the "help me choose an LCD" thread - Page 141

Looking for a 24-27" panel for a TV in my home office. I have a Samsung S24A650D as my computer monitor that I love, and I understand there's a few new ones still in the retail pipeline, but I'm looking at all my options:
1) Around $300 max
2) Must produce true color, no FRC or dithering fakes.
3 1080P resolution.
4) No glossy screens.

I just need two digital imputs for a cable box and a blu-ray player. Don't need audio, QAM tuner, or anything else.

Hey All,

I purchased a new home and will be getting one of the key components, a new TV of course. I have a few different options that I'm looking at and I'm having a tough time deciding which to go with. Any direction would be great!

1. Budget - A max of $2k, I'm willing to go a smidge over budget if that's what it takes.

2. Seating distance - Approximately 9 feet straight on, will have side viewing as well.

3. Size/placement limitations - Will be mounted on my wall. I'm looking between 55"-60".

4. Uses and sources - Main viewing will be usual HDTV. I watch A LOT of sports, so a lot of ESPN with football and basketball especially. I will be watching a lot of movies and playing a lot of video games via Xbox. In matter of importance it would be HDTV, Movies, Xbox. Of course something with not a lot of ghosting or blurring with a lot of movement.

5. Room lighting - Room lighting will be a mediocre. There is a bay window that can be controlled, but light from there will be going directly on the wall where the tv is. I thus ruled out the panny 55vt50. Also I'm not one to turn the tv on and worry about IR.

The models I have been looking at are:

Sharp 60le845u
Samsung 55es7100fxza
Sony KDLxx750 and 850
LG 60lm7200

Again, any and all help would be greatly appreciated.

Crickets....anyone?

The Samsung ES7100 is on sale. Its a good choice.

I've read you have went through a few Samsung tv's. Have you had any defects or concerns with your current 7100? Thanks for the response pirates.

I had a Samsung A850 that was solid for 3 years...

I had a Samsung D630 and D6900 with multiple problems for around 4 months.

I've had the ES7100 since December, its not perfect - but I have had Zero problems.

The Picture is really good, accurate color, very smooth motion and great black levels.

The viewing angle is poor, yet it is flashlight and clouding free.

Hi All,
I am new to this forum and seek your help in deciding which is the best TV ( in terms of picture quality and sound) to buy as per the below criterion:-

primary criterion
=============
40-42 inch
LED TV
Brands preference- Sony, Samsung, Panasonic
If 3D is available then great; if not then also fine since mostly I would be watching 2D the usual stuff.
Price range within -$1000.

optional criterion
=============
If the TV supports NTSC/PAL, and runs with 110-240V then it would be a bonus.

Throughout the day I have been looking online for reviews etc. finally tired and confused a bit.
Some of the ones which I felt could fall in my list are Sony EX440, EX640, Panasonic - E5.

I would appreciate any quick guidance in this respect.
Thanks in advance.

Cheers.

Hello,

I am new to this forum as well because I am at a loss as to what to do. After months of research, I can't make a decision as to what TV I am going to get. We have a 10 year old, 150 lb. CRT JVC tv that I have been wanting to replace for awhile. I thought for sure that I wanted to get a Vizio HDTV, either the E470i-A0 or the M3D550KDE model, but after hearing so many mixed reviews about the picture quality and dependability, I am now not sure what to get. Panasonic? LG? Samsung? I just don't know. I have done a lot of research through CNET and many other reviews posted through Amazon and Wal-Mart, so any advice would greatly help. Here's the criteria that I am trying to follow.

1. Budget: $600 to $650 (I could go $700 but that would really be pushing beyond what I can afford to spend).

2. Seating distance: Roughly 6' to 8'.

3. Size/placement limitations: Preferably 45" to 50", but I am willing to drop to 42" if it will better suit my budget.

4. Uses and sources: General TV watching. Blu-Ray DVD player and light video gaming (Wii).

5. Room lighting: Well lit during the day, but not very bright at night, just one light in the corner of the living room.

I would also really like something that has at least a refresh rate of 120hz and also has really good picture quality. A smart tv would be nice, but again, I can do without if it will help my budget.

Thanks again for any advice that anyone is willing to give.

Cheers.

Even though you were previously looking at a Vizio 3D, you didn't mention that 3D was a requirement. If you don't care about 3D, then look into this bad boy:

Sony KDL46EX645 46-Inch 1080p MotionFlow 240HZ Internet Slim LED HDTV (Black)
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-KDL46EX645-46-Inch-MotionFlow-Internet/dp/B008XG1N72
Currently $699 on Amazon and sold by Amazon.



Remember: always sort reviews by "newest", not "most helpful" because things change. The customer reviews on this thing are about the most glowing I've read for any TV lately!

1. Budget: $3,000

2. Seating distance: Roughly 7.5 Ft.

3. Size/placement limitations: 32-40" + awkwardly angled (diagonally) to the side of the room.

4. Uses and sources: Standard DVD (mostly 4x3 b&w content) and Blu Ray (Oppo BDP-83).

5. Room lighting: Situated in front of large wrap-around bay windows with functioning venetian wood slats; well lit at all times from overhead fixture.




I'm not interested in any bells and whistles, smart apps, online content streaming, 3D, etc. AUDIO + VIDEO quality are the central focus. I have limited and restrictive space, so the stock built-in speakers are an important feature. A slimlined sihlouette would be highly preferred. Due to sizing restraints, an LED is probably the way to go. Full native HD resolution is a requisite. I'd greatly appreciate any advice or suggestions as to the best all-around AV quality display on the market within my size limtations; the smaller the better!

Thanks so much!

I should add that full backlit is another requisite.

I know you're hoping for sound coming from the TV, but is the $3000 partitioned for the TV alone, or potentially for a sound system as well? You want a slim tv: they often don't have the space for adequate speakers. A sound-bar has very small wall "foot print" (need a term, LOL), but can eat into your budget for the nicer ones. Also realize that the slimmest sets are edge-lit.
Edited by tgm1024 - 2/19/13 at 5:21pm

Sorry about forgetting to include that. Having a 3D would be nice, however it is not a requirement. I'm fine with just a really good quality 2D t.v.

Thanks.

I have the budget to include separate audio as well, however I haven't the space for floor speakers, amps, subwoofer, etc. I was looking at a Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 2 digital sound projector as the most practical solution.

The problem that I'm having is finding a 37" that isn't marketed to the budget HT demographic. It seems, in my research, that there is a direct correlation in A/V quality and display size nowadays, as the companies all seem to be manufacturing their smaller sized displays as budget options for economical consumers, rather than practical offerings for the HT enthusiast with limited space. There seems to be a compromise with every model I've reviewed so far from Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, Toshiba, etc. in terms of the technical performance and capabilites of these under-40" screens. I know that Panasonic has a 42" Plasma slated to hit the market sometime in the next few months, and while a Plasma screen would be much preferred, at that size it's really pushing the boundaries. I used to have a top end full DLP HT setup in my old condo, so I'm used to unparalleled black levels and contrast, color, sound, etc. without all the digital filtration crap that comes along with many of these LEDs. I realize that anything I look at in LCD screens will be somewhat of a compromise in comparisson, however I'm willing to shell out for the best of the lot and I just can't seem to find the benchmark for displays in the under-40" LED category. I don't know much about this and haven't been able to dig up any real reviews, but the Panasonic VIERA TC-L37E5 37-Inch 1080p LED caught my interest, as it seems to cover all my requisites. Has anyone heard anything about it's performance or seen it in action? What is the best bang for buck (in terms of A/V) LED in the under 40-Inch category given the generous budget that I have to work with? Is there anything impressive out there?

Thanks so much!!


PS - Native 1080p resolution is a must, of course.

You just got done saying how you wanted the best bang. Not the best bang for the buck. {snicker} Sorry, I know what you mean.


You don't have to worry about 1080p native. I don't know of any recent release TV above 23" that even is offering 720p any longer. EDIT: Correction. I just found a bottom of the line 2012 panasonic 32 inch "C5" still at 720. Huh. Perhaps there are others that size as well after all----I had thought that long since gone at 32".

I spent a long time trying to figure out if there were any Elite style TVs in your category. The size is a tough one.
Edited by tgm1024 - 2/20/13 at 6:57pm

Thanks very much, I greatly appreciate your help and time!

I don't understand why the manufacturers skimp out on the smaller screens assuming they are for budget conscious consumers only. I guess I'm just looking for the best available benchmark in the (preferably) 37" category to tie us over until 2nd gen OLED surfaces in 2-3 years or so.

Do you happen to know anything about that Panny I mentioned above, the Viera 37E5?

It's incredibly difficult and frustrating to find a full backlit HD 37" LED that packs as much punch as the 42"+ models... I've spent a full day filtering through websites and reviews and am still at a complete loss.

I'm looking through the Sony offerings for you. As for the Pana line, here's a chart of their 2012 lineup in image form. Note, if you're getting it blurry, then click on the picture (or do what you have to) to view it at full size, because it won't be perfectly clear otherwise. It's a PNG, so it can get sharp and easy to read.

A personal observation about Panasonic (echoed to some extent by others now and then): I am very disappointed in their off-angle viewing. They are IPS panels (of which type they are extremely vague), and IPS should *really* have far superior off-angle viewing and IMO these just don't. The Sony line was superior to theirs in this regard and their panels are using vertical alignment.

Huh. And look at that: I had forgotten they had a bottom of the line 720p as large as 32".

http://www.avsforum.com/content/type/61/id/153767/

Edited by tgm1024 - 2/20/13 at 7:00pm

The 2013 Sony R450 is full backlit and only 40". I think the $499 might fit within your $3000 budget.

http://store.sony.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921666519115&tab=reviews#specifications


I'm beginning to wonder if what it is you really need is some kind of super duper uber computer monitor.


Here's the Samsung 40" UN40ES6580F
http://www.samsung.com/us/video/tvs/UN40ES6580FXZA


And look at the sharps as well---they had a few models the right size, just not sure of their reviews yet.


Sorry I couldn't dig more up for you. You're right: it's surprisingly difficult.
Edited by tgm1024 - 2/20/13 at 7:27pm

Thanks so much for your help with this. I have read on this forum as well as on CNET about the uniformity issues that the Sony KDL-46EX645 has. "black areas can look blue under lights, and shadow detail isn't up there with the better TVs..." Can anyone elaborate on what this means exactly? Picture quality looks great and is a good price if it stays at $699. Anymore advice would be greatly appreciated.

Been reading the suggestions here. Would like some input on these choices to upgrade y 42" Toshiba.

Mainly going to be for gaming. Movies through Netflix and some satellite. Will also be a PC monitor. Probably going for a 55", although 60" could work.

Sony KDL60EX645 $1300 used on Amazon
LG 55LM7600 $1437 new
VIZIO E601i-A3 $1000 new
Sharp Aquos LC60LE640U $932 used from Amazon
Samsung UN55EH6000 $800 new
Panasonic VIERA TC-L55E50 $900 new

Most of these are right around $1k, with the LG being the highest at $1400. Might also consider the 50" version of the sony for $1050.

Thoughts?

Okay, well that's just great. The Sony KDL46EX645 just shot back up $898.00 on Amazon! I can no longer get this t.v. because it just surpassed the limit of my budget by $200. Does anyone else out there have any other ideas for a t.v. based on my specs/suggestions that I gave in my original post? Please help! At this point I am ready to give up on looking for a new t.v. altogether.

Planning on replacing my XBR3 this year although it still works fine but the new LCD/LED's are light years better in PQ.

Will probably stick with the Sony brand models 850 or 950 and go to a 55 inch size.

I've auditioned both at BB and they seem about the same to me in PQ.

Am i missing something? Is there any reason to pick the higher priced 950 over the 850?

thanks

.

OK. I'm finally fed up with my TV.

I bought a Samsung UN40ES6100 several months ago. Very nice TV, except for the fact that it doesn't handle RGB black level inputs correctly. It's reading the black levels from my DirecTV HR23-700 incorrectly, and the HDMI Black Level setting isn't changeable. The 6100 won't allow me to make the adjustment. So, I've decided to move this TV into the guest room and buy a replacement.

1. Budget - $700 max, $600 range preferred.

2. Seating distance - Approximately 7 feet straight in front.

3. Size/placement limitations - None. 37''-42'' range preferred however.

4. Uses and sources - DirecTV viewing; console gaming.

5. Room lighting - One window directly opposite the TV, one stand light approximately five feet from the TV.

Additional desired features: 3 HDMI inputs, 1080p, LED backlighting, low input lag (console gaming), good colors. Must handle black levels correctly!

Don't care either way: "Smart" TV features (I find them to be very "dumb", as TV manufacturers are not exactly well-versed in good software design…), surround sound, 120/240Hz.

3D support would be nice but is far from a necessity, especially in this price range.

Lastly, I have no brand loyalty. I'll buy a Sony just as quickly as I'll buy a Vizio. The name on the front makes no difference to me so long as the set works well.

Any suggestions?

Ok, been a member here for quit some time and started with pj's. Currently have an Epson 8350 which my wife and I love but... many reasons why we may be thinking of a flatscreen. LCD, LED, Plasma?!?! The choices are are making my head hurt. At least with projectors there doesn't seem to be as many choices making deciding easier.

1. Budget Around 1300 or under

2. Seating distance 8-10 feet

3. Size/placement limitations would prefer 60 and above

4. Uses and sources movies, ps3 gaming, some tv

5. Room lighting some control with curtains

Not really sure with so many choices or even is we make the move. The Vizio everyone is raving about looks enticing except now I see uniformity issues and angle viewing issues being talked about.

Hi guys!, I'm in the search for a TV LCD for my parents, this is more or less what they are looking for, plus some things I've added:

1. Budget
Not sure about the exact price, but something in the price range of the Samsung Led 40 Eh5000, so, not much

2. Seating distance
4 meters.

3. Size/placement limitations
40 or 42 inch

4. Uses and sources
TV and 1080p movies, with DTS audio, no consoles will be connected, only a pendrive with movies and TV shows in MKV format.

5. Room lighting
Normal lights, no entirely dark room.

That is more or less what I'm looking for. I was about to buy the EH5000... but it plays at 60hz, correct me if I'm wrong.

Thanks!

Sony KDL40EX645

1.budget
$500-$800

3. size
40"

4. uses
TV and blu ray movies on ps3, netflix streaming

5. room lighting
normal lighting

Hello,

Ive been wanting to upgrade from my 4 year old 32" samsung lcd to the un40es6100 and its currently on sale for $749 at best buy. I have a couple questions about this display. First, is that a good price for it? Or should I wait? There seems to be a costco version (6150), it is the same? Is there anything specific (panel?) i need to look out for? I did see there use to be a 6003 version which is discontinued, is there a version that doesnt have the "smart" features? I'd perfer it without if i could save a few bucks..?

thanks biggrin.gif

Budget: up to $700
Size: 42" viewing at 8-10 feet
Uses, in order: Sports, comcast cable, netflix streaming through apple TV or similar, Xbox 360 gaming
Room lighting: Bright, many windows, including directly behind viewer.

Would love your suggestions... Looking for 'best bang for my buck', and am not compelled to spend the whole budget, especially if there's a good value in the $500 range.

Ok, I haven't been on AVS in awhile and lurked a long time here when I was building my HTPC and the info was invaluable when it came time to build. I need a new TV and there are sooo many models out now for a good price. Was hoping someone could point me in a good direction. A little background, looking for a 40-47 inch TV for a Game room. This TV will see mostly 360/PS3 games with random TV(hulu, streaming,OTA) probably 60/40 with gaming taking up most of its time. I also have some old school games that NEED a component/composite hookup, so it is a must. Gaming is why I am looking at LCD, burn in on the plasma would suck(I know they've gotten better, but...) This TV would see hours of continuous gaming on weekends (14 y/o son and friends)
I bought a 50' Vizio Smart (e500i-a1)on a whim and it is entirely too big for the 11x11 room, seating distance is probably 7-8 feet. The apps suck because of loading time, but are functional. I really think a 42 would better suit and maybe ditch the smart and add a WD live ? Any thoughts on which particular models to keep an eye on ? I'm all for the smart TV but I have been unimpressed by all the TV manufacturer's implementations. I'm not looking for a perfect TV, but don't want junk either. Trying to stay in the same 4-700 range (including the WD live if needed) TIA, Steve

Recap

Here are my requirements...
1. Budget
750 max

2. Seating distance
7-8 ft

3. Size/placement limitations
40" to 46"

4. Uses and sources
Gaming, OTA, Hulu, streaming


5. Room lighting
Have nice shades so not really an issue

You said that you have some legacy device you're hooking up to the FP, does that mean you need multiple component and/or composite inputs? I'd consider the 40" Toshiba L5200 model, it's an edge-lit 120Hz LED/LCD, and from what I've seen has been a pretty solid performer in a lot of ways. Fairly decent black levels, passable motion handling, and a really solid value. The 40" comes in at $499 and for the price, I don't think you'll find a better LCD in the size/price point you're considering. It also has 3 HDMI inputs, 1 composite, and 1 component input, which is a solid selection for the price. I'd take a Toshiba over anything from Vizio, hands down.

The Samsung EH6000 comes in a 40" as well and is also solid for the price. It's a diretc backlit LED/LCD, also 120Hz, the kicker here is that it only has one shared component/composite input, so if that won't cut it for you then maybe consider another FP (like the L5200.)

I'd maybe consider other options then what LG's offered up for their 2012's, color me unimpressed. I'd pass.

Last option is possibly consider the Insignia NS-42E480A13. It's another edge lit LED/LCD, 120Hz of course. Doesn't have the most impressive black levels, color reproduction is a bit on and off, with most things having a bit of a bluish tint. But the price is solid @ $399. And for the price I'd have to give it a look, but I'd also be hard pressed not to spend the extra $100 for the Toshiba because for the price, I think thats your best option. Hands down.

Best of luck!