Ramblings about going from CRT to LCD...

HDBob · Post by **HDBob** » Fri Jul 23, 2004 11:19 am

I'm torn, and thought I'd sound it out here in case anyone has any thoughts...

I had a Sony 4:3 1080i CRT-type set (KV32HS510), which I thought had an absolutely stunning picture when displaying my Comcast HD channels. But I wanted a larger picture, and a 16:9 screen, so I sold it and picked up a 42" 16:9 Sony Grand Wega (LCD projection).

It's great having a larger, widescreen TV, and other pluses include only 12" of depth (bigger TV, yet the room now has more space) and no burn-in concerns.

But the picture... At times it looks quite good, never as good as the CRT set did, but certainly bright, colorful, and reasonably sharp. But it's true what they say - these things can't produce true blacks, and it's noticable. The biggest bummer, though, is what happens when the entire image on the screen is in motion, such as when a camera pans quickly - suddenly you're looking at an image that looks like it was constructed out of Legos (anyone play with them as a kid?). It's as if the TV just can't handle the processing demands, or the pixels just can't keep up, or something. Occasionally the CRT set did this a little, suggesting that maybe some of this is Comcast's fault, but it didn't do it nearly as much.

So now I'm thinking of going back to CRT, such as a 34" Sony XBR, but along with the improved picture comes a 200 pound, 26" deep monster with burn-in potential, and of course, a smaller screen.

Ugghh... decisions, decisions. Anyone have any advice? Thanks in advance.

Bob

raff · Post by **raff** » Fri Jul 23, 2004 11:29 am

Bob,

Sorry to say, but CRT is still the best way to go (not personally sorry since I love my CRT), but it does have the weight and dimension draw-backs that you mentioned. You may reduce some of the motion-pixelization that you currently notice by turning some of the settings down (brightness, contrast, sharpness).

The only other current option, if size and weight with CRT is really an issue, would be DLP. The weight drops off and you regain about 6 inches in depth.

Me personally, I still love my 56" Toshiba CRT set from 2001.

Richard · Post by **Richard** » Fri Jul 23, 2004 11:33 am

But it's true what they say - these things can't produce true blacks, and it's noticable

You can't use a darkened room and bias lighting could easily be your answer.

http://www.ilovehdtv.com/hdlibrary/viewtopic.php?t=41

http://www.ilovehdtv.com/hdlibrary/viewtopic.php?t=59

suddenly you're looking at an image that looks like it was constructed out of Legos

I doubt it is the display as I have seen this numerous times. It is caused by too much info changing and the channel being bit starved to keep up with it. Very common with satellite and never seen on my cable HD. that said you are on Comcast.

You should have your sources setup for 720P, not 1080I, for no artifacts.

Another improvement would be a cable STB with DVI such as the Motorola 6200 or 6208. Also a DVD player with DVI will have even greater affect.

Either way you have a tough choice that only you can make.

Good Luck!

Grumpy_Bob · Post by **Grumpy_Bob** » Fri Jul 23, 2004 12:09 pm

Hey, I STILL play with Legos! And I still prefer CRT! And right now I'm listening to a MP3 of the Go-Go's!

chuckken · Post by **chuckken** » Fri Jul 23, 2004 3:50 pm

CRT is the way to go...hands down. You know some of the new CRT based RPTVs are only about 150 lbs...The Toshiba 51" 51HX93 is about 150 lbs and only about 18 inches deep...(I kinda favor the Hitachi and Toshiba brands)...

...I could never figure out why people have a problem with RPTV CRT sets as far as size...I had a 50" TV inside a 35 ft fifth wheel travel trailer and it fit perfect!...It wasn't over whelming either.

Doug K · Post by **Doug K** » Fri Jul 23, 2004 11:31 pm

While the digital displays have found the hearts and wallets of the new masses... had to stop and think a minute... oh yea.. most digital displays still have some very common shortcomings.

#1. Price

#2. no real blacks.

#3. Price

did I mention price?

As a working isf calibrator, I'm truly amazed once again at the american populace. There are crt drivin rptvs out there that quite simply are capable or reproducing an accurate picture unattainable by digitals for less dollars.

Why oh why do we always want to pay more for less?

When you buy a Lamborghini, it goes faster than a Chevy and cost more.

When you buy a plasma, it costs more and gives you less.

What gives?

Flash... Taxes are good for the economy!

Whew... sorry.

Doug k

HDBob · Post by **HDBob** » Mon Jul 26, 2004 12:09 pm

Thanks to all for the feedback.

Special thanks to Richard... The threads regarding ambient light were interesting, and do indeed help with the black-level issue, along with easing the strain on one's eyes. Even more important, your suggestion about checking the cable box output setting to make sure it matches the native resolution of the TV was right on. I had forgotten to change it from 1080i (my old set's native resolution) to 720p. This significantly improved the motion-pixellation issues.

Finally, despite Comcast assuring me that the DVI output on the cable box was not currently functional, I bought a DVI cable anyways and it turns out they were offering erroneous info, as the DVI output is functional, and results in further picture improvement.

As a result of the above tweaks, this TV is now growing on me. I still think the CRT set had the picture-quality edge, but the gap isn't nearly as wide as I originally thought. Thanks again,

Bob