Originally Posted by
Gearjerk
Off Topic:
Anyone have any recommendations, or horror stories will do also, on the purchase of an 3-D, LED TV, w/ 240Hz refresh rate?
Looking for a dependable, 55" or 60" with above features. A fan of Samsung, but have seen good reviews on the brand "LG". So decided to come here to learn from a place where everyone is an "expert"!!
Thanks in advance for the replies.
GJ
P.S. Notice the two "laughing" emoticons behind the comment of "everyone being self-proclaimed experts". Nobody take that comment personally, it's too close to Christmas to get into a pi$$ing match about hurtin' someone's feelings!
GJ,
We were early adopters and have been through several generations of this technology ... I'm somewhat agnostic when it comes to brands, but I do like
VIZIO because at least it is a US based Company if you need something.
VIZIO's current line up is not as strong as it has been in years past. So, if you need something now, the brands you mentioned wouldn't be "bad." (today there really isn't a bad, particularly at these price points)
Costco extends the one year manufacturer's warranty to
two years. In our experience the power efficient LED TV's are much more sensitive to voltage spikes which can knock out their delicate electronics. We used Costco's warranty this year for an event which was no fault of the TV (lightning). In about three days a service team (two folks to get the TV off the wall) replaced the circuit boards and had it back up and running like new. Without Costco that service would have cost me $500 and we probably would have replaced the TV.
You'll end up using the "Smart TV" features more than you think. Considerations:
- Remote with an alphanumeric keypad
- Matte screen (to avoid reflection from your ceiling lights)
- Comfort of the 3D glasses (most people don't use the 3D because the glasses are uncomfortable)
- Wireless Networking (unless you have at least Cat 5e to the wall)
Update: Strange, but TV Specs are decreasing from even the 2011 models. Guess they are getting cheaper, but not necessarilly better. Edge Lit LED's are cheaper to make and look sexy (thin), but the full array, local area dimming, technology make for better picture quality and less energy use. This one has the features you seek:
http://store.vizio.com/xvt553sv.html
Also try clicking around CNet for reviews & AV Forums