Traded the Hitachi LCD RP for a Panny Plasma

[Johnny Canuck]

So I had a Hitachi LCD Rear projection TV for the weekend and decided I did not like it. What's new? Coming from a guy who tried at least 5 DVD players before settling on the Denon 2910. I found the "screen door effect" was too much, especially sitting only 6 or 7 feet away. 50" was way too big. Not slagging the TV, as it was excellent for a LCD, it just isn't what i am looking for. I wanted to go down to a 42" and when i saw the Panasonic PX50 HD model, I was sold. Consumer Reports (for what that's worth) and Cnet.com rate it the best plasma. The 50" was $1500 more!!! Why??? I actually got it at my girlfriend's work, The Bay, and saved 15% with her staff discount and got it cheaper ($2850 Canadian with a sticker price of $3999!!) than the Hitachi 50VF820. I have read great things about it. i have also read not to worry about burn in with these new Panny's. And really, the way TV technology is changing, I won't have it for more than 5 years i would guess anyways. That makes me laugh when people base decisions on purchasing products based on longevety. Nothing lasts forever. I know it's not the same thing, but when was the last time you went to buy some shoes and the salesman sold you on the fact they will last forever (ie Dr. Martens). I don't wear shoes I bought even 2 years ago. Even if they are in great shape. Styles change. Like technology does.

Anyways, I have to wait 2 weeks for the TV. I have a few questions for you guys, generally about plasmas.

1)My center channel is quite large. It has a kickstand but will not sit on a plasma. Do you wall mount the speaker?? Does the TV stand go up and down so i could put the speaker under the TV on my compnent stand?.

2)The Hitachi had 2 HDMI slots. This Panny has one. My HD cable box has DVI out so I bought a cable that goes DVI to HDMI ($80!!) I want to obviously use the HDMI on the Panny to my Denon 2910. Is there a way, without losing quality, to split two HDMI's to one?? Or is it just as well to use component cables from the box?

I really appreciate the feedback, and once again, thanks..

JC

 

[westcott]

You will need an hdmi switch that can accomodate your inputs and outputs.

Here is one place you can look.

http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/DVI-HDMI-switchers.htm

 

[Apogee]

Johnny C,

I'm T.O. Canada as well. First question, you actually got the Panny for 2850 taxes in? Is it possible? 3000 is the cost price for major store? Usually the Bay or Best Buy sells it to their employee at cost plus 10% ... which will be 3300 pls 15% taxes = 3750.

You choice on the tv....I was actually looking at the same model....but want to wait until the price drop ... still saving up since I just got the sound system: Yammy RXV 2500 and DVDC750 and Energy C series.

- Center speaker, depends if you have kids?

 

[Johnny Canuck]

no no...plus taxes....$3360 less 15% staff discount.