Want the best 25" TV for $200

[Bobomatic]

well around that size, no bigger than 29" because it wont fit in the stand. I dont need a TV/VCR combo and I do not want to order it because of shipping costs, from retailers in SoCal.

 

[Parrotheader]

I don't have any specific advice, but if I were you I wouldn't settle for a 25" like I did unless you absolutely have to. I got a 25" back in college when my first TV was stolen because it was the only mid-size TV I could afford. It's actually quite nice with tons of inputs and a very crisp picture, but I wish now I'd spent the extra $40-$50 or so for a 27" model. It's so annoying when I'm watching channels with tickers or other important info on the top or bottom of the screen (like ESPN, CNN, etc.) because this stuff gets cropped badly. It may not seem like a big deal at first, but after years of viewing it it gets old.

My next TV is going to be a 32" high-definition model so this won't be an issue

 

[SleepyGuy]

I think there is a flat screen toshiba 20" tv that goes for around $500 Canadian... that would run around $300 US. I always go toshiba when it comes to tv's... cheaper than sonys and just as high quality. I own a 27" flat screen toshiba and it's just as good as my cousins 27" flat screen wega.

 

[Bobomatic]

My TV stand can hold only some 27" TVs and parrotheader is that the case with all 25 " tvs? that reallt sucks if it is. How big of an improvement is the flat screen? I dont think I really need a flatscreen

 

[masterc]

Check them out for yourself, but the new true flat screens give a sharp picture.
But I think they are more expensive.
Ultimately it depends on your input source... if you have a s-video input from satellite or digital cable,or component video from DVD's then you may want to spend the extra cash.
But the newer conventional tv's from Hitachi, Panasonic and Toshiba give you all these features and a pretty dam good picture, for less money.
I personally have a 32" Hitachi Ultravison which has a fantastic picture, all the features I wanted and good reliabilty (check Consumers Reports)
Get a 27" at least
You have lot's to choose from... Good luck!