Rear-projection TVs

These big-screen TVs are not as bulky as they used to be

Most new rear-projection TVs are microdisplay sets that use liquid-crystal display (LCD), digital-light processing (DLP), or liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) technology to create images on screens that can be 71 inches or larger.

These TVs are slimmer, lighter, and more expensive than projection sets using cathode-ray tube (CRT) technology, which used to be the norm. CRT-based projection sets are declining in popularity, but some are still available. They tend to be the cheapest type of big screen, but they're notoriously big and heavy.


WHAT'S AVAILABLE



Major brands include Hitachi, JVC, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Philips, RCA, Samsung, Sony, and Toshiba.

The smallest sets measure about 42 inches diagonally. Rear-projection sets with 50- to 59-inch screens are the best sellers. The largest of these TVs have screens measuring 71 inches or more. Keep in mind that a set with a 57-inch screen could be overwhelming in a modest-sized room. Most rear-projection sets now on the market are digital (HD-capable) sets. Most have a wide-screen 16:9 aspect ratio that resembles a movie-theater screen.

Virtually all projection sets now sold are HD models, typically with resolution of at least 1280x720. One of the newest developments in this category has been the introduction of 1080p models. These sets have resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, giving them the potential to display all 1,080 lines in the most common high-definition format, called 1080i. The improvement is most noticeable on large screens, say, 50 inches and up.


HOW TO CHOOSE



Here are some points to consider when choosing a rear-projection TV:

Consider space before settling on screen size. You might be tempted by the biggest screen, which can span as much as 71 inches or more, but take a breath--and some measurements--first. Figure out how much floor space you can spare, and plan to view the TV from about 7 to 9 feet away for optimal picture quality.

Weigh depth and price in choosing a display type. Once you know how much room you have, decide whether size or price is more important. CRT-based sets are floor-standing models with deep cabinets mounted on casters. Some take up as much space as an armchair or loveseat. Most microdisplays require a stand, which you must buy separately for a few hundred dollars or more. Would you prefer to save money with a bulkier CRT set or spend more for a slimmer microdisplay?

Consider reliability. Rear-projection TVs using CRT technology have been much more repair-prone than conventional picture-tube TVs. As noted, any pattern left on a CRT screen for long periods--such as a stock ticker or video game--can burn into the tubes of a CRT-based model, producing a permanent ghosted image on the screen. Most warranties don't cover burn-in. This problem doesn't affect other types of rear-projection TVs. Microdisplay technologies are newer and haven't established a track record for long-term reliability. But preliminary data show they're even more repair-prone than CRT-based projection sets during their first year of use. They're not vulnerable to screen burn-in, but they might require lamp replacement, which can cost a few hundred dollars.

Focus on picture quality. The best rear-projection sets can deliver excellent picture quality with HD content and very good picture quality for DVDs and regular TV programming. Within the microdisplay category, we haven't found that any one projection technology was consistently better than another.

Check the viewing angle. Some new models display a better image from off-center than older sets did--a must if the TV will be watched by several people at once. Some sets have wider viewing angles than others. Before buying one, see how the picture looks if you step off to the side or move up and down. With some, you'll see a dimmer, somewhat washed-out image as your viewing position angles away, particularly in a vertical direction.

Expect fine sound quality. Many people connect big-screen TVs to an audio system to provide surround sound, so the quality of the TV's speakers may not be an issue. It may reassure you to know that virtually all the sets we've tested recently produced excellent sound. That's largely because projection sets have bigger speakers than direct-view TVs and bigger cabinets with superior acoustical properties.

Consider installation. Because rear-projection sets are floor-standing , installation is easier than with front-projection systems or wall-mounted plasma TVs. Still, rear-projection sets are large and might be harder to set up than smaller TVs, so consider delivery and professional installation.