|
Also read this article from Digital Home Canada
Learn about the different types of HDTV
In the marketplace today, there are four major types or High Definition televisions on the market. They are direct view, rear projection, front projection and flat panel which can be further divided by the types of technology they employ.
Direct view televisions are based on CRT (Cathode Ray tube technology) and are the type of televisions that we've been used to for the last fifty years. These televisions range in screen sizes from just a few inches up to 40 inches.
Rear projection televisions (RPTV) or "big screen TV’s" used analog CRT's in the past but more recently consumer electronics companies have introduced digital rear projection televisions. These digital rear projectors employ LCD, DLP or LCoS based technology. The screen size for rear projection televisions typically range from 40 to 70 inches. CRT based sets tend to be much cheaper than the newer technologies but are usually much bulkier and heavier.
Front Projectors are normally found in offices but special home theatre projectors are available and are great for replicating the movie theatre experience. These projectors employ LCD or DLP technology. The benefits of front projectors are that they are small and can project images that range from 30 inches to over 100 inches! The downside is front projectors can be very expensive and require big expensive screens to get a high quality picture.
Flat Panels are the newest type of high tech television. Flat panels fall into two categories: LCD and Plasma. Flat panels are generally slim (only a few inches deep) and very attractive. The downside is that they are expensive. LCD's are commonly smaller than plasma's and make great sets for kitchens or rooms where space is at a premium. Which type is better? The answer to that question is “it depends!” The one that is right for you depends on your budget, how much space you have, what the lighting conditions, what features you need and more.
As of September 2005, the following are some general guidelines to consider when comparing and contrasting the different types of HDTVs.
Avoid large DirectView CRT’s or CRT based RPTVs unless cost is absolutely critical. These types of sets are cheaper but are big and heavy!
In the $1,500 to $3,500 price range, DLP and LCD rear projection are probably your best bet. These televisions offer excellent picture quality at a reasonable price and are much smaller and lighter than a CRT based sets. DLP sets typically deliver better black levels than LCD rear projection however LCD provides more accurate colour reproduction. The preference is typically in the eye of the beholder, so we recommend shoppers watch both types of televisions under similar conditions and decide for themselves.
If your budget allows, then you should consider LCD and plasma flat panels. The latest models of Plasma and LCD televisions deliver excellent picture quality and have overcome many of the problems that plagued earlier generations. Generally speaking, plasma panels are larger, have faster response times and greater contrast ratios than LCD flat panels but LCD panels provide a brighter and more accurate picture in a smaller size.
Regardless of which type of HDTV you buy, our advice is don’t let the price tag fool you. More expensive does not always mean a better quality picture. A good quality DLP or LCD rear projection will deliver a picture that will make you the envy of your neighbours at a price much lower than plasma or LCD.
Digital Home Canada’s third recommendation when buying an HDTV is to spend some time and learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of HDTV televisions available today before you go out shopping. |
|