I have been hovering the AV stores for three months. Always almost ready to buy - but couldn't. The simple reason is the the Mitsu 54 inch sliver series 4.3 (the monolith) is still working just fine.
My wife says it's just fine. Recently as we've seen prices come down, I beginning to get some flexibility towards maybe making a purchase. This was based on seeing prices dip in to the 3k range. Upper 3k, yes, but they broke through.
First: I'm thinking going from a 54"(52?) 4:3 to a 42" plasma might be a disapointment with the reduced overall size. Any opinions? We will be watching the TV from 7 to 10 feet away. I do not want to automatically buy in to the "bigger is better". But, hell, I guess I do buy into that idea. Tell me I'm crazy for even thinking about getting a 42".
Second: I've read lots here and it seems the prices may now be low, but the quality is low to match the price. True? I've read many a message about Pana's low cost 50", Samsung and to a lesser extent, Pioneer's low end issues.
I guess my question is, is there a good set out there that protects my purchase, (screen savers or washing?) that has HDMI for a single cable connection, and a built-in cable card for a price that's in the 3k range. The obvious would be lower is better. PIP means nothing to me. I've had PIP on my last two sets and I've used the option less than five times in 15 years.
As a side bar: Some one purchased a Philips and had favorable comments on the AmbiLight feature. I thought this was a product joke and never, ever gave it a second thought. Pardon my ignorance on this subject. Honestly, I never gave it a thought other than flashing lights for the consumer.
If someone would care to comment, I'd love to hear why AmbiLight is such a great idea. I guess it's something you would need to experiance in the home.
I understand these questions come out often. I've done my part and have read many a message. I hope you take a moment to respond with your thoughts. They will be greatly appreciated.
Toshiba 50" is where its at. In the rear projection you will get a bigger screen for your money.Plasma you get a better picture for the money. Also save even more room by wall mounting plasmas. Also sunlight or room light direct or indirect will not affect plasma ,on a RP it will have a huge glare or blurr them.