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Bigger is Better...

Hi guys,
Well it may not be better, but it's certainly more impressive. Orginally I was going to go with the Panny 32" LCD, but it turns out (from some furniture movement) that I have more than enough room, in my bedroom, for a 42" plasma. Here's where I'm at now, in my mini bedroom system:
-purchased used NAD 320 integrated
-Definitive Technology BP7006 speakers on the way-
-newest Bravo, on the way, as well-
What is the 42" plasma to own. $$ are not a factor if the set delivers. I'm looking for a September purchase. Enough time, then, to do my homework, and hopefully fall into a good price. Also, with all the plasma specs, I do not understand the contrast ratio number. What should I be looking for? Thanks in advance.

peace,
warren
128x128warrenh
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,691 posts
 
After my deliberations and investigations, I ended up with the Fujitsu 50", in part because of the contrast ratio which is, I believe, analogous to dynamic range in audio: the range from darkest to brightest. This 50" uses Panasonic glass, which is where the contrast ratio comes from, so Panasonic (and JVC and others) share that feature coupled with their specific electronics. Overall, the Fujitsu had the best picture (for me) and is generally regarded as the favorite.

In 42"s, it might be the same but you might go to www.avsforum.com for an informed and lively(!) discussion.
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
There seems to be a consensus that Panasonic is the standard to beat. I would pay at least as much attention to the rear of the unit as to the picture. DVI is good. So are just about as many other inputs as possible as you never know what you might want to hook into it. Cumputer, Playstation, component, composite, etc.

Believe me, once you have it in place you will even want to use it's monitor capabilities when you log onto Audiogon.
edesilva
768 posts
 
I think the Fujitsus and Pannys both get quite high marks for PQ--definitely second the recommendation regarding the "golden eyes" of the AVSForum and their discussions. I won't buy anything video related w/o their blessing...

After looking a bit, I ended up buying a 42" Panny commercial EDTV, not the HDTV version. From my viewing distance (9'), the HD v. ED was not noticeable. The 42" commercial is a good deal, and an amazing box. I had been waiting for the 1080p DLPs to show up and this was just to tide me over, but I'm now thinking I'm not going to bother changing anytime soon. Its *that* good.
lej1447
117 posts
 
Since you are looking for 42", I recommend the Panasonic. The current model has contrast ratio of 4000:1. My last year model has 3000:1. Panasonic makes it own glass and for others. If I recall correctly, this is the 6th generation of Panny making plasma. It could be 7th by now. Besides avsforum, you can visit PlasmaTVBuyingGuide.com for plasma TV buying guide. I got all my info from such website when plasma was in its infancy as avsforum did not have much info then.
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