FAQ

FAQ: Plasma v. LCD TV

What type of flat panel is best for me: plasma, LCD, or LED?

Plasma (37"-70") In general, plasma TVs tend to have far better contrast ratios due to their ability to produce deeper black levels. Blacks are represented as black - not dark gray like some of the LCD panels. Plasma also touts an extremely wide viewing angle. This means that the quality of the image is consistent no matter what height or angle you are viewing from. For the average family room, a plasma TV is the clear answer.
LCD (13"-65") LCD TVs have a slight edge over plasma TVs in a few areas. LCDs typically support a higher native resolution (720p versus 1080p). However, it is arguable that the difference is not visible at smaller sizes. An LCD TV's picture is also brighter and fares better in very bright rooms with many windows. These sets are also impervious to “burn in." Burn in occurs when an image has been left on the screen for too long. Today’s plasma TVs are susceptible to this phenomenon; however, it will reverse itself over time. LCD TVs are a great choice when your display is used for presentations or for gaming or when placed in a very bright room.
LED (32”-55”) LED is actually a variation on LCD technology. Typical LCDs use a CCFL backlighting scheme. LEDs use RGB LEDs to backlight the image. What this boils down to for the consumer is a much thinner display (as thin as .3 inches!) This backlight arrangement also yields superior contrast over LCD. LEDs are best suited for bright rooms where the aesthetic qualities of the set will be valued over performance: dollar ratio.

Is 1080p worth it?

With the advent of Blu-Ray, maximum resolutions have been pushed up from the standard 720p to the new 1080p. The question on every consumer's mind is, "Do I need to pay the big bucks for a 1080p set?"

Unfortunately, the answer is not cut and clear, but hopefully I can help lay out the facts.

Essentially, the main difference between 720p and 1080p is the horizontal line count. 1080p has 360 more lines of resolution, which should result a better picture, right? Sort of. There is a limitation to how much detail the human eye can decode. If you scour the internet, you will find a limitless number of articles describing when to use a 1080p display and when not to. The short and sweet answer is 1080p displays are worth the money when you are watching a large display at a short viewing distance. The pixels are denser; therefore, you see a better picture. The only catch is that to really reap the benefits, your source material must be 1080p.

Currently the only mainstream 1080p content is available through Blu-Ray discs, DirecTV, and Vudu.

What screen size is right for me?

Although this is personal preference, the most widely accepted formula states that your viewing distance should be approx 2.5 times the diagonal measurement of your TV set.

Can I set up a multi-room audio system using my existing stereo receiver?

Most stereo receivers can be outfitted with a speaker selector box that will allow you to hook up to 8 pairs of speakers without causing any damage to your amplifier.

If I buy a new HDTV, will all of my stations be in 1080p?

No. Although cable, satellite, and FIOS are constantly adding new HD channels, a large percentage are still standard definition. All major networks have switched to HD; however, not all of the programming offered is actually in HD. Typically, you will find that all prime-time shows as well as major sporting events are HD.

What is the proper speaker placement for a standard surround sound room?

A standard surround sound room has 5 speakers and a subwoofer. This is also known as 5.1 surround sound. Ideally, the front left and right speakers should form an equilateral triangle with the primary listening position. The center channel should be located in the center of the front left and right speakers. Rear speakers are a little more forgiving but should be placed behind the primary listening area. Height is a crucial detail that is often overlooked. Speakers should be mounted as close to ear level as possible. Unfortunately, not every room will allow for the speaker placement that has just been mentioned. Luckily, there are many products that can help us tune the listening area even when speakers aren't in the "perfect" location.

I plan on using a wireless network in my home. Do I still need to have hardwired network locations?

Although wireless internet is convenient, it is NOT a replacement for a hardwired network. Hardwired networks provide superior speed and reliability.

How long does a surround sound installation take?

Typically a surround sound install takes about 12 hours. This would include running all new speaker lines, mounting speakers, hanging a television, and programming a universal remote control.

FAQ: 3D TV

Is 3D TV available now?: High Definition 3D TV is here and it is more affordable than you think. If you enjoyed watching 3D movies in the theater, than prepare yourself for the ultimate 3D experience right from your living room. No more red and blue glasses required. This new technology delivers 3D in 1080p.
What are the TV Requirements?: The 3D TV operates just like a regular TV until you choose to switch it over to 3D. Some manufacturers have designed their TVs to take a two dimensional image and convert it to 3D. This adds a backdrop to the picture as opposed to the pop-out progressive image that is only available with channels designated to display 3D material. 3D TVs do display regular two dimensional pictures.
Can I use my Blu-Ray Player?: In order to watch Blu-Ray movies in 3D, you will need to purchase a 3D Blu-Ray player.
Do I need 3D Glasses?: In order to watch 3D TV you will need active shutter glasses. You will also need additional glasses for family or friends who are viewing as well. Glasses may or may not be included in the purchase of a 3D TV and they will only work with the associated manufacturer of the 3D TV. The glasses are battery operated and some can be recharged while others use lithium ion batteries that need to be replaced.
Is 3D Programming Available Now?: While 3D content is limited as of now, there are plans for a number of cable/satellite channels that will be dedicated to broadcasting 3D material. For example, ESPN has a dedicated 3D channel with DirecTV that intends to broadcast a minimum of 85 events in 3D within the first year, including up to 25 matches from this summer's FIFA World Cup, X Games 16, and NBA, college basketball and college football games (including the 2011 Bowl games).

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FAQ

FAQ: Plasma v. LCD TV

FAQ: 3D TV

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