Posted by Rick Merrill on 08/01/07 11:07

Mike Kujbida wrote:
....
> Three things to watch out for.
> #1: Make sure you get a 1080p model, not a 1080i or 720p.
> #2. Make sure it's 1920 x 1080 resolution.
> #3. Make sure it has an built-in ATSC tuner.

Mike, thanks for this posting!
#4. If you have cable TV, make sure it has a QAM tuner.
#5. If you have an old VHS or DVD player, make sure it has an NTSC tuner.


> Here's a good example of "buyer beware".
> Costco has 2 Sharp 46" LCD sets right now.
> One is on sale for $1500 ($400 off coupon) and the other one is $2300.
> You're first thought is "Wow, 2 46" LCD HDTVs and one is %800 cheaper.
> I'll go for that one."
> Then you look at the features.
>
> The cheap model:
> Resolution: 1366 x 768
> Contrast Ratio: 1200:1 (6000:1 dynamic)

What is a 'dynamic' contrast ratio?

> Brightness: 450 cd/m2
> Response Time: 6ms
> Viewing Angles: 176°H x 176°V
> HDTV Compatibility: 720P
> Tuner: ATSC / QAM / NTSC
>
> The expensive model:
> Resolution: 1920 x 1080
> Contrast Ratio: 2000:1
> Brightness: 450 cd/m2
> Response Time: 4ms1
> Viewing Angle: 176º H x 176º V
> HDTV Compatibility: 1080P
> Tuner: ATSC / QAM / NTSC
>
> Hmmm. The more expensive one is true HD res, has a higher contrast
> ratio and is 1080p vs. 720 p.
> Maybe it's a better buy after all.
>
> Mike

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