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DLP vs Plasma/LCD

I was just about ready to plunk down $4k for a Panasonic 42" plasma. I was at my brother's tonight watching the Olympics on his 42" Pioneer plasma (HD transmission,) when he tells me that I should go with a DLP for my bedroom, rather than the plasma. He claims the picture is much better and they cost less. I wasn't even considering a DLP because I didn't think it would fit in my bedroom. (being to deep) He says they make some, now, that are only a few inches deeper/wider than a plasma. Any takers? Is the DLP the way to go? If so, can anyone recommend one with killer picture quality, and relatively thin? thanks in advance. warren
128x128warrenh
warrenh's avatar
warrenh OP
2,299 posts
 
LCD (flat panel)is less expensive than plasma? Are there any 42" LCDs out there? If so; how much?
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,685 posts
 
Here's my 2cents about the relative drawbacks:

1. DirectView CRT or RP, of any sort, are too bulky and get the way of the audio.

2. Large screen LCD (>42") is too expensive.

3. FP requires the room to be dimmed for even casual viewing.

4. Plasma is expensive and has a limited life (although I am not concerned about leakage). However, the life span with my general usage pattern will excede my needs and the unit will be obsolete before it fails (a statistical projection, not a guarantee).

Went with the plasma. Very happy audiophile.

Kal
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warrenh OP
2,299 posts
 
Kal, after reading the disparity of opinions and doing the avsforum route, I've come to your conclusion, as well. Especially considering my limited viewing pattern related to plasma screen life span. Now which 42" plasma? From an earlier post, serveral months ago, it seems that the Panny HD (forgot the model number) was a popular contender. I'm right back where I started, but I do appreciate the feedback. peace, warren
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kr4
3,685 posts
 
The 42" commercial Panasonic seems the consensus favorite of the AVSforum denizens. However, Sony, NEC, Hitachi and Pioneer have growing support. The problem is that there is no easy way to see any of them set up optimally and certainly no easy way to see all of them set up optimally in the same place with the same lighting conditions as at home.

I went with the 50" Fujitsu.

Kal
jer
47 posts
 
I am surprised no one has mentioned that a DLP TV will require replacement lamps costing $250 to $400. The life expectancy of these bulbs is estimated between 1000-5000 hours, so you may be replacing these every or every other year. There is also forum discussion of early burnout of the original bulbs after the purchase. The price for the bulbs may come down, but there will be an ongoing expense beyond the initial purchase. I am glad I do not need to replace a TV right now (knock on wood) as it would probably be a DLP considering the cost vs. value of the different formats.
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