| TV Size | Optimum Viewing Distance |
| 32″ | About 6′ |
| 37″ | About 7′ |
| 42″ | About 8′ |
| 47″ | About 9′ |
| 50″ | About 10′ |
| 60″ | About 11′ |
There is much hype surrounding the high resolution HDTV’s. Most TV’s use one of 3 main resolutions: Standard TV produces 480 lines of resolution, high definition 720p outputs 720 lines of resolution, and true HDTV 1080i/p which has a resolution of 1080 lines. Despite the resolution talk, contrast ratio and color saturation are more important to picture quality. Plus, since most programs are broadcast in 720p or 1080i watching an HDTV DVD player with a Blu-Ray or HD DVD disc or some game systems is the only way to get a true 1080p picture. However, unless you are viewing a 50″ or larger screen the difference between 720p and 1080p is barely noticeable.
In order to figure out which size HDTV will fit your budget consider the following estimates as of July 2008:
720p Plasma HDTV
|
Size |
Cost |
|
32″ - 42″ |
$500 - $1000 |
|
42″ - 50″ |
$1000 - 1500 |
|
50″ - 60″ |
$1500 - $3000 |
*1080p can add several hundred dollars or more to the price
Until recently most plasma manufacturers claimed a 30,000 hour lifespan. Now, with new advances in technology brands are stating their televisions have a 60,000-hour lifespan. Depending on your viewing habits that can translate to 10 to 30 years. To be on the safe side you should probably expect it to last more toward the lower end around 10 to 15 years. Nevertheless, that is quite a long time.
We’ll provide more ways to tame the beast in Part II of our plasma TV money saving tips.
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