Big screen Plasma or LCD?

Question

I am looking to build my home theater system, what is the best TV, cost, quality, life, etc? I wish to connect a computor to it for surfing the internet, playing games, listening to music etc. I will also use a game-cube and x-box as well and of course watch movies. What is the minimum critera needed to do all this and get the best video and audio I can get (with in reason of course i dont have unlimited funds I was thinking nothing more that $3-4000)

Answer 1

Does it have to be a flat screen? Because the most bang for your buck lies in DLP rear prjection. You can get a 50" DLP for a lot less than a 42" plasma and A LOT less than a 42" LCD. Picture quality is arguably better than either plasma or LCD and the only factor is bulb life.

Answer 2

I have been researching both LCD's and plasmas for my own home theater... and I have come to the conclusion that both have pro's and con's depending on how you will use them. Considering what you listed your TV would be used for, I think that you should really consider an LCD because of the risk a plasma has for burn-in. From my research, most people recommend that you do not purchase a plasma for computer use since a plasma needs continuous motion and changing scenes. Also, you should consider your altitude which is another major factor...

Hopefully, the following site will help you choose which TV will best serve your needs... it helped me. Good luck!
http://www.lcdtvbuyingguide.com/lcdtv-plasmavslcd.shtml

Answer 3

For video game use, plasma may present burn-in problems, although the newer sets are reported to be more immune. On the other hand, LCD response times make fast-moving images with sharp edges look soft; but again, there has been a great improvement in that area. I would recommend the Sony SXRD: no burn-in and very fast response time, very bright and good contrast and full REAL 1080p resolution (not yet obtainable in plasmas).

Answer 4

liquid crystal demonstrate, because they have better lifespan, plasma does not very last as lengthy, and plasma images degrade after a short era of time. they have alot slower reaction time, and the images arn't as sharp as an liquid crystal demonstrate demonstrate. After awhile the gases that plasma demonstrate makes use of escapes and the television stops operating after awhile. The makers are easily engaged on that at present. i recognize this because i develop into in that capture 22 difficulty a month in the past and researched all of it. I went with and liquid crystal demonstrate and that i'm very pleased. Plasmas might want to be more effective yet for high quality, photo, and sound I say plasma.

Answer 5

PLASMA is made for movies, therefore it has better picture quality.
Picture in LCD's are still inferior to plasma screens. Ex: Pictures acre crisper, more defined and better viewing angles. Also, no dead pixels.

If you are looking for durability for your needs and the activities you've listed, go for the LCD. Static screens such as PC wallpapers, and X BOX backgrounds will not burn in with an LCD screen. Although burn-ins on plasmas are rare (static screen for 6-plus hours) it is still possible.

In short, Plasma = Picture Quality ; LCD = durability, functionality.

I have a Pioneer 43 inch Plasma, and I use it to watch DVD's, Hi-Def TV & I also play my XBOX 360 on it. I have NO complaints whatsoever. I am very very happy with it. I have not tried hooking up my laptop on it, but maybe one day.

If you are going to buy plasma, buy Pioneer. If LCD, then buy Sharp Aquos. Those are the 2 leaders in their fields, respectively. Might as well buy the best brand if you are going to invest that much money.

Answer 6

lcd for your application...plasma screens are a definite no because of the burn-in issues (they are not recommended for video games or use as a computer monitor) ...be sure to get an lcd tv with a fast response time and high contrast ratios (for your gaming)
samsung or sony are very good

Answer 7

Plasma:
Pros - gets better picture quality
Cons - more expensive, heavier, generate more heat, tends to break easily if you move them

LCD:
Pros - cheaper for larger screen size
Cons - picture quality is not as good, but you can make up for it by subscribe to HDTV

We bought a Sharp 37" LCD from J&R Electronics a year ago for about $2200. It is rated as one of the best value by Consumer Reports. Sony also produces good LCD, but more costly.

Answer 8

LCD.....Plasma Dries Up In 7 Years And No Good After That...

Answer 9

I have a 42" plasma screen & it's great. It cost us £1500 last year but the prices have really come down since.

I put my laptop through it & go in E-Bay in large screen which is cool & then my hubby plays cricket on his playstation with it (along with many other games).

As for drying up after 7 years - mine came with ten years warranty so go figure.....

Good luck with your purchase :-)

Answer 10

LCD - plasma too hot