LCD TV - Are they reliable ?

I have to defend DLP. I have Samsung 42" DLP since 2001/2002 and had to replace bulb ($200) only once (rated 8k hours) running TV practically 6-7 hrs everyday. Bulbs are cheaper now. It has matte screen (while plasma is very shiny) that does not burn-in (plasma does). It does not loose contrast/brightness over time (plasma does) and practically runs forever (color wheel is replaceable). Plasma is rated about 50k hours - it means brightness will drop to 50%. This rating assumes constant operation - it gets worse when turned on and off every day. Plasma damage with age shows as bursting plasma cells - black spots/stains. My TV consumes a little more than the bulb itself (150W) while plasma gets closer to 300W. I don't want to be too critical but just to show that no technology is perfect.

Can anyone please confirm that there should be no major worries purchasing the latest generation, direct view LCD TVs? Or comment please whether plasmas enjoy any edge in reliability to the latest generation, direct view LCD TVs?

I recently bought a 40" Sony 1080p LCD screen and for general use, it works great -- particularly in our room which can be very bright and sunny.

I therefore recommneded one to my parents when they asked me if they should replace their gigantic old CRT TV with no HD.

It seems they then deferred to their local "custom" install guy where they live, as they explained:

* He recommended a plasma TV, not an LCD, because "LCD TVs burn out quickly, requiring a new "bulb" which costs $400.00"

* He also explained that it is no longer true that plasmas are best suited to a controlled light room, because for the "last few years" plasmas have had "anti glare" screens.

I tried to explain to my parents that I had nothing to gain from their buying a Sony LCD TV at Costco, and that no offense, but maybe their trusty local guy might try to make as much money as possible?

No good deed goes unpunished.

I, too, have to defend the DLP technology. I also have a 37" LCD (Samsung. My DLP is a Mits. (57"). After getting Mits to rebate/refund $900 for my 5 yr pld RP that could not be fixed because part is not longer available, the net to me for the 57" DLP was $1012 and this was with a 5 yr extended warranty.

Of all the brands and technologies we sell, we've have had less issues with plasmas over the years. I have nothing against LCD's personally, I'm just trying to give you a real life report from someone who is in the industry selling them.

A good source of information can be found over at www.avsforum.com on the various technologies.

As good as the Samsungs are, I'll be honest with you. I would say the failure rate in the first year is 3 out of 10. Compare that to the Panasonic and Pioneers, which have had 0 issues the last year.

I've got a 1080p 50" Panasonic plasma that looks incredible (and I've got it in a very bright room), has black levels that LCD probably can't touch, and cost me less than $1500. To back up what Ttowntony said I've had the set for 6 months under heavy use and haven't had problem one despite power outages, brownouts, etc., and this with the TV plugged directly into the wall. Plus I don't have to worry about burnt out bulbs. With all this, I can't imagine why I'd choose LCD at this point.

Best of luck.