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Samsung LC-37D7U Power Consumption (Energy Usage)

August 22nd, 2010 admin

This TV Samsung LC-37D7U is amazing. I looked at power usage for several settings.

TV off:

Standby

Mode 2 (TVGOS off): 16 Watts
Mode 1 (TVGOS on): 36 Watts

Mode 1 is unnecessary with TVGOS off.
Mode 2 is problematic with TVGOS on.

Backlight

TV (LC-37D7U) on:

=-8 68 Watts
 =-6 82 Watts
 =-4 96 Watts
 =-2 108 Watts
 =-0 122 Watts
 =+2 139 Watts
 =+4 158 Watts
 =+6 177 Watts
 =+8 192 Watts

TV (LC-32D7U) on:

 =-6 82 Watts
 =-4 96 Watts
 =-2 108 Watts
 =-0 122 Watts
 =+2 139 Watts
 =+4 158 Watts
 =+6 177 Watts
 =+8 192 Watts

 =-8 64 Watts
 =-6 74 Watts
 =-4 84 Watts
 =-2 93 Watts
 =-0 105 Watts
 =+2 117 Watts
 =+4 130 Watts
 =+6 143 Watts
 =+8 154 Watts

-8 is used for all viewing, since it is a bedroom TV. It has more than enough brightness.

It appears this Samsung LCD uses less power than you think, if the backlight is run at lower levels.

Samsung LN37C530 60 Hz 37-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p Black

May 13th, 2010 admin
Samsung LN37C530 1080p 60 Hz 37-Inch LCD HDTV Black

Samsung LN37C530 1080p 60 Hz 37-Inch LCD HDTV Black

Performance.

The picture on this Samsung LN37C530 is great.

Without HD cable this TV upscales very well. You will get a good standard definition picture on this TV.

Gaming.

PS3 looks absolutely amazing.

Inputs.

Very happy with the number of ports (switching cables all the time is no fun). The side USB port is very handy. It supports a surprising number of file formats! It is not quite VLC, yet very good. An external HDD is connected on the side for all our media. It’s like a built in media center!

Issues.

The TV worked great the first night. The next day, after unplugging it, I wanted to put it on the stand. However, the TV did not come back on! I unhooked all the cables and reattached them… still nothing. Samsung couldn’t help since there was no power. After letting it sit all afternoon, I tried one last time and it worked!

With the TV working, it started making a buzzing sound. After speaking with Samsung, they sent a tech to look at it. It looks like the panel will need to be replaced.

It was very easy to deal with Samsung and the tech was great. The buzzing is bad but I will just have to wait until the parts arrive.

Other Features.

The mediabridge cables I ordered were easy to set up. The Samsung LN37C530 manual suggests a picture size setting of 16:9.

Onkyo TX-SR805 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver

May 8th, 2010 admin

This is my home theater system with a Onkyo 805 driving Deftech BP7001s (outboard amplifiers driving the rest of the speakers).

Onkyo TX-SR805 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver Deftech BP7001

Onkyo TX-SR805 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver Deftech BP7001

The Onkyo HTIB (home theater in a box) is one of the best you can buy. You get a real receiver and lots of features and inputs. It has Audyssey, a very good calibration feature, for someone without an SPL meter.

The weak link with any HTIB is the speakers and subwoofer. No maker can afford to give you really good speakers WITH a subwoofer, at HTIB prices. However, the Onkyo gives you some of the better ones, for a HTIB.

Having a real receiver means using regular speaker connections, instead of the crappy proprietary connections that come with many other HTIBs. That means the Onkyo is very upgradable, as your budget allows.

You can’t go wrong with the Onkyo 805.

Sharp Aquos LC37D44U 37-Inch LCD HDTV 720p

May 1st, 2010 admin
Sharp Aquos LC37D44U 720p 37-Inch LCD HDTV display

Sharp Aquos LC37D44U 720p 37-Inch LCD HDTV display

What To Get?

I wanted a flat screen HDTV to fit an armoire. The choice was either a top-of-the-line 32 inch or a bigger 37 inch. I chose size over quality. Since it would be my first HDTV, it would be an upgrade either way.

Setup.

Setup of the Sharp AQUOS LC37D44U was easy.

Picture Quality.

High-definition is really impressive. It looks crisp and the colors are vibrant and natural, whether HD broadcasts or blu-ray. I mostly watch 1080i over 720p and it looks great. Personally, it looks a lot better than the 720p.

Concerns.

There’s no headphone jack. For those using a receiver, it won’t be an issue for you.

Changing channels is a little slow, but tolerable.

I believe the 6ms refresh rate causes the picture to blur. But, it happens very rarely.

The instructions are just one big sheet of paper and printed on both sides. It just folds and folds and folds. A booklet would have been better.

For those with several audio and video components, there are not enough input/output ports. You could probably get everything you want connected, with a little ingenuity.

Sound even at the highest level is about the same as my Sharp 27 inch LCD at 25. My wife complains about the sound, even at its highest setting. After getting a receiver, it sounds great now.

Is It Worth It?

I believe this Sharp AQUOS LC37D44U 37 inch LCD TV to be a great flat screen and an outstanding value. After 6 months, it was such a satisfying experience, I got another for my bother in law.

Sharp Aquos LC37D44U 720p 37-Inch LCD HDTV display

Sharp Aquos LC37D44U 720p 37-Inch LCD HDTV display

Samsung LN37A550 37-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p

April 27th, 2010 admin
Samsung LN37A550 37-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV front display

Samsung LN37A550 37-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV front display

I looked around for several months, and found the Samsung LN37A550 to be comparable to both the Sharp Aquos LC37D64U 37-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p and Sony Bravia XBR-Series KDL-37XBR6 37-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p models.

When I got the Samsung, it had a lower price than the Sharp and Sony. I will compare the three LCD screens using MY comparison criteria.

Picture Quality.

Remember, each maker has its own way to measure Contrast Ratio, Frame Refresh Rate, and Response Time. So direct comparisons may not be appropriate. But, I did see each LCD screen in a couple of different stores. To my eyes, there is little difference between these models in picture brightness and blurring.

The Numbers.

Samsung – 15,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio; 5 ms response time; 60 hZ refresh rate.
Sharp – 10,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio; 6 ms response time; 60 hZ refresh rate.
Sony – 25,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio; unpublished response time; 120 hZ refresh rate.

Comparing the Image.

Sony has the advantage when it comes to refresh rate. I watched the Sony LCD in the store. It was BluRay with the 120 hZ setting. On a 46 inch screen, it looked AWESOME.

Some complain about a “soap-opera” effect with Sony.

On a bigger 50+ inch screen, your eye will notice blurring on the screen. For a 37-inch screen, I have not noticed blurring on my 60 hZ model.

HD Inputs.

The Sony, Samsung, and Sharp have Digital Audio outputs, S-video/composite video inputs, and stereo audio inputs.

Samsung: 3 HDMI Inputs version 1.3 (2 in rear, 1 on side); 1 USB input (JPGs and MP3s); 2 component video inputs; 1 PC input.
Sharp: 2 HDMI Inputs (no version number); 2 component video inputs; 1 PC input. Has side inputs.
Sony: 4 HDMI Inputs (3 in rear, 1 on side; no version number); 2 component video inputs; 1 PC input.

Sound.

Many complain about Samsung’s sound quality (the speakers sound “tinny”). I use a surround sound system, so this may be an issue for you. My goal for the TV was picture, not sound.

The Sharp model sound complaints don’t seem quite as motivated as those for Samsung.

Size.

If you plan to get a 37-inch LCD, you might consider the Toshiba REGZA 40RF350U Super Narrow 40-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p Super Narrow Bezel. It is only 36.77 inches wide. I can’t recommend it one way or the other. But, the Toshiba LCDs I HAVE seen did not compare to the 3 LCD TVs for picture quality.

Samsung: 36.1 inches wide; 40 pounds w/stand (32 pounds without)
Sharp: 35 and 23/64″ wide; 45 pounds w/stand (39 without)
Sony: 36.3 inches wide; 47 pounds w/stand (40 without)

Warranty.

All 3 LCD TVs have 1 year parts and 1 year labor manufacturer warranties.

Other features.

Each offers their own graphics processing engine. Each claims to be the greatest thing ever.

With Sony, if you buy other Sony components, you can control everything from the one Sony remote. Samsung and Sharp may offer this too. But, usually you need all the components to be from the same maker if you want the remote to control them all.

Is It Worth Getting?

I feel certain you will be pleased with any of these 3 LCDs. It just depends on brand loyalty, pricing sensitivity, and how you feel about sound.

For me, the Samsung LN37A550 LCD has made me quite happy to recommend it.

Panasonic VIERA G1 Series TC-L37G1 1080p 120Hz 37-Inch LCD HDTV

April 23rd, 2010 admin
panasonic viera g1 series tc l37g1 37 inch lcd tv display panel

panasonic viera g1 series tc l37g1 37 inch lcd tv display panel

panasonic viera g1 series tc l37g1 37 inch lcd tv wii

panasonic viera g1 series tc l37g1 37 inch lcd tv wii

I bought this Panasonic TC-L37G1 after researching many manufacturers and models.

Opening the Box.

It was easy to get everything working since I used a flat, clean, stable, non-abrasive surface. Just lay the TV on it and attach the stand. There is information on appropriate wall mounts that will fit the TV for easy mounting.

Setup.

There are just a few minor complaints. It takes longer to do automatic channel pickup than other digital TVs.

My friend has an Insignia. His set ignored digital channels it could not receive (encrypted, cable box only). This Sony VIERA G1 added them to the list. The problem is if you try to watch the channel, it says it won’t display. This could leave you with a lot of channels you can’t watch clogging your lineup.

There is no CableCard slot. You have to settle for over-the-air HD, unencrypted cable HD (usually only broadcast channels), or you have to get a cable box. This isn’t a big issue since this TV has 4 HD inputs.

Picture Quality.

In one word, it is amazing! The color is stunning. Picture ghosting is nonexistent. HD material is a marvel to watch. In particular, Blu-Ray looks very impressive with this 120HZ panel.

You really need to see the 120Hz in person. To me, it is spectacular. However, some may not like it. You CAN disable 120Hz. But, if you do, I think the price isn’t worth it (vs. Panasonic’s other series).

Inputs.

There are 3 HDMI outputs. 2 are in back and 1 on the side. The side input is great for camcorders, media players, and other HDMI-ready devices.

Side Inputs.

The side inputs include standard definition inputs (S-Video, RCA Yellow/Red/White) with a headphone jack. The headphone jack disables the speakers automatically when a device is plugged in. It is convenient for sporadic use.

For a set of wireless headphones, you need to plug it in whenever you use them. In these cases, earlier model Panasonic HDTVs had a seperate left/right audio out. I didn’t check before purchase and am disappointed by the removal.

Back Inputs.

In back are 2 HDMI inputs, an S-Video/RCA combo, a component video input with RCA L/R, and a VGA input with RCA left/right audio inputs.

While this Panasonic is a 1080P HDTV, it will NOT ACCEPT 1080P USING COMPONENT. This is made clear in the owner’s manual, but not the product materials. Newer TVs commonly support 1080P over component, just not this Panasonic VIERA G1. It’s not too bad, since most devices don’t support 1080P over component anyway. As an older Xbox 360 gamer, there is no HDMI for me. That is kind of disappointing.

Outputs.

There is the headphone jack. You get an optical out jack for 5.1 surround sound out from the TV. I don’t know if audio from HDMI, etc. passes along, or only cable/broadcast TV. So, you may want to check on this.

Sound.

The built in speakers are okay. To me, they are for a wall mount, since the speakers face down. On a stand, this really doesn’t project the sound. However, it makes the TV front look nice and clean.Volume control varies from 0 to 100.

While not the loudest speakers, it still disturbs the neighbors, if you want. The sound isn’t tinny. It just isn’t the clearest, at least on a stand. I don’t know what they sound like from a wall mount.

Other Notes.

The stickers leave no residue if you want to remove them.
Each input can have a label with preset names (e.x. Cable, Game) or custom (eg. PS3, Xbox). If you don’t have a universal remote, this is GREAT! The inputs are less confusing.

The TV is in the Harmony database and everything is well timed and works smoothly (on/off, volume, channel changing, input changes, etc.). There are no HDMI handshaking issues, unlike other HDTVs (no video disruption, video but no sound, etc.).

Remote.

The remote is decent. It is not the best. However, it is very usable with large print buttons. Too bad it does not glow in the dark. It is also not backlit.

Should You Buy It?

I have a couple (minor) complaints. Yet, I am very happy with my Panasonic VIERA G1 TC-L37G1 37-inch LCD TV and can definitely recommend it.

panasonic viera g1 series tc l37g1 37 inch lcd tv movies lord of the rings

panasonic viera g1 series tc l37g1 37 inch lcd tv movies lord of the rings

LG 37LH40 1080p 120Hz 37-Inch LCD HDTV Gloss Black

April 17th, 2010 admin
LG 37LH40 37 inch 1080p 120hz lcd hdtv display

LG 37LH40 37 inch 1080p 120hz lcd hdtv display

LG 37LH40 37 inch 1080p 120hz lcd hdtv back panel

LG 37LH40 37 inch 1080p 120hz lcd hdtv back panel

This LG 37LH40 HDTV was to be used as a PC monitor. Besides games and movies, I wanted a “cinema” experience in my office, not just for the couch in the living room.

I Made A Decision.

The LG is a great TV. It has easy to use menus and about all the picture control a person could want. Picture control goes beyond the options of most LCD TV’s, with LG’s “expert” picture mode. You can adjust much more than just contrast and color.

My LCD and a PC.

The LG is hooked up to my PC using HDMI. My PC recognized it immediately. It lets you use a 24hz refresh rate (my PC uses it is as a 120hz model that runs 24hz without pulldown).

The two native resolutions are 1080p/60hz and 1080p/24hz. It is unnecessary for a PC. Yet, it is nice to know a blu-ray player will be accepted with a 24hz signal without issue. Normally, a PC changes to 24hz when fullscreen movies are played. It doesn’t matter if you have it set to 60hz.

Issues.

I wish this LG had picture-in-picture (PiP). My 1st generation, 2-year old Vizio LCD has PiP. Why doesn’t a brand new 120hz model have it? No PiP was almost a deal breaker. My plan was to watch TV in the PiP while browsing the web or working. Oh well, nothing is perfect.

The TV doesn’t have a written manual.

The remote feels cheap and the buttons are not backlit.

TruMotion.

The LG TruMotion does work. However, the picture looks surreal. It makes it uncomfortable to watch. This happened on every 120hz TV I compared, EXCEPT the Sony Bravia XBR series.

Sony’s motion engine seems to retain the cinema feel while adding smoothness to the picture. If you are unsure, definitely consider the Bravia. The price is worth it. If you keep it for years, the price may not matter anyway.

TruMotion is great for sports. It almost feels like looking through a window rather than watching a TV screen.

Performance.

The performance on this LG has been outstanding, so far (not including TruMotion). When I compare it to my Vizio 47 inch 1080p 60hz, it is a big difference.

Tearing showed in some movies and every game on the Vizio. The LG doesn’t have that problem. The LG displays scrolling and fast movement both smoothly and clearly. The color depth is outstanding. Movies stand out in 720p or less. There is no graininess compared to the Vizio. In 1080p, the screen clarity is impressive. Sitting only 3 or 4 feet away, the picture on the LG still looks great.

Sound.

The sound is good. It is not great. The voice clarity option is really nice. It helps keep a reasonable volume. Yet, you still hear voices from TV shows and movies very well.

Design.

The LG has a nice design. The LED on the bottom moves when the power is on. It’s a gimmick, but it looks nice.

The bezel is rather large. It is about twice the size of my Vizio 47 inch. I don’t think you’ll notice it, though. But, the bezel does have a highly reflective black surface. It seems to reflect any light behind me.

The screen is not glossy. However, it does have a little reflection to it.

Should You Get It?

I feel the LG is a great purchase. The difference in picture quality is noticeably better from older 60hz LCD’s. Personally, the XBR Bravia LCDs are a little better. But, you pay for that difference.

As a monitor, you will like this LG 37LH40. Just remember to take some time to set the picture. Out of the box it looks good but tweaking gets this screen to do amazing things.

Note: You may experience problems with the HDMI connection and your cable provider. The HDMI audio sync has been reported to be seconds slow on some cable boxes. Your cable may seem like a badly dubbed movie.

Samsung LN37B530 37-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV

April 11th, 2010 admin
Samsung LN37B530 front display

Samsung LN37B530 front display

Samsung LN37B530 back panel

Samsung LN37B530 back panel

My plan was to buy a TV for the bedroom. So, something smaller than a 40-inch was what I wanted.

General Impression.

This Samsung LN37B530 is relatively thin. This makes it perfect for wall mounting. Plus, the picture is excellent. It may not be the Samsung LN52A650, but is great for the size and budget. You will not find much better than this set.

Menu’s are easy to navigate. It works flawlessly, with 3 HDMI inputs. That’s usually plenty for most situations.

Remote.

I don’t like the remote. The “main” buttons are not located well on the control. The mute and channel buttons feel hidden when they should be easy to find with your fingers.

Cost.

This set is cheaper than the 550 model, since it doesn’t have the side inputs. Since this is just going in the bedroom, saving the $100 or so dollars was worth the tradeoff.

Gaming.

IF YOU ARE A GAMER, DO NOT BUY THIS TV!!!!!!!!

DONT LET GAME MODE FOOL YOU…IT DOES NOT HELP!

The problem is the SEVERE ghosting. Basically, if you’re playing a game (especially FPS) and you move quickly at all, the images double up. It makes the screen look really blurry. When you play in a dark room, it is especially bad.

Let’s say you play rock band. You’re singing and the words are scrolling on the screen. They are EXTREMELY blurry. You will get a headache in no time.

Warranty.

Don’t forget to register online for the warranty. Samsung adds 3 months, at no cost, when you sign up.

Issues.

There seems to be a high chance of Backlight Bleeding. This is when parts of the screen are brighter or lighter than other parts. However, this is a common problem with LCD TVs.

Recommendation.

If you’re not a gamer, it is great for TV and movies. If you are a gamer, you need to find another TV. Otherwise, the Samsung LN37B530 is a buy!

Panasonic VIERA X1 Series 37-Inch LCD TV

April 4th, 2010 admin

Panasonic TC-L37X1 720p LCD HDTV

panasonic 37 inch lcd tv
panasonic 37 inch lcd tv

General Setup.

This Panasonic TC-L37X1 was easy to setup. However, it took me forever to figure out there was no way to program DISH channels (from satellite) using their instructions. Just use the DISH instructions to reprogram the DISH remote to use with the TV. It should do everything you need with full control, without too much hassle.

Size and Picture.

There doesn’t seem to be much difference between a 37 and 42 inch HDTV. Plus, the difference between 720p and 1080p was not noticeable on a 32-inch HDTV.

Sound.

This TV DOES NOT HAVE an analog audio output. The only audio output it has is digital optical. You could buy a simple optical DAC to convert the optical data to analog output. This is best if you have an excellent stereo sound system that only supports analog audio. However, the Panasonic HDTV did not down-convert the surround-sound signal to 2-channel. This is with “surround sound” turned off.

You may need a A/V receiver. The problem is they usually have far more capabilities than you need for watching TV. Another option is a 5.1, Dolby Digital, DTS… capable DAC. It seems, no analog audio outputs is the future, with HDTV, though.

The Panasonic 32 inch does provide decent sound from the built-in speakers.

Sound Setup.

It’s too bad you need an amp to boost the audio signal (or powered speakers). Two wires are required to connect the speakers. The color-coded connectors are easy to follow.

Can you believe the directions don’t show that you need to use the Original Remote to change the INPUT source to see the video? Result, wonderful sound with no picture. It was frustrating until I used the TV original remote to pick inputs. Instructions are not the best. That is from many hours of experience of trying to read and understand them.

Becoming a Pro.

Once you learn how these new electronics work, it’s easy installing any component, including older technology like S-Video cable, RCA plugs, or Computer USB. This Panasonic has every conceivable connector. When I do decide to buy a Blu-ray DVD (if ever), I know to use the HDMI inputs. Plus, there are inputs for ipod/gamer stuff.

I Would Get Another One.

It looks great ON or OFF. The Panasonic TC-L37X1 gets broadcast air signals well with decent sound from the built-in speakers. If it had analog audio out, it would be a perfect TV. But, it is still well worth the investment.

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37 Inch LCD TV