Want: HDTV.

[Chrono72090]

I'm looking to buy and HDTV, but I'm not really sure what my options and are and what I'm looking for.

Do I need Widescreen?

Do I need HDMI input?

Also, I want to spend under 600.

I was looking at the insignia's at bestbuy:

A 27" non widescreen for 400.

A 30" widescreen for 550.

Recommendations?

[R1V3R5]

Do I need Widescreen?



Well, all HD formats (720p, 1080i, 1080p) are widescreen formats. So, you should really invest in a widescreen television.

[gofishn]

Go with a widescreen.

HDMI is nice but DVI will do as well.

I'd stay away from Insignia.

I've heard mixed reviews about the Philips refurbs for $330 or so. Some people have had no issues at all while others have had nothing but problems. They may be worth looking into. A CRT HDTV is probably the best bang for your buck, but Sceptre 26" LCD's (widescreen) can be had for around $500 these days.

[doubledown]

Check out the 26" HP-2600N from www.jr.com

The TV is around $800, but it has built in HD, every input possible....I have one and I use it as a PC Monitor and Second TV (w/CableCARD)

[Genocidal]

I'm sure you've already noticed this, but because of how TVs are measured, a a non-widescreen will look "bigger" than a widescreen (which you should buy if you're going HD) TV of the same size. Make sure that you aren't just impressed by a size number, but that the TV you're buying will be big enough for its intended use.

[Chrono72090]

Well, my current TV is like 22in, so anything will be fine.

Where can I find refurbs?

[gofishn]

Run a search on here for the Philips Outlet, theres been a thread thats been around forever but they are still selling them.

[Chrono72090]

http://www.outlet.philips.com/b2c_redesign/catalog/categorieInPath.do?page=first&key=0/4190799E9A6F008D00000000828BD472/41907ABB9A6F008D00000000828BD472&shop=OUTLET

there's the link.

Now, which would you guys recommend? =D

[gofishn]

Well, if you don't need an ATSC/QAM tuner i.e. you're just going to get an HD set top box from your cable company I'd go with either the first one or the fourth one since they are cheap and both have HDMI which is nice. On the other hand, if you don't plan on getting an HD box from your cable company, the second and third ones both have integrated ATSC/QAM tuners, meaning you can either hook up a regular antenna and get over the air HD signals, or you can just plug it into your regular cable TV line and pick up any unencrypted HD signals (usually only the local channels).

Be careful when ordering from them though. Read through the thread because like I said, some people have had no issues, while others have had nothing but problems. Aside from that, its probably the best deal you'll find on one.

[ajh2298]

Stay away from the 8402 get the 8420 the 8402 has alot more problems.

[JasonTerminator]

I second the recommendation for the HP-2600N. I have one from JR.com as well, and it's extremely nice for that price (It usually goes for $1100 or so.). Plus, it has DVI and HDMI, so you have two digital inputs to choose from, as well as two component inputs.