DLP RPTV suggestions please

[HookedOnSound]

Hello everyone,

My parents-in-law want to upgrade their Sony 36" CRT to a bigger TV. They've asked me to help them out.

But I honestly don't keep myself as informed about video as I do about audio so I need some input from you fine enthusiasts (sorry for the pun)

The only decided spec so far is a 50" screen because of the room size and seating distance.

They inlaws seem convinced Plasma is the way to go, based on Salespeople and HD program viewing, but I'm not convince.

I have read the Display technologies guide from AH and based on their seating arrangement and viewing habits I would like to recommend a Rear Projection DLP TV (RPTV).

My reasoning is: mother-in-law sits off center in her recliner, they only watch SD TV (alot of documentaries and news related programming) and DVD movies once a week (worried about "burnin")

My recommendation is a RPTV, but what model? Budget hasn't been discussed but based on their last TV purchase, I'm guessing $2000 US.

Maybe I have it wrong, maybe DLP is no longer the way to go, any thoughts or recommendations are welcome.

Thanks in advance,

[BMXTRIX]

If they are thinking 50" plasma then their budget is well over $2,000 unless they want absolute bottom of the barrel stuff. So, I would think the budget is a little bit more. In my experience, plasma and LCD flat panel displays tend not to look as good overall as rear projection models that are DLP, LCD, or LCoS... So, unless they want to hang it on the wall or have no space for the larger display... or they want to free up some floor space, I would go with a RPTV.

Now, DLP, LCD, or LCoS? DLP is excellent, but I would take a long hard look at the Sony SXRD (LCoS) rear projection models as well. Some may disagree, but they have IMO one of the strongest images you will see of any rear projection (or front projection) technology. Especially if they have been happy with Sony over the years, they may find some comfort in sticking with a brand they trust. My brother just got the new 60" model (per my recommendation) and he called after watching for a couple of weeks to say how psyched he is on it. It isn't a gimme - but take a look at it. There are DLP models available as well that will do a great job.

Now, you do want to watch ambient light in the room and consider glare and things like that, but for the money, RPTVs are hard to beat.

[Pianoman84d]

As far as RPTV DLP. I was impressed with the Samsungs. Should be able to get a 50 incher for around your stated budget too. All display types have inherent tradeoffs. If they only watch SD, they may be disappointed IMHO. A lot of the newer displays really maximize HD and DVD's and do not do as good a job with SD stuff.

[HookedOnSound]

Thanks for the replies,

my in-laws are comfortable with the Sony brand (for TVs), i'll take a serious look at the Sony SXRD as well as Samsung.

As for PQ, i think, as Pianoman84d mentionned, SD might be disappointing to them...I believe their Cable provider is now offering some HD channels, i might get them to upgrade their service once they decide on a unit.

Thanks again,

[freddorn]

If they seem convinced plasma is the way to go, the panny 50" plasma can now be had for just under $2400.

[RLA]

Hello,

If you are looking for great color, accurate gray scale tracking and calibration features the new Samsung DLP's are very hard to beat. 1080p flat panel LCD's and Plasmas are now shipping and as the market becomes more saturated 720p panels will fall rapidly and great deals will be bountiful around the 15th of November :)

[astrodon]

I would recommend the Sony SXRD RPTV too. I have never been terribly impressed with DLP TVs with respect to the LCoS TVs. I have never seen any reviewers address this, but I have to wonder, how long will microscopic mirrors continue to oscillate back and forth (many-many-many times a second) before they wear out?