Toshiba 36hf71 vs. kv36hs20 Sony (1 Viewer)

[MottK]

They are priced roughly similar, but what would be the best for watching digital cable and dvds (progressive scan player) and probably some xbox gaming? Which has better picture? Take note that I will not have a theater sound system hooked up for a while. I have looked at both but really couldnt decide.
Anything problems I should know about either set?
Got a better recomendation? (keep in mind the price around 1700 and no projection please. would be best from local store eg. bestbuy so we can buy an extended warranty. I live in the Bay Area in CA).
Thanks!

p.s. I would probably hook the computer up once in a while too using component cables.

 

[MottK]

can anyone help?

 

[Jack Briggs]

Hi, Mott, and welcome to the Forum.

My experience, very generally speaking, is that Toshiba tends to produce more accurate color out of the box. Sonys tend to run on the "hot"--or blue--side; taming a Sony's color rendition requires expert-level massaging in the service menu.

And I own models from both brands.

 

[MottK]

hmm someone mentioned that the sony xbr's are going to be replaced soon with a newer model, does anyone know when the new model will be in and how much do you think the xbr's will be discounted?

 

[Jack Briggs]

The XBRs are remaining, but are being upgraded. Check out the latest issue of Widescreen Review. Perry Sun has a write-up on the new models.

And, yes, you should be able to find some nice discounts on the XBR450s. Fine sets--but factor the price of a professional calibration into the overall cost.

 

[MottK]

Do you mean isf calibration? How much does that usually cost, I checked and found a certified center that is in my town.
*edit: Just realized that dealer by me doesnt have "Calibration Equipment" according to the ISF site. Do I need another dealer or are they still ok?

 

[MottK]

You know what? Scratch all that. What tv's would you reccomend at 36" Keep in mind the progressive scan dvd and my xbox, and comp. Tell me whats good and not too expensive

 

[Gary Grundy]

I'm looking at the JVCAV-36P902. What do you think about this set?

I'Art Pro Real Flat HDTV Monitor
AV-36P902
FEATURES:

36" Progressive Scan 1080i HDTV Monitor w/DVI/HDCP
Real Flat Screen Picture Tube w/INVAR Shadow Mask
Dual Tuner Picture in Picture w/Multi Index
Digital 4 Mega 10 Bit 3D Y/C Comb Filter
Natural Cinema (3-2 Pull Down)
Natural Progressive Technology
Digital Super Detail (DSD) Circuitry
16:9 Mode for Anamorphic DVDs
Velocity Scan Modulation
Real Color and Real Detail Creation
Dynamic Focus
Digital Noise Clear Circuitry
White Character Correction
BBE High Definition Audio
Hyper Surround Sound
10 Watts Total Audio Power
XDS Auto Clock Set
Illuminated Super Command Universal Remote w/DVD Control Capability
Hyper Scan
Plug In Menu
Return+
Black Level Expansion
English, French, and Spanish Menus
Multi-Function Timer w/Sleep Mode
V-Chip and Channel Guard
Energy Star Compliant

SPECIFICATIONS:
System: NTSC System, BTSC System (Multi-Channel Sound);
1080i HDTV;
181 Channel Capacity
Inputs / Outputs: 4 AV Inputs - 3 Rear, 1 Front, 3 S-Video Inputs - 2 Rear, 1 Front, 2 Component Video Inputs / (Y, PB, PR), 1 HDCP Compliant DVI Digital Input, 1 Fixed/Variable Audio Output, 1 AV Compu Link III
Audio Output: 5W + 5W
Dimensions (WxHxD): 38 1/8" x 30 3/8" x 24 1/8" (96.7 x 77.0 x 61.0 cm)
Weight: 187.0 lbs. (85.0 kg.)
Remote Control: Illuminated RM-C321G