Which HDTV

[rizzlaking]

With all the choice and constantly changing prices i am trying to get some advise on which HDTV to purchese.
As my 360 is the main reason for me to be buying one of these i thought i would try and get some other owners opinions of what they have bought and how they rate the performance especially on the 360.
I am trying to gauge some pros and cons of differant models to help me make the right decion.
so come on folks get yer specs up and tell me what you think? was it money well spent?
I have a budget of around 600 Pounds this could be streched but ideally would be less - i have been looking at the Dell w2600 (26ins screen) for just under 500 notes but have seen mixed reports, and with so much choice where do you start (are budget HDTV's worth it or would i be better of spending more money - is there that much of a differance?)
I have recently bought a new PC and would like to use the TV as a monitor aswell so would be great to hear from anybody who uses there HDTV as a monitor aswell.
Thanks in Advance your response would be really appriciated.

[Curry]

Looked at the Samsungs that MS uses to promote the 360 with? They're really good and fit a smaller budget afaik (600 isn't too much).

[Studley]

This is the one which Curry is talking about, it comes in various screen sizes and some have a freeview digital receiver built-in, but this one falls nicely within your budget and just also happens to be the one that I own :P

http://ws1.kelkoo.be-direct.co.uk/showproduct.php?cda=showproduct&pid=SAM-LE26R41B

If you want to download a manual for the TV (i.e. to check what connections it has on the back - there are loads and I'm not much of a techie), you can download this PDF - warning, it's a bit large, about 14MB:

http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200507/20050711110506484_BN68-00927E-00Eng.pdf

[Curry]

Checking the specifications, it has 1 DVI-compatible HDMI port, 1 component connection and 1 VGA connection (apart from some other junk).

Hooking up the 360 to Component and the computer to VGA should be just fine in that case, but you will get letterboxing or stretching because the 360's 720p output is shown on a 1366x768 screen. An alternative solution would be to connect the 360 to VGA so it can use the 1366x768 solution (15 quid cable required), and hook the computer up via DVI (check if your graphics card supports this, most of the last 3 years do).

[Rival24]

If you connect your computer to the DVI/HDMI port you can't use the native resolution (1366x768 ) and picture quality will suck. I've got a Samsung Le32m61b and it works the same way.

[Studley]

Ah, sorry - I completely missed the bit where you mentioned using it as a TV as well. Yes, just for the sake of trying it, I hooked my laptop up to it a while back and it was all a bit underwhelming.

[Curry]

Huh, isn't DVI capable of doing 1366x768? :?

[Rival24]

Huh, isn't DVI capable of doing 1366x768? :?
DVI is, but the actual connection on the TV is a HDMI connector. Every signal put in there is automatically up or downscaled to 1280x720.

[Curry]

That's a bitch. My best bet would be a VGA-switch then, connect both the computer and the 360 to a box like this (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.hallresearch.com/images/vs2-medium-ns.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.hallresearch.com/products/switches/vga/vs-2.htm&h=251&w=400&sz=13&tbnid=XqHTKz5cQozyWM:&tbnh=75&tbnw=120&hl=en&start=3&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dvga%2Bswitch%26svnum%3D10%26hl%3Den%2 6lr%3D%26sa%3DN). You most certainly want both of them at the screen's native resolution.

[Neejoh]

A while back we bought the Samsung LE32R51B, not sure if it's a global release though (can't find it on the samsung.com, but samsung.nl has it...).

From my own experience, I can tell you that it's a VERY sweet HDTV! It has awesome pictures, looks pretty slick and has some cool features.
The only downside on this TV are the inputs. Some inputs deliver crappy pictures if you compare it to the component input. They're not bad, but I've seen better.

Still need to try that VGA cable instead of the component I'm using at the moment

[vandenbond]

I have a Panasonic 61 LCD Projection TV--every time I play oblivion I feel like I'm on the horse. The only way to play is huge---go big, or go home.

[Curry]

61" _o_

That begs for photos ;)

[Rival24]

Projection TV's aren't very popular around here, probably because of the huge size. :P

[vandenbond]

For sure smaller TV's have a little better picture just based on size--but having it be an LCD display really helps it. I am convinced that LCD tv's are the best for video games...I tried it on a 45 DLP samsung and it had a harder time staying perfectly sharp and clear with all the motion. I'll see if I can grab some pics at lunch. I will say it look amazing on a 27 inch Toshiba flat panel LCD as well--amazing. But size matters....

[vandenbond]

61" _o_

That begs for photos ;)

here you go: just click on my msn site--it's under photos

http://spaces.msn.com/vandenbond/PersonalSpace.aspx?_c01_blogpart=myspace&_c02_owner=1&_c=blogpart

[Rival24]

DUDE :D.... DUDE!!

Can i be your friend? :P Yours is like... 2 times as big as mine :D

[vandenbond]

Curry asked, I abliged

[Neejoh]

DUDE :D.... DUDE!!

Can i be your friend? :P Yours is like... 2 times as big as mine :D
DUDE, DUDE! That's a pretty weird thing to say :D

But I gotta agree, that's one hell of a tv you've got there :o And indeed, 2x mine too :+
(And 7000 GP isn't bad either :9)

[Curry]

here you go: just click on my msn site--it's under photos

http://spaces.msn.com/vandenbond/PersonalSpace.aspx?_c01_blogpart=myspace&_c02_owner=1&_c=blogpart
Dude, yours is HUUUUUUUUGE! :P

Nice telly :)

[Curry]

This is the one I'm waiting for: http://www.hdtvuk.tv/2006/03/hands_on_with_t.html :)

[TRIGGER M4N]

Curry, that looks sweet.
Wish I could post my picture :(

[Rival24]

Curry, that looks sweet.
Wish I could post my picture :(
Why can't you.. :P

[Hoffer]

I've got a 50" Sony LCD rear projection. It is awesome playing my 360 on it.

[TRIGGER M4N]

Why can't you.. :P

Have not got a picture 8)7

[Curry]

This is the one I'm waiting for: http://www.hdtvuk.tv/2006/03/hands_on_with_t.html :) Scrap that, turns out the 42" isn't true HD. So now aiming for his slightly smaller brother (http://medienservice.philips.de/apps%5Cn_dir%5Ce1231501.nsf/pages/646B413978331745C125713E005E8648/$FILE/37PF9731D_datenblatt.pdf) :9~ :9~ :9~

And then on this cabinet (http://www.vogels.nl/detail.asp?ISSAID=508&ParentID=33&ChildID=80&PlineId=0) in high gloss black.

[knoxin]

hey up guys 2 days to go and i will post pics of my rig samsung 46inch dlp with review.

P.s curry if you want one i know some1 in printing i can take HD pic of it and send you a 46 inch pic to put on ya wall :)

[Curry]

P.s curry if you want one i know some1 in printing i can take HD pic of it and send you a 46 inch pic to put on ya wall :)
8)7

[TRIGGER M4N]

Whats the difference between TRUE high-definition and HD ready televisions?

[Curry]

Whats the difference between TRUE high-definition and HD ready televisions?
"True HD" is often reserved for 1920x1080 progressive panels. Over 90% of HD panels only support 720p or 1280x720 resolution. 99% of those show it on a 1366x768 panel too, causing letterboxing or stretching.

[TRIGGER M4N]

OK, thanks Curry.

[knoxin]

Whats the difference between TRUE high-definition and HD ready televisions?

http://www.4electronicwarehouse.com/blog/learn-about-hdtv.html i check

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/learn/about/chapters/0,,2076_3105627_3105648,00.html

check this link and it seems like it not a true HD,but how it comes a cross is HD ready televisions are crap and your getting ripped off thats how it reads to me ;)

this is what i am getting
http://www.samsung.com/uk/products/television/dlp/sp46l6hxxxeu.asp

but there a load of info on these links

[knoxin]

"True HD" is often reserved for 1920x1080 progressive panels. Over 90% of HD panels only support 720p or 1280x720 resolution. 99% of those show it on a 1366x768 panel too, causing letterboxing or stretching.

damm you curry your a typing menace lol

[TRIGGER M4N]

http://www.4electronicwarehouse.com/blog/learn-about-hdtv.html i check

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/learn/about/chapters/0,,2076_3105627_3105648,00.html

check this link and it seems like it not a true HD,but how it comes a cross is HD ready televisions are crap and your getting ripped off thats how it reads to me ;)

this is what i am getting
http://www.samsung.com/uk/products/television/dlp/sp46l6hxxxeu.asp

but there a load of info on these links

Thanks aswell knoxin.

[knoxin]

Thanks aswell knoxin.

your welcome
i think its crap thow how they were saying digital was HD and now HD has taken over Digital i feel sorry for all the people that went out and got a digital tube t.v :+ 's

but if your looking for a LCD DLP Plasma If You want big and small buget DLP HD is the way. but if you want space saving then LCD and Plasma is the way but the cost can increase very stupidly;)

ok time for work bbl

[knoxin]

}) }) ok i am angry tuesday will be the day of my delivery as the noob that sold me it, did not bother to put a order in for it. so i will be afun day tomoz as i will be seeing this retard and showing him the error of his way}) })

[E2K]

I am thinking of xbox360+hdtv.

But a 1080P display is very expensive.

and my 16m2 student apartment does not allow for 72 inch HDTV flatscreen plasma heaven. (my wallet doesn't also :P )

The display you see with the 360 looks very good.
i can handle the ghosting, because I played PGR3 on it and it seemed perfect.

also 26 inch is nice and the price is also okay i think.

But now the real deal, is it true to display only 720P instead of upscaled?
i mean that the other pictures are unused.
and how will this look, should it be possible?
please post a pic.

I now have a 24 inch Philips interlaced SDTV. But it makes noise when you have it turned on :P

[Rival24]

I am thinking of xbox360+hdtv.

But a 1080P display is very expensive.

and my 16m2 student apartment does not allow for 72 inch HDTV flatscreen plasma heaven. (my wallet doesn't also :P )

The display you see with the 360 looks very good.
i can handle the ghosting, because I played PGR3 on it and it seemed perfect.

also 26 inch is nice and the price is also okay i think.

But now the real deal, is it true to display only 720P instead of upscaled?
i mean that the other pictures are unused.
and how will this look, should it be possible?
please post a pic.

I now have a 24 inch Philips interlaced SDTV. But it makes noise when you have it turned on :P
I don't understand a thing of what you're saying :P What Tv do you want to buy and what 'other pictures are unused'?¿

[knoxin]

I am thinking of xbox360+hdtv.

But a 1080P display is very expensive.

and my 16m2 student apartment does not allow for 72 inch HDTV flatscreen plasma heaven. (my wallet doesn't also :P )

The display you see with the 360 looks very good.
i can handle the ghosting, because I played PGR3 on it and it seemed perfect.

also 26 inch is nice and the price is also okay i think.

But now the real deal, is it true to display only 720P instead of upscaled?
i mean that the other pictures are unused.
and how will this look, should it be possible?
please post a pic.

I now have a 24 inch Philips interlaced SDTV. But it makes noise when you have it turned on :P

and i thought i spoke messed up when i was drunk WOW:drunk:

[E2K]

and i thought i spoke messed up when i was drunk WOW:drunk:

pictures = pixels.

[knoxin]

pictures = pixels.


ahhhh well my new delivery data is thursday there will be pictures and reveiw but for dlp it ment to be the best i think:?

[The M.A.R.T.]

Why are so many people talking about big ass screens.

I mean the optimal widt of the HDTV LCD screens is max. 32 inch. I read something about the response time being great on 26/32 inch screens, but above get worse and worse, even though they say it's for example 12 ms.

Can't get the link from where I've read that anymore, was some time ago. Maybe some technical person can get this further in details. Anyway, I think 26 inch of 32 inch is large enough. I don't want to have to sit 10 meters from my screen if I otherwise twist my neck to much just for gaming... Or in that case I would get a HD Beamer for the occassions to play really big. Otherwise, 26 inch is just great for me. The room is space with a TV in it and more besides that , not seeing just a TV where some walls are build around... :)

[MrMoen]

I have a 26" Sony Bravia. I know its considered blasphemy by some people to attach a Sony TV to an Xbox 360 but I really love this TV. It has been rewarded the title: "Best LCD tv of the year" in the Netherlands, and I agree all teh way _o_

Just dont expect to much of the virtual dolby, the sound is still pretty much just stereo

[Curry]

I mean the optimal widt of the HDTV LCD screens is max. 32 inch. I read something about the response time being great on 26/32 inch screens, but above get worse and worse, even though they say it's for example 12 ms.
That's outdated. New 37 and 42 screens get 6ms without problems.

[Puma81]

I picked up the Samsung 50in DLP HL-S5086W. Great price. crispy picture. Hit up alot of review sites before I made my purchase and I love this Tv. The reason I chose DLP was for the fact that Plasma and LCD still have an issue with burn in. I also went the route of the DLP for the fact of when the picture life runs out you just pop in a new bulb. This Tv was just all around perfect for my budget.

http://images.bestbuy.com/BestBuy_US/images/products/7705/7705708_sa.jpg

[Number 13]

I've got a 32" HD Hyundai TV. Fantastic value for money (cost me £600) and an amazing picture. As good as my friend's much more expensive Samsung model.

[TRIGGER M4N]

Number 13, what shop?

[Number 13]

I got it from eBuyer, but they've no stock anymore.

The model is "hyundai A321"

If you look for it on Google, there's loads of places doing it for that price. It was really the only HD TV I could afford, but it truly is quality - even the frame looks something from a more expensive TV. :)

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/specpage.html?NOV-A321

Try there

[The M.A.R.T.]

Just found one, strange brand, but right resolution 1280x720 (no stretching or black lines by 1388x768 and a review about it

Tatung V27DMCX

27" LCD Display
Wide Screen
Resolution1280 x 720 (WXGA)
Progressive Scanning
HDTV Ready, up to 720p/1080i via D-Sub connector
2 Scart
Teletext 255 Pages
PIP under PC mode
Automatic Program Search
Child Lock
Subwoofer Output
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Display colors 16.7 M
Contrast Ratio: 600 : 1 (Typical)
Brightness: 550 cd / m2 (Typical)
Viewing Angle (H / V) 170o / 170o
Response Time (GTG): 16 ms

Although 16 ms is mentioned, in the review below they state the footage is played smoothly. If anyone is curious, this TV is about 550 Euro's in The Netherlands and here is some sort of review:

http://www.digitalhomemag.com/reviews/default.asp?pagetypeid=2&articleid=36371&subsectionid=1306&subsubsectionid=961

This saturday I am shopping in a city where there is a shop that has this TV's. I'll check it out myself I got curious about it

[Curry]

Although 16 ms is mentioned, in the review below they state the footage is played smoothly.
Assuming 16ms is the full rise/fall (methods of measurement vary) this would allow a full black->white->black transition in 32ms, essentially providing a worst-case scenario of 31 frames per second. Which is fine for nearly every situation actually.

[Icon]

I have the Samsung LE26R51B from curry's and i must say its a very good screen, but only use it for the 360 still very good clear picture.

[Zerodisorder]

I have no HD :(

[Rival24]

Buy one?

[Zerodisorder]

lol i would like too, but im waiting so when i get oen i can get a big screen one at that too...im in no rush anyways, but i always hear they do make the 360 look pritty good.

[Rival24]

Hehe you're right about that. I went from a 37CM SDTV to a 82CM HDTV. That's a huuuuuuge difference :P

[Zerodisorder]

lol im sure, and i bet your happy u made the trade lol

[Rival24]

lol im sure, and i bet your happy u made the trade lol
My wallet says no, but my eyes say F*CK YEAH. But seriously, if I had to go back I'd sell my 360.

[Zerodisorder]

My wallet says no, but my eyes say F*CK YEAH. But seriously, if I had to go back I'd sell my 360.
Whys that?

[Messiah]

I'm still glad with the Samsung Le32R51b 82cm HDTV.

[Rival24]

Whys that?
Knowing that games look 5 times better on an HDTV makes gaming on a small SDTV pretty boring.

[Messiah]

A few days ago i gamed on a SDTV with the a 360. And it was just FUGLY. Before i went over to HDTV I never knew better, but now... and don't want anything else anymore.

[Zerodisorder]

Yea I guess so lol. And I'm on normal SDTV :P

[Zerodisorder]

A few days ago i gamed on a SDTV with the a 360. And it was just FUGLY. Before i went over to HDTV I never knew better, but now... and don't want anything else anymore.
That big of a differene eh? DAMN lol

[Rival24]

I have to add that my 37CM tv had a 4:3 aspect ratio which makes it even worse than 16:9 SDTV :P

[Messiah]

That big of a differene eh? DAMN lol

Yeah it was a huge difference. Not with all games although. But with games like GRAW and Fight Night 3. Noticed the EA HD logo in the beginning with an EA game. It notices your having HD or not. Sweatdrops didn't appear in the on the SDTV Fight Night 3 demo. But they did appear on the HDTV

[Zerodisorder]

Really, wow...looks like im gunna have to plan on getting one sooner before i stop playing games like graw, that look better on the HD that i played alot on SD

[Rival24]

They weren't there or you couldn't see them? I thought the games were rendered identically.

[Messiah]

They weren't there or you couldn't see them? I thought the games were rendered identically.

No they aren't rendered the identically. If you smash someone in Fight Night 3 (demo) on a SDTV you won't see the sweat flying around. On my HDTV there was flying sweat around. It could be that i didn't noticed it but that would be strange with playing the demo about 50 times on the SDTV. And the game can detects if you have an HDTV, because you get that nice EA HD logo in the beginning. On a SDTV you won't get that (i thought so)

[MrMoen]

I have a Sony Bravia and I just love it. No issues, just all positive

[Curry]

No they aren't rendered the identically. If you smash someone in Fight Night 3 (demo) on a SDTV you won't see the sweat flying around. On my HDTV there was flying sweat around. It could be that i didn't noticed it but that would be strange with playing the demo about 50 times on the SDTV. And the game can detects if you have an HDTV, because you get that nice EA HD logo in the beginning. On a SDTV you won't get that (i thought so)
They are absolutely rendered identically. What you probably saw was the fundamental difference between PAL and 1280x720, which is about 2.5 times as many pixels. In 2.5 times as many pixels you can render a LOT of detail, especially small particles that reflect light in a particular way... like sweat and dust. On a not-so-good CRT SDTV there are simply larger pixels that blur together. I have a quite expensive and good CRT SDTV myself, and FNR3 most certainly had sweat flying around. It just wasn't HD ;)

[Praetorian]

And of course, 720 p is progressive, making it a nicer picture.

I only have a lowly samsung syncmaster 940MW, which is more of a monitor than a HDTV (it does have component input though) and I must say SDTV sucketh the ballseth. Still, I have seen a 40inch plasma, and I had to sit down and cry because as a student I could never afford that level of awesome. :'(

[Messiah]

They are absolutely rendered identically. What you probably saw was the fundamental difference between PAL and 1280x720, which is about 2.5 times as many pixels. In 2.5 times as many pixels you can render a LOT of detail, especially small particles that reflect light in a particular way... like sweat and dust. On a not-so-good CRT SDTV there are simply larger pixels that blur together. I have a quite expensive and good CRT SDTV myself, and FNR3 most certainly had sweat flying around. It just wasn't HD ;)

I'm really have to test that out. i'm not sure :D

[Alkaline Joker]

I'm really have to test that out. i'm not sure :D


I think Curry's right on this one. I have a Sharp Aquos which I love playing on, but when I went on vacation for a month this summer I stayed a various peoples houses and none of them have HD.

The difference was amazing, the 360 almost looks like a regular Xbox when it's on a SDTV. Everything is blurry and lacks so much detail it's unbelievable. I couldn't wait to get back to my HD.

[TRIGGER M4N]

Yeah, Curry is correct.
But then again Cuz (your new nickname) if you bought a high end SDTV, and then compared that to an high-end HDTV, the difference would be very noticeable.

[Curry]

Ofcourse the difference is noticeable, but not because the game renders less :) There would be no point too, downgrading an engine because you have to render less 8)7

[The M.A.R.T.]

Just found one, strange brand, but right resolution 1280x720 (no stretching or black lines by 1388x768 and a review about it

Tatung V27DMCX

27" LCD Display
Wide Screen
Resolution1280 x 720 (WXGA)
Progressive Scanning
HDTV Ready, up to 720p/1080i via D-Sub connector
2 Scart
Teletext 255 Pages
PIP under PC mode
Automatic Program Search
Child Lock
Subwoofer Output
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Display colors 16.7 M
Contrast Ratio: 600 : 1 (Typical)
Brightness: 550 cd / m2 (Typical)
Viewing Angle (H / V) 170o / 170o
Response Time (GTG): 16 ms

Although 16 ms is mentioned, in the review below they state the footage is played smoothly. If anyone is curious, this TV is about 550 Euro's in The Netherlands and here is some sort of review:

http://www.digitalhomemag.com/reviews/default.asp?pagetypeid=2&articleid=36371&subsectionid=1306&subsubsectionid=961

This saturday I am shopping in a city where there is a shop that has this TV's. I'll check it out myself I got curious about it

Allright then. Too bad I didn't had the time that saturday to go check it out myself, but a friend of mine just ordered it with his mobile subscription. He will use it with his 360 that he gets at the end of this month. So I'll post his findings (and will go over to him to watch for myself :) ) on this HDTV from Tatung overhere. The TV he already got delivered and it's bigass and looks very decent made he says. There is no TV tuner build in, but with for example KPN digitv in The Netherlands you'll get a tuner for 10 Euro's at this moment where you can switch channels easily

[The M.A.R.T.]

Allright for anyone searching a HDTV with native 360 resolution and reading about the Tatung TV having that 1280 x 720 resolution, check this.

The website has the model (retail price around 500 Euro) online including a PDF from the manual. It says a cable is included to get it from Component to D-Sub. So no extra cable to buy for the 360 saves another 30 EUro ;)

http://www.tatung.com/dm_en/display/lcd_tv/products/download/manual/V27DMCX-EU.pdf

and the site:

http://www.tatung.com/en/dm_200.asp

[The_Glovner]

Don't think you can go wrong with a Samsung LE46M51 (46" HD-LCD) They have dropped the price by about £500 since I got mine, the swines!

[The M.A.R.T.]

Don't think you can go wrong with a Samsung LE46M51 (46" HD-LCD) They have dropped the price by about £500 since I got mine, the swines!


I think the price is a bit higher then 500 Euro's which will be something like 350 pounds in England I guess

edit: oh yeah with the Tatung 1280x720 no stretching or other scaleproblems on screen, it's native 360 resolution which very few screens have. Mostly 1280 x 768...

[The_Glovner]

I think the price is a bit higher then 500 Euro's which will be something like 350 pounds in England I guess

edit: oh yeah with the Tatung 1280x720 no stretching or other scaleproblems on screen, it's native 360 resolution which very few screens have. Mostly 1280 x 768...

Apologies didn't realise your budget.8)7

[The M.A.R.T.]

Apologies didn't realise your budget.8)7

I am not talking about budgets here. I'm talking for this thread an optimal price/quality option.

Many people overhere even not have a HDTV yet. I have already, but I'm looking on this one for extra use. Suddenly came by it and maybe someone can get one know because others are too expensive. Maybe someone has enough budget, but just want to spend less and get about the same. At least I think it's good to give it a chance.

A friend of mine just got the Tatung, the 360 will arrive next week. I'll hear the results soon I guess.

Anyone has some advice on connecting the male plugs from the DSub to component cable to the 360 HD component cable with male plugs also. Just standard female/female or are there special ones with better signal specifications like copper ones?

For Dutch persons: nice site to order real cheap plugs&audiostuff including these plugs with goldconnections. A double one for 1 Euro incl. VAT 8)7

http://www.elektronica-online.nl/

Few bucks for postal costs

[Zerodisorder]

I'm on budget when it comes to an HDTV lol. but everyone tells me it's worth it.

[Rival24]

It is :)

[Zerodisorder]

Might have to invest in one than...If i have to :P

[kobejonez]

Which HDTV?

I reckon a really big expensive one :D
I make jokes cos I'm jealous and also cos I don't know anything about HDTVs.
so maybe this post hasn't helped in anyway. Maybe my whole life is a sham:X ;(

[Curry]

I think the price is a bit higher then 500 Euro's which will be something like 350 pounds in England I guess

edit: oh yeah with the Tatung 1280x720 no stretching or other scaleproblems on screen, it's native 360 resolution which very few screens have. Mostly 1280 x 768...
Most midsize HD's have 1366x768 actually.

[rizzlaking]

Well i am amazed this thread is still going and thought i had better give some feedback as after all this time i have ordered my HDTV.
Went for an Evesham 32inch http://www.lowestonweb.com/products/info.asp?e=891D2F99-EC54-4DE9-AA26-ABDCC3BE84D5
Now ive never heard of this company but i have seen some good reviews on them. it was 650 delivered with 3 year swap out warrenty and 2 years intrest free credit works out at 7 quid a week - Bargain.
Should be here thursday so will post and let you know what first impressions are, but surley this deal opens up the HDTV market to every 360 owner and we all know we should realy have one to get the most out of our beloved
360's.
Thanks for all the replys BTW - cheers.

[tailwagger]

My brother got a 32inch Evesham from Woolies around Christmas time... but he developed 3 dead pixels by February, and had a bit of a problem trying to get the screen replaced... by July he had 12 dead pixels, but after much hassle, did get another one, and it's great. Of course it's all about your budget, but for me I spent a year researching and you just can't beat Pioneer or Panasonic for great plasma tvs. I eventually settled for a 50 inch Pioneer - the quality of the picture is jaw dropping.

[Chris]

I can't stop researching for big purchases. You can't research enough for anything.

[Zerodisorder]

Ok, debate here, my friend says he likes LCD...which isnt bad, but if I'm spending the money for an HDTV , I may as well get Plasma, which in my opinion is way better. And projection isn't even and option, fuck that lol.

[Rival24]

HD plasma is veeeeery expensive, but if you can afford it I'd go with that.

[TRIGGER M4N]

I thought it was widely known that LCD is superior?
My mum and dad had a Plasma, and it was shyte, so we got a Liquid Crystal Display screen instead, it was was far better.


You can't research enough for anything.
I couldn't agree with you more.

[Zerodisorder]

I'm pritty sure plasma is better than LCD, maybe your parents had projection.

[Rival24]

Clique (http://www.lcdtvbuyingguide.com/lcdtv-plasmavslcd.shtml)


LCD TV manufacturers have made great improvements in black levels and in many cases have managed to match the contrast ratio of plasma displays. However, Plasma displays still maintain a clear advantage in this category due to fading blacks when viewing LCDs from off axis. For scenes with a lot of dark and light images shown simultaneously - as with content originating from DVDs, video games, and NTSC TV signals - plasmas still consistently outperform LCD TVs

[TRIGGER M4N]

Damn, looks like I'm going to be buying a HDTV Plasma then...

[Rival24]

Damn, looks like I'm going to be buying a HDTV Plasma then...

Buy an air conditioning unit as well :P

[Chris]

HO HUM hot dog.

[CJ35]

Hi
I currentley have the samsung LE23 version it is very good for a under 500 quid, http://www.samsung.com/uk/products/television/tftlcd/le23t51bxxeu.aspnot sure of the price at the min but i wouldn't expect there to be much difference!

[Aift]

Well, time too embarras myself.

I have a 32' Insignia HDTV that supports 1080i and 720p but no 1080p. But, the TV set was only $560.00 from BestBuy.

[Chris]

better than my crap tv.

[TRIGGER M4N]

Time to ask a really silly n00b question.

If I bought a 32" HDTV, that supported 720p/1080i, would that have better picture quality than a 50" that also suppoprted 720p/1080i.

Also, is a 1080p TV out in the UK yet?

[CJ35]

Any one actually like the samsung models?

[Rival24]

I do, I have one right here :P It's a LE32M61B. I bought it over a half year ago for my Xbox 360 and I'm still loving it.

[CJ35]

Cool you got a few inches more than mine then and i love mine even though it is 23"

[TRIGGER M4N]

Cool you got a few inches more than mine then and i love mine even though it is 23"

I sense some jokes to made from this comment.

[CJ35]

I know i now realise!

[Chris]

I'm backing off of it. :+

[CJ35]

lol

[ARCHA1C]

I have 3 HDTVs in my house. My living room has a 32" Samsung CRT. It does 1080i, but not 720p... I have a 21" LCD monitor in my computer room that I hook the x360 up to when I'm in the dog house, and I have a 52" Mitsubishi DLP HDTV in my "entertainment room". I will say that the BIG SCREEN is my favorite for movies and sports, where the 32" Samsung is my everyday tv, and is has a really bright crisp picture. But, I have to say that the puny little 21" LCD monitor is the best picture out of them all. Even though the DLP tv is a great big screen experience, it has the usual "BIG SCREEN" drawbacks with limited viewing angle, and limited brightness in a well lit room. The picture is very clean and smooth around the edges. It produces great darks, and brights when you have the lights low. But, in the future, I'm going to go with a LARGE flat panel tv (PLASMA OR LCD) for my gaming screen. You just can't get that amazing contrast, brightness, and 180 degree viewing angle from anything but the flat displays.

[kidkit]

I have 3 HDTVs in my house. My living room has a 32" Samsung CRT. It does 1080i, but not 720p... I have a 21" LCD monitor in my computer room that I hook the x360 up to when I'm in the dog house, and I have a 52" Mitsubishi DLP HDTV in my "entertainment room". I will say that the BIG SCREEN is my favorite for movies and sports, where the 32" Samsung is my everyday tv, and is has a really bright crisp picture. But, I have to say that the puny little 21" LCD monitor is the best picture out of them all. Even though the DLP tv is a great big screen experience, it has the usual "BIG SCREEN" drawbacks with limited viewing angle, and limited brightness in a well lit room. The picture is very clean and smooth around the edges. It produces great darks, and brights when you have the lights low. But, in the future, I'm going to go with a LARGE flat panel tv (PLASMA OR LCD) for my gaming screen. You just can't get that amazing contrast, brightness, and 180 degree viewing angle from anything but the flat displays.


I'll agree with that; The price of a 42" Plasma and 37" LCD are the best bang for your buck on the market IMO. I like DLP tvs for the price but there is no way I'd take my Brothers 42" DLP over my 42" Plasma.

If I were to get a TV right now I'd go with a cheap half decent brand that looks good in the store that will last me 3 or 4 years at which time I plan to upgrade to an SED or whatever is the best looking / value on the market.

Unlike with women, Once you go Flat you never go back =]

[Genesis]

I have a 42 inch Plasma upstairs but I can't play on it because my 360 is at my mother's house and even if I moved it, my dad's girlfriend is convinced that consoles destroy TVs... =(

Stuck without HDTV but I still play on a 50 inch TV... =D

[Rival24]

I have a 42 inch Plasma upstairs but I can't play on it because my 360 is at my mother's house and even if I moved it, my dad's girlfriend is convinced that consoles destroy TVs... =(

Stuck without HDTV but I still play on a 50 inch TV... =D

Women and technology.. get to your aanrecht bitch!

[triath]

I'm thinking about grabbing a SAMSUNG LNS3251D ( http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16889102046 ) myself. Be another paycheck until I can afford it, so if anyone has an alternative in the same price range (Up to maybe $1400), and possibly does 1080p let me know. :D

[Zerodisorder]

I don't know much about HDTV's and pricing, but welcome to the forums :P

[The M.A.R.T.]

Allright for anyone searching a HDTV with native 360 resolution and reading about the Tatung TV having that 1280 x 720 resolution, check this.

The website has the model (retail price around 500 Euro) online including a PDF from the manual. It says a cable is included to get it from Component to D-Sub. So no extra cable to buy for the 360 saves another 30 EUro ;)

http://www.tatung.com/dm_en/display/lcd_tv/products/download/manual/V27DMCX-EU.pdf

and the site:

http://www.tatung.com/en/dm_200.asp


Ok, review done by myself at my friends place with the 27 inch Tatung HDTV and the 360 with several games!

In short: this is a damn fine TV especially when you'll get it with the mobile phone subscription like he did. Normally you'll pay around 500 Euro's for it.

The 360 is connected with a very easy work around. The Tatung has component through SUB-D connector, but a cable with three component plugs is with the TV. Those are male also, so just need to buy female/female connectors to plug the male 360 cable through on that one.

Colours: very, very nice. Up with the other HDTV's like Samsung/Sony. Contrast and brightness cd/m2 are good on specs on paper and looked good in reality. The refresh in ms didn't gave me any tearing or other side effects on any game we played. And that have been a lot!

Best thing is, the TV is 1280 x 720 native. Exactly 720p. No scaling of the screen, just plain good size.

I am more then convinced this TV is a great option for the 360 but also for normal TV (the guy had KPN digitv, for those living in the Netherlands with a seperate tuner --> the Tatung doesn't include it's own tuner).

A cheap but really good option it is!

[The M.A.R.T.]

So one of my friends got a 27 inch Tatung, which he is really, really happy with as you read before in my posts.

Now another one was looking into a HDTV. But at the same time he was thinking about a new screen for his PC (now having 15 inch TFT if I'm right).
There is a Tatung 20.1 inch with 1650 x 1050 resolution HD ready.

For example this link:

http://www.hardwaretotaal.nl/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=20309&osCsid=cccc0aa04b2cd63fec4a45177ae9c20c

How will that produce 1280 x 720, black lines on top and bottem? Stretching/scaling?

What other brands/models with about this size and spec's would anyone like to recommend up to max. 400 Euro? (if they are even there). And would you go for this option or just a widescreen monitor. I mean I've read about the colour intension of HD screens on component compared to monitors on VGA. Others say VGA is more sharp and 1080p in movies is possible through that. I think MS will release the HDMI cable around the time the HD-DVD add-on will be sold (which is not on this Tatung screen). What's wise though...

[Sir SpankalotUK]

my old man just replaced his 32" sony wega CRT with a Hitachi 42" plasma (42PD9700). Must say first impressions are awesome. Sound off of the unit is excellent, bass reflex leaves the old set standing, It borders on the type of bass I had to add a sub woofer to my system to achieve.

Due to a lack of cable and not being able to put up a satelite dish, we use freeview, was worried that the quality wouldnt hold up, but boy it looks fantastic, colours are vibrant, ok due to the increase in scale you enlarge the imperfections in the broadcast, but even signal input from our humax box the distortions/blocking are kept to a minimum.

Have the 360 plummed in via the component lead, must say lego star wars shows off the colour depth and reflections really well. Incidently running at 720p.

Havent had the chance to compare dvd playback yet to our dedicated sony player, but hoping the 360 and component inputs blows the rgb scart out of the water, will let you know.

All in all very impressed, £1400 and a 4 year warranty makes this set look amazing especially the price point and the reviews the set has been getting.

[Shiverzz]

This might be interesting for people who want to take full advantage of the 360’s future 1080p output capability for a reasonably price;

Samsung just released the LE40F71B (also available in 46”) which according to the specs does 1080p over component, DVI and HDMI. Even the VGA input should be able to handle 1920x1080 60Hz. The best price I found on the net was around €1900,-

The only part that seems to worry a lot of potential buyers is the fact that the manual (http://www.samsung.com/uk/support/productsupport/download/Model_Select2.aspx?type=Television&subtype=TFT+LCD&model=LE40F71B&fileType=UM&LSSI=%2Fuk%2Fmodule%2Fssi%2Fleft%2Flmenu%5Ftelevis ion%5Ftftlcd%2Esec&RSSI=%2Fuk%2Fmodule%2Fssi%2Fright%2Frmenu%5Ftelevi sion%2Esec)mentions the following:
Do not attempt to connect the HDMI/DVI connector to a PC or laptop graphics card (This will result in a black screen being displayed).
:?

I’m eagerly awaiting the first couple of user reviews on this baby.

[Sir SpankalotUK]

sounds like they only allow passthrough of the 1080p signal when the security is in place.

[The M.A.R.T.]

So one of my friends got a 27 inch Tatung, which he is really, really happy with as you read before in my posts.

Now another one was looking into a HDTV. But at the same time he was thinking about a new screen for his PC (now having 15 inch TFT if I'm right).
There is a Tatung 20.1 inch with 1650 x 1050 resolution HD ready.

For example this link:

http://www.hardwaretotaal.nl/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=20309&osCsid=cccc0aa04b2cd63fec4a45177ae9c20c

How will that produce 1280 x 720, black lines on top and bottem? Stretching/scaling?

What other brands/models with about this size and spec's would anyone like to recommend up to max. 400 Euro? (if they are even there). And would you go for this option or just a widescreen monitor. I mean I've read about the colour intension of HD screens on component compared to monitors on VGA. Others say VGA is more sharp and 1080p in movies is possible through that. I think MS will release the HDMI cable around the time the HD-DVD add-on will be sold (which is not on this Tatung screen). What's wise though...

Anyone? The 27 inch is only 490 Euro, the 20 inch is 360 Euro or so for the people that would questioned themselves. But what about the resolution for the 20 inch 1650 x 1050 but HD ready, how would that turn un 720p?

[Rival24]

At this point you can't pick a resolution higher than 1360xsomething with a VGA cable so your image will get stretched or scaled by the TV.

[The M.A.R.T.]

At this point you can't pick a resolution higher than 1360xsomething with a VGA cable so your image will get stretched or scaled by the TV.


But what if that screen has component in? No problems or still stretching/scaling? The 27 inch is native 1280 x 720, the only HDTV I've seen with that exact resolution instead of 1368x768 or so...

[Rival24]

I can't really say for sure, but I do know that your console will scale the image with a VGA cable instead of your TV and that'll always look better than when you let your TV handle that. If you want to use the component output it can only output 720P ór 1080i, not something in between.

[Shiverzz]

sounds like they only allow passthrough of the 1080p signal when the security is in place.
Could be. The Samsung sales rep wasn't able to give me a concrete answer, but hey...what else is new :X .

[The M.A.R.T.]

I can't really say for sure, but I do know that your console will scale the image with a VGA cable instead of your TV and that'll always look better than when you let your TV handle that. If you want to use the component output it can only output 720P ór 1080i, not something in between.

So with component it wouldn't scale/stretch but 1280x720 is forced by the 360? With a 1650x1050 native that will become less sharp I guess. At least, that's also the problem with PAL signal or for example having a photo camera output direct on a HDTV with for example native 1368x768. It really looks like crap then

[Curry]

Any non-native scaling sucks for the result, that's also why I find it incomprehensible most 720p tellys don't have real 720p panels.

[The M.A.R.T.]

Any non-native scaling sucks for the result, that's also why I find it incomprehensible most 720p tellys don't have real 720p panels.

That's why I actually like the Tatung 27 inch model. Exactly 1280x720
And since I've played it I think I get it for in my office, to have music with the visualizer on average daily basis, to present stuff to my customers (looks better then on the laptop for sure) and ofcourse to game in the break and after work with some beer with it :)

Me like

[Rockaholica]

i have a samsung HL-S6186W and i love it >:) but sometimes it seems like my picture is a little cut off at the bottom of the screen but i might just be paranoid or it might just be on content created for 480i im not sure :X, none the less i got the TV for about $2000 US with a nice stand and an up converting dvd player.

[Rival24]

Any non-native scaling sucks for the result, that's also why I find it incomprehensible most 720p tellys don't have real 720p panels.

I'm willing to bet a 'kratje Palm' that you can't see the difference with a 720P source from a 2 meter distance.

[Curry]

I'm willing to bet a 'kratje Palm' that you can't see the difference with a 720P source from a 2 meter distance.
Depends on the interpolation. If you got a cheap-ass TV that interpolates the 48 extra columns by adding extra intermediate columns you're screwed, and you will see it. If it does proper bicubic rescaling over all 768 columns it'll be fine at 2+ meter.

[The M.A.R.T.]

Depends on the interpolation. If you got a cheap-ass TV that interpolates the 48 extra columns by adding extra intermediate columns you're screwed, and you will see it. If it does proper bicubic rescaling over all 768 columns it'll be fine at 2+ meter.

But still, even with expensive panels (or at least the quality ones, for example a 19 inch Samsung 940 one isn't that extremely expensive compared to larger HDTV's but in the 19 inch screens it is) I find the VGA stretching irritating.

Heads are turning into eggs and a square get's stretched on screen. Watch it for example in this forum, someone put the same image on first component and then VGA:

http://forum.xboxworld.nl/showthread.php?t=87487&page=4

Notice the heads etc. But also the VGA is just sharper drawn, but the colours are better on component again. It's a trade off. I think I like component better in the end for the colours and the right resolution having no egg heads. Although, if you haven't seen the difference you won't notice probably...

[phusebox]

what do you guys reckon of this one?

http://www.toshiba.de/consumer/content/defaultid1_1_id2_2_id3_8.aspx

it's not that expensive and sounds great to me...
or should I save up more for a Philips/Sony/JVC?

[The_Glovner]

what do you guys reckon of this one?

http://www.toshiba.de/consumer/content/defaultid1_1_id2_2_id3_8.aspx

it's not that expensive and sounds great to me...
or should I save up more for a Philips/Sony/JVC?

Wouldn't bother paying the extra for a Sony. They don't actually manufacture the parts they just buy them from Samsung and assemble them in a Sony shell (not that thats a surprise from the house of lies though).

If you are buying LCD and want to go top of the range you would struggle to beat LG for cost and quality but they are still a bit pricey.

As far as I am concerned the Samsung is the best on the market (the one they use on the pods) and the 46" has dropped quite a bit in price since its release.

[The M.A.R.T.]

what do you guys reckon of this one?

http://www.toshiba.de/consumer/content/defaultid1_1_id2_2_id3_8.aspx

it's not that expensive and sounds great to me...
or should I save up more for a Philips/Sony/JVC?

What's the price for it you are going to pay

[phusebox]

What's the price for it you are going to pay

about 1400 euros

but I see it is only 600:1 contrastratio 8)7

[Quicksilva86]

Well before buying my HDTV I researched every day all day for like 3 months :( and my budget kept climbing every time I saw the quality difference between screens. I was looking at the Sony bravia KDL-40v2000 which has got GREAT reviews and i would personally recommend it to people on a mid to high end budget.

I opted for the 1080p model,the KDL-40X2000 and all I can say is you get what you pay for 8) so don't be afraid to go a little over budget (personal opinion).

Although the screen seems to glare in these, it is my mobile phones fault.. Can't afford a digital cam now ;(

http://img306.imageshack.us/img306/1999/quicksilva86homesetup1ki5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img306.imageshack.us/img306/1598/quicksilva86homesetup2pj9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[The_Glovner]

Samsung Parts, Sony Box.

[Rival24]

and Sony price ;)

[Quicksilva86]

Interesting. Samsung supply their rivals Sony with better parts than they use for their own TV's? Well you learn something new every day.

[Shiverzz]

I opted for the 1080p model,the KDL-40X2000 and all I can say is you get what you pay for 8) so don't be afraid to go a little over budget (personal opinion).

Ooh, nice telly. I’ve been seriously considering the X series as well, but I just think it’s too much money for a panel which (unfortunately) only supports 1080p over HDMI (ver.1.1).

[Quicksilva86]

Ooh, nice telly. I’ve been seriously considering the X series as well, but I just think it’s too much money for a panel which (unfortunately) only supports 1080p over HDMI (ver.1.1).

I'm sure the set runs version 1.2a of HDMI not 1.1. Also, the HDMI version has nothing to do with it being able to run 1080p. As far as I know all versions support it.

HDMI 1.1

Released May 2004.
Supports DVD Audio.

[edit]
HDMI 1.2

Released August 2005.
Supports up to 8 channels of One Bit Audio, used on Super Audio CDs.
Availability of HDMI Type A connector for PC sources.
Ability for PC sources to use native RGB color-space while retaining the option to support the YCbCr CE color space.
Requirement for HDMI 1.2 and later displays to support low-voltage sources.

[edit]
HDMI 1.2a

Released December 2005.
Fully specifies Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) features, command sets, and CEC compliance tests.

[edit]
HDMI 1.3

Released 22 June 2006.[1] [2]
Increases single-link bandwidth to 340 Mhz (10.2 Gbps)
Supports 30-bit, 36-bit, and 48-bit (RGB or YCbCr) color depths or over one billion colors, up from 24-bit in previous versions.
Supports xvYCC color standards.
Incorporates automatic audio syncing (lip sync) capability.
Supports output of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio streams for external decoding by AV receivers.[3] TrueHD and DTS-HD are lossless audio codec formats used on HD DVDs and Blu-ray Discs. If the disk player can decode these streams into uncompressed audio, then HDMI 1.3 is not necessary, as all versions of HDMI can transport uncompressed audio.
Availability of a new mini connector for devices such as camcorders.[4]

Anyways... I will be using HDMI over any other connection regardless (hopefully microsoft release a hdmi cable soonish).

[Shiverzz]

I know all of these HDMI versions support it, but in order to get the maximum out of your 1080p source you’ll be better of with HDMI 1.3 (http://www.avreview.co.uk/news/article/mps/UAN/791/v/1/sp/). I don’t wanna bash your panel or anything (hell, I’m still gaming in SD :X ) but I do think there are better panels out there which cost considerably less. Samsung’s F series for instance; it does 1080p over component, VGA and HDMI (1.3). The only thing that is holding me back from clicking that “order now” button is the fact that it suffers from a slight overscan when connected to a PC via HDMI (that’s where Sony’s X series excels; 1:1 pixelmapping over HDMI).

Guess the perfect panel still has to be invented…

Anyway, enjoy your new screen. I KNOW you’re a happy gamer right now ;) .

[Emily]

So i dug this thread up because my father just bought a 40 inch Samsung DLP tv. I know nothing about any of this junk of course, and i'm too lazy to look up the model number. But i have a question.

Movies are great, widescreen on a widescreen tv what a concept. But the actual tv channels are very underwhelming. We've got a HDTV cable box, which makes the what, 40 HD channels look good, but the rest is very fuzzy and pixel-y. I tried switching it from 16x9 to the 4x3 and it looks just as bad.

Am i stuck with the shitty picture while watching regular tv channels? Or is there some setting i missed?

:o

[Quicksilva86]

Sadly on an HDTV standard def pictures become obviously substandard. The simple answer to your quest is yes. Although most HDTV's employ different proccesses to enhance the picture as best they can but the fact of the matter is normal TV is gonna look crap. On the other hand feed your TV an HDTV source (which it was built for) and you will drool at the results.

[Emily]

Sadly on an HDTV standard def pictures become obviously substandard. The simple answer to your quest is yes. Although most HDTV's employ different proccesses to enhance the picture as best they can but the fact of the matter is normal TV is gonna look crap. On the other hand feed your TV an HDTV source (which it was built for) and you will drool at the results.


That seriously sucks. We did switch our regular cable box for an HDTV cable box, but like i said, that's only about 40 channels. So basically we spent two grand for forty channels and better-than-par movies? Lame :(

[TRIGGER M4N]

Cheer up.

When Sky HD started there was like 1 channel that was in HD, now all the main channels have an HD sister channel. In about a year, most channels will have adopted a sister HDchannel.

[dodong]

If you are unsure about which product is best check read expert reviews.
Using PriceGrabber.com (http://www.pricegrabber.com/info_expertreviews.php/masterid=17646061)
I came across a cool site that list all expert reviews for a product in a single page. I hope this helps: http://www.smartratings.com/electronics/plasma_and_lcds.

[Curry]

They've restricted themselves to a rather small number of brands tho, for example Philips isn't in there and they're rather big in high-end TVs last time I checked.

[dodong]

I don’t wanna bash your panel or anything (hell, I’m still gaming in SD :X ) but I do think there are better panels out there which cost considerably less. Samsung’s F series for instance; it does 1080p over component, VGA and HDMI (1.3). The only thing that is holding me back from clicking that “order now” button is the fact that it suffers from a slight overscan when connected to a PC via HDMI (that’s where Sony’s X series excels; 1:1 pixelmapping over HDMI).

Guess the perfect panel still has to be invented…

Anyway, enjoy your new screen. I KNOW you’re a happy gamer right now ;) .

Have you ever heard about Westinghouse LCD's? Many users are grinning from ear to ear using this unit to their gaming consoles and pc's. Maybe, it's worth your while to have a look at it. And it costs lower than other brands that you mentioned. Just my $0.02 cents.

[Curry]

Def cheap yeah (http://www.nextag.com/Westinghouse-LVM-37W3-37-500517785/prices-html) 8)7

Question is whether they still work properly after 3 years of course.

[UKJAY]

That seriously sucks. We did switch our regular cable box for an HDTV cable box, but like i said, that's only about 40 channels. So basically we spent two grand for forty channels and better-than-par movies? Lame :(

Yeah I had a 50inch Plasma HD TV that I used only for gaming in the bedroom. Since downsizing to a 32inch LCD HD TV, the 50inch is now used for TV - even bigger pixel-y images than ever...lol but the best type of TV I've seen play both Standard TV & HD TV on is actually a HD TV with a TUBE, they are similar in size to standard TV's but standard tv looks great on them and HD TV looks even better than standard on them.....strange but true. The TUBE must play a part in it somewhere...but most TUBE HD TV's only have HDMI ports, cos it's crap for gaming and pc hookup.

[biltmore]

There are tons of choice on HDTV these days.

I have had great experience with Pansonic Viera series. Rock solid.
Also the Sony Bravia KDL3000 series LCD. The Sony is 1080p and can play 24 FPS original format as recorded on Blu Ray, while the Panasonic does not yet support 24Hz.

Both are excellent. But there are many more.

One thing you ought to pay attention to is to get the HDTV with at least 2 HDMI ports. Most newer models do have 2-3.

The reason is that some of the older sets only have 1 HDMI input and you will need to add a HDMI switch (http://octavainc.com/HDMI%20switch%204port_toslink.htm) if you want to connect multiple HD sources. I had to use one because of the older Panasonic only have 2 inputs.

You can avoid this by looking for the HDTV with enough HDMI inputs.