LCD tv

[jollyFE]

got a quick question; Which is better

I am lookig at  getting a 40 in LCD tv...found 2 Vizios that I like..the only difference that I can see is 720p vs 1080i and the contrast ratio  300000 vs 5000:1.  The 720 has the 300000:1 and the 1080 has 5000:1.

I was going to use it as a monitor(using the dvi to hdmi cable I have) also for a bit until all my moves are completed and I can get a real monitor.

there really isn't that much difference in price (less than $100).  Consumer Reports had an article a few issues ago where they said that under 50 in, you really cant tell the difference between 720 and 1080.

I as thinking that contrast ratio was more important since this isn't our primary tv, only one in a bedroom (I doubt I will even have an hd sat box hooked up to it, but could eventually).

anyways, just looking for some opinions.
thanks
Jolly

[sluggish]

The 720p TV is the better one.  Do not confuse 1080i with 1080p; there is a big difference between the two although it is negligible whether you can see the difference on a screen smaller than 50 inches.

[jollyFE]

ok I typed wrong, the 1080 said full hd..

[sluggish]

ok I typed wrong, the 1080 said full hd..

Contrast ratio is an important factor in an LCD.  The 1080p TV loses with it's contrast ratio.  The improved resolution will be negligible with that size screen.  Go audition both TVs (preferable next to each other) and choose the one you like the best.  My gut tells me the 720p is the winner.

[jollyFE]

that was the direction I was leaning..the few $ I save will buy me a stand

[Russian]

If you're planning to use it as a monitor, than I recommend getting 1080P (1920x1080).  Make sure native resolution and response time is good .  I just got my self a Samsung 550 40inch that I use for TV and monitor.  Also once you get it, make sure to fine a online guide and calibrate the damn thing.  Setting that come default are bad for TV / your eyes and they look horrible.

[Chalenge]

If you intend to play AHII on it make sure the response time is up to the job or ghosting and residual images will drive you nuts. TVs will go up to 1920x1080 while LCD monitors will be 1920x1200 which is a small difference perhaps but if your primary reason is TV you wont want a monitor. I tried several TVs as monitors and settled on the Toshiba Regza because it is capable of not only HiDef but also the 480 res which so many TVs display horribly. You will know what I mean if you ever watch home made 480 videos on your TV or older VHS and some older movies on DVD even.

Something else to consider: I know you said LCD... Plasma if you use it in low light situations and never see natural sunlight in the room (not as bright) and otherwise LCD. I run my LCD widescreens at about 12% of their full brightness.

[Nilsen]

Do not look at specs. They can be misleading and different brands use different clever measurements. Other parts of the TV are also important for a great image. The contrast ratio numbers are all abit iffy so dont trust them. I would suggest that you take the two models you have chosen and google for reviews before deciding.

[weazely]

I would go with a 720p over 1080i.

[Gh0stFT]

if you go for Full HD, get one with 100Hz
the effect is incredible, try to see it live somewhere before you
buy one. Even old DVD looking like a complete new movie with
this 100Hz.

I can suggest you a Samsung...

[Newman5]

if you go for Full HD, get one with 100Hz
the effect is incredible, try to see it live somewhere before you
buy one. Even old DVD looking like a complete new movie with
this 100Hz.

I can suggest you a Samsung...

Would be 120hz...standard is 60hz.

[crazyivan]

40 inch Sony, Im looking at the same tv. Nice choice. Ahh Im probably goin with 1080 guess IMO. around 1000$ at best buy, you find a better deal let me know.

[Russian]

40 inch Sony, Im looking at the same tv. Nice choice. Ahh Im probably goin with 1080 guess IMO. around 1000$ at best buy, you find a better deal let me know.

http://www.consumersearch.com/lcd-tv/samsung-ln40a550

This is a current best rated 40inch HDTV....

[crazyivan]

thks , Samsung second choice, but I really like Sony's for some reason! will keep that in mind though.

I have a 20inch LG tv/dvd/monitor  no problems with that brand yet! 

Crap, earlier I was talking about the Sony Bravio not vizio, hmm marketing gimmick?

[weazely]

If sams club is an option.

http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=393519&pCatg=9666