$600-700 for an HDTV

[SynGamer]

Since i mainly use my Xbox 360 for gaming and DVDs...i've decided to finally get an HDTV. I'm trying to find the best offer in both size and specifications for at a max, $600.

I had my taxes done last night and instead of having to pay-in, i'll be getting a refund, plus the stimulus check. So i'm upping my price range to $700 (max) shipped but still looking for a 32".

Any help?
-----
Suggested so far;

SAMSUNG Black 32" 720p LCD LNT3242H (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16889102127)
Olevia Black 32" 720p LCD 232V (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16889022070)
Vizio 32" 720p LCD VX32LHDTV10A (http://www.buy.com/prod/vizio-vx32lhdtv10a-32-widescreen-lcd-hdtv-1366-x-768-super-high/q/loc/111/206805238.html)
Olevia Black 37" 720p LCD 237T (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16889022062)
Samsung 32" 720p LCD LN32A330J (http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-LN32A330J-32-inch-720p-HDTV/dp/B001413D2G/ref=dp_ob_title)<- I bought this one for $626 shipped at Jellyfish.com

[Chase]

I highly-recommend Samsung, and try to go 1080p, if it's feasibles or if you can find a deal. After a long deliberation, which involved me returning comparable Panasonic and Sharp models, I finally decided on a neat 32-inch Samsung (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16889102127) LCD television based on the picture and options (I am mightily picky about setting control). If you want good prices from a reliable online vendor, then I recommend NewEgg (http://www.newegg.com). In fact, I found out that they sold my TV cheaper ($699) than the price I purchased it at a brick and mortar store. :-( You may also want to look into Olevia TVs, sir. I have not had an opportunity to check out the picture in-person, but read good reviews on their products. In any event, good luck with the hunt. :mrgreen:

[SynGamer]

Nice suggestion (the Samsung). What specs should i look for?

I was told at least 2000:1 contrast and nothing higher than 8ms refresh rate. So far i've found the following;

Samsung LN-T3242H 32" (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/483535-REG/Samsung_LNT3242H_LN_T3242H_32_Wide_LCD.html)
Olevia Black 32" (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16889022070)

[jezebelseven]

I highly-recommend Samsung, and try to go 1080p, if it's feasibles or if you can find a deal. After a long deliberation, which involved me returning comparable Panasonic and Sharp models, I finally decided on a neat 32-inch Samsung (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16889102127) LCD television based on the picture and options (I am mightily picky about setting control). If you want good prices from a reliable online vendor, then I recommend NewEgg (http://www.newegg.com). In fact, I found out that they sold my TV cheaper ($699) than the price I purchased it at a brick and mortar store. :-( You may also want to look into Olevia TVs, sir. I have not had an opportunity to check out the picture in-person, but read good reviews on their products. In any event, good luck with the hunt. :mrgreen:


I have the exact same TV and love it, had it for about 3 months now. Bought it from my workplace (electronics department in a large chain) and they've actually just put it on closeout, there is a similar model but it's typically around $100 more. Better specs and the style is nicer-- we just didn't have the $100 difference available at that time. I do kind of wish we'd gotten the next model up, but the LNT3242 is a great set.

I personally think the Olevia's are incredibly overrated-- I stare at these TVs all day long and I think the Vizio's look *much* better for the same price. Olevia's look terribly washed out to me. A lot of it is personal preference I'm sure, though. Samsungs are pricey but some of the best picture imho-- I think sonys are overpriced for what you get, Sharp has a few nice sets. Sylvanias are a piece of junk as are Venturer-- we get them returned all the time, and our floor models constantly need work.

When we bought our first LCD, we nearly bought a westinghouse because a lot of people seemed to like them, but we went into a store to check it out and it just looked awful to me. So did a lot of the other recommended tvs in our range. We couldn't find much research on the one we ended up getting-- Best Buy's Insignia brand. It's really a great tv for the price in our opinions-- We use our 360, PS3, and wii all on it and haven't had *any* problems with it. Its price was really great in comparison to the other sets-- we were able to upgrade to the 37" for the price of a 26-32 in other brands, although we surely gave up some specs for that as well. It's contrast ratio is much lower than the samsung's, but we don't notice it at all when we game personally.

So yeah, my best advice is even if you're buying online, look at them in store somewhere. You might read 2000 good reviews on a tv then it looks awful to you in person-- And you might see something that catches your eye much more that you didn't know existed.

[sonicfreak5]

Vizio 32" and ur set.

[slickkill77]

Where were you on Black Friday when Target or whoever had the 37' Olevia for either $499 or $599...I camped out in 20* weather with my friend in Iowa to get one for him

[SynGamer]

The only store i have near me is a Wal-Mart and a Sears (and a Radio Shack). That's it :( So i'll have to buy online. Would have loved to of gotten a 37" for $600, that's what i'm trying to find now.

[Damian]

The only store i have near me is a Wal-Mart and a Sears (and a Radio Shack). That's it :( So i'll have to buy online. Would have loved to of gotten a 37" for $600, that's what i'm trying to find now.
For a 37" bought online without waiting for any special deals for under $600? Not going to happen right now.

Closest thing would be the Oleveia 237T 37" for $699 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16889022062). If you keep an eye on Fatwallet or the like you may be able to find something, but right now I don't see any.

[Littlefields]

I recommend Sony. The picture for of the Sony ones are, in most cases, much better than others. For that price range I'd say about 27"-37" is fine. Anything higher probably won't be that great in quality. But also keep in mind Sony is also one of the most expensive HDTV brands. If you are on a lower price range, Samsung is pretty good as well. I'm looking into the Samsung 37" myself. From the store, it looks great.

[TrueBlueLS]

I recommend Sony. The picture for of the Sony ones are, in most cases, much better than others. For that price range I'd say about 27"-37" is fine. Anything higher probably won't be that great in quality. But also keep in mind Sony is also one of the most expensive HDTV brands. If you are on a lower price range, Samsung is pretty good as well. I'm looking into the Samsung 37" myself. From the store, it looks great.

Sony you basically pay for the name. I'm trying to remember if it is the same company that makes panels for Samsung and Sony.

OP: Keep pushing to save up a little bit more for a TV. I have a Toshiba Regza that I love. You can pick up a 32" for $680 shipped over at Newegg.

[pewing33ny]

i picked up a 32" olevia a year ago for $450 at 6th ave. it was 720p but obviously 20x better than my tube tv. i dont know if you can get 1080p at 32" or more for your price.

6th ave does seem to have decent sales that no one believes it because they don't have a great reputation. regardless i would just keep on checking slickdeals.net or one of those sites and get in on one of those deals.

also, don't wait too long for price drops. the prices are always dropping and you could theoretically wait months/years if you keep on waiting for the next price drop.

[Nealocus123]

I got a 24" Samsung monitor for $270. All you need are the Xbox monitor cables and your good to go.

Oh and 1080p is not very important right now. TV broadcasting is at least a decade away while the amount of games that actually display in 1080p are few and far between.

[SynGamer]

I got a 24" Samsung monitor for $270. All you need are the Xbox monitor cables and your good to go.

Oh and 1080p is not very important right now. TV broadcasting is at least a decade away while the amount of games that actually display in 1080p are few and far between.

Yeah, i've decided that 720p is all i need right now. Still aiming to get at least a 32" since this will be replacing the living room TV.

[The Sailerman]

I picked up a 32" Vizio at Costco back in August, and I'm very pleased with it.

There's no noticeable lag when playing games, even Guitar Hero and Rock Band.
Plus, there's a good number of ports. 2 Component, 2 HDMI, 2 Composite (1 with S-Video), and a couple others.

I'm not one to compare the picture quality between TVs, so I can't say much about that. But the colors do look good.

[Littlefields]

For the 27"-37" size 1080p is almost never supported anyways. Maybe 1080i but not 1080p.

[wingeddragon]

This looks like a tv in your price range and you can get an extra 2 year warranty for 88 dollars.

http://www.pcconnection.com/IPA/Shop/Product/Detail.htm?sku=7905777

[SynGamer]

This looks like a tv in your price range and you can get an extra 2 year warranty for 88 dollars.

http://www.pcconnection.com/IPA/Shop/Product/Detail.htm?sku=7905777

Eh...open box and it only has 1200:1 contrast. I'm going to check out some TV's tomorrow night and see if i can find one i like.

[insertcleverthing]

I have an HDTV dedicated for gaming in my bedroom. It's a 32" 1080i Olevia (not sure about the contrast, but I believe over 1000:1; no idea on the refresh rate; lots of connection ports). I got it for about $500 in a cyber Monday deal about 2-3 years ago and I LOVE it. I play most of my 360 games in 720p via HDMI though. 1080i actually looks worse and I don't think 1080p on a 32" would make too much of a difference. Anyway, I highly recommend an Olevia for the money (at that size). I honestly have no complaints with mine and I'm generally a picky bastard.

[neudog]

Thanks for the thread OP. My wife has some extra cash from teaching in the after school program and she said she wanted an HD TV. I think were going to score an Olevia from Sam's Club, but will look for the best deal before buying. Also does anyone know of some cheap HD TV stands. Target has a decent grey one that will be perfect @ $70 on clearance. Maybe it will drop one more time before we get our TV.

[R1V3R5]

I have an HDTV dedicated for gaming in my bedroom. It's a 32" 1080i Olevia (not sure about the contrast, but I believe over 1000:1; no idea on the refresh rate; lots of connection ports). I got it for about $500 in a cyber Monday deal about 2-3 years ago and I LOVE it. I play most of my 360 games in 720p via HDMI though. 1080i actually looks worse and I don't think 1080p on a 32" would make too much of a difference. Anyway, I highly recommend an Olevia for the money (at that size). I honestly have no complaints with mine and I'm generally a picky bastard.

I have the same television. I bought it for $499 (after coupon) from Circuit City to replace my crappy CRT television and couldn't be happier. I use it mostly for my Xbox 360 and I think it looks phenomenal. My brother bought one six months later because "Gears of War" looked so good on it. I'm doubtful you will find a 32' for less than $500 that is better than this television.

[Sarang01]

I have the same television. I bought it for $499 (after coupon) from Circuit City to replace my crappy CRT television and couldn't be happier. I use it mostly for my Xbox 360 and I think it looks phenomenal. My brother bought one six months later because "Gears of War" looked so good on it. I'm doubtful you will find a 32' for less than $500 that is better than this television.

I hope you're not foolish enough to mean that about CRT HDTV's. Almost every one of the new technologies can't do blacks worth shit. The only one I've heard that supposedly do blacks decently are the new Kuro's.

[R1V3R5]

I hope you're not foolish enough to mean that about CRT HDTV's. Almost every one of the new technologies can't do blacks worth shit. The only one I've heard that supposedly do blacks decently are the new Kuro's.

Foolish, huh?

I meant flat-screen as I assumed that is what the OP was looking for. Going back, he didn't specify either way which opens him up to a lot more options, including CRTs. I still stand by my initial statement (which was referring to flat-screen only) that I have yet to see a better 32" television for under $500 that isn't "open box" or "refurbished." If he wants CRT though then he has a TON of choices, of course.

[RelentlessRolento]

Depending on my tax return in the next few weeks I may find this thread very usefull...

[PocariSweat]

I own the Olevia Black 32" 16:9 8ms 720p LCD HDTV 232V. Overall I am satisfied with it. I paid $419 on Thanksgiving Day 2007 at K-Mart. It is my first HD TV that I use in my room. It beats the 20' inch wide screen PC monitor I was using for my next-gen console. Here is my feed back:

Cons (minor annoyances):
-uninspired remote--not responsive.
-Menu and interface is not refined.
-You must toggle thru all inputs and of course I'll skip the one I want and it's slow. (most annoying)
-Original firmware sucks (pre-2008) HDMI did NOT work with the 360. Dunno if they fixed it.
-Doesn't play nice (buggy) with my DVD recorder/player (Toshiba) over HDMI.
-Olevia's website and tech support sucks. They are so surly.
-Mother-friggin' blue LED is on when it's off. I think the new firmware fixed it.

[SynGamer]

Again, thanks for all the feedback everyone (though it took me some time to find my thread this morning because it was moved :D). I really need specs. Minimums that i should never go below.

What type of inputs for general use (both now and future)?
Number of ports/inputs?
Brands to avoid?
Contrast ratio?
Refresh rate?

Also, i won't be mounting this, but instead literally replacing my current tube TV so will i need to buy something to support the HDTV or do most have a base? I've seen a lot of people refer to 'stands' which i take as the wooded 'stand' that holds my current TV, DVR, etc. so i need some clarification on that.

[stillatin]

long time reader first time poster here....

your priority should be contrast ratio, contrast ratio, contrast ratio. oh and black levels.

[SynGamer]

I went to my local audio/video store today and checked out some HDTVs. I saw a Sony and LG 32" that were both nice. The Sony had MotionFlow which smoothed the picture a lot but i'm not going to pay the premium.

The sales rep said to look for the refresh rate and said 120 is ideal. He said the contrast doesn't really matter so long as it is 1200:1 (normal, not dynamic) so i'll keep that in mind but i would still like at least 2000:1 dynamic contrast. He also said there's a difference between 1080p and 720p on a 32" but i don't need 1080p so no worries there.

[dodgeme]

Lol why does everyone go crazy over tv's. I got a regular 23" Magnavox tv with Component hookups for my 360 and it's clear enough for me. Cost me 180 bucks. Everyone else is spending 500 or more bucks just cuz it looks better. Its clear enough for me lol.

[SynGamer]

My TV doesn't have component so i might as well upgrade to HD.

[ighosty]

I went to my local audio/video store today and checked out some HDTVs. I saw a Sony and LG 32" that were both nice. The Sony had MotionFlow which smoothed the picture a lot but i'm not going to pay the premium.

The sales rep said to look for the refresh rate and said 120 is ideal. He said the contrast doesn't really matter so long as it is 1200:1 (normal, not dynamic) so i'll keep that in mind but i would still like at least 2000:1 dynamic contrast. He also said there's a difference between 1080p and 720p on a 32" but i don't need 1080p so no worries there.

Manufacturers have been known to lie about dynamic contrast ratios, so the best thing is to actually look at the sets and not to put to much trust in the numbers.

[JohnnyFoxDarko]

I have the 32" Olevia mentioned in the OP and I am very satisfied.

[bornrunnin31]

the difference between 1080p and 720p on a tv 37" or under is negligible. You have to be less than 2ft away from the screen to see the difference.

[SynGamer]

My biggest concern is motion blur. That 120 mhz on the Sony i saw smoothed things out but i'm not paying a premium for that. For those with the Olevia mentioned in the OP, is there any motion blur?

@bornrunnin31 (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/member.php?u=74076)

I argued my case but the guy still disagreed. He has a 52" Bravia at home (1080p) and i'm sure he had an employee discount and that he works on commission so he was probably trying to sell me on the 1080p but i don't need it.

[R1V3R5]

Little off topic but still sorta' on topic, mainly for the OP...

My brother and I went to BestBuy and looked at televisions. His 30" HD CRT died one week prior to Halo 3 coming out and he only had about $550. We were there checking out HD sets in his price range but he wanted an LCD which cut his choices down to about three televisions. I had read decent things about that Westinghouse so that is one of the things we checked out specifically. Well, it looked more washed out and grainy compared to the Sony and Toshiba next to it. I guess that's to be expected as it was about $300 less. Upon further examination though I found at that that Toshiba and Sony had beefy component cables (like the think Monster Cables) running to them and that Westinghouse was using composite cables! The Westinghouse wasn't even getting an HD feed! So, obviously their setup was rigged and was not a fair comparison. Now, I have no doubt that those other televisions were better, but there is no reason to not give a fair comparison. Not that it mattered, they did not have the television in stock so we went to Circuit City and got that Olevia anyway.

Also, I didn't see HDMI running to any of the televisions which also strikes me as odd. Of course, I couldn't see behind all the flat-screens, just one row. It's very possible the next row up (of 1080p televisions) were hooked up via HDMI.

[insertcleverthing]

My biggest concern is motion blur. That 120 mhz on the Sony i saw smoothed things out but i'm not paying a premium for that. For those with the Olevia mentioned in the OP, is there any motion blur?

Not on my Olevia, but it's slightly different than the one in the OP. I'm too lazy to look up the model number but it is a silver 1080i 32". I've seen HDTV's with bad motion blur before so I do know what you're talking about.

I own the Olevia Black 32" 16:9 8ms 720p LCD HDTV 232V. Overall I am satisfied with it. I paid $419 on Thanksgiving Day 2007 at K-Mart. It is my first HD TV that I use in my room. It beats the 20' inch wide screen PC monitor I was using for my next-gen console. Here is my feed back:

Cons (minor annoyances):
-uninspired remote--not responsive.
-Menu and interface is not refined.
-You must toggle thru all inputs and of course I'll skip the one I want and it's slow. (most annoying)
-Original firmware sucks (pre-2008) HDMI did NOT work with the 360. Dunno if they fixed it.
-Doesn't play nice (buggy) with my DVD recorder/player (Toshiba) over HDMI.
-Olevia's website and tech support sucks. They are so surly.
-Mother-friggin' blue LED is on when it's off. I think the new firmware fixed it.
Now that you mention it, mine has a few of these problems. The menu could use some work, and the input toggle is kinda slow. Also that blue LED can be rather bright if that sort of thing annoys you. I sleep about 15 feet away from mine and it doesn't bother me. I haven't experienced any HDMI issues or dealt with their website/customer service, so no comment there. Overall, I maintain that I am still very happy with my purchase - especially at the price point.

[MSUHitman]

Of the ones you list in your OP, definately get the Samsung. I have one of the models you list in another post that is similar (but discontinued) and the picture is wonderful for it's size/cost.

[shrike4242]

The 237T is the same as the 537H Olevia I've had for a year and a half. Great set for the price, and I've thrown all types of stuff at it and it looks great.

Two other CAGs have bought the 237T from my recommendation, and they haven't cursed my name over the purchases.

[SynGamer]

Just waiting for a good deal :(

[RelentlessRolento]

The 237T is the same as the 537H Olevia I've had for a year and a half. Great set for the price, and I've thrown all types of stuff at it and it looks great.

Two other CAGs have bought the 237T from my recommendation, and they haven't cursed my name over the purchases.

where's the cheapest I could get this?

[loca]

I don't know if it was just my luck, but when I bought a Olevia 32 inch the same model someone suggest 232V nothing was great about it. The cable box control non compatible, not to mention when i played guitar hero 3 the tv would skip or make some like jag either way it wasn't great. and no it was not my 360 because i checked on another tv. so if you want quality along with an okay price get a sharp.

[suko_32]

Never had any problem with GH3 (360) and my Olevia 32" TV.

[PINKO]

i got a sharp aquos 720p set for 600 even including tax at sears the weeekbefore chrismas a local store had the tv listed at 588.88 whet down to sears got it pm



and ive been happy person

[suko_32]

i got a sharp aquos 720p set for 600 even including tax at sears the weeekbefore chrismas a local store had the tv listed at 588.88 whet down to sears got it pm



and ive been happy person

How big is that TV?

[loca]

Never had any problem with GH3 (360) and my Olevia 32" TV.
Dunnoe, but it would always skip. What did you use? AV plugs or component blue, red, green?

[suko_32]

Dunnoe, but it would always skip. What did you use? AV plugs or component blue, red, green?

I'm using component cables and the X-Plorer guitar.

[SynGamer]

Well, instead of paying in $400 for taxes as i originally thought i would have to, i broke even and will be getting some money back actually. So my aim is now 37" and around $800 shipped.

[PINKO]

How big is that TV?


it is a 32 incher canty believe i forgot to included that info

[Zombie_X]

I picked up a CRT 32" 1080i HDTV from my dad for $300. The picture could be a bit sharper but hey, it's only 300. It has 2 Component video inputs, one DVI/HDMI, 2 Composite and one S-Video with one Fiber-Optic ports.

From what I've heard, this Samsung TV has been discontinued anlong with most other CRT HDTV's....

I mainly bought this for my 360/PS3 and the DVI port allows for HDMI-2-DVI cables to be plugged in so I'm all good with Hi def stuff.

[SynGamer]

I ended up placing an order for a refurb Samsung LNT3253H 32-Inch LCD HDTV here (http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-LNT3253H-32-Inch-LCD-HDTV/dp/tech-data/B000N50S3Q/ref=de_a_smtd?ie=UTF8&m=A2L77EE7U53NWQ). The reviews are good and if it arrives and doesn't work, i can call up support and they will fix it or replace it so either way i'm covered. There is no guarantee i'll get this, but it can't hurt to try.

[loca]

I'm using component cables and the X-Plorer guitar.
Same, but mine would skip. I ordered it form newegg too. Was a shame. i sold it though. either way ended up getting a nicer tv =].


I suggest these three.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Sharp-32-LCD-HDTV-LC-32SH12U/sem/rpsm/oid/189267/catOid/-12867/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Toshiba-32-LCD-HDTV-32AV500U/sem/rpsm/oid/206792/catOid/-12867/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Samsung-32-Series-3-LCD-HDTV-LN32A330/sem/rpsm/oid/206520/catOid/-12867/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

[SynGamer]

Right now, going off of what i saw last night at my local Sears, i like the Samsung's A LOT. I was going to get a Vizio but compared to the Samsung, the Vizio seemed a bit washed out. Not bad, just not as good. I'm still in between a 32" and 37". I really don't want to spend any more than $800 on this total, but i would regret buying a 32" for anything more than $600.

[von551]

also consider the toshiba regzas. they're better picture quality than the olevia and vizio, and i remember seeing the 37" 720p at costco for $699. the olevias are decent too, samsung will kill all them (including sony) in picture quality though, but you're going to have to get a smaller screen for the money. Fry's has the 32" sammy for $599 (B&M) , just so you know. they're usually right on par with online retailers as far as price. you can always consider a display model if you're looking in used, target gives 30% off displays and i'm sure most retailers do too. if you find one on clearance, you can walk out the door with a 37" olevia for $400. make sure you go for a 8ms response time or lower for gaming. i own a sammy and love it.

some good sites to check prices on are:
Vanns.com (http://vanns.com) (bought my tv through them on Amazon and great experience)
Techbargains.com (http://techbargains.com)
Ableshoppers.com (http://ableshoppers.com)
Slickdeals.net (http://slickdeals.net)

[funkflexmctough]

I recently got a Vizio 37" from Dell.com during a sale for $649 and I've seen the same set at Sams Club for the same price. Sams/Costco are great places to find tv deals. I highly recommend the Vizio even over 42" Sony's and 42" Samsungs that I use at work.

[SynGamer]

I'm really liking the following;

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-LN32A330J-32-inch-720p-HDTV/dp/tech-data/B001413D2G/ref=de_a_smtd

Just gotta wait for a price drop because $750 for a 32" is too much.

[TrueBlueLS]

Don't be a cheapskate when it comes to your TV. If you end up keeping the TV for at least 5 years, spend the money so you don't get a garbage set and buy into another TV again. $750 may not be the greatest price for that Samsung, but at least you know you'll have a quality TV. The sound from them I feel is a bit tinny, but what would you expect from a speaker in a small chassis?

[SynGamer]

Don't be a cheapskate when it comes to your TV. If you end up keeping the TV for at least 5 years, spend the money so you don't get a garbage set and buy into another TV again. $750 may not be the greatest price for that Samsung, but at least you know you'll have a quality TV. The sound from them I feel is a bit tinny, but what would you expect from a speaker in a small chassis?

Couldn't careless about sound, i have my stereo for that. My concern with the model i listed the post above yours is how it looks. The 8000:1 contrast and 6 ms response time sound great but i don't have a store near me that has one in stock to look at. I'm assuming since it's a samsung the picture quality is good so i don't know. I just don't want to spend more than $700 on a 32"...just doesn't sit right with me.

[TrueBlueLS]

Samsungs do have really good pictures. I wouldn't worry about the model you posted. I say just find a Toshiba Regza. You won't get the deal I got (37" for $699), but you should be able to get the 32HL67 for cheaper than the Samsung.

[SynGamer]

Samsungs do have really good pictures. I wouldn't worry about the model you posted. I say just find a Toshiba Regza. You won't get the deal I got (37" for $699), but you should be able to get the 32HL67 for cheaper than the Samsung.
Can't find the contrast ratio on the 32HL67 ANYWHERE :( But it does look nice and seems to be about $100-200 cheaper depending on where you get it.

[von551]

Can't find the contrast ratio on the 32HL67 ANYWHERE :( But it does look nice and seems to be about $100-200 cheaper depending on where you get it.

yeah, that's a great looking tv (sammy). too bad you don't have fry's out there, i know they're $599 for the 32" model. you're right about not spending more than $600 for a 32", anymore and you might as well get a 37". do you have a costco/sam's card? they have very cheap prices on toshiba regzas which are almost as good as the sammys. I was going to buy one until i decided to spend the extra money on a sammy. it'd be worth the $50 membership if you don't have one because they'll save you a few hundred bucks for sure. i know they have 37" regzas for $699 (B&M). The contrast ratio i've found for the 37HL67 is 722:1 (true tested ratio (http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2171790,00.asp)), contrast ratios are always inflated by manufacturer and tested in ways to make them seem higher, so don't be turned off by this number. Here's costco's online ad for one: Toshiba Regza 37" 720p (http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11278680&whse=BC&Ne=5000001+4000000&eCat=BC%7C79%7C2341%7C3316&N=4001382%204294908733%204294966821&Mo=0&pos=1&No=0&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ns=P_Price%7C1%7C%7CP_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&ec=BC-EC10605-Cat2341&topnav=)

[SynGamer]

Well, i've decided on THIS (http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-LN32A330J-32-inch-720p-HDTV/dp/B001413D2G/ref=dp_ob_title) one. The picture quality is great...just waiting for it to drop below $700 and i'll be willing to get it.

8000:1 dynamic contrast and a 6 ms response time should be great for gaming and action movies.

[thenockmlb]

Last July I got a 27" Olevia LCD HDTV for $330 shipped from Frys.com, haven't seen a better deal since then. I highly recommend an Olevia.

[SynGamer]

I'm actually eying a 32" Olevia for $499.99 at newegg. Just need to find a free shipping code.

[jmillion]

i got a sharp aquos 720p set for 600 even including tax at sears the weeekbefore chrismas a local store had the tv listed at 588.88 whet down to sears got it pm



and ive been happy person
i was waiting for someone to mention this sale also. i got mines right before black friday from best buy. loved it ever since. tv still goes for $999. i think its on sale now for $799.

but yea if your getting a tv. make sure u take into thought of how many ports u need like component, hdmi, vga, etc.

[SynGamer]

Yeah, since this is my first HDTV purchase, i will more than likely go cheap, as in $500 or less. I'll wait a few years to go big and fancy.

[bill123]

I would suggest the olevia then. It was my first hdtv and I loved it. The only reason I'm looking for a new one now is because mine was stolen. If you come across a free ship code for newegg I may very well buy another.

[hoofrog]

Kinda OT, but my wife just "authorized" me to buy a HDTV now that we have a new house. I just came back from BB and they have two open-box Panasonic 42" Viera Plasma for $799. For that price, I am entertaining getting both and the salesperson said he take $100 off each if I purchase them both. Anyone know how these are for gaming, as that will be my primary focus?

[SynGamer]

$699 for each 42" sounds like an amazing deal and it makes me further wish i had a BB, CC, or something here so i could get a deal like this :(

[joshnorm]

Kinda OT, but my wife just "authorized" me to buy a HDTV now that we have a new house. I just came back from BB and they have two open-box Panasonic 42" Viera Plasma for $799. For that price, I am entertaining getting both and the salesperson said he take $100 off each if I purchase them both. Anyone know how these are for gaming, as that will be my primary focus?

Open box TVs is a crap shoot from personal experience (bought two both had things wrong with them) I would honestly go with a Vizo (or two) as was stated earlier in the thread. They are outstanding and will be my next TV purchase (I have a Sony 42" 1080p right now)

[SynGamer]

Open box TVs is a crap shoot from personal experience (bought two both had things wrong with them) I would honestly go with a Vizo (or two) as was stated earlier in the thread. They are outstanding and will be my next TV purchase (I have a Sony 42" 1080p right now)

If he can buy an extended warranty for $100-ish for each TV, then he should be fine.

[hoofrog]

I personally have had great open box experiences with the things I have purchased in the past (tv and camcorder) so that really is not an issue. My concern is that the newer Viera models have a "game" mode, I am assuming to prevent lag issues between the console and the display and this model does not. I just want to make sure it will work flawless with my consoles.

[SynGamer]

I got the Samsung for $625 shipped.

[SynGamer]

Alright, now that the TV is ordered, i plan on using this with my 360...do i want to use the RGB cable/hookup that's already included with my 360? Should i use VGA? I'm not sure how to get HDMI with the non-HDMI 360 so that's out of the question.

[abudde]

If it's a 720p/1080i TV, you should use component. If it's 1080p, you can try VGA and mess with the color settings. I have a 1080p projector and I still have my 360 hooked up through component.

[raybert]

Where did you find it for $625?

[SynGamer]

Where did you find it for $625?

Jellyfish.com, it was on the daily show at 1pm EST and i was able to get it for $20.67% off. 32" 720p but it's a Samsung and has a 6 ms response time compared to the normal 8 ms.

[Dro]

Get A Vizio or Olevia if you just want a hdtv. If you want a average brand with better video quality than Vizio/Olevia, get a LG or Toshiba. If you want the best PQ get a Samsung or Sony

[SynGamer]

Um...i did get a Samsung...the 32A330 (32" 720p).

[von551]

Alright, now that the TV is ordered, i plan on using this with my 360...do i want to use the RGB cable/hookup that's already included with my 360? Should i use VGA? I'm not sure how to get HDMI with the non-HDMI 360 so that's out of the question.

i can tell you from experience that my sammy (LN-T4069FX) hates VGA. I bought the MS VGA cable this week and was all stoked. My picture sharpness went fuzzy (text) even though i messed with the fine and course settings on my tv. the blacks were now grey, even though i had my 360 adjusted to expanded. component looks way better, the colors are more vibrant, blacks more black and the whites are more white. just go with component. oh yeah, and the VGA made no difference in upscaling my SD DVD's (even using my HD-DVD player). Superbad looks unreal on my tv in SD because my tv upconverts it to 1080p already, so the VGA made no difference. some DVD's are just poor quality (Hero, LOTR II, etc.) while some look awesome (casino royale, superbad, LOTR III, etc.). HDMI is a non issue with the older 360's, if it doesn't start with HDMI, it isn't HDMI, converters won't do anything. enjoy your sammy, that's a good price...

[MSUHitman]

Alright, now that the TV is ordered, i plan on using this with my 360...do i want to use the RGB cable/hookup that's already included with my 360? Should i use VGA? I'm not sure how to get HDMI with the non-HDMI 360 so that's out of the question.

Mad Catz makes a HDMI converter for the older 360's without HDMI ports for $60. OXM gave it a pretty good review.

What is the max resolution of the TV? If it's 720P just go with the RGB component cables that came with the 360. HDMI doesn't become really important until it becomes a 1080p resolution issue or arranging connector issue.

[legend x360a]

Open box TVs is a crap shoot from personal experience (bought two both had things wrong with them) I would honestly go with a Vizo (or two) as was stated earlier in the thread. They are outstanding and will be my next TV purchase (I have a Sony 42" 1080p right now)

I totally agree. Open Boxes are good, only if you tack on a warranty which doesn't cheapen the deal that much. Vizio's are very nice tv's. A relative of mine bought one for his room and it is considerably good for the price. I have a 42" Sony LCD Rear Projection HDTV that I bought from Sony Outlets as a refurb. Very nice television for 600 dollars (bought Labor Day Weekend). :D

[SynGamer]

I'm going to get a 3 year warranty for $74.99 from SquareTrade unless someone suggests otherwise. I figure $25 a year isn't a bad investment.

*EDIT: and i've decided to go with the component cable my 360 came with. It's cheaper (free) and seems to offer the best picture quality.

[LeonSKennedy]

I'd go with the Vizio. You may even be able to get a 37' for less than $700 if you look around. If you're adamant about the $600-$700 criteria, than you'll have no trouble getting a 32' for under $600. When I first heard about the company, I was skeptical. However, they've all but put Philips out of business (I recently read that due to the success of Vizio and some of the other lower priced models of LCD TV's, that they no longer will make Philips LCD or Plasma TV's themselves- they're contracting a company from Japan to produce them instead), and every review I've ever read about their TV's say the same thing- the best TV you can buy for the money.

As you said, you're not a technofile, so this TV will be awesome for gaming and Blu-ray (if you have a PS3). I'm going to do the very same thing as you, though I'm currently thinking about buying a 46' or greater non-HD TV once there's no demand for them (at the end of this year or around the deadline for HDTV) instead.

It'll be amazing to go into a Best Buy or elsewhere and buy a 50' Projection TV for $400 or less (due to it not having a HDTV tuner). As of March, all of the retailers are supposed to carry HDTV tuner TV's, and if they don't, they have to notify the consumer about this. It's because of this that these TV's will continue to take up space while the HDTV tuner models fly off the shelf. The retailers will have no choice but to clearance them, and those of us willing to get a HDTV tuner box will reap the benefit.

[SynGamer]

Well, i ended up getting a 32" Samsung for $626 after taxes and shipping. 720p, 8000:1 contrast, and a 6 ms response time. I compared a Vizio and Samsung size-by-side at my local Sears and the Samsung looked much better. The picture was smoother, no motion blur from what i could tell, just overall better.

[SynGamer]

TV just arrived. Setting it up...stay tuned ;)

[NTolerance]

Mad Catz makes a HDMI converter for the older 360's without HDMI ports for $60. OXM gave it a pretty good review.

What is the max resolution of the TV? If it's 720P just go with the RGB component cables that came with the 360. HDMI doesn't become really important until it becomes a 1080p resolution issue or arranging connector issue.

Other than somehow only having HDMI ports available on your TV and not component (I've yet to see a TV like this), I'm not sure why anyone would want an HDMI converter. The main benefit of HDMI is a purely digital signal from your device to your TV. This Mad Catz converter must be taking the analog component output and converting it to HDMI, which sounds rather pointless to me.

Edit: I suppose this might allow some 360 users to get a 1080P signal to a TV that doesn't support 1080P over component, but I don't know of any content on the 360 that's in 1080P, so again, what's the point?

[SynGamer]

TV looks amazing! Still need to stop and get my HD DVR from TW but i plugged the 360 in and it looked great. PGR4 looks a bit washed out so that's either the game or the TV but it looks great either way.

Just bought a 3 year warranty from SquareTrade.com for $53. Used the coupon code FREEDOM40 if anyone is interested.