Most
LCD TVs with screens larger than 20 inches or so are high-definition
(HD) models. HDTVs can display the sharpest, most detailed images. On
most high-def sets, the resolution is 1024x768 or1366x768. Recently,
some 1080p HDTVs have been introduced. With a native resolution of
1920x1080 pixels, the highest so far, 1080p TVs are the first with
the potential to display all 1,080 lines in the most common
high-definition format, called 1080i. The improvement is most
noticeable on large screens, say, 50 inches and up.
In
smaller sizes-screens of 20 inches or less-enhanced-definition
LCD TVs are also available. ED sets, which are digital, have picture
quality that's slightly better than standard definition but not as
good as HD; these can accept 480p signals like those from a
progressive-scan DVD player. Standard-definition TVs are analog
models that can display only 480i signals like those used for most TV
broadcasts. Analog TV broadcasts will cease on Feb. 17, 2009, when
all broadcasters must switch to digital. An analog set you buy now
will be able to receive digital programming when used with an
external digital tuner, such as that in a cable or satellite box, or
a set-top box and antenna.
Major-brand
LCD HDTVs with 26-inch screens typically start at $1,000; $1,200 to
$2,000 for a 32-inch set; and $2,000 to $2,500 for 37-inch set. In
all size categories, you'll see less-familiar brands selling for
hundreds less. A growing number of LCD TVs have even larger
screens-up to 50 inches or more-and prices go up along with size.
FEATURES
THAT COUNT
LCD
TVs typically have all the usual features you expect on a TV. Other
features are more specific to this type of set. The location of the
speakers is one example. On some LCD models, the speakers are
located on both sides of the screen; on others they're below it.
That affects the overall width of the set and could determine whether
it will fit into a niche in an entertainment center, for example. On
some LCD TVs, speakers are detachable. That can be a plus if you want
to fit the TV into a particular space or simply position the speakers
away from the screen. The ability of a panel to tilt and swivel also
varies, so see whether a given model can be adjusted as much as you'd
like.
Some
LCD sets have a memory-card slot. This enables you to view
still photos or videos from a digital camera. You can connect a
camera or camcorder directly to the TV if it has a USB or IEEE
1394/Firewire input.
With
more sources for video available all the time, it's handy to have a
feature that allows you to customize settings for each source, such
as the cable box or the DVD player. If you watch many DVD movies with
your DVD player in nonprogressive-scan mode, look for a film-mode
feature on HD sets. This feature is also called 3:2 pull-down
compensation, or brand-specific names like CineMotion and
Film Mode. This can make moving images that were converted
from film to video look less jerky and jagged. On 16:9 sets, stretch
and zoom modes will expand or compress an image to fill the
screen shape better. This helps to reduce the dark bands that can
appear on the sides or top and bottom of images if you watch content
that isn't formatted for a wide screen. (The picture may be
distorted or cut off a bit in the process of stretching or zooming.)
HOW
TO CHOOSE
Consider
what level of picture quality you're willing to pay for. The
best LCD TVs are capable of excellent picture quality, although
blacks may not be quite as deep as on a good plasma set. For a main
TV or one you'll watch often, we'd strongly recommend an HD set
with resolution of at least 1024x768. On screens larger than 30
inches or so, 1366x768 has the potential to offer better quality,
though native screen resolution in and of itself doesn't guarantee
a certain level of picture quality. Check our Ratings online to see
which models make the most of their resolution. It's probably not
worth paying the premium for a 1080p set with 1920x1080 resolution
for screens much smaller than 50 inches. The quality difference isn't
as noticeable below that size. We'd recommend an ED or
standard-definition LCD TV only for small sets used for casual
viewing in the kitchen, for example, where you wouldn't want the
cable or satellite box you generally need to receive HD signals. The
picture quality almost certainly won't be as good as what you'll
get with an HD set.
Check
the viewing angle. Viewing angles have improved, so many new LCD
TVs display a better image from off-center than older sets did-a
must if the TV will be watched by several people at once. Some sets
have wider viewing angles than others. Before buying one, see how the
picture looks if you step off to the side or move up and down. With
some, you'll see a dimmer, somewhat washed-out image as your
viewing position angles away, particularly in a vertical direction.
Look
for easy-to-use inputs. On many LCD televisions, the connections
are on the side or rear of the panel and might be hard to reach. Some
larger models have a separate control unit to which you connect all
your external audio/video devices, such as a DVD player or cable box.
You then have only one cable going from the control box to the panel
itself. That's a plus for wall-mounting and can make the inputs
easier to access. But it does give you another box to contend with.
Consider
a set that doubles as a computer display. If you need a computer
display as well as a TV, check connectivity options. An HD set with
high native resolution is best for computer use. A standard VGA
connection works with all computers; a Digital Visual Interface (DVI)
input would be compatible with newer midrange computers.
Our
preliminary survey data found few repair problems during the first
year of use for LCD sets from Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, and
Toshiba, but it's too early to comment on other brands or on
long-term reliability for any brand.
Copyright © 2003-2007
Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.
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