How to choose a new TV
So you've decided to buy a new TV. But where to begin? With new technologies popping up all over the place, choosing a new TV is no longer as simple as it once was. There's style, size, price and--yikes--a whole new digital world to consider. Fortunately, we're here to walk you through the basics. And while we can't tell you exactly which TV to get, we can give you the information you need to make a great decision that will keep you happy for years to come. Check it out.
Step 1: placement and lifestyle
Step 2: pick a size (but not any size)
Step 4: must-have TV solutions
Step 1: placement and lifestyle
You might be tempted to jump immediately to what size TV you want--but taking these two things into consideration first will make everything easier. Placement and lifestyle: what do they mean? Basically, it's where and how you'll be using the TV. Do you prefer something small for the bedroom or kitchen? Want to simulate the feeling of sitting in the front row at the big game? Here's a quick look at some cool TV types that will give you what you want:
Flat panel TVs: form meets function
LCD and plasma TVs deliver amazing digital images from a stylishly slim console--as thin as 4" deep! Almost all flat panels offer a widescreen aspect ratio, and you can find them in a variety of screen sizes... from 7.5" all the way up to 60".
Learn more about LCD TVs
Learn more about Plasma TVs
Projection TVs: a lot of bang for your buck
Want a really big picture without putting a really big dent in your wallet? A projection TV may be the way to go. Rear projection TV technologies--including CRT, LCD, DLP, and LCoS--are a great way to get a big-screen HDTV at an affordable price. And while projection TV screen sizes typically range from 40"-70", projection cabinets can measure less than 20" deep--so big doesn't have to mean bulky.
Learn more about projection TVs
Step 2: pick a size (but not any size)
When determining the best screen size, remember that bigger isn't always better. Refer back to step 1 and remember that the size you'd love to have and the best size for the room aren't necessarily one and the same, and don't be afraid to adjust accordingly. TVs generally look a lot bigger in your home than they do in the store--and definitely bigger than they look on your computer screen when you are shopping online. In general, the further away you plan to sit from the TV, the larger the screen size should be--and vice versa. The chart below provides some guidelines for finding the optimal screen size for your intended viewing distance.
Click here for our TV size chart
Step 3: to HD or not HD
Of course, how your TV looks isn't nearly as important as the picture itself, which is why you have to consider signal source. Once upon a time, all TVs were analog--no questions asked. But now, digital TVs are well on their way to dominating the marketplace for a good reason: they're capable of receiving enhanced and high-definition images that put analog TVs to shame.
So what exactly does this mean? Well, there are a few phrases you'll hear thrown around when shopping for a new TV:
HDTV/HDTV monitor
Forget the wave of the future--HDTV is here now. With the number of HD channels increasing by the day, there's high demand for hi def, which is the king of picture quality. HD delivers a screen resolution of 720p, 1080i or 1080p, a far cry from the days of analog (480i). So what's the difference between an HDTV and an HDTV monitor? The former has a built-in HD tuner, while the latter requires an additional HD receiver.
EDTV
Also known as enhanced-definition or progressive-scan format, ED delivers a crisp, smooth digital picture that's a step below HDTV but still a significant upgrade from analog. There's no HD receiver necessary here, just a digital source such as a progressive-scan DVD player. The result is a stepped-up 480p resolution, and it's ideal for those who enjoy DVD movies more than regular TV or cable.
Step 4: must-have TV solutions
Of course, even the coolest TV is rendered helpless without the right equipment to support it. Here are some must-have solutions that will turn your TV into the ultimate entertainment center:
Cables
Don't underestimate the power of the right cable. Component cables deliver great digital video, while HDMI and DVI are the ultimate answer for HD. So what kind do you need? Check your TV, then see our articles on how to get the best connection.
Stand or wall mount?
Stand or flat panel wall mount: Think of it as the icing on the cake. The right TV stand or wall mount will round out any home theater and TV setup with style and substance. Some stands and mounts are even designed specifically for certain TVs.
Sound
Want amazing audio to match your picture? Be sure to add a home theater system that will do your TV justice. There are combinations and styles to fit all budgets and needs, from simple speaker packages (for those who already own a receiver and DVD player) to integrated systems that include everything you need for a complete surround sound experience.
Surge protection
A television is sensitive electronic device that is vulnerable to the jumps in voltage that inevitably occur your home's electrical system. A TV--especially a big-screen or an HDTV--can also be a big investment. It makes sense to protect your valuable equipment with a surge protector or power conditioner.
Source
Owning an HD-capable TV doesn't mean much if you don't have a separate HD receiver, while a progressive-scan DVD player will deliver crisp, 480p images to any digital TV through a component or S-video input. And don't forget satellite providers, who give you over 225 digital-quality (and HD) channels for the same monthly fee you might pay for digital cable.