32 Inch LCD TV

32 INCH LCD TV

LG, Samsung, Sony, Sharp, and more

 

September 2010
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  • lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p futurama

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p futurama

     

    Picture quality is amazing. 

    Compared to the old XBr6 and old samsung, the picture quality is better, brighter, and crisper.  

    Maybe a conection is wrong (using comcast), but certain chanels look granny. Looking at the store, with the new 32XBR9 and the old 32XBR6, the Sonys looked excellent. Yet, the LG looked just as good if not better. 

    On the LG web site, it shows an 80,000:1 dynamic ratio with a 2.7ms response time. That is very classy territory. 

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p front photo windows 7

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p front photo windows 7

     

    There seems to be an audio sync issue with my LG 32LH40.

    The HDMI input with my Comcast DVR (Scientific Atlanta) looks to be the problem. Comcast does not have a problem on another 32 inch television in the house when connected to the same DVR.

    Using component inputs between the DVR and the LG, the audio sync problem disappears. On HDMI, the problem returns. (And yes, I use an HDMI 1.3 compatible cable.) Also, over-the-air HDMI stations sync perfectly.

     

     

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p front photo nba video game

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p front photo nba video game

    I got a Samsung B610, which is the “stripped down” version of the B650.

    After having the B610 for 2 weeks, I’m very happy so far. Picture quality is better than the LG and I enjoy the adjustable dejudder processing. You can reduce the smoothing effect while preserving anti-blurring properties of the 120Hz refresh rate. The LG 32LH40 does not let you separate these functions.

    However, the LG has more picture tweaking features. Video options seemed endless. The Picture quality needs calibration. Other than the audio sync issue, this is a good deal for a decent TV. However, for a few extra bucks you might get more peace of mind with the Samsung.

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p back photo

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p back photo

    I may have discovered a fix for the sync.

    Check the firmware version via the “secret” menu. There is a lip sync adjustment that completely fixed the issue!! My set is a 32LH40-UA and this is what I did.

    1) press and hold the menu button on the side of the TV then press and hold the menu button on the remote until the display says “Enter Password”

    2) enter four zeros from the remote control to get past the password screen (you should now see an “IN START” menu with all kinds of information listed)

    4) look at the lower left corner where there should be a numbered menu — menu option 4 should say “System”

    5) use the down arrow until the word “System” is highlighted (pressing the number ’4′ will not take you down the menu) and press the enter key (you should now be on the System menu near the middle of the screen)

    6) press the down arrow to option 9 “Lip Sync Adjust” and then press the left arrow to adjust the value to zero (mine was set to 20 from the factory)

    7) press the return key to get out of the menu and bingo, you’re done!

    My software version (top left corner of the “IN START” screen) shows V04.05.00 so I have no idea if this lip sync adjustment exists on older versions or on other model televisions. After adjusteing the setting one more increment past 0 to the maximum setting… wow was the audio was out of sync! The factory setting of 20 drove me crazy but, it could’ve been much worse…

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p side photo

    lg 32lh40 32 inch lcd tv 1080p side photo

    I’m really happy to have found this setting because the set is very nice and I didn’t want to return or repair it!!! :)  
     

    Popularity: 47%

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  • VIZIO 32-Inch Class XVT Series Full 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV, SV320XVT

    VIZIO 32-Inch Class XVT Series Full 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV, SV320XVT

    Yamaha Receiver

    Yamaha Receiver

    My TV Goals.

    This was to be a secondary TV. It shouldn’t dominate the room, so it was exciting to see the “slim-ness” of this Vizio SV320XVT with its small bezel around the screen. It is light, so it can be easily moved and wall mounted.

    Picture Quality.

    This Vizio has great picture quality. It’s better than our 3 year old Phillips LCD. It matches the picture quality of our 2 month old 52 inch Sony Bravia. BLU-RAY and TiVo HD (w/ HD CableCARD) are wonderful with rich colors and a sharp picture.

    Smooth Motion (120Hz) creates a “Soap Opera Effect” but can be disabled in the setup menu. There are many video settings in the menus, so it really lets you get the picture the way you want.

    Sound.

    There is good sound quality. It is not 5.1 surround sound, home theater level. But, you have plenty of options to adjust the audio.

    The receiver for my Vizio is a Yamaha HTR-5930SL 5.1-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver, Silver. It produces amazing sound that really makes watching TV more enjoyable.

    Other Features.

    This TV is built well. It feels solid, with a slim design. The remote is good and looks attractive. The channel and volume buttons are backlit, which is nice in a dark room. The inputs in the rear are well-configured, with color used for visual cues.

    Issues.

    The only issue is the menu system and the button layout on the remote control.

    The setup menu is difficult to navigate. Some important settings are buried deep in submenu after submenu.

    The input menu has no option to “skip” or “not display” unused inputs. This is an issue when only 2 devices are connected. Yet, you are forced to click through 8 inputs to get to the desired device.

    Overall.

    This Vizio SV320XVT is a great TV. It is my first VIZIO product. It is a solid recommendation for anyone looking at a 32-inch LCD HDTV.

    Popularity: 20%

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  • Sony BRAVIA XBR KDL-32XBR9 32-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV

    Sony BRAVIA XBR KDL-32XBR9 32-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV

    Picture.

    On this Sony KDL-32XBR9, blacks are really black! When you turn it on, the Bravia logo displays on a black background. It’s as black as when the TV is off! Some think edge LED lighting makes the blacks truer with less bleeding from the backlight. Yet, this TV excels in this aspect.

    Settings.

    Colors and settings are great out of the box for a few styles. You need to adjust, like any TV, for the rest. When you change inputs, the TV remembers the settings for that input. You never have to re-adjust settings unless you plug-in differently!

    Features.

    Motionflow frame interpolation technology has to been seen to be believed! 120HZ with motionflow is amazing for bluray and other high-definition sources. It is superior to the XBR6. For those who prefer the lifelike “soap-opera” look (like myself), the Pirates movies look stunning with it!.

    You can adjust motionflow to make it more subtle (the default) or turn it off. It is basically used to combat blurriness and the staggering “judder” effect inherent with LCDs. It adds one or more frames between frames of your source (adds entirely NEW frames which were never there), through the TV’s processor. Amazing technology, isn’t it?

    Look at it in person to see what it’s like. Samsung’s 32-inch touch of color (TOC) has more motion artifacts (e.g. grabbing parts of the audience behind a fast-moving player in a sports event and dragging them along for the ride).

    Gaming.

    Motion becomes very important with game mode on. Motionflow turns off most processing. This means almost NO LAG.

    I am a demanding gamer who is very sensitive and complains about little things like how a joystick performs. There is still a little lag but game mode makes fast games like Smash Bros and shooters play like a CRT.

    Losing motionflow in game mode might seem bad, but it’s a small difference for something like the 480p Wii. Wii games with anti-aliasing (e.g. Metroid Prime 3) still look AWESOME! The PS3 is AMAZING with or without motionflow!

    Sound.

    Sound is tinny! That is probably due to the small speakers.

    Issues.

    There is no headphone jack. To get around this, I use a mixer with a control-room out.

    Autodim is annoying. This is most bothersome when the room is VERY dark. You cannot turn it off. NOTE: Sony released a firmware update to make menu navigation easier to navigate (faster?) and FIXES THE AUTODIM PROBLEM!

    Inputs.

    There are many inputs including side ones. For the clever, use the cord-management strap to clean up side-cords. For a thick Monster cable, it does not bend that easily so do what you can to hide it. Thinner cables that bend should be easier to hide.

    Cables.

    You get the same quality from a $5 HDMI cable as a $200 one since they are both digital. A cheap thin cable should solve the side cable-view problem. If you want a more durable cable, just be aware it will be harder to bend and hide.

    HD.

    As a relatively high-end HDTV, it’s designed to view HD content via HDMI cables. So, over half its inputs are HDMI. For composite or component users, Sony is not catering to you.

    You can get a splitter/switcher. Or, just upgrade your cables to HDMI. Remember, no matter how crappy the HDMI cable, there is NO signal loss.

    Comparisons.

    Numbers across manufacturers ARE NOT EQUIVALENT. Comparing Lg to Sony to Samsung is not ideal. It’s like comparing horsepower in cars–measuring at the flywheel or tire gives VERY different numbers and misleads customers. View it yourself on a calibrated screen with the same source. This Sony LCD has more than enough contrast and is an improvement over last year’s model.

    Is It A Deal?

    Having had no problems and an amazing picture, this Sony KDL-32XBR9 is an easy recommendation.

    Popularity: 44%

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  • Claim.

    I was always under the inpression that SONY did not produce their own components rather they designed a product based on the best available components and then marketed it. Theoretically giving you the best product available. I may be wrong but that was my perception. I am not to sure of the story with Panansonic but back in the late ’80s and early 90s when I worked in retail selling sound systems and hi-fi they were considered the best for the price at the higher end of the scale in regards to their TV (I have 2 from that period, to date both work perfectly) and Technics all I say is SL1210s.

    How It Really Works.

    Vizio is Amtran electronics, which is a greybox provider, which is basically they make electronics for companies on contract, but this is typically your 2nd and 3rd tier manufactures, such as Symphonic, Insignia, Westinghouse, etc. Not major manufactures. The misconception came from the fact that Amtran has a factory they share with LG, and they have teamed together in some other joint ventures but that does not mean they are the same product.

    Using the logic that most people use, Samsung and Sony are the exact same, since they share factories. In fact so is LG Philips or for a while, Toshiba and Panasonic. Sharing factories is common nowadays because they cost billions and years to create these TV technologies.

    Is Vizio the Answer?

    Anyhow, I would say no to Vizio due to their warranty practices. If it’s out of warranty or you don’t have the box you are basically out-of-options with them. It’s up to you to get it to them, (around $100 shipping for a large set) they have the right to deny service if it’s not in the original box and the flat rate on large sets is $1100. You might as well buy something new.

    Popularity: unranked

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  • Panasonic VIERA S1 Series TC-L32S1 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV front display

    Panasonic VIERA S1 Series TC-L32S1 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV front display

    Panasonic VIERA S1 Series TC-L32S1 32-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p rear panel

    Panasonic VIERA S1 Series TC-L32S1 32-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p rear panel

    This Panasonic TC-L32S1 is a good quality IPS LCD. It has a superior LCD technology that is generally used in only a few premium sets.

    Few TV makers use IPS LCD technology. When they do, it has been reported they swap the technology for inferior, cheaper technology after getting initial positive reviews. From my understanding, this is not an issue for Panasonic models.

    Picture Quality.

    You get awesome image quality from a cable box, a PS3 with HDMI cables, and Blu-Ray. When I streamed video over 1080p from my Mac to my PS3, it looked great, too!

    Gaming.

    This TV has less than a single frame of input lag using progressive sources. It has a good quality de-interlacer. This results in merely a single frame of lag, which makes this one of the best gaming LCDs at ANY price.

    Viewing Angles.

    Viewing angles, both horizontal and vertical, almost match a CRT or plasma. I didn’t see any color shifting.

    Colors.

    Color is saturated and accurate (when calibrated). It is crisp and bright. There is no banding of gradients. I noticed no loss of detail from shadows or highlights. For an affordable television, this is extremely rare.

    Black levels are good but not remarkable.

    PC.

    This Panasonic LCD TV is best used with a PC as a media center. Using it as a full-time internet/productivity screen is not as impressive.

    Inputs.

    You have S-Video, Composite, Component, and 3 HDMI inputs. There are analog and digital audio outputs. It supports a wide variety of VGA input timings.

    The SD slot is only setup to playback picture files and do firmware updates. The SD card must be formatted using proprietary Panasonic software that only works with XP and Vista.

    Resolution.

    1920×1080 can be displayed 1:1, without cutting off the edges. This happens with a PC with a DVI-HDMI cable from other LCD TVs, but not this Panasonic.

    Issues.

    VGA input resolution is limited to 1280×1024.

    When viewing from a diagonal angle, black turns gray. Watch TV at eye level to see the wide viewing angles.

    The speakers seem weaker than comparable TVs.

    Outside of cinema mode, the modes produce color changes that are not as good.

    “Normal” color gives a slightly bluish temp from the fluorescent backlight. “Warm” looks better.

    There is slight image blurring watching sports. You may notice it when players move (running), which causes background images (typically the crowd) to blur. Since I watch the players, not the crowd, it’s not a huge deal.

    Is It Worth The Price?

    Bottom line, this Panasonic TC-L32S1 is a wonderful entry level LCD HDTV for the price. If you’re not sure, just go and buy it. More than likely, you’ll be happy with it.

    Panasonic VIERA S1 Series TC-L32S1 1080p 32-Inch LCD HDTV remote

    Panasonic VIERA S1 Series TC-L32S1 1080p 32-Inch LCD HDTV remote

    Panasonic VIERA S1 Series TC-L32S1 32-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p side panel

    Panasonic VIERA S1 Series TC-L32S1 32-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p side panel

    Popularity: 16%

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  • LG 32LH20 32 inch 720p LCD HDTV gloss black front display

    LG 32LH20 32 inch 720p LCD HDTV gloss black front display

    LG 32LH20 32 inch 720p LCD HDTV gloss black back panel

    LG 32LH20 32 inch 720p LCD HDTV gloss black back panel

    I did some research and looked at some pictures at the computer store. It came down to 3 makers… Sony, Samsung, and LG.

    After closely inspecting the Sony, I dismissed it. The Samsung and the LG had very similar pictures, with bright, vivid colors. There was NO ghosting at all, even while watching a HOCKEY game. It was impressive!

    The difference was price. The Samsung cost more with fewer picture-customization options. The LG blew me away with its full menu of picture-tweaking settings. I haven’t seen a set that offered so much. I believe no set has as many picture setting options as THIS set.

    There is a cool picture-calibration feature. It takes a lot of the guess-work out of the process.

    Specifications.

    Some may hesitate at this being only 720p. Honestly, I wanted 1080p but didn’t want to break the bank.

    Without a Blu-Ray player, 1080p is not worth it. Besides, most cable channels are in 720p anyway.

    Picture.

    The picture is BRILLIANT. 720p is still AMAZING! This LG makes EVERY channel look fantastic, including standard definition.

    Design.

    The glossy black shows fingerprints. But, the screen has the perfect amount of anti-glare. Ambient room light does not detract picture quality.

    Sound.

    Sound is another great feature of this LG. Most TVs this size produce poor sound. But, this set shines. The “Clear Voice II” option really makes dialog VERY clear.

    Slight Diversion.

    After setting up and falling in love with this LG, it stopped working! I turned it off and it wouldn’t come back on. So it was returned and exchanged for a Sharp LC32SB27U.

    The Sharp was okay…but I didn’t like it very much. The LG pedastal is much better and the picture was better out of the box. I kept the Sharp for a week until giving in and replacing it with the same model LG.

    Once again, I love this 32 inch LCD TV.

    After 6 months, there have been no more issues of any kind with this LG LCD TV. Yay!

    Is It A Buy?

    For a 2nd TV with a GREAT HD picture, great sound, tons of picture options, attractive design, a nice anti-glare finish, without costing a fortune, look no further than this LG LCD.

    Available at CompUSA.

    LG 32LH20 32 inch 720p LCD HDTV gloss black

    LG 32LH20 32 inch 720p LCD HDTV gloss black

    Popularity: 25%

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  • Sharp Aquos LC32GP1U 32-Inch 1080p LCD Gaming HDTV front display

    Sharp Aquos LC32GP1U 32-Inch 1080p LCD Gaming HDTV front display

    Sharp Aquos LC32GP1U 32-Inch 1080p LCD Gaming HDTV rear panel

    Sharp Aquos LC32GP1U 32-Inch 1080p LCD Gaming HDTV rear panel

    Sharp Aquos 32-Inch LCD TV.

    I almost got the LC32GP1U‘s brother, the D62U. I wanted all HD formats/resolutions up to and including 1080p. After learning about the gaming model, I quickly researched it. On a leap of faith, I bought it. The price was less than the D62u!

    Features.

    This Sharp AQUOS displays content through all ports in 1080p. This includes the component ports! Now that I have it, it will be impossible to go back to a lesser TV.

    Setup.

    I attached the stand to the TV and configured the TV. It took around 10 minutes. Assembly was easy and the directions understandable. First, I connected a PS3 using monster component cables from an older PS2. The output resolution on the PS3 was set to 1080p and WOW!

    Picture Quality.

    The image on this TV is amazing! I watched a few 1080p PS3 demos and blu-ray trailers and watched/ played in total amazement. Watch the Black Hawk Down trailer in 1080p. You almost can’t believe it!

    I tried the Vyper Drive gaming interface with the side inputs (using component) and it ran smoothly. There was no lag! The 10,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio and 6ms response time help produce this quality. I played the Motorstorm (720p) and Ninja Gaiden (1080p) game demos. Wow!

    Resolution.

    Some believe 1080p is not much different than 720p for this size TV. Well, I noticed a real difference between resolutions on this Sharp AQUOS.

    Connections.

    This TV has an arsenal of HD ports. You get 2 component inputs, 3 HDMI inputs, and one DVI input.

    Watching TV.

    Comcast is free at my place through the wall. I used the coaxial input on the TV and found several HD channels including all local feeds. I watched pro surfing(MOJO), the NHL playoffs (NBC HD), and the World Series (FOX HD) in awesome 720p and 1080i formats. The Discovery HD theatre channel is especially impressive with stunning visuals 24/7. HDNET and TNT HD are fantastic as well.

    Concerns.

    I really worried about 480i programming from regular TV. To my surprise, it’s great! I still will calibrate further, but this TV is good out of the box. Black levels are very satisfying. No picture-in-picture is my only real beef, but it’s nothing major. There are just so many positives to this Sharp AQUOS.

    Should You Get It?

    I hope my excitement wasn’t too overwhelming. This TV is worth it. Do not miss it if you have the opportunity to get it. It is everything you want. It has all formats… 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p. Plus, there as so many ports!

    I recommend the Sharp Aquos LC32GP1U to anyone who loves playing video games at the highest resolutions, and watching HD movies and TV!

    Sharp Aquos LC32GP1U 32-Inch 1080p LCD Gaming HDTV

    Sharp Aquos LC32GP1U 32-Inch 1080p LCD Gaming HDTV

    Popularity: 50%

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  • panasonic viera x1 series tc l32X1 32 inch 720p lcd hdtv display

    panasonic viera x1 series tc l32X1 32 inch 720p lcd hdtv display

    I just got this Panasonic TC-L32X1 LCD and already love it. There are so many features, benefits, and settings. However, for most, it is all about how user-friendly it is.

    My Reason To Purchase.

    I got this TV to upgrade my old one. It was an RCA L26W11. It was a mistake to get that RCA so soon after it was introduced. That TV doesn’t compare to this Panasonic Viera. Yet, it was almost twice the price!

    What You Get.

    The TV includes…

    • a standing TV pedestal (it is black and shiny and blends nicely with the TV),
    • a detailed and easy-to-use instruction manual with details on Panasonic’s 1-year warranty,
    • a large, color-coded insert with easy to install instructions,
    • a universal dock which has a ferrite core for the cord,
    • a cleaning kit and a lint-free cloth,
    • a remote control AND batteries that look as nice and as simple to use as the TV,
    • miscellaneous other papers (child safety, product registration), and
    • a small screw set.

    You do not get a wall-mounting kit. For a Panasonic-brand wall-hanging kit, the item number is: TY-WK3L2RW. Or, try here for a wall mount.

    Using My TV.

    The picture quality is so crisp, detailed, and lively. I have not seen a better picture than this.

    Inputs.

    You get a ton of inputs for your components. There are 3 HDMI inputs (2 can be converted to DVI if you need them). My HD DVR box hooked to it and it was very easy.

    Computer.

    I have a desktop computer using the PC input with a Panasonic DVD burner. While my equipment is old, it didn’t matter. The Panasonic LCD makes everything so quick and easy to install and use.

    TV sound CAN be played while the PC/VGA input is being used. Not only that, it plays the sound from my DVDs. I have my DVD burner on for sound to be carried to the PC. This includes sound from the TV and DVD player.

    Features.

    It’s really nice that you can label each input on the screen and customize it. Panasonic did a great job with an otherwise daunting chore of naming each input.

    You get HDMI side inputs with more audio/video inputs. This is great for connecting a camcorder to view something quickly (using the side input).

    Environment.

    This is an Energy Star rated LCD TV. So, the TV shuts off automatically when it’s on too long without activity. You can override this, easily, if you want.  

    Menu.

    The menu features and set-up features are very nice. Adjust the picture to 4 different sizes (to me, FULL works and looks best in HD and standard definition).

    The sound controls work well. I leave sound on 1 (I don’t like very loud noises). Everything is so amazingly clear and full. Other menu features change coloring and lots of other stuff.

    Remember, with multiple components, you will want to do these adjustments while inside each specific input. Otherwise, anything not changed simply defaults to manufacturer settings.

    Design & Handling.

    The TV’s appearance is so intoxicating. It is almost overpowering in its apperance. Besides the small, little, red indicator light (on the front panel), it’s all black. The TV is incredibly lightweight and super-slender. Yet, the screen size (and image) and sound are huge.

    Compatibility.

    This Panasonic is compatible with your SD memory cards. It includes a detailed section (using the Viera Image Viewer link). The Viera Link lets you listen to your favorite songs on your iPod. That was a real added bonus and a surprise for me.

    The Viera Link Connection automatically lets you control any other **compatible** Panasonic components hooked to the TV. There is 1 catch, and it’s big. It only supports “Panasonic HDAVI Control” components using an HDMI cable. My DVD burner (DMR-E20) was made in the Stone Ages. So, the Viera Link does not work for it.

    Suggestions.

    Try watching TV (specifically HD) using the Component input. It was a little confusing for me because I learned you can still get HD through the TV input. But, the picture shows in 480i. Use component for the 720p picture and you’ll be fine.

    Help & Support.

    Once again, the instructional booklet is fantastic. It has pictures, diagrams, detailed information and lots of other useful stuff. It resembles more a computer manual than a TV booklet.

    I had to contact Panasonic and received quick and speedy tech support. The representative actually knew what they were talking about! As a longtime (and former) RCA customer, this was a godsend. RCA had non-existent tech support.

    If you want a 32-inch LCD HDTV, this Panasonic TC-L32X1 will not disappoint.

    Popularity: 100%

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  • VIZIO VO320E ECO 32-inch LCD HDTV 720p

    VIZIO VO320E ECO 32-inch LCD HDTV 720p

    VIZIO VO320E ECO 32-inch LCD HDTV 720p back panel

    VIZIO VO320E ECO 32-inch LCD HDTV 720p back panel

    Well, my trusty 42 inch rear-projection CRT TV decided to take a permanent vacation. Without any cash budgeted for a new TV, and two teenagers (which moves TV from a luxury to a necessity), I went looking for a cheap “interim” TV to fill the gap.

    My apartment is small. While I was initially set not go below 42 inches, my lack of funds quickly led me to the conclusion that 42 inches was out of my price range. So, I discovered this Vizio 32-inch LCD TV.

    TV Setup.

    The instruction manual and quick setup guide are clear and understandable. TV setup seemed to take no time. Vizio should be commended for writing a 67-page manual that is entirely in (reasonably clear and non-geeky) English.

    Calibration.

    The ‘calibration’ process (what Vizio calls “fine tuning”) is simple and uncomplicated (except for DVE). Most control default settings were nearly correct when checked with DVE test patterns.

    I changed “Color” from 50 to 45 for my calibration using DVE’s red, green, and blue filters. I reduced “Sharpness” from 4 to 1. A bit more sharpening gave my picture more pizzazz, despite what DVE concluded.

    Connectors.

    This TV has a number of ways to connect various video sources. This includes two HDMI ports, component video, S-video, SVGA, and coaxial. You also get an audio out to attach amplified speakers or an inexpensive surround sound system.

    Is Green Good?

    The whole “eco/green” thing seems like just another marketing gimmick. However, for this TV the whole ECO thing does two things.

    First, the TV is amazingly light. It is just over 24 lbs with the stand. It is a joy to move compared to that 42 inch tank.

    Second, this Vizio is EXTREMELY energy efficient. It uses about 85W operating and .33W standby (thanks to a mildly annoying amber VIZIO logo you can’t turn off without unplugging). My kids use more electricity in the bathroom than I spend on my favorite DVD.

    Picture.

    An energy efficient TV is great. But, if the picture is lousy, what’s the point. A TV that I don’t watch because it looks like garbage is great for energy efficiency because it’s not watched!!!

    Thankfully this TV is energy-efficient WITH a great picture. It has a 15000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio with a nice viewing angle. It is perfect for my small apartment living room. Replacing that 42 inch rear projection for this Vizio actually makes the living room look bigger.

    Size.

    Now, some think 32 inches for a living room is too small. This is funny since I remember hearing the praises for the “mighty” 27 inch TV 10 years ago. A 32 inch works great for my space.

    For larger rooms, you will be spoiled. I believe you’ll wish you had a bigger screen. For me, it’s just about perfect.

    The one thing that surprised me is the enhanced DVD viewing. My old 42 inch CRT TV used a 4:3 contrast ratio. When I watched widescreen DVD’s on it, the actual usable picture was less than that on the 32 inch. Now my DVD’s appear “larger” on a “smaller” TV.

    High-Definition.

    Being used to Standard Definition, I thought the HD hype was just that…Hype. Only one word to describe that…WRONG!!!

    I got a cheap “wall mount” antenna to pick up “off the air” HD broadcasts for weekend football. Let me say…HOLY COW!!!! Even on a 32 inch TV, the clarity and detail in HD makes the picture jump out at you.

    720p and 1080i.

    Remember, this TV is 720p. It upscales to 1080i. This is the default resolution for all over-the-air HD broadcasts. 1080p is used with PS3 and Blueray, and a few Video on Demand services.

    Unless you are into Bluray, or PS3, 1080p is probably a waste. Besides, on a 32-inch screen, your ability to see any difference will probably not be significant. For those with older eyes, you probably won’t see any difference at all!

    Can I recommend It?

    Overall, it shocks me how much I love this TV. It is small enough to move around the house, without trouble. It is light enough to place on a cheap TV stand. The picture is outstanding. Plus, I like the thin strip of chrome along the bottom, it adds a neat touch of class

    What started as an “interim” TV, just may be my preferred choice for as long as I have this apartment. A 32-inch TV is certainly big enough for comfortable viewing. It is not so large that it overshadows the rest of the living room.

    Given the competition, this TV is easily the “best bang for the buck” for HDTV’s of any size.

    For the size, picture quality, and features, this is as close to a must buy 32 inch LCD TV as I have seen in a long time.

    Popularity: 2%

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  • samsung ln32b460 front panel

    samsung ln32b460 front panel

    samsung ln32b460 back panel

    samsung ln32b460 back panel

    This Samsung LN32B460 is “only” 720p. Don’t worry. It accepts a 1080p signal without any problem. It is not a ”120 Hz” LCD TV and I’ll tell you why that’s not important for this LCD.

    32 inch LCD TV Basics.

    For a 32 inch LCD, pixel density is higher than for a 52 inch at 1080p. If you use it as a computer monitor or sit very close when watching TV, you may notice the difference. Otherwise, you will have great difficulty seeing the additional detail.

    “120 Hz” is a marketing gimmick at this size. Yes, faster is better in LCDs. But, consider this. Would you be satisfied with a low quality panel with 120 Hz? Or, is a high quality 60 Hz LCD TV a better choice? Once you see the difference, you’ll see that speed is not everything. For the price, it’s better to stick with a top-quality 60 Hz LCD TV.

    My Impressions.

    This Samsung is a very high quality panel. For most people, spending more is a waste. When you pair this with the Panasonic BD60, the results are fantastic! DVDs look great. The difference between the DVDs and Blu-ray are hardly noticeable from across the room (remember, pixel density).

    Image.

    The viewing angle is better than I hoped, with great contrast. Blacks are so deep, in a dark room you can’t see the difference between the screen and its frame. With a slightly matted screen, reflections are manageable.

    Sound.

    The speakers are better than I expected. However, time will tell if this stays true.

    Buying an LCD.

    There seems to be a feature slope for these high-definition televisions. It makes it hard to know what to buy. After ordering this TV, I wondered if I should have paid a little more. But, after seeing the Samsung in action, it looks like I made the best choice.

    Issues.

    Decided to get this LCD TV after reading favorable reviews, comparing its price, and looking at its amazing picture. However, within 5 weeks of getting it, major problems surfaced. Here is a summary of everything that happened to the TV.

    Power problems.

    After 5 weeks, the LCD TV would take many presses of the power button to work. It would take 10, then 20, then 30 tries to get it to turn on. Finally, it just wouldn’t turn on at all. Samsung said it was a fairly common problem, and called it an “internal battery problem.” Do a search for “samsung tv problems power” and you will see what I mean.

    The Samsung LCD was sent in for repair. Two weeks later, they returned it. Supposedly, they fixed the problem. Yet, when I plugged it in to multiple outlets, the Samsung still did not work.

    Warranty.

    This Samsung LN32B460 has a warranty, which covers repairs (potentially multiple) until the unit is considered unrepairable by their repair center. Now, the TV is in for repair a 2nd time. It seems replacing the LCD is a last resort for Samsung. The only thing I can do is wait and see what happens.

    It was a great LCD TV when it worked and it appears my case is an exception. However, I felt it was important to alert others of this potential problem.

    Popularity: 32%

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