32" flat tube - Toshiba? Panasonic? Sony? (1 Viewer)

[Adam Bluhm]

Hello, guys and gals.
I already have an all in one home theatre unit made by Panasonic. I currently use it as a sterio unit but will promote it to an HT setup. Now, the next issue is what television to pair it with. I've already ruled out any HD, not because it's bad (I love it), but because I don't want to spend that kind of money right now. Maybe down the road, but not right now. I'm working on investing, but that's another story.
Anywho, a 32 incher is going to do the trick for my space allowing and I've narrowed it to a flat tube setup. First off, I've heard good stuff about the Toshiba Cinemas Series. I've read positive info about Sony's line of Wega Trinitron tubes, and have also had good responses to Panasonic's Tau line.
Now, my goal with this thread is to get first hand experiences from experienced people, as well as educated opinions. Just an FYI, I really value educated opinions. So throw it on me.
Just to let you know where I am, the one time I went to Best Buy to look at a Toshiba, it was turned off and had a sold sign on it. The Sony's always look good (for a cable style hookup in stores) and I've had positive experiences with Quazar (Panny) in the past.
Come on, guys. I'm all ears!!

 

[Adam Bluhm]

Sorry, fellas. I just realized that this is posted in the wrong area of the forum. My apologies.

 

[Jack Briggs]

No problem, so hang tight as we ride over to "Display Devices."

BTW, what's your budget for a new set? You might as well spring for HD capability if you're thinking of a flat-screen model in the 32-inch range.

 

[MikeyWeitz]

Samsung TSL3295 HDTV for $999 at Sam's Club. $100 or so more then a non HDTV Wega, Panny, etc. You can not beat it for the $$$.

 

[Adam Bluhm]

As for budget, I don't really have one. There are a couple reasons I'm not looking at HDTV. First, I have access to few wholesale names, such as Panasonic (possibly Toshiba.. just thought of that now ). However, I've read about and have seen geometry issues with Panasonic's HD sets. Toshiba may be better. Also, I'm working toward investing money. Basically, I don't want to spend all that much on a set, or HT equipment altogether (five figures is way out of the question for an entire system as I'm looking to spend right around $1,000 on a set, but no more than $1200).
I guess it is possible to get Toshiba sets for wholesale. Retail price adds a considerable amount. I guess if I spring for an HD set, it'd be a wholesale item. All it would be good for is DVD's. No digital cable or Direct TV here.
I guess to answer your question, Jack , I don't want to spend more than $1200.
Let me know if I confused ya.

 

[Thomas_Berg]

there is no 'best' between these three, because they are all excellent performers. keep in mind that the Sony is the more expensive of the three, but in the end it should come down to your personal opinion. for me, it would be a tossup between the Panny and the Sony, but many people prefer Toshiba over either of those. just spend a good deal of time in a 1-on-1 session with each unit and pick the one that looks/works best for you.

happy viewing!

 

[Eric_M]

Well the Sony does the 16x9 mode the easiest of the 3.

Is the Samsung HDTV ready or is it actual HDTV?

I am in the same situation. I too need a 32 inch set. The Wegas seem to be the best bet though it is also has many unfavorable opinions too.

 

[Phil L]

I looked at 36 inch flat screens before I decided to go RPTV. I researched them pretty thoroughly and found that while the Toshibas had a better picture than the Wegas (to my eyes) I would go with the Wega anyway because of the easy 16x9 mode.

Geometry problems are an issue with every flat screen; it’s just a matter of how disturbing to you the problems look.

 

[MikeyWeitz]

Like 99% of direct views, it is HDTV ready, does not include a tuner. What do you want for $1000 .
The Sammy also does 16x9 with a simple push of the Aspect button on the remote.

 

[Adam Bluhm]

Thanks for the reply, fellas. I'll continue to take a personal view of the three.