TV Experts: Is This A Good TV?

[momof1princess]

Our TV blew a couple of months ago, and we're looking for a new one. is this one a good deal for $1,098?

# Picture/Display: Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) Resolution
# ASV Superlucent LCD Panel Technology
# Spectral Contrast Engine UD
# Active Contrast
# Active Color
# High Brightness
# Built-in ATSC/QAM/NTSC Tuners
# OPC (Optical Picture Control)
# Backlight System: 3-Wavelength
# Panel Type: Advanced Super View
# Pixel Resolution: 1920 x 1080
# Brightness: 450 cd/m2
# Viewing Angles: 176º H / 176º V
# Lamp Life: 60,000 hours1
# Spectral Contrast Engine Level: UD (Ultra Dark)
# Response Time: 6ms

Inputs/Outputs:
# HDMI™ Input: 3 (1080p compatible)
# HD Component Input: 2
# PC Input: 15-pin RGB x 1
# S-Video Input: 1
# Composite Video Input (A/V): 1
# RS-232C Input: 9-pin x 1
# Audio Inputs (L/R): 3

Audio:
# Audio System: 10W + 10W

Special Features:
# Built-in Blu-ray Disc™ Slot
# Cabinet Color: High gloss black with blue accent
# Table Stand: Included / removable / swivel

Power:
# Power Consumption AC: 170Watts (0.5 Standby with AC 120V)
# Power Source: 120V, 60Hz

Dimensions and Weight:
# Dimensions w/ Stand: 30 7/16"W x 22 47/64"H x 10 43/64"D
# Dimensions w/o Stand: 30 7/16"W x 20 51/64"H x 5 7/16"D
# Weight w/ Stand: 34.2 lbs.
# Weight w/o Stand: 28.7 lbs.

It's a 37 inch, which is the largest set our entertainment center will hold. Any input or suggestions are appreciated!

 

[Papa Deuce]

Well, it has nice features. I didn't see the contrast ratio listed, though.

I would like to know the brand as well. LITERALLY many of the less expensive TVs are throw away TVs if they break though.

I have a Vizio 37" TV that went south very quickly. Less than 3 months. I got a new one with my warranty. The original was thrown in the trash.

 

[momof1princess]

ack! sorry i didn't throw that in there! it's a sharp aquos-DH is VERY loyal to the sharp brand. we've had great luck with their products so far.

contrast ratio isn't listed in the description. this is all it says:

Sharp's proprietary Spectral Contrast Engine UD (Ultra Dark) provides high contrast ratio and deep black levels.

 

[bicker]

Unfortunately, brand loyalty cross-products is not a sound approach. Samsung (and Sony) make the best televisions, but Samsung makes some horrible coffee makers. Brand loyalty to Samsung, in that regard, would be misguided.

Sharp is pretty-much middle of the road, and for $1100 at 37 inches, isn't that great of a deal. Amazon.com is selling a Samsung at that size for $709, and another Samsung at $849. Heck for $1100 you can get one of the 120 Hz Samsungs, for absolutely superlative quality. And if you prefer Sony, at 37 inches, there are some sets in the $800 range (though Sony seems to favor 720p at such small screen sizes).

Do keep in mind that at 37 inches, screen resolution is not quite as important. 1080p becomes significant starting at 42 inches. So in many cases, at 37 inches, you're paying for functionality that you really cannot capitalize on. Having said that, some of those Samsung sets are 1080p (and of course the 120 Hz set is).