40-42" HDTV ~$1200-1600

[TheVrolok]

Originally posted by: zinfamous

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

but HDM movies are encoded at 1080p, right? am I missing something, here? The only thing I can offer in the i/p situation is that the input is not so important as the TV is--a 1080i signal is fine, b/c as long as you have a 720/1080p TV--that will deinterlace the signal. I was under the impression that progressive is definitely something that you want...especially concerning action/quickly moving images.

Yes, HD movies are encoded at 1080p, essentially movies are filmed in 1080i/24 and 3:2 pulldown will make it 1080p/60 to output to a 1080p TV. Is there more content in the 60 version vs the 24 version? Nope, it's just doubling/tripling of frames. On a 60Hz TV will there be a difference in 1080i and 1080p, most people say they don't even notice a difference (sure you can find the extreme critics). On a 120Hz set, however, I have heard that people are noticing slight differences in motion blur like you've said. I'm not spending the cash for a 120Hz set and so my HD-A3 which outputs 1080i gives no better picture than the 30 which outputs a 1080p so I'm content. 🙂

 

[cmdrdredd]

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

I've never seen ambilight at work...what does it actually do? I've seen the commercials but I didn't get the point really.

 

[montypythizzle]

Originally posted by: cmdrdredd

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

I've never seen ambilight at work...what does it actually do? I've seen the commercials but I didn't get the point really.

Pretty much the main color of the screen will be displayed on the wall behind it, makes the screen "look" bigger sort of. It would probably look nice.

 

[Snakexor]

Originally posted by: montypythizzle

Originally posted by: cmdrdredd

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

I've never seen ambilight at work...what does it actually do? I've seen the commercials but I didn't get the point really.

Pretty much the main color of the screen will be displayed on the wall behind it, makes the screen "look" bigger sort of. It would probably look nice.

WRONG. Amblilight reduces eye strain when viewing in a dark room. It eases the contrast between the bright screen and the dark wall.

 

[montypythizzle]

Originally posted by: Snakexor

Originally posted by: montypythizzle

Originally posted by: cmdrdredd

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

I've never seen ambilight at work...what does it actually do? I've seen the commercials but I didn't get the point really.

Pretty much the main color of the screen will be displayed on the wall behind it, makes the screen "look" bigger sort of. It would probably look nice.

WRONG. Amblilight reduces eye strain when viewing in a dark room. It eases the contrast between the bright screen and the dark wall.

That is another explanation, but mine was still correct.

 

[TheVrolok]

Originally posted by: cmdrdredd

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

I've never seen ambilight at work...what does it actually do? I've seen the commercials but I didn't get the point really.

It's primary purpose is to reduce eye strain - the little bit of extra light it adds when watching a movie in an otherwise dark room is soothing for the eye. In addition, the color changes based on the colors shown on the screen so it gives a slightly more immersing feel to the movie.

 

[zinfamous]

Originally posted by: TheVrolok

Originally posted by: cmdrdredd

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

I've never seen ambilight at work...what does it actually do? I've seen the commercials but I didn't get the point really.

It's primary purpose is to reduce eye strain - the little bit of extra light it adds when watching a movie in an otherwise dark room is soothing for the eye. In addition, the color changes based on the colors shown on the screen so it gives a slightly more immersing feel to the movie.

a little ambient lighting would also achieve that effect (reducing eye strain). that's what I do.

 

[TheVrolok]

Originally posted by: zinfamous

Originally posted by: TheVrolok

Originally posted by: cmdrdredd

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

I've never seen ambilight at work...what does it actually do? I've seen the commercials but I didn't get the point really.

It's primary purpose is to reduce eye strain - the little bit of extra light it adds when watching a movie in an otherwise dark room is soothing for the eye. In addition, the color changes based on the colors shown on the screen so it gives a slightly more immersing feel to the movie.

a little ambient lighting would also achieve that effect (reducing eye strain). that's what I do.

That's what I used to do, but this ambilight is colored! 🙂

 

[montypythizzle]

Originally posted by: TheVrolok

Originally posted by: zinfamous

Originally posted by: TheVrolok

Originally posted by: cmdrdredd

Originally posted by: TheVrolok
I have to throw the 42" 1080p Philips Ambilight 2 into the mix. I got mine for 1699, but it's now on sale at BB for 1499. I love this set, looks great, good black levels, etc. I was thinking an Aquos before my purchase but the reports of banding scared me enough to go with the Philips. In addition, I *love* the ambilighting, I think it adds a wonderful effect to the movie watching experience. It is at the high-end of your price range, however.

That said, I have to agree with everything zinfamous has said. If you're going to use this thing for a computer monitor at all, then get a 1080p LCD. If you're just going to be watching movies, a 720p would be perfect. You're not gaining much with the resolution at 1080 from movies, it's just nice to have it for computer output. As far as your p/i question, p is completely worthless if you DO NOT plan to use it for computer output. There is not now, nor will there most likely ever be, movies or TV in progressive - it just isn't practical. The only output that makes progressive worthwhile is PC out and I believe gaming output from the 360/PS3 (correct me if I'm wrong - I don't console game). I have the Toshiba HD-A3 as my HD-DVD player and it outputs in 1080i rather than 1080p even tho I own a 1080p TV and there is no loss of content whatsoever since, as said, movies are not in progressive. If you need more information, just google 3:2 pulldown and progressive/interlaced. You'll see what I mean.

Lastly, monty, yes, you're probably right in that you won't get any physical damage to your eyes sitting 3-4 feet from a 42" screen minus possible eye strain. I think the complete lack of practicality is what zin was talking about. Why in the heck would you only sit 3 feet froma 42" screen? You'd need to turn you head to view it all without straining an eye muscle. There's just no reason to sit that close.

I've never seen ambilight at work...what does it actually do? I've seen the commercials but I didn't get the point really.

It's primary purpose is to reduce eye strain - the little bit of extra light it adds when watching a movie in an otherwise dark room is soothing for the eye. In addition, the color changes based on the colors shown on the screen so it gives a slightly more immersing feel to the movie.

a little ambient lighting would also achieve that effect (reducing eye strain). that's what I do.

That's what I used to do, but this ambilight is colored! 🙂

LOL cling wrap!??!, pause the movie and have the kids change it when the scene changes.