HDTV Buying Guide...

Updates for 2008

Buying an HDTV? Here are 2 quick tips from me:

1) Flat Panel (LCD/Plasma) vs Rear Projection (LCoS, DLP, 3LCD)

Rear Projection
If you have a big room, no sharp viewing angles, and want a TV 50" or more - go with DLP. New DLP sets are cheap compared to flat-panel sets, and make sure you get a DLP set powered by LED (will outlast you), not a lamp (will last 2-3yrs, $300 to replace).

LCD/Plasma
If you have a smaller room, sharp viewing angles, bright light from outside, or limited space, go with a flat-panel HDTV (LCD/Plasma). Here's the breakdown:

• If this is your primary TV, go with an LCD from Sony or Samsung
  
• If this is an alternate TV for the bedroom/kitchen/office, go with an LCD from Vizio.
• BUT, go for a Plasma from Panasonic if you are an HDTV nut - the risks here are well worth the reward - great colors, fair price, superior picture.
  
• (There are a slew of technical/cost reasons for the above, but I kept it simple.)
  

2) 1080p vs 720p Resolutions

If you're buying anytime soon, save money and stick with 720p resolution for now - here's why...