Don't know whether I should fix my tv or buy new?

Question

I have a 47 inch wide screen projection tv. It had red lines running through it and double images in red. I was told the convergence circuit is bad and when they replace it it needs to be reprogrammed. The cost it going to be between $450 to over $500. I paid $1,800 for the tv 5 years ago. Should I fix it or ditch it?

Answer 1

If your TV does not support HD, now would be the time to switch to a new one. Investing that much in an old NTSC unit doesn't seem wise. I'd look for a good new LCD flat panel.

But then it's not my money :-)

Answer 2

First off, is this a Philips/Magnavox unit? If so ditch it, not worth it in the long run.

If not, $450 is pretty high for a convergence repair. Most of my customers repairs are about $250-$370.

Paying $500 for a repair is nothing, if paid 1800 for a tv.

Lemme put it this way, its alot cheaper than buying a new TV.

Answer 3

5 year old CRT rear projection models have reached their average life span. It is up to you. I wouldn't spend the money unless it comes with some kind of a warranty (say a year). I would want to know that the person who was going to fix it would final-align it at your viewing location (so it is done right) if it needs tweeking to make it right.