Looking for Plasma tv info

[bosco0633]

I have been researching like crazy for the basement renovation and just wondering if anyone has any knowledge on plasma.

I have narrowed down to the samsung 42"plasma and the panasonic px500.  any info greatly appreciated.  And so it sticks here, I will be viewing from my hot tub.

[East_TX_Spa]

I've got a 42" Circuit City private label plasma EDTV in the showroom.  Picture quality is excellent (for what I use it for: hooked up to the laptop in showroom to compare models and brands).

Plasmas run very hot.  Also, you have to be very careful of "ghosting" or "burn in".  I had an aquarium screensaver set up on it and the image is burned into the pixels.  

The picture is smooth with fast action, not pixilated like with the LCD TV's I've seen.  I understand the life expectancy is shorter with plasma.

Paid $2000 for it a year ago.  HDTV model was $4000.

Hope this helps some.

Terminator

[Brewman]

This months Consumer Reports Magazine (The March issue, I think) has a pretty good write up of various TV's including plasma, LCD, Standard CRT, and Projection.
Magazine might be still on the newstand.

I don't have the magazine handy, but when I get home this afternoon, I'll try and remember to look up those models, and see what, if anything, CR says about them.


I feel your pain- we just had to go TV shopping this past Sunday.  First time in a decade- man have things changed!  There's plasma, LCD, projection, and they still make regular CRT's, standard screen, 16:9 screen, HDTV, EDTV, it was mind boggling.  

We ended up with a 37" LCD model- needed it to fit into a specific cabinet that formerly housed our 36" CRT TV.
Our home theater is an 96" projector- for the money it kicks a$$ over any TV, and for a lot less money.  But you gotta have enough room, some type of tuner, and an audio system.  

[JcDenton]

Ahhhhhh TV's.........where to start?


I love technology and would love to be in your spot Bosco (shopping for a new one), but alas, not all of us can afford hottubs, trips around the world, adding to the family AND plasma televisions!  

For me - resolution is critical. HDTV standards begin at 720p and also include 1080i. The 'p' stands for progressive and the 'i' stands for interlaced. Progressive scans every pass, while interlaced goes every 2nd pass (roughly). So I would get at least 720 p as this seems to be the stand that the industry is adopting (for regular HD programming). EDTV will only go as high as 480p (DVD quality) so I would suggest going a bit higher considering that HDTV is becoming more available in programming.

Plasma is pretty expensive for what you get. I would also suggest looking at LCD and DLP - for the price and the resolution you can get some pretty nice stuff. Each format has its pros and cons - I think the worst one for plasma is that it will eventually 'burn out' and they cannot be recharged (from what I know).

Good luck on your hunt. Either way, you will end up with a tv that surely blows away what you used to have!


Jc

[autoplay]

We own a panasonic 42" plasma HD 1080i 720p.   We bought it about a year ago,for a hair over 3000 bucks.

The picture is out of this world! I personally think it's 1 of the best pictures you can get from a plasma.

As far as lifespan etc.....Plasma TV's are gaseous in nature.....and each tiny tiny spot has 3 seperate holes etc that allow 1 of the three primary colors to use.  Over time those spots will burnout,and it's non-repairable. My understanding is,as the spots are soooo tiny....you will barely notice it,until 6-7 years down the road.

And as the gun toatin weirdo stated,they do emit ALOT of heat.  We have ours mounted in our bedroom,and it's right under the AC vent. So in that regards,the AC is helping extend the life of ours.


As of a year ago,I would highly suggest buying a Panasonic. As I haven't looked at em much since that time,I would tell you to compare em visually with your own eyes....and look at consumer reports online.

GL

[bosco0633]

JC, you sure are keeping tabs on me.  Debt debt debt debt brother.  We are finally finished paying off the outside and now im doing a fully finished recroom in the basement.  I am doing all of the work myself and that is saving me some cash.  Still lots of cheddar brother.

I am a toy junky.  Only the best, with no exceptions.  The problem now is that I am limited in funds with the second one on the way.

The panasonic px500 is prorated to 60,000 hours which is aprox 18 years of average useage.  tthe newer plasmas have anti burn in features now which is a great option.  The heat concerns me  bit, but we are placing it in a huge entertainment unit that we are looking at.

Samsung all the same stuff but a few differences.  They are competitively priced with one another.

I did look at dlp but the bulbs are burning out way to quick.  The average burnout is 400 to 600 hours.  Thats like 6 to 8 months of use.  That is pretty bad considering you need to spend 300 on a replacement bulb.  LCD I can see ghosting so plasma is the right choice for me.

Just need more info before the purchase.  

[Brookenstein]

We don't have a plasma... I'm not sure what it is, but its HD, its big (52") its a Panasonic, and J loves it and I hate it.  I only hate it because it is big and my house is small.  I tried to give it to the drunk neighbor the other night (UFC 58) for him installing the rest of my fence and installing pergo in my house, but J said no.  We love Panasonic and have been very brand loyal to them.  The only problem we have had with this tv, is that because it is HD but most of the channels we watched were not, we had black on the outside 3 inches or so... well we just switched from dish to cable and now have all local channels in HD... and now we have a noticable line and about 3 inches of color difference on the side when light colors are displayed.

So I'm no help... oh wait maybe I am...
from CR

Buying advice Plasma TVs
Plasma TVs boast bright, colorful displays and a wide viewing angle, but there are a few issues you should consider before buying one

Plasma TVs make a blockbuster first impression. A scant 6 inches thick or less, these sleek flat panels display bright images on screens measuring about 3 to 5 feet diagonally. A plasma screen is made up of thousands of pixels containing gas that's converted into "plasma" by an electrical charge. The plasma causes phosphors to glow red, green, or blue, as dictated by a video signal. The result: a colorful display with high brightness and a wider viewing angle than most rear-projection sets and LCD (liquid-crystal display) TVs. Thanks to steady improvements in plasma technology, the best of these sets have excellent or very good picture quality. Some picture-tube TVs still do slightly better with fine detail, color accuracy, and subtle gradations of black and gray, but plasma TVs are coming closer.

However, the picture isn't all rosy. Like projection TVs using CRT (cathode-ray tube) technology, plasma sets are vulnerable to screen burn-in. Also, plasma sets run hotter and consume more power than any other type of TV. Because plasma sets are relatively new, their long-term reliability is still a question.


WHAT'S AVAILABLE

When buying a plasma TV, you'll face a choice between HD (high definition) and ED (enhanced definition) sets, which cost less. The two types differ in native resolution, meaning the fixed number of pixels on the screen. In a spec like 852x480, note the second number. If it's 480, the set is ED; 720 or higher, it's HD. Both types of sets should be capable of up- or down-converting signals to match their native resolution. ED sets can display the full detail of 480p signals such as those output by a progressive-scan DVD player. When connected to an HD tuner, many can down-convert HD signals (which are 720p or 1080i) to suit their lower-resolution screens. While you won't see true HD, the picture quality can be very good. If you sit too close to an ED set, though, images may appear coarser than on an HDTV, as if you were looking through a screen door.

[Brookenstein]

There's another major choice. Within the HD category, there are three types of TV sets:

HD-ready sets. Also called HDTV monitors, these sets can display standard-definition analog programs (which still account for most non-prime-time TV broadcasts) on their own. To display digital programs, they require a digital tuner to decode those broadcasts. If you're getting your HD programming from cable or satellite, your digital cable box or satellite receiver has the appropriate digital decoder built in. All you have to do is connect your HD-ready TV to the box and you're all set. Cable companies charge a small rental fee for digital or HD-capable boxes. To receive HD via satellite, you need an HD receiver and special dish antenna(e). Together, these cost about $300, but you may be able to get them from the satellite company at little or no charge as part of a promotion.

You can also get digital broadcasts, including HD, over the air, via an antenna. To do so, you'll have to buy a digital tuner called an ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) tuner-the external box costs a few hundred dollars. However, there's no charge for service as there is with cable or satellite. Some satellite receivers also offer a built-in ATSC digital tuner. To receive digital programming via antenna, you must be fairly close to a transmitter, with an unobstructed view. With digital signals, you'll either have a clear, strong signal or none at all.

Integrated HDTV sets. These have the ATSC digital tuner built in, which enables them to decode any digital signals, including HD with no additional equipment when used with a roof antenna. You may be able to receive the major networks' HD offerings transmitted over the air in your area, but not the premium channels available on satellite and cable. To get HD via cable or satellite, integrated sets require an HD-capable cable box, CableCard, or satellite receiver-the built-in digital tuner only works for off-air digital broadcasts. As of July 2005, all new TVs 36 inches and larger--a category covering most plasma TVs-were required to have a built-in digital tuner to comply with a government ruling. Although integrated HDTVs have a digital tuner for off-air programs, most of these sets still require an HD-capable cable box or satellite receiver to get cable or satellite.


Digital-Cable-Ready (DCR) sets. Some new integrated models, called digital-cable-ready (DCR) or plug-and-play sets, can receive digital-cable programming without using a set-top box. For HD and premium cable programming--and possibly for any digital programming--you must insert a CableCard into a slot on the set. You usually have to pay a few dollars a month to rent the card from the cable company. Current DCR TVs are not interactive, so even with a CableCard in the slot they can't provide features such as an interactive program guide, video on demand, or pay-per-view ordering via remote. Second-generation DCR TVs and CableCards should be here soon, and they're expected to have two-way capability, allowing for interactive features. Integrated sets typically cost more than HD-ready sets, with digital-cable-ready models costing the most.

Among the brands in the plasma TV category are Hitachi, Panasonic, Philips, Pioneer, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, and Toshiba. Prices have dropped sharply over the past year or two. At publication time, HD-ready models with 40- to 44-inch screens, the best-selling size, were going for $3,000 to $5,000 or more. TVs with 50-inch or larger screens were selling for $4,500 and up. Look for prices to fall further, now that companies such as Dell and ViewSonic have expanded from the computer arena into TVs with aggressive pricing.

[Brookenstein]

HOW TO CHOOSE

Decide whether you want true HD or the next best thing. HD sets generally perform better than ED sets with all types of signals. They may be worth the higher cost if you're a purist who wants the best image quality. Most ED plasma sets can down-convert an HD signal to fit their lower resolution, so you can still enjoy HD programming. While it won't be true HD quality, it can be very good. Minor differences in resolution between two HD sets or two ED sets won't necessarily determine overall image quality. Other factors affect the picture, such as the way a TV converts a signal to fit the screen and its ability to render subtle shading. Note that the shiny surface of a plasma TV can produce annoying reflections, especially in brightly lit rooms. Many of these sets look best in low light.

Weigh screen size against price. If you're buying a plasma TV, an important question is how much screen you can afford. All other things being equal, the bigger the screen, the bigger the price tag, and the greater the viewing distance you need to see optimal picture quality. You'll enjoy the best viewing experience if you sit at least 6 feet away from a 42-inch HD set, and a little farther from an ED set or larger screen.

Beware of burn-in and burnout. Plasma TVs are prone to burn-in, much like CRT-based rear-projection TVs. Over time, static images from fixed items displayed for long periods (such as a video game or a stock ticker) can leave permanent ghosted impressions on-screen, so minimize the risk as much as you can.

You may have seen reports, in print or online, suggesting that plasma TVs may not last as long as other types of TVs. Overall longevity and reliability is an open question because the technology is so new. Major manufacturers now tout 60,000 hours of use or more before a recent-model plasma screen loses half its brightness. Even in heavy use (40 hours a week), that's about 29 years.

Don't get hung up on specs. Ads touting high contrast ratios and brightness (cd/m2, or candelas per square meter) may sway you to one set or another. Don't pay much heed. Manufacturers arrive at specs differently, so they may not be comparable. Try adjusting sets in the store yourself to compare contrast and brightness.

Determine what's included when comparing prices. Most other types of TVs come with speakers and a tuner at least for standard channels. (A digital tuner for HD isn't included with any HD-ready or ED-ready set.) Some plasmas are purely monitors only, sold with no sound capabilities whatsoever; they don't include speakers or a tuner for any type of TV signal. You won't have to pay for a tuner if you'll be using a cable box or satellite receiver, which would serve as the tuner for all programming. Otherwise you'll need a set-top box to work with an antenna. You'll have to pay extra for optional speakers unless you plan to connect the set to your existing sound system.

Consider the logistics. Ads for plasma TVs may not show any wires, but you'll probably be connecting a cable box or satellite receiver and a DVD player, and possibly a VCR and audio receiver as well. You can tuck wires behind the TV if you place it on a stand. With wall-mounting, you can run the wires behind the wall or through conduits, a task that might be best handled by a professional. Often weighing 100 pounds or more, plasma TVs need adequate support and ample ventilation because of the heat they generate. Ask the retailer to recommend an installer or contact the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (800-669-5329 or www.cedia.net). Figure on $300 to $1,000 for labor, plus a few hundred dollars for mounting brackets.

Weigh the merits of an extended warranty. While extended warranties aren't worthwhile for most products, they may be for high-priced devices using new technologies. Because plasma TVs are costly items that haven't yet established a track record for reliability, check into the cost of a service plan. Find out whether in-home service is covered and whether a replacement is provided if a set can't be repaired.

[Brookenstein]

See a summary of test findings and Quick Picks--the choices that merit first consideration including any CR Best Buys.



The best of the plasma sets we tested have excellent picture quality, with good brightness and contrast from any angle. Most plasma sets have 42-inch screens, but you'll find a growing selection of 50-inch and larger screens on the market. These larger-screen plasma TVs cost considerably more than comparably sized microdisplay projection sets, but plasma sets are much slimmer and can be wall-mounted. You can get flat-screen LCD sets with bigger screens now, but plasma TVs typically cost less and often have better picture quality.

Less-familiar brands of plasma TVs being sold at chains such as Best Buy, Circuit City, Costco, and Wal-Mart cost much less than major brands. While their prices are tempting, the sets we've tested have been middling to mediocre, so you'll sacrifice some picture quality to save money.

If you're willing to compromise on picture quality to get a lower-priced plasma TV, you might be better off with a well-rated enhanced-definition (ED) set. These don't have high enough native resolution for true HD but can display HD signals, albeit at lower quality. The best EDTVs do well, but for top quality an HD set is the better bet. The price advantage of ED sets is also shrinking as plasma TV prices continue to dip.

If you watch a lot of DVDs, check out the DVD-playback scores, which indicate picture quality from a progressive-scan DVD player. Note that scores for HD and DVD images are judged on a higher scale than are scores for regular TV signals.

The Ratings list models, within types, by performance. Quick Picks highlights models you may want to consider based not only on how they scored, but also on factors such as price and features. We have enough survey data to report on two brands, Panasonic and Sony, both of which have been reliable during the first year of use.

Quick Picks

For top quality in a 50-inch set:
  1, 2 Panasonic, $3800-$4500

In our tests, Panasonic was the performance leader across the board for plasma TVs, and the Panasonic TH-50PX500U (1) and Panasonic TH-50PX50U (2) illustrate why. Both displayed excellent picture quality with all types of programming. They're digital-cable-ready (DCR) TVs, so they can receive digital-cable signals, including HD, without a cable box when equipped with a CableCard. (They can also receive digital signals, including HD, via antenna.) The TH-50PX50U (2) is the better buy unless you want the added features on (1). It lets you view JPEG files stored on Secure Digital or PC-Card media, accepts VGA input from a computer, and has front-panel audio/video inputs and PIP.

 
The best 42-inch HD sets:
  3, 5 Panasonic, $3000-$3500

Like their 50-inch siblings, these digital-cable-ready TVs are superb. The Panasonic TH-42PX50U (3) is the better buy unless you want the added features offered by the Panasonic TH-42PX500U (5): front-panel audio/video inputs, slots for numerous memory cards used in digital cameras, and PIP, to name a few.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


If you'll trade some picture quality for a lower price:
  26 Panasonic, $1900
  27 Hewlett-Packard, $2000

These 42-inch enhanced-definition TVs don't match the top HD sets for HD picture quality, but they cost much less and can display HD and DVDs with decent quality. We'd choose either over the lower-rated HD sets. Their built-in digital tuners enable them to receive digital signals via antenna. Neither has a CableCard slot, but they can receive unscrambled digital-cable programming--including the local HD channels in basic digital-cable packages--without the need for a cable box. They can also receive digital signals via antenna.

[wmccall]

 I tried to give it to the drunk neighbor the other night .
 

I just love your straight lines.    We decided to go with a 50" Samsumg DLP tv. Loved the Sony SRXD, but don't want to spend the extra 1000 or so.  We will be buying a projector to take outside this summer near the tub for plop in movies.

[tanstaafl2]

Still rather fond of my 40" Mitsubishi tube TV. Big and heavy but once you get it in place it looks damned good!

So, not likely to do much shopping for another TV until one of the current tube TV's die despite my interest in having new toys. In fact my last purchase was a 35" tube TV. Unless space is a big issue I just can't see spending 2 or 3 thousand more for another boob tube and maybe my eyesight is just poor but I haven't really been all that impressed with the dramatic difference in picture quality some claim for HD over ED or other types of technology.

I suppose evenutuallly will have to move into the 21st century but maybe by then the price will be a little better.  

[Brewman]

Prices of LCD, Plasma, ect, are certain to come down, and have already done so to a degree.

But the cost of legally disposing of CRT TV's is probably increasing at the same rate.  My 36" tube TV pooped out last weekend, and my waste hauler wants $80 to pick it up and haul it off.  Luckily, the local landfill will let me take it there for about $20.  The sucker weighs well over 100 lbs.  June 1st, I think, a new law goes into affect here that bans all CRT's from landfills, so guess what's going to happen to disposal costs then.
Glad to get rid of it now instead of  4 months from now!

[bwbski22]

Id look into the panasonic proffesional plasma's.  I like them a lot more.

[wmccall]

It's almost 3 years to the day that I took the day off to get my spa delivered (Actual anniversary is Thursday)  Today I find myself sitting at home waiting on delivery of



Circuit City promised a delivery window of 9-11am.  I hope this goes better than 3 years ago.