I own a 26" Panasonic Viera LCD HDTV which has a contrast ratio of 3000:1. It has 720p hd capability. I love the TV, picture is gorgeous, absolutely perfect, but its only 26" and I'm moving into an apartment. I am afraid it is going to be too small for the living room. Therefore, I am planning on trying to sell this and buy a 37"; I cannot get too pricey though. So a tv I'm looking at, Olevia, has a contrast ratio of 1600:1. I did a lot of research before when I bought the panasonic, I'm okay with everything else about the TV, it also has 720p hd capability. While I know what contrast ratio actually is, I do not know how significant it is. Could anyone with a lot of knowledge on the topic let me know if 1600:1 vs. 3000:1 is a significant difference? I obviously want to still have a great picture, but I really want to upgrade to a 37". I know the picture won't be quite as good, but that's okay. I just want to know if I'll clearly see a difference and be upset. Thanks!
2007-08-21 12:06:22 · 2 answers · asked by Jon 2 in Consumer Electronics ➔ TVs
Contrast ratio is one of the more dubious ratings in most TV specs. It's probably as much marketing as anything. Just what ambient conditions are they talking about -- total darkness?
I'd say the only way to judge is to go to a good TV showroom and evaluate the TV picture under conditions similar to how you'll view it. Look for good deep blacks and a very wide viewing angle. If the picture looks noticeably different as you walk around or sit down and stand up, you probably don't want it.
Actually, my recommendation would be to live with your current TV, since you're quite happy with it other than the display size. Prices will only be dropping over the next year or so. Hold out and you'll get more for your money when you buy a new one.
2007-08-21 13:57:34 · answer #1 · answered by link 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
3,000:1 is DYNAMIC contrast (takes into account backlight changes)
1,600:1 is true contrast
So, 3,000:1 dynamic contrast in effect is about 600-700:1 true contrast.
Your panel has probably a slow response time (12-15 ms?) new panels have a 6-8 ms response time.
2007-08-21 12:35:49 · answer #2 · answered by TV guy 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋