20 replies to this topic

[sandt38]

Dem, did you get the TV yet?

Here are a couple thoughts.

Let's discuss motion blur:

Since motion blur is an issue, you really want to look at plasma. LCDs were built for single still images (which is why they don't suffer from image burn), and therefore that is what they produce... single still images. This is why motion blur is an issue for them. In order to be used for a moving picture they have to "refresh" their image, or they need to put a new image up on the screen. Hence the term "refresh rate". Now, why did we never have to worry about refresh rates with CRTs? CRTs were developed for moving pictures, and used phosphor, an ever changing, ever moving substance, which sustains the glow after being excited for a period of time. So there is no hesitation between frames. Plasmas perform similarly, using phosphor as well. While LCDs were not designed for motion picture, plasma was. So the reason we don't see refresh rate listings on plasmas, is because they don't need to refresh, they are an ever changing picture.

Now, phosphor is the element that causes "burn in" so long pause times can create issues just like CRTs. BUT!!! CRT is less likely to burn in then plasmas. However, today's plasma manufacturers realize this is an issue, so they have inputted certain protection devices like pixel shift, etc. that help to reduce burn in.

Let's discuss in room lighting:

LCDs are far more forgiving in bright light situations. Plasmas require glass screens, and of course glass reflects light. LCDs are capable of functioning through a diffuser, so the surface is not as reflective. Plasmas do require a more controlled lighting situation.

Finally, let's discuss our resolution:

While a high resolution is desirable, in many cases they really are not necessary. For smaller TVs (I would say up to about 42-45 inch) 720 is perfectly fine. My son has a 40 inch 720 in his room, and there is no issue with PQ. Now, if you go into the family room, with the 50 inch TV, 1080 is really pretty much a requirement. low definition is not a pleasant experience at all on such a big TV.

So I would suggest you base the resolution on the screen size.

Personally I like my plasma better on games (and film for that matter), then my son's LCD. The differences are subtle, and going from one room to the next it is not as apparent to a layperson, but sitting next to each other the plasma is significantly better in every aspect, aside from background lighting. I notice the difference, but I am not sure most people would, really.