Thanks

Ok guys Im looking for a 40" for the bedroom, Im kicking myself hard for not jumping on the 40" Toshiba on BF that was $179, Or the bigger 50" for $299.. So now Im looking to spend Less than $300, It will be for gaming , Satellite, and blu ray, but I only need 720P @ that size IMO.. Dont know if I should wait til Christmas, since that seems to be when Tvs drop DRASTICALLY in price, or just bite the bullet now and pick up something like this

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-UN32EH4003-32-Inch-720p-Black/dp/B0078LSTWU/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1353873244&sr=1-2&keywords=samsung+32+inch+tv

I have never owned an HDTV due to finances, but have decided this is unacceptable, and that I WILL find a way to get this done. Probably going to wait until Boxing Day and scout out the best deal I can, so I'm working on familiarizing myself with the options now. Did a whole lot of research this week, and I think I'm more confused now than I was at the start! So hopefully I can get some help here and pick a winner, or at least rule out a few of these options. I will be heading to a store over the next day or two to check them out in person.

1. Budget
$350-$600 max

2. Seating distance
7-10 feet

3. Size
40-43"

4. Uses and sources
Technically the main usage will be regular cable TV viewing, but what I REALLY want the HDTV for is gaming (Xbox 360), sports, and movies (Netflix & DVD's). Will get a Blu-Ray player soon enough.

5. Room lighting
Well-lit room, but will do a lot of my viewing at night.

Must haves:
- 1080p

From what I've learned, there are lots of options out there that would be nice to have, but not integral. Smart TV is cool but I can use my Xbox 360 to access Netflix & the interwebs. 3D would be sweet but I understand it's probably not worth the extra cost at this point in time. One thing that I am hoping to get some info on is the various sound systems involved with these sets, and which is the best. I have my current 25" old-school TV hooked up through a stereo, which I suppose I could continue to do with the HDTV. But if I find a set with good surround sound, that would be a massive bonus and worth adding extra money for if I have to. I have read back a bunch of pages in this thread, and as far as features go picture quality is the most important by far, specifically deep blacks and vibrant colours. I'm still a little unclear at the LED vs. LCD debate, other than understanding that it's mostly hype, but that 120Hz is preferable to 60Hz.

Re: size, I buy into what Escape has been saying about going for a 42" for that "bigger" feel, so that is a strong preference here. However, I would settle for a 40" if it is by far the best option at a similar price.

Compared and contrasted the low-cost sets, and reviews are all over the map. What do you guys feel is the best model, and also the worst so that I can rule something out. I would lean Sony in a vacuum, with Panasonic a close second, but the low-end Panasonic reviews seem to be poor across the board. When I did my initial sweep of options, the Vizio E422VLE was the leading contender, but I quickly discovered that Vizio's are really hard to find in Canada. If you want a laugh, go to Vizio's U.S. website (which appears to be from 2012), then click to their Canadian version, which appears to be stuck in 1998. The only 2 models listed in this size range are the M420NV and the SV420M, both of which are currently "unavailable."

Looking at comparing these models:

LG 42CS560
Sharp LC42SV50U
Panasonic TCL42U5
Samsung UN40E550
Toshiba 40E220U
Sony 40BX450

I was starting to strongly consider paying a little extra for the Sony below, until I realized it is also a 60Hz set.

Sony 42EX440 (Right now it's about $50 more than the 40BX450), which is probably worth it simply for the larger size (40 to 42"). Is there a real difference in picture quality or bonus features though? Also, the Toshiba was last on my list initially but it seems to be receiving some fairly enthusiastic reviews. If it was a 42" set it may be the leading contender.

Lastly, to muddy the waters further I have long been in the LCD over Plasma camp. However, reading reviews it seems like the old problems with Plasma are no longer a major issue. So I am considering these options as well. I am wondering if someone can provide a link for a really good breakdown of LCD vs. Plasma, with reference to current models or at least the difference between the major brands.

I started to re-think plasma after hearing they are much better viewed at different angles from LCD, and a strength for gaming. However, one of the recent posters in this thread suggested that he has heard they are sub-par for gaming. Which is it?

LG 42PA4500
Panasonic TCP42X5
Samsung PN43E540 or PN43D450

Sorry for the lengthy post, thanks in advance for any thoughts you guys have on these various models.

Hi All,

Wish I had discovered this website sooner. This post may sound like it's from Rip Van Winkle to some of you.

Budget ~ $800
Seating distance ~ 8'
Image Quality is paramount
Size ~ ?

My beloved Sony 32" CRT is dying, and I'm told it can't be repaired. I've been itching to make the leap to LCD for years, but just kept putting it off. Mostly I watch the non-HD offerings from Dish up in the nosebleed channel numbers, and Sci-Fi, lots of news, but also sports like Formula 1 and football, and non-HD DVDs I've collected.

Since I've had the Sony for many years, I have gotten very used to its level of image quality (which in its day was top notch), and am at ease with the way the cars look on the screen and the fact that there is no motion blur, etc. Viewing distance is 8 feet in fairly bright conditions. Don't do games, or streaming, or the like. Image quality is paramount, I suppose, as I am a professional photographer, and am insanely picky about sharpness and focus.

I did some very basic research, and ponied up for a Samsung UN46ES6150 from Costco the other day. Set it up, downloaded new firmware for it, and proceeded to be SHOCKED at how terrible the non-HD programming looked on it. I used a calibration model from an Amazon reviewer that improved things a bit, but the amount of pixelation and just plain fuzziness was awful. On the other hand, the HD programming I watched on it was just wonderful - like looking through a window. But the non-HD stuff was really more than I could stand. I upgraded my Dish service to HD, but there are still many channels that are not available in the format, and they look like crap.

I went round to BB a couple of days later, and looked at The Wall Of Video, and of course every set looked perfect. So I cornered a sales guy and asked him if I could see that Sony KDL40EX640 on the wall in Standard Definition. He really put up a fight about it for a few minutes, but finally agreed and reached up to turn it to a different source. AND VOILA! The set stood out like an ugly duckling among beautiful swans.

Having almost no experience with an HD LED picture, my question is: ARE THEY ALL GOING TO BE LIKE THAT? Lovely when used for HD, and crap when used for SD?

The same was true , though to a lesser extent of my SD DVDs. The detail was just not there as I was used to it from the old CRT.

Is this just an aspect of flat panel TVs that everyone has gotten used to and no longer notices? When the salesman at BB told me they were all that way, I felt like jumping on him with that line, "then they all need to be fixed!" Is this the fence at the edge of the technology?

I've decided that part of the problem may be that the new Samsung is too big for the space. It seemed like I could only see part of the screen at a time from my usual viewing position 8 feet away. I pushed my chair as far away as it would go, but it seemed like I just couldn't get far enough back to take in that whole screen.

So, I'm returning the Samsung, after the check clears, and thinking that I should have stayed with Sony, for one thing, though so many of you sing the praises of all kinds of brands, and I had read many great reviews of the Samsung before I bought it. Is it just me and my OCD-enhanced pickiness that's at the root of this problem, or is there a set out there that can truly handle both of the two seemingly incompatible standards in one unit? Would that unit be the Sony KDL40EX640? Or should I drop down to a 32"? Or look at a different brand entirely? They all look so good on The Wall.

Any help for this 58 year old(timer) you might offer would be greatly appreciated.

Bill

Thanks EscapeVelocity!

OK, I've decided that using an LCD as a dual purpose computer monitor and TV is not the right thing to do as I won't be able to fully utilize it for either. Now, I'm searching for the following:

Size: 32" - 40"
Primary Purpose: Bedroom for TV & Movies (Blu Ray Player + Roku)

I actually like the look of the models that have frame interpolation/SOE. Not for everything for but for certain movies I really like the effect. Are there any LCD displays out there that include this frame interpolation in a smaller size? I searched Samsung's site for models that have AMP and they do not list them. LG has models with TruMotion 120hz and 240hz but I thought frame interpolation is different than frame rate. I know Sony has models with this too, but I have no idea what they call it and I think Vizio also has this feature on certain models but I'm not sure what it is called.

Thanks again!
Jake

I'd take a look at these:

Samsung UN46EH6000
Sony KDL46EX640 or 645
LG 47CS570
Edited by nwener - 11/26/12 at 12:52pm

Hi all, I've been reading and researching over the past few weeks and I'm ready to pull the trigger on a 60-70" TV for my living room. We have a seating distance of about 15 feet, so bigger is definitely better. 3D would be nice, too. Budget is roughly $2,000.

I've been looking at Sharp displays because they seem to have great price points on the larger sets, but I wanted to get some input on alternative options. What should I be looking at? Thanks in advance!

What are the prices for each model?

With the samsung, why not reduce the sharpness setting and see if you still like the picture? Also, I use a hdmi switcher. My blu ray player looks great running through it. If PQ deterioration is an issue, it is imperceptibly minor. But I doubt that PQ is affected in any way.

A note to my post above, think I'll try to avoid the lowest priced LCD's. After doing a bunch of research and viewing several of these models myself, they aren't that impressive. Money is tight but I am going to want a set I'll be happy with for a couple of years. Of the ones I listed, I was ok with the LG 42CS560, Toshiba 40E220U and Sony 40BX450. Not impressed with the Samsung E550, was only able to view one low-end Panasonic (I think it was the TC-L42U22) that was the worst of the bunch. Almost certainly going to go LCD over Plasma, I know the lighting in department stores is unfair to the plasmas, but it wasn't close. Would still like to hear opinions about the best of the low-end.

For an extra $100-$200, I should be able to get an LED with a little better quality picture, some with a 120Hz refresh rate. I know the difference isn't going to be that great, but hopefully enough to be worth it. What do you think is the best choice of these options?

Samsung UN40EH5000
Sony KDL42EX440
LG 42CS570 (and how its 120Hz compares to the 560)
LG LS3400
Panasonic TCL42E50
Insignia NS-42E480A13120

The Samsung seems pretty solid, but I did feel after spending time viewing the various models, that 42" is definitely preferred over 40", though not a deal-breaker. I was not able to view a 42" CS570 but did look at a 47", and wasn't particularly impressed. If I had to choose right now, it'd be between the UN40EH5000 and the KDL42EX440.

Would also love to hear some thoughts on Redcloud's question. I know from experience at various friend's places that regular cable tv is fairly mediocre on HDTV's, is there much of a difference between the various lower-cost options, and is there a big improvement on the higher end sets? Also curious about the sound provided by these options (I will probably get a sound bar at some point down the road.)

I've seen the KDL42EX440 in stores and was quite impressed with how the picture looked. Downsides are that its 60hz and you aren't getting a ton of bang for your buck at $550. But if you want a quality, reliable set without the internet TV crap, it may be a good way to go.

1. Up to $1000, maybe a little wiggle room.
2. 8'
3. No size/placement limitations.
4. Mostly bluray watching with a little bit of PS3 gaming through HDMI.
5. No windows or glare issues.

I'd really like to have a slim bezel TV, I've been looking at the Samsung UN50ES6900. I'd prefer no ghosting issues, good blacks, little to no input lag, and micro dimming (unless this is a bad choice). I've been out of the TV game since they introduced LED-backlit sets so I could use some advice. My current TV is a Sony LCD XBR2 40".

Thanks,
Matt
Edited by mrw1986 - 11/26/12 at 5:02pm

Yeah, this is pretty much how I feel. There are several 60Hz and 120Hz sets in this price range ($500-$700) and I guess the argument would be that the 60Hz sets have good enough picture quality, that it doesn't really matter (plus, from what I've read with my limited knowledge on the subject, both the Sony and Samsung have a "fake" 120Hz setting to compensate).

I am going to avoid most of the bells and whistles this time around to keep the costs down, but I did play with a 3D set and it would be fun to have one, though there's very little content right now for it. It's too bad the Vizio's are so hard to find around here, because the E3D420VX would be a serious contender for me, at that price.

Also, I guess I should add the Toshiba 40L5200U to the list. It is going to be very hard for me to buy a Toshiba, lol, but I thought it looked like a pretty nice TV.
Edited by PerpetualMotion - 11/26/12 at 6:46pm