CRT projection set bargains - what to look for?

There is a whole thread on this subject

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=695922

And it gives lots of tips on how to maintain them to keep them in like new condition.

The experts would recommend the Toshiba, Pioneer (Elites if possible), Mitsubishi (the 73'' models it the holy grail), Hitachi (the later models have HDMI).

The main thing to look for is screen burn, bring up a white screen you'll be able to see if there is any. Also, asking of the regular usage and checking how level contrast was usually kept at. On these sets you want to keep contrast at mid point or lower to avoid premature phosphor wear and screen burn.

These sets can be better than the current fixed pixels and of course have no competition regarding black levels.

Recently I came across a Mits 73"" gong for $600.00.

Good luck ...they are out there and if you take the time to set it correctly you are in for a great treat.

I recently saw a Pioneer Elite 55" on a local CL for $200

Superleo pretty much summed it up on what to look for, I would also keep in mind most people don't clean their optics in these sets so they get rid of them because they aren't "looking like they used to".Doing the convergence is another step most people don't want to hassle with on these sets.

Some Pioneers have had some problems with their power supplies http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=402397 But have a very good picture according to their owners.

If your going with a 65" Crt tv try to get one with 9" CRT's if possible, they are not easy to find but will have a better picture.

I Own a 65" Hitachi(Love IT!) with hdmi; some have had issues with Hitachi's hdmi causing picture problems,I have not. Only problem is OTA tuner is digital but not full HD,not a problem since I have HD cable.

Also Own a 73" Mitsubishi 2004 year model (W/9" guns!)bought for $575 off CL (Awesome TV!) no issues to complain about;has DVI in which is nice.

IMO I would stay away from RCA,Phillips,or any other "bottom Tier" tv makers, stay with the big guys if you can.

Finally since you are a front proj. guy, you already know bigger is better! but these tv's are defiantly big and heavy,even the small ones so bring help to move them. My Mitsubishi 73" is 300 lbs.!