After reading the ConsumerReport March issue, i know some difference between the following HDTV.
LCD FLAT-PANEL HDTV
If you want a thin, light set with a small or midsized screen.
Common screen size: 23 to 45 inches.
Typical prices: $1,000 to $1,500 for a 26-inch widescreen HD-ready set; $1,200 to $2,000 for a similar 32-inch model; $2,000 to $2,500 for a 37-inch model.
LCD flat panels are the thinnest, lightest TVs available. Even the biggest weigh less than 50 pounds, half as much as a plasma TV, so they’re good for wall-mounting.
PLASMA HDTV
If you want a big, thin set.
Common screen sizes: 42 to 60 inches.
Typical prices: $2,500 to $3,000 for a 42-inch integrated HDTV, $3,500 to $4,500 for a 50-inch model.
These flat panels are thin and can be wall-mounted, but they’re not light-4-inchers weigh 100 pounds.
REAR-PROJECTION HDTV
If you want a big-screen TV that costs less than a plasma set.
Common screen sizes: 50 to 65 inches.
Typical prices: About $1,000 for a 51-inch CRT-based HD-ready set; $2,200 to $3,000 for a 50-inch LCD- or DLP-based HDTV; $5,000 to $6,000 for a 65-inch DLP-based HDTV.
Microdisplay projection sets using LCD, DLP, or LCoS technologh have stolen the spotlight from the older, CRT-based sets. Typically about 15 to 19 inches deep, microdisplays are slimmer than CRT-based models but much bulkier than plasma TVs.
FRONT PROJECTOR
If you want a giant screen and can deal with a potentially complex setup.
Common screen sizes: Screen, bought separately, typically 70 to 200 inches. Can use a wall instead. Projector has 9X12-inch or smaller footprint.
Typical prices: $1,100 and up for HD projector. Several Hundred dollars for screen.
A front projector comes closest to giving you a theater-like experience, with images up to 200 inches diagonally.
PICTURE-TUBE (CRT) HDTV
If you want a low-priced, midsized set, eventhough it’s bulky.
Common screen sizes: 26 to 36 inches.
Typical prices: About $800 for a 32-inch 4:3 HD-ready set; $1,200 for a similar 34-inch 16:9 set.
Although there are fewer new tube TVs, they’re still worth considering. The best display top picture quality, with excellent detail, color, and contrast, and they have an unlimited viewing angle. Proven long-term reliability of picture-tube technology is another plus. But maximum screen size is limited to 36 inches, and larger sets weigh up to 200 pounds and measure 2 feet deep.
