[j24]

I'm looking to buy a small hdtv (considering any size up to 26'') to connect to my kids xbox 360 and dvd player. I have directtv but no hd channels and currently I'm not planning on upgrading. Small size is due to lack of space in the play room.
Should I go with 1080 or stick with 720? Price may also be a factor. Max budget around $500.
Any recommendation on brand?

Thanks

 

[Basil101]

Go with a 720p (progressive/non-interlaced) as they have clear, sharp images not that far of the 1080i. Panasonic, Sony, Sharp and LG all make nice 26 inch LCD tv's at this resolution.

EDIT; IMO the higher resolutions (1080i/1080p) are only really noticeable at 36 inches and above, and you would still need an HD source to differentiate.

 

[Homeless]

1080p is really only beneficial north of a 50" tv. Most 360 games are rendered at 720p so there isn't a need for 1080p if the set is really only going to be used for video games and standard def DVD's.

If it's just for the kids games room I have heard good things about westinghouse and vizio...and they should be cheaper than the Sonys, Toshibas, and Sharps...

 

[j24]

thanks for the help,

I was just reading about Vizio on Engadget.com. Looks like the prices are pretty good.

 

[Basil101]

Look up some reviews of any TV before you buy, some of the "unbranded" models, especially in the smaller screens sizes are using the same screens as the big names so a bargin can be yours if you look carefully.

 

[Joshatdot]

Consumer Reports: Best HDTVs - Nov 2007

According to their research, best 32" HDTV is a three-way tie

Sony Bravia KDL-32S3000, Price $1100, 78/100 Score
Panasonic TC-32LX700, Price $950, 78/100 Score
Samsung LN-T3242H, Price $900, 78/100 Score

They did not test anything under 32".

 

[450]

Used projector.

I play my 360 in 720p on a 150" screen.

Although I only play Halo 3 1-2 hours a week.

It is possible to get a projector around $500, even 1080i or 720p ones.

Consider a CRT projector if you don't mind the low lumen output and its awesome heavyness.

http://www.curtpalme.com/ (good stuff)
http://www.curtpalme.com/Sony125x.shtm (a good crt pj - a friend has one)

 

[Homeless]

Now that 1080p front projos are all the rage there are some great deals on 720p ones. That's even if you're considering one...

 

[450]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Homeless /img/forum/go_quote.gif Now that 1080p front projos are all the rage there are some great deals on 720p ones. That's even if you're considering one...

I got my 720p PJ two years ago with 0 hours on it for $550. (Yamaha LPX-500)

 

[soundsound]

I agree with 720 for that screen size, i actually opted for 720 on a 37" and I haven't once said to myself "should have bought the 1080... Besides, like mentioned earlier, the advantage is only realized given the content is available in 1080 - which is not yet widely used.

You post brings up another question I had, in terms of lag time with games in HD. I recently bought my hdtv only to find that I couldn't play Wii because there was noticeable lag. I don't believe this is an issue with 360 & PS3 so long as the resolution output matches the native resolution of the TV. Can anyone confirm/clarify this?

 

[OverlordXenu]

How big a TV has nothing to do with whether you should go with a higher resolution or not. It has everything to do with how close you will sit.

1080p Does Matter - Here's When (Screen Size vs. Viewing Distance vs. Resolution) » CarltonBale.com

 

[jp11801]

Quote:

Originally Posted by OverlordXenu /img/forum/go_quote.gif How big a TV has nothing to do with whether you should go with a higher resolution or not. It has everything to do with how close you will sit. 1080p Does Matter - Here's When (Screen Size vs. Viewing Distance vs. Resolution) » CarltonBale.com

well actually if you look at the chart the size of the screen in relation to how far you sit is meaningful.

 

[soundsound]

JP is right, seating distance determines screen size, screen size determines necessary resolution. But to say that size has nothing to do with resolution is flat wrong.

This is a question of value, and while the picture may be marginally better if you get 1080 on a 12" screen and sit 5" away from it...the value in doing so just isn't there.

General rule of thumb, go 1080 on 32"+ if you can afford it. Otherwise, don't go larger than 42" without it.

 

[Dr. Strangelove]

What you want is a FW900. One of the best screens you can get for the Xbox-360. Can even use it with your computer at the same time too.
Try to find one localy, if you cant, try ebay next.

Second to this would be a Sony XBR960, again local is best.

Then again, if your one of those "ololol only digitalz pls" then a Plasma would yield the best pq.

 

[Homeless]

Quote:

Originally Posted by soundsound /img/forum/go_quote.gif JP is right, seating distance determines screen size, screen size determines necessary resolution. But to say that size has nothing to do with resolution is flat wrong. This is a question of value, and while the picture may be marginally better if you get 1080 on a 12" screen and sit 5" away from it...the value in doing so just isn't there. General rule of thumb, go 1080 on 32"+ if you can afford it. Otherwise, don't go larger than 42" without it.

Most people say don't bother with 1080p below 50". I know if I was buying a 32" I would stick to 720 to save the money.