Thursday, January 17, 2008

Help!

So, we’re almost a year away from this big switch from analog to digital broadcast television. Apparently, February 17, 2009 will be last day for full-power television stations to broadcast in analog. To be honest, I’m not really sure how this will affect me, if at all. I mean, I have digital cable. Is this all I need? I’m still living in the 20th century when it comes to television sets – which means, I don’t have a plasma or LCD tv as of yet, just the old-fashioned CRT.

To be honest, I haven’t even given much thought to getting a new television (or new tv’s, if I have to), mainly because I still can’t justify paying that much for one. I don’t think I’ve spent more than $400 on a tv, but these HDTV’s start at around $900 (for one that is above 32 inches) – and that’s low-end, and bulky.

Which leads into the second thing – with all the different types of HDTV’s out there, I’m not really sure what I need to look for. Should I buy LCD or Plasma? Are there others on the horizon? What the hell does 720DP or 1080DP mean? What other extras should I keep in mind?

Getting back to the LCD and Plasma arguments, I’ve heard rumors. First, I heard that Plasma tv’s use a lot of energy – I mean, noticeable. And, although LCD’s are more “efficient,” apparently their picture isn’t as crisp, and they don’t last as long. Is this true? Please, help me, my fireinds!

Heck, I’ve seen those commercials from Circuit City and Best Buy where they push their installation services, and it scares me. How difficult is it to install one of these? What should I keep in mind? What about the cables – are there tons of them? Are they easy to hide? Should I buy one of those “new-fangled” remote controls? What about speakers? Ugh! So many questions.

So, now you get the idea on why I’m hesitant. Any info you can provide would be much appreciated!

11 comments:

Jeff said...

1. Unless you're using rabbit ears, you don't need a new TV.
2. Installation service exists because the TVs are really freaking heavy.
3. The wall brackets cost another $250+.

I'm waiting. My TV works fine.

The Rev said...

LCD over plasma anyday. Plasmas used to be way better, but LCD has caught up.

You really haven't lived until you've watched an Eagles game on a 37 inch HDTV in real HD. You won't set foot in another bar again for a game.

Steph said...

I got a plasma about two years ago and haven't had a problem at all. My energy bills are pretty much the same too.

Lisa said...

I'm glad you asked those questions because I have the same ones. Where do people get this info? One thing I heard is that plasmas can't really be fixed if something happens ... you're stuck for a new TV. That makes the warranty a good idea, but I heard the warranties are quite pricey. I have no idea if any of that is true or not. If you find out some good info, let me know ... I'll probably be in the market too. (BTW, the Sears outlet in DE has TVs -- hit or miss, of course -- but you can find some good deals and no tax.)

Kristin said...

would it shock you to know i haven't a clue??

Superstar said...

LOL
Sorry, but this sounds like a post I might have written. I am clueless about this plasma...HD...blah, blah, blah...

HAHAHAHA

snowelf said...

I have no idea either, Los. I'm just going to wait until I have to make a change or do something cause I don't want to spend over a thousand dollars on a stupid TV that I barely watch except for netflix.

Although Lost is back on the 31st! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it's decent this season!

--snow

schue said...

If i can see it and hear it - that's all i need.

schue said...

If i can see it and hear it - that's all i need.

Los said...

Jeff - This is why I haven't gotten one yet.

Rev - I'll probably need to consult with you more in the future about this.

Steph - Good info. I'll keep it in mind (we'll probably wait until next Christmas.

Lisa - I'll share what I learn with ya.

Kristin - I'll blog about any updates (public service announcement).

Superstar - Ditto!

Snow Elf - That's it! I'm making it a personal goal to learn everyone on this!

Schue - Just think how much more clearly we can watch Top Chef!

Anonymous said...

I'm watin' ferda prices to go down on HDTV and LSD..

T. Leary