Looking for advice for my parents

[BLeClair12]

Last year, I did an intense amount of research on HDTV's for my parents, who were looking to purchase a new set for Christmas. At the time, 3D was way out of our price range and wasn't taken into consideration. Neither was LED, for that matter. In the end, they decided that they didn't really have the money and opted to wait out another year.

Fast forward to now, and they're still not entirely sure they're going to purchase a set this year, but again, they're thinking about it. Now 3D, LED and the like are all into consideration and I've become overwhelmed by the research. A lot of what I thought I understood about the TV game is now out the window, so I'm turning to those who know far more than me for help.

Basically, is 3D worth the current investment? We've got two to three 3D channels available in my area right now, and neither of my parents have any overwhelming interest in it, though they're fine with getting it if it means being prepared for the future.

This TV is likely to be their main set for several years to come, we're not talking just something to hold them over until some new technology comes out. They'll be keeping it for a while - five years at an absolute minimum providing there are no issues with it.

They've ruled plasma out, they for sure want LCD, so there's one requirement.

Beyond that, I've heard both good and bad things about LED (I thought LED was the current be all end all, but apparently I was wrong).

Price range is up to $2000 or so, but keeping it below that would be nice. Desired size is 46".

Any brands and models you recommend specifically? I've always been a Samsung or Sony guy, but I've been hearing great things about Panasonic as well.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Amnalehu]

I had this one for about a week. The picture was incredible and the 3D was amazing. As far as LCD/LED goes this had a wide viewing radius. The screen was also very bright even during the day with the shades open. The set is really slick as well. I ended up returning in in favor of a larger 58" Samsung Plasma. I initially opted for the plasma over the LED for the small bit of extra size. However, the plasma has a far superior picture compared to the LED. I the 3D also seemed to be a lot better although the 3D on the LED was excellent. At any rate, follow this link. They are running some great specials. This particular set comes with the blu ray player.

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-cTRxWCP....html?tp=35945

[My_Two_Cents]

Why have they ruled plasma out? Have they been listening to the FUD being spread by the HT geniuses at Best Buy? Is their main viewing room full of direct sunlight that will cause a glare on the set? Are they planning on using it as a computer monitor?

I'd forget about 3D, particularly for your parents. They don't seem all that interested in it, and I doubt that's going to change anytime soon. With 3D, you've now increased the price of everything (TV, player, movies). Personally, I'm not convinced 3D is going to be around in another 2-3 years, but time will tell.

Take 3D capability out of the picture, and you'll find plenty of nice sets for <$2K. For your money, assuming they have the environment for it, plasma would be the choice for superior picture.

[Grif32]

Remember LED is LCD they are not different technologies. IMHO I would wait until next year for a 3D set so they get the bugs worked out. Some really good deals going on now but It's something I would wait and see what new comes out.

Sounds like they are not 100% sure so waiting would be their best option.

Curious why they ruled out Plasma?

[BLeClair12]

To be honest, I'm not entirely sure why they chose to rule out plasma. I would assume they've bought into the typical negativity about it. Truthfully, I don't know much about plasma. I know it used to have a pretty significant burn in issue, but am I correct to say that has since pretty much been eliminated?

I know my uncle has an older model plasma (3 or so years old), and he's got some pretty severe burn in, and my parents didn't like that much.

If burn in isn't an issue any longer, I'm sure I could get them to consider plasma.

[My_Two_Cents]

Originally Posted by BLeClair12

To be honest, I'm not entirely sure why they chose to rule out plasma. I would assume they've bought into the typical negativity about it. Truthfully, I don't know much about plasma. I know it used to have a pretty significant burn in issue, but am I correct to say that has since pretty much been eliminated?

I know my uncle has an older model plasma (3 or so years old), and he's got some pretty severe burn in, and my parents didn't like that much.

If burn in isn't an issue any longer, I'm sure I could get them to consider plasma.

Burn-in is a permanent condition that is pretty much impossible to achieve on today's plasmas unless you intentionally try to do it. I would not discount a plasma because of it.