Is it worth it to buy a 1080p television?

Question

I'm looking at new tv's, the new sony xsrd's have the highest resolution 1080p, do you think it's worth the extra $1000?

Answer 1

Only if the TV is larger than 40". At larger sizes, the improvement in pciture realism and lower visibility of pixels is clear. This assumes you are viewing from the recommended viewing distance: the width of the screen should subtend a 30 deg angle from your eyes. For a 60" widescreen format, that is 6-7 feet. If you sit farther, the no of pixels becomes less important. You are unlikely to sit close enough to a smaller screen to see the difference.

Since the smallest SXRD is 50", it is definitely worth the difference; there are other advantages to the SXRD, and I think it has the best picture available in a rear projector today.

Answer 2

Yes. The only true 1080p TV, though, is not made by Sony. The SXRD is a great TV. One of the highest rated on the market. But Pioneer's plasma monitors will give you the best possible resolution out. The SXRD runs for about $3,400 right now, and it is definitely better than most other projection TV's right now. The Pioneer will give you a better picture though--hands down. However, you will pay anywhere from $3,500 for a 42" and $9,500 for a 60". Think about what you are going to hook up to the TV and where you are putting it. Those things really come into play when deciding what kind of TV you should get.

Answer 3

This is really subjective. I'm sitting here watching Numb3rs (1080i) in HD on my 42" plasma which is not full HD resolution (1024 x 768). And the picture is darn fine.

I suggest that you personally go and look at the TV side by side next to other TVs that do not support 1080p. Look at broadcast 1080i signals on both sets. Watch Blu-ray HD disc (1080p output) on both TVs side-by-side. Then make your own personal decision about what you like and do not like and decide personally whether it is worth the $1000. It could be that the savings of $1000 on the TV will buy you that new Blu-ray disc player.