Which is the correct TV size for me? (1 Viewer)

[Greg Ray]

I've decided on the Toshiba H series but I'm struggling with either the 56h80 or the 65h80. The room is 24'x 13.5' but I can't really put the TV at either end. So my viewing distance is about 10'. Is that too close for the 65h80?
Also, any opinions about extended warranties. I can get one for 4 years at $299. I generally don't go for these but I'm thinking seriously about getting this one.
I appreciate any opinions out there.
Greg

 

[Craig]

Try the 56" to start, these things look bigger at home.
I'm 11.5 ft from my Tosh 56X81, the picture is big enough, although I think the 65" would be ok also.
Your dealer will no doubt be happier to upgrade to a more expensive model rather than exchange a larger model for smaller if you change your mind once you get one home.

 

[Steven_C]

I have a formula that I use when asked what the correct viewing distance is for a certain screen size. This is for a 16/9 screen with progressive scan. Take the screen height and multiply it by 3.3. Then take the screen height and multiply it by 4.0. The 3.3 figure gives you a 30 degree viewing angle, and the 4.0 gives you a 25 degree viewing angle. Let's use the PRO-510HD as an example. It has a 26" screen height. The 30 degree viewing distance is just over 7 feet and the 25 degree viewing distance is just under 9 feet. So I would say the proper viewing distance from this set is 7 to 9 feet. Now comes my personal adjustment to this formula that most of you are familiar with. If you went to a movie theater and you could choose anywhere to sit, where would that be? If you said the center I would suggest around 8 feet as the correct viewing distance for 510HD. If you said the front row I would say 7 feet, maybe less. If you said the rear of the theater I would say 9 feet, maybe more. There is no perfect formula, but this one makes sense to me.