Your Thoughts.

[snoupee]

Hi Everyone,

I've been surfing this web page for a long time but really haven't got the chance to get involved in the great discussion. I've learned lots of things from reading the forums, and gaining a lot of valuable information from everyone's input.

A friend of mine wants a new HDTV and he as narrowed his choices down. He has narrowed his choices down to XBR8, Pioneer Elite 111FD or the 151FD. The price is not too much of a concern but would like to get the best he can out of these three. He said he will be sitting approximately 10 Feet away from his TV set. He is also set on these three as well. Any recommendations and reasons why he would chose one over the others? Thanks for your help guys.

[Clark Kent]

I would personally go with one of the Pioneer Elite models. Black levels are unparalleled.

[snoupee]

so the blacks on the XBR8 not as good as the Elites? I thought the LED back lighting would at least be close.

[sokrman14]

Originally Posted by snoupee

so the blacks on the XBR8 not as good as the Elites? I thought the LED back lighting would at least be close.

The XBR8 has very good black levels, for an LCD. But still in comparison to the Elite's they dont match. I would stick with a Pioneer Elite plasma as well, you will love it. You will hear some people try to change you to a panasonic or something like that, but don't change your mind (I have a panasonic and I will be the 1st to admit that the Pioneer is superior). Wait about a month or two after purchase and get it professionally ISF calibrated. It will optimize all of the colors so none are too bright or too dull.

[poogie]

Originally Posted by sokrman14

The XBR8 has very good black levels, for an LCD. But still in comparison to the Elite's they dont match. I would stick with a Pioneer Elite plasma as well, you will love it. You will hear some people try to change you to a panasonic or something like that, but don't change your mind (I have a panasonic and I will be the 1st to admit that the Pioneer is superior). Wait about a month or two after purchase and get it professionally ISF calibrated. It will optimize all of the colors so none are too bright or too dull.

What retail store do you go to see both TV side by side?

[sokrman14]

Originally Posted by poogie

What retail store do you go to see both TV side by side?

I live near a Magnolia HT (owned by Bestbuy). They carry both. Where do you live?

[richard lichtenfelt]

Every professional reviewer I've found in magazines and the internet says that Pioneer makes the best HDTVs.
The Sony's not even close. I have a Sony LCD and wish I bought a Pioneer.

[sokrman14]

Its not necessarily a Sony vs Pioneer thing as much as it is an LCD vs a plasma argument. Stick with a plasma, and if you are looking for the best plasma it would be a Pioneer Elite

[snoupee]

it looks like everyones has the same opinion so this should be a no brainer. I will let me friend know and see what he choses from there.

Thanks for all the help.

[jsteinhauer]

Originally Posted by sokrman14

Its not necessarily a Sony vs Pioneer thing as much as it is an LCD vs a plasma argument. Stick with a plasma, and if you are looking for the best plasma it would be a Pioneer Elite

If your friends needs support plasma, stick with plasma. If the environment and usage would support LCD, such a most viewing during the day in a sunlit room, go with a Sony or Samsung. I have an XBR8, and don't regret the purchase. I prefer LCD panels for my viewing habits.

If viewing angle is important, plasma is the choice for certain.