I'm considering either the Sony LCD projection HDTV (42" or 50") or the new Samsung DLP projection HDTV (46"). Any recommendations or words of caution?
I have the Sony KDF-60XS955 , 60" LCD rear projection. Love the set. I'm sure there are "better" sets out there, but this one is really, really nice.
As I've stated on another thread, after looking at a couple DLP's in the store there was NO WAY I was going to buy one. They had a basketball game on, not sure if it was HD or not, and as the camera panned the edges "stretched" almost like they were going warp speed. This isn't to be confused with a "normal" TV picture being stretched to fit a widescreen. Maybe it was THAT particular set, but the "guy at the store" told us that is his #1 dislike of DLPs...and to me it makes sports entirely unwatchable on the set. Maybe they've figured this out, maybe the new Samsung is better, but make sure you see action sports, HD and non-HD, on anything you want, before you purchase. That is, if you care about sports.
You'll get varying opinions here and elsewhere on these, but you really can't go wrong with either one. And if things do go wrong, it would just be a matter of bad luck with the unit you were sold. Best advice is to get it from a place you can return it with the least hassle. Otherwise, enjoy your new TV.
go to the store.. play with the remotes and settings.... then decide..
the pictures are nearly equal.... both are tremendous... however I got the Sony and am very glad I did... the Samsung does not automatically adjust picture size from HD to normal channels.... so if you don't want to have the picture zoomed or stretched you have to continuously change the aspect ratio depending upon what type of channel you are watching...
I got the Sony... my dad has the Samsung... I know them both well... go with the Sony...
I've had a 56-inch Samsung DLP since last July. I have had two problems so far. First, the bulb sometimes wouldn't turn on and it eventually failed, and was replaced under warranty. It turns out I caused the problem by having the TV power connected to the cable box, which prevented the fan from remaining on to cool the bulb after I turned the cable box off. The second, more minor, problem is that depending on the feed, there may be a audio/video sync problem where the video lags significantly behind the audio. Very noticeable on NBC programming. That being said, if I had it to do over again, I would buy the same set. HD looks great, and I'm in heaven when watching sports. The bulb, when operated correctly, should last up to 8-10 years and doesn't fade with time. A replacement bulb costs ~$200 and requires no service tech or extra down time.
Our next door neighbors got the 42 inch Vega Sony. It is wonderful. When I first saw it I just sat there amazed at good it was. They finally had to ask me to leave.
Sony 50" LCD here. Great set. Was wavering b/t the Sony- and DLP- either Samsung, LG or RCA (which actually looked the best out of the three DLP's). Ultimately the Sony won out- as it had a built-in HD tuner (which is actually MUCH better for local channel reception than my Dish box).
Key is to sit down in front of all the sets- get a consistent signal to watch- and then compare. It's tough as stores sometimes play games w/ picture settings, lighting, and feeds- however, you should get a good feel for what looks good to you if you take your time and hit a few different stores.
Doesn't hurt to negotiate with them when you get ready to buy either.
I've read that Sony is coming out with new 2005 update model to the LCD rear projection--the A10 series. Reviews say it has some improved technology for black levels and comes in a more compact size (i.e., speakers are "hidden" under the set rather than on the sides). Speculation is release in late June or July. This could tip the scales to Sony. Anyone know anything about this?
Between the Sony and the Samsung I would go with the Sony. You really need to go into a store and make sure that you put both on an analog source to see how it performs. The Sony does a much better job, with poor material. If I can be of some help and you are in Austin, I work at A&B TV and will make sure you get a great deal on either TV. Just send me a PM