Audio/Video, Advice, Editor's Picks, Green Tech, Televisions
Cutting-Edge, Eco-Friendly LED TV for Less Than $2,200?
A reader writes: I need a good TV for my living room, and I've decided that LCD, particularly LED, is the way to go. I've heard that some plasmas can look better than LCDs, so I definitely want good video quality, but I heard they use up a lot of energy and I don't want to break the bank if I can avoid it. Also, I'd like something that doesn't use up too much power. Please... just tell me what to get!
What up, reader? Indeed, the Plasma vs. LCD conflict is a tough one, as plasma does traditionally provide better black levels, which can translate to superior contrast between dark and light onscreen, especially valuable when watching high-definition movies now in the Blu-ray era.
The good news is that LCDs are continuing to evolve, with the switch to energy-saving LEDs (light-emitting diodes) as their light source (versus more common cold cathode fluorescent lamps, if you want to get technical). The Next Big Thing in energy-efficient televisions is local dimming LED, which can make specific areas of the screen lighter or darker depending upon the picture being displayed. The improvement can be absolutely stunning, imparting more drastic blacks and a much-needed boost to the dynamic contrast ratio, rated at a mind-boggling 2,000,000:1. Unfortunately, a lot of these LED TVs are pricey, but we've found one from good ol' bang-for-the-buck Vizio.
Shipping now is the VIZIO VF551XVT 55-inch TruLED LCD with Smart Dimming. This is an excellent size for living room use -- if you indeed have ample space -- big enough to give everyone on the sofa a great view. Sonically, the VF551XVT provides two SRS Labs technologies to improve the sound from its compact built-in speakers: TruSurround HD for room-filling enhancement, and TruVolume to eliminate annoying volume spikes. A bevy of side-mounted inputs simplify quick, temporary hookups of video cameras and such. The VF551XVT also refreshes the image on screen 240 times per second (240Hz), four times the standard rate, rendering smoother motion for fast-action movies or sports games. Don't like that effect? It can be adjusted, or turned off entirely.
Perhaps most impressive of all, the affordable VIZIO VF551XVT comes in at $2,199, well below competing local dimming LED models with similar specifications. (Consider if you will the Sony Bravia XBR KDL-55XBR8, with a list price more than double that of the VF551XVT.) A living room HDTV should look good on or off, and this one certainly does, wall-mountable at only five inches deep (tabletop stand also included), and framed by a sleek, thin black bezel with silver accents.
With this room-friendly design, its technological advances and solid performance, the VF551XVT is a worthy solution for your LCD quandary. The low price tag can be your secret. Enjoy!
Gallery: Vizio LCD T.V.
_thumbnail.jpg "Vintage Keyboards")
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
JohnnyScott said 7:30PM on 11-04-2009
Unfortunately you leave a few things out that need to be mentioned. First, let the reader know that they are not buying a true 240Hz TV, instead it is pseudo 240Hz. They are not getting 240 images per second, they are getting 120 images per second, and 120 semi-black frames in between the other 120. This is what is done to keep the costs down compared to Samsung and Sony.
Another problem with the Vizio model is the number of LED's they use in the back panel. They do not locally dim like a higher end models from Samsung (UN55B8500 or LNA950)/ While it does locally dim, it does so in a much larger square than the higher end models.
Yes, Vizio is a bang-for-your-buck supplier (can't call them a manufacturer since they actually manufacture nothing at all), but you also must remember you get what you pay for.
The model is dimmer than the upper tier products, and they do not upconvert SD as well either.
I personally would always recommend saving your money for some time and buying a better model than to rush out and get a bottom one just because it is all you can afford at the moment.
There is another thing I always recommend. Take that $2000 and put it in a high interest savings account like ING or the like (well kind of high interest), get a card from a place like Best Buy or Sears, and buy a product on that card with one of their special 36 or 24 month no interest financing options. Set up the account to pay exactly the amount that would be needed to pay off the card in the amount of time financed and keep the interest earned from ING for yourself. This way he could buy a Samsung LED, own a MUCH better TV (CNET Review http://bit.ly/1qvvTz), and be happier with his purchase.
Trust me...I LOVE my Samsung LED, and when I compared it to the Vizio or LG, I was amazed at how good it looked!
Reply
MadMike said 4:25PM on 11-10-2009
That has to be the best advice I have heard yet. Great comment. Mind if I use this when dealing with people who ask about disposable TV brands?
Joshua said 7:43PM on 11-11-2009
Feel free to use it MadMike!
omraee said 4:19PM on 11-05-2009
It takes a real eng. pro to tell the difference between a plasma and LCD. In terms of science technology.
One it’s all about preservatives of a sub species product that is more compatible to the human eye
there for pleasing to view.
The other taking the advancement of crystal glass, suspending it in a semi solid state in respect to
the old clear solid crystal clarity without the eventual sag or distortion of a solid crystal window so
to speak in time from changes in temp.
Using the enhancement of sub atomic metallic’s to create pleasing depth and a enhanced visual
experience.
From a commodity stand point. One supports mfg. something that is no longer allowed in paint.
The second option is why there should never be a 42 dollar stake, or 20$ dollar bird or fish entrée
I want to buy a fish oil, aluminum oxide screen.
Reply
hiltinuts2 said 2:29PM on 11-10-2009
Short and sweet.
I have this TV. I spent a month researching my purchase. You will not find a better picture for $2000.
That is all.
Reply
robinwheeler08 said 5:27PM on 11-11-2009
I love the enthusiasm!
Reply
Weavty1 said 9:54AM on 11-12-2009
And why don't they mention the LG LH90 series?????? Those are locally-dimmed LED, LCD HDTV's, incorporating the same 'ramped' and emulated 240hz refresh rate technology. Comparably, for nearly the EXACT same cost.. and you'd be going with a brand that has YEARS of technology, resources, and engineering under it's belt..
I just purchased an LG 42LH90 and the 55LH90.. the 42" ran me just shy of $850 NEW, and the 55" ran me right at $1900, also NEW.
What's the difference?? I'd say manufacturer spotlight and favoritism.. C'mon, no love for LG?? Give me a break.. lol
:-) Just my $0.02
Reply
michael.anderson1962 said 1:50PM on 11-16-2009
Everyone seems so passionate...great! If you're really in the market for a great deal on a lcd television you should check out Sharp, a client of mine. They're offering great deals and have quality you can trust.
Reply
Special Agent Steve said 7:34PM on 11-16-2009
We need a new television. We've had an HD Sony model from about 2000. After a decade, sometimes the screen turns purple, and you get the color wheel affect a lot. Looking for another Sony, and hoping to pick one up on black Friday :P.
Reply