What TVs to buy

JimmyTheWig

Hi,

We think it is about time we joined this millenium and upgraded our CRT TVs.
Don't know much about the new technology, so looking for some pointers on where to start.
We need two sets.

1. TV for Xbox 360
Used by the children, from a distance of about 6 feet away, for the usual games. I understand it needs to be HD (with HDMI cable) to be able to do split screen in Minecraft. Also used for iPlayer, etc, via the Xbox.
Ideal budget - £300

2. TV for lounge
Used for DVDs and videos. Normally viewed from a "typical" sofa distance away.
We don't currently have a TV licence, but may get one in the future.
Ideal budget - £400

The first one is definitely happening (partly being funded with DS's birthday money) but the second not totally decided on yet.
Budgets can be increased for valid reasons if needed. Or reduced, if possible, this is MSE after all!

So when searching, what do I need to be looking out for?
Size, obviously.
Resolution, again, is straight forward to compare.
But is there anything else that is important?
What brands are good these days? Is Sony still the best in the market?

One thing I have no clue on is sound.
I've seen "sound bars" mentioned, but don't know what they are.
Stupid question, but without one do you even hear anything?
We don't particularly need anything posh sound-wise.

And what about cables?
Presumably the DVD and video will still use scart cables.
So we'd just need an HDMI cable for the Xbox and everything will just work?


Thanks,

Jim

[Deleted User]

At 6 feet away you want a maximum screen size of 32 inch.
I've being doing quite a bit of research on this myself and the best TV I have found (for me anyway) is this http://www.richersounds.com/products/home-cinema/lcd-and-plasma/3d-tv#8 with a 5 year warranty from Richer sounds, this is top rated by Which?
Has excellent sound and visual for a tv in this price bracket.
I will be getting mine next week probably.

JimmyTheWig

Thanks.
That link takes me to a list of loads of TVs.
Is it a specific one that you're looking at, or are you saying that any of those will fit the bill?

Pincher

Costco is doing this one on a coupon price of £359.98 inc VAT


http://www.johnlewis.com/sony-bravia-kdl42w7-led-hd-1080p-smart-tv-42-with-freeview-hd/p1169287?colour=Silver


John Lewis is asking £429 inc VAT, and that's after a Price Match.
Both with 5 year warranty.


I stocked up on Plasma TVs as they were being phased out, so can't buy any more, otherwise very tempted.


They do say Plasma screens have faster response for game play.
They must be cheap as chips second hand by now. There might also be some reconditioned sets around.

JimmyTheWig

Would rather buy new and get a warranty, etc, but good suggestion. It's a shame CEX don't do them as second hand with a 12 month warranty would probably be ideal for us.

The LCD Sony one you linked to looks pretty good, though. Thanks for that.

[Deleted User]

JimmyTheWig wrote: »

Thanks.
That link takes me to a list of loads of TVs.
Is it a specific one that you're looking at, or are you saying that any of those will fit the bill?

Sorry , yes it's model number
UE32H6200

JimmyTheWig

Looks like a good one. Thanks.