Until this weekend, I wasn’t sure which TV was the one I wanted. After some research I have determined the Samsung LN46A950 is object of my desires. This 46″ marvel of technology is the first in the “9” series for Samsung. It features LED backlighting with the ability to provide local dimming. If that didn’t make any sense to you, it didn’t to me either until Saturday but in other terms, it means that this TV produces extremely deep blacks and faithfully reproduces stunning colour. It’s quite possible this model is the best LCD TV for its size on the entire planet. You can read a review here.
Of course, with such accolades, one can’t expect this thing to be cheap and unfortunately, it is not. The LN46A950 retails for just about $4000 CAD which is on the crazy upper-end of the price spectrum for LCD TVs. With prices dropping as the trend for the last two years and some decent models for even under $1000, this model stands out with its luxury price.
I haven’t totally ruled out buying this but I’ve already started investigating alternatives. For example, I’m also looking at plasma models which could possibly offer somewhat similar performance at about half the cost. One drawback of plasmas are significantly higher power requirements. For example, with average use, the LN46A950 would cost about $45 a year to run. A similar sized plasma would cost about $130 a year to run. Of course, I’d have to keep my plasma for about a bazillion years before the operating cost savings of the LN46A950 would equal the initial difference in price.
Anyways, I’ll do some more research.
Other than power usage, are there any fundamental differences between plasma and LCD that weight one significantly over the other?
At my previous job, the colour calibration dude – the guy whose profession is to adjust monitors and TVs – said the best LCD panels today are made by Samsung, and the top plasma brands are Pioneer and Panasonic. I figure a guy who adjusts colour for a living would know what he’s talking about. I now have a Samsung LCD and am extremely pleased with it.
Garrett, what model do you own?
Phil, plasma has traditionally had better black levels and viewing angles.In previous years, plasmas suffered from potential burn-in problems.
Thanks! I am in the early stages of looking for a new apartment and think a new TV will be part of the package. Haven’t bought a LCD/plasma yet so I am new to the game.My parents have an LCD and seem to be happy with it, but then again as long as my Dad can watch CNN and my mom American Idol they are generally happy…
I would hold off buying any TVs until you know what’s happening with the SED/FED technology. They were expected to be available to the public “in 2009”.
I own the A330 model Samsung – yes, the lowest end model, I’m so ashamed – but it’s pleased me like a whore.