Need help choosing a Sony 3D model

[myriad1973]

I've been doing some research on a few different Sony 3DTV's to upgrade my Toshiba (and move it into the bedroom) and narrowed them down to four models and I wanted to get some input from owners of any of these models. They all have similar features and reviews on CNET, etc. They all have full connectivity for analog sources and feature local dimming, which are probably the most important I am looking for.

XBR-46HX929 - Sony's current flagship model from 2011. Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars on CNET. Some blooming issues reported. Full-array LED. Component and composite connections available through an adaptor. $1900 new.

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/sony-bravia-xbr-46hx929/4505-6482_7-34468615.html

XBR-46HX909 - Predecessor to the 929 from 2010. Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars on CNET. Some blooming issues reported. $1000 used on E-bay with no remote or manual in excellent condition. Requires a 3D transmitter for 3D capability. Full-array LED. This seems like the best deal to me.

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/sony-bravia-xbr-46hx909/4505-6482_7-33943225.html?tag=results;prodInfo

KDL-46HX750 - I auditioned this TV at Best Buy vs a Samsung UN46ES7500 and I was pleased with the picture on it. Edge-lit LED. CNET rated this TV 3 out of 5 stars. $1400 new.

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/sony-kdl-46hx750/4505-6482_7-35118307.html?tag=results;prodInfo

KDL-46HX850 - This was rated 4 out of 5 stars on CNET as the best Sony model currently. Edge-lit LED. $1600 new.

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/sony-kdl-46hx850/4505-6482_7-35118309.html

Any recommendations?

 

[96cobra10101]

Are you limiting yourself to just 46" tv's?

 

[myriad1973]

Yes. My TV stand will only accommodate up to around 48" or so.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

I'd highly recommend Panasonic Plasma - https://www.decide.com/search/TC-P46St30/1/23054831/RELEVANCE/
Right now prices are a tad high, but if you can get it for about $900 total - this would be a great deal

 

[Thumperama]

I have the 55" XBR 55HX929 and absolutely love it. I haven't really experienced the "blooming" effect that I've also read about. The 3D is stunning, but I'm still not convinced it won't just be a fad.

I would opt for the newest model you can get. Mine has already downloaded two firmware updates in the first month of ownership.

I bought this for the Den where the wife does most of her television viewing. I still prefer the theater room with the 120" screen.

 

[myriad1973]

I'd highly recommend Panasonic Plasma - https://www.decide.com/search/TC-P46St30/1/23054831/RELEVANCE/
Right now prices are a tad high, but if you can get it for about $900 total - this would be a great deal

I had considered getting a plasma display, although I wanted something a little more efficient with electricity.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

I had considered getting a plasma display, although I wanted something a little more efficient with electricity.

Check the numbers - the differences are very minor - this is old ladies tale that large plasma consume more than large lcd's

 

[myriad1973]

I found a Best Buy that carries the KDL-46HX850, amongst other models, including plasma displays. So I did some comparing and auditioned the HX850.

Honestly, I really felt the plasma displays were too limited in brightness for my taste, not to mention there are not too many available in a 46" size.

I demoed the HX850 watching Star Trek (2009). I was sold on that model as far as picture quality goes. They also had a HX929 there, but I noticed the screen uniformity issues that some reviews have mentioned. From what I have read, the HX909 is a bit better as far as uniformity goes, so I wonder if the picture quality would be similar to the HX850?

The price tag is also part of my final decision, and the HX909 is still available used for $1150 with shipping (with a $140 optional warranty), but the HX850 is $1688 new with a manufacturer warranty.

Which would you go for?

 

[myriad1973]

I went ahead and purchased the 909. I know it's a bit of an older model, but not too old. I hope I made the right choice.

 

[myriad1973]

I got the TV in last week and man, what a picture! After calibrating the screen, I couldn't believe how much better the picture is than my Toshiba. Fantastic TV. It was a great deal too.... $1150 shipped in mint condition with a one year warranty.