32" LCD TV...owner feedback needed.

[97tbird]

Guys,

I'm thinking of finally getting a new 32" LCD TV when prices go down this Thanksgiving / Xmas time. will probably buy online, but want to see the TV that i buy "live" in action at a store before that...hopefully I will be able to grab one within $700-800 when they're down in prices.
the TV will be mainly used for dvd watching, at least for the next 2-3 yrs. (don't have cable or any of the sort, just an over the air antenna)
I only have a SD pioneer dv393 dvd player right now (480i/480p), it's a great budget player, but might upgrade to a better one in 1-2 yrs.
but having watched 480i on a flat tube 20" with black bands on top& bottom, i guess I will be happy with the upgrade

i don't mind getting an older close out model, ala the cabinet is all black. (preferably)

those who already have 32" or any other size LCD TVs:
If you guys can answer the following, that would be great!

1) what brand? where bought? price?
2) are you satisfied with the pic quality?
3) durability? (how long have you owned it?)
4) issues?problems? if yes, which? and how did you resolve them?
5) any other tips?
6) what shall i look for? (types of tuners/connectivity for future)

right now I'm leaning towards Samsung or Toshiba (own a Toshiba tube and it's GREAT!), with Panasonic also in the running a bit. (NOT looking for Sony or JVC)

Thanks a lot in advance!

 

[buster]

I just bought a Samsung 40" from Tweeter. Awesome TV. Sony's are the best LCD's but Samsung's are the best value IMHO. I've always been a sony fan but Samsung has really done their homework. I know quite a few electronic geeks that swear by Samsung. I'm happy with it. If I had the money I'd buy a Pioneer Elite plasma.

When looking for a LCD, make sure you get one with a good contrast ratio. Mine is 15,000:1. LCD's have improved over the last few years. I was originally going to get a DLP, which is a projection but the LCD's don't have angle viewing problems. They all have issues in some way. Plasma's used to have burn in problems and longevity was always an issue. I think Plasma's have the best picture but they are also a lot more money.

Oh and don't worry about getting one with 1080P. Mine is 720P which is all that Comcast supports anyway. 1080P will work with Blue Ray though but the gains are marginal at best.

 

[JustinH]

costco dot com has some great prices on LCD TV's.

I was reading that the LCD's look better in areas that get some light into the room.

So unless your TV is in a dark room, or you have a movie theater in your house, then a LCD will work better for you than a plasma.