Spangler wrote:To pittsoccer,
What brand of TV do you generally prefer? I always had the impression that Samsungs were quality TVs. Would it be Panasonic?
What about Toshiba? My friend, who is tech savy, raves about Toshiba products.
None of the major brands (Sony, LG, Samsung, Panasonic, Toshiba, Sharp, Vizio) make bad sets once you get past the entry price point models.
Sharp's Elite line are probably the nicest tvs available. They also cost more than a used Jetta. Panasonic's VT series is very highly regarded and are the nicest plasma tvs made.
Samsungs, especially the LEDs, have very saturated colors. Thats one reason they sell so well in the stores. Anyone who wants to get their tv ISF calibrated would not want to buy a Samsung because the colors arent "accurate." That doesnt mean they dont look great, but to the purest something is wrong with them.
Toshiba's brand rep always told us to sell their tvs by driving home the idea that they have the most desirable features (LED, 1080p, 120hz) at the best prices. We didn't carry any of their smart tvs or 3D. Though I found that they were not usually much less money than a comparable Samsung or LG that had internet connectivity.
I own a 2009 Panasonic plasma. If I were buying a new tv this year the internet features wouldnt matter much to me because I use an htpc - I think Samsung and LG have the best internet offerings. I would have to really think about whether I wanted a VT series Panasonic or an LG 8600 or 9600 LED. I like the way LG and Vizio do 3D on their LEDs the best.