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I have been looking at the different models at the typical stores. In my room, with windows and a sliding glass door behind the couch, I think I need to go with a TV w/a matte-type finish on the screen cover as opposed to glossy. The left side of the room opens into the kitchen as well. Night viewing w/a glossy screen could prove to be distracting if any kitchen lights are on.
Any recommendations for a "not-so-glossy" LCD TV in the 42-46" range around $1500? Obviously I do not want to skimp on video specs such as 720p vs 1080, contrast ratio, etc. If a higher price can be justified by better picture/motion quality, I am all ears (eyes?).
I will be reading specs/reviews on CNET for the time being, but figured I would throw it out there to the video gurus for some recommendations.
thanks in advance...
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It has their Ultra Clean Panel, which is glossy, but I do not find the reflections overly distracting. When the screen goes blank (during BB's demo video), the front windows of the store are easily visible on the screen. But once the video starts up again, the picture over powers the reflection.
I find I actually prefer the glossy over the matte, on the Samsung models. The matte still has a defined reflection, but with a white haze surrounding it. The gloss UCP reflects the light source, and nothing more. No haze around the reflected source of light. Also, there is only one reflection - no double-reflection as on models with 2 pieces of reflective material covering the screen.
Sharp and LG do a great job of absorbing/dispersing the reflected light w/their matte finish screens, but I find the picture to be slightly washed out. For pic quality, I think LG would win in extended comparisons.
As far as comparing picture quality on different makes/models, to my eyes, the Samsung 1080p/120hz models look as if you are looking through a window. Now, I might be a little biased towards Samsung. CNET's list of top LCD TV's in the 40-49" screen size category is dominated by Samsung models. Based on picture comparisons at BB yesterday morning, I liked the picture on the LN46A650 over the Sharp Aquos hanging directly underneath it. Deep, rich color with nice sharp edges around objects.
Yesterday, BB, CC and Sears all had the LN40A650 priced at $1499.99. This morning they all have it at $1799.99. Will they all mark it back down to $1500 tomorrow as part of a marketing scheme? Amazon has the same TV for $1250 with free shipping. A local seller has one on Craigslist for $800 w/out the original box or manual.
I'm going to wait and see what the online pricing does over the weekend, then make a decision. Thanks for the responses.
Yup..I thought the Samsungs had great picture as well. I wanted the 52 inch in this model. At the time the price was more than I wanted to spend. It is very difficult to judge any of these TVs in store. It's funny, I compared the Sharp and LG..the Sharp won by a large margin in black levels. Again..calibration is the real key with any of these televisions. There's a point when you start splitting hairs with the brands. Most of the flat panel makers share parts and facilities. So you'll find them all intertwined behind the scenes. As long as your not in direct sunlight..the Samsung should do well.Good luck with your hunt.
Edits: 11/27/08 11/27/08
Without a doubt. They each have their own visual strong points during various scenes. You like one model one minute, then the one next to it the next minute.
I know price does not determine quality level, but I have learned over the years that if you buy cheap it will show, and you eventually buy twice. I try to find that middle ground of quality features and solid build at a "reasonable" price.
Friends keep telling me about such and such store having a 46" LCD for $500. What they don't understand are the specs, or lack thereof, behind that price. I want high contrast ratio, 120hz, 4ms. You won't find those specs in a 46" set under $1000. And it's those specs that will make a great TV stand out from a good one. Based on what I am seeing, anyway...
Yeah I agree ...that is normally where I'm at with this stuff...middle ground. I install them from time to time as well. So I get a chance to see them in different settings. Don't let the store displays fool you. Some of these so so TVs..are really pretty good at home.
I will keep that in mind. Thanks again...
I just purchased a Sony KDL-52V4100 a 52" TV. I suspect the 46" model should come it at less than $1,500.
I'm satisfied with the set. Like the Sharp it has a light sensor. However, I was not particularly impressed with the light sensor operation. Then again, I only tried it for a few seconds, so I didn't give it a thorough test. The matte screen finish does keep reflections down.
I have two TV's and in general to my observation with the High Def formats it's hard to get too large of a screen.
Sony, Sharp, Samsung and Mitsubishi all make great LCD flat panels.The Samsung is the only one I've seen that has glossy and matte screens. The rest use light absorbing screens. I like the light sensors on the Sharps.When I have my window blinds open it comes in handy. The more light that enters the room the brighter the back light.it will also dim as the light fades..pretty cool indeed!
Edits: 11/21/08 11/21/08
Very interesting. I have not come across that feature in my search. Could you provide a model number as a price reference? Would you recommend that over a matte-finish screen cover? TIA...
The model number of my unit is LC-52D64U. It is a 52"..there is a newer model out now with a higher contrast ratio. You can still get one for around $1500 or less. A 42" or 46" should be considerably cheaper.Yes all the Sharps use the matte screens or light absorbing screens per the company's description. The light sensors are standard on most models, which is called OPC (Optical Picture Control).
The new LED models are due out this fall. I haven't seen a price on the newest series. Which is supposed to have a contrast ratio of 1 million to One! That is better than any plasma on the market. I'm sure they won't be cheap though!
When needed the Sharps can really throw some light if they have to(great for a sun filled room). They can be EXTREMELY bright. In most cases you won't use half of the back light brightness capabilities that Sharps are known for. I think many forget Sharp was the pioneer of LCD technology.
Edits: 11/22/08 11/22/08 11/22/08
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