I need HD-TV help!!!

OK, I screwed up -- I got the 1080p not the 1080i. Small detail there ... to the tune of about $1200 difference.

And yes, you will wind up spending much more -- the mounting bracket for the wall was $250, I bought the 4 year protection plan for another $400, then, (and this is where I really think I got snookered) -- the "Panamax Home Theater Power Conditioner". That was another $549. I called some people on that one -- my dad just has your basic surge protector, but my brother has the Monster Box. I bit. I figured I can take it back if I decide it's not worth it. I haven't installed anything yet. It's still in the box.

So what's the opinion here on "power cleaners" or "power conditioners" ?? Will a surge protector do basically the same thing, or is there truly some big advantage to the extra 5 bills I just plunked down?

Sorry but the protection plan is just a ripoff. The stores love to push that crap since it's almost pure profit for them. They don't much very much off the TV itself.

What Consumers Should Know About Extended Warranties and Performance Service Plans for Electronics - Associated Content (http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/10358/what_consumers_should_know_about_extended.html)

I'm also trying to get a LCD HDTV but unlike all you ritzy guys here, I'm a poor college student making a little more than minimum wage and I'm not trying to get a big-screen. Just something to fit in my room something between 30-40in. And I'm not looking to pay more than $700-$800. Just something I can play my video games and watch the Skins on.

My grandmother only has basic Cable which is basically broadcast stations and your other regular standbys, (USA, TNT, etc). Would I be able to get the regular over the air HD programming like prime time TV, sporting events and my video games with a TV that has HD already built in? Or do I have to do something special?

I dont think the power box is a ripoff, I had nuetral wire go bad which cuased a power surge, and those nice cheap surge protectors exploaded and almost burned the house down, not to mention ruined almost every electronic devise plugged in (including cheap surge protectors) in the house.

I'm also trying to get a LCD HDTV but unlike all you ritzy guys here, I'm a poor college student making a little more than minimum wage and I'm not trying to get a big-screen. Just something to fit in my room something between 30-40in. And I'm not looking to pay more than $700-$800. Just something I can play my video games and watch the Skins on.

My grandmother only has basic Cable which is basically broadcast stations and your other regular standbys, (USA, TNT, etc). Would I be able to get the regular over the air HD programming like prime time TV, sporting events and my video games with a TV that has HD already built in? Or do I have to do something special?


As long as the TV you buy has a digital tuner. I just bought a Sony Wega 34" HDTV (200lb monster) and it tuned in 23 digital channels.

By the way, if anyone can deal with the size and weight don't discount CRT tv's just yet, I put my 42" LCD next to my 34" tube tv and put them both on FoxHD (baseball game), the tube still looks better. Not to mention it was half the price. Viva la CRT!!!

the only thing about those it takes hulk hogan to move it. they weigh a ton

True but the ratio of time watching the tv versus time moving the tv is about 3,456,236 to 1.

Anyone know a good link to the HDTV Setup websites. I have also heard there are DVD's you can buy or burn that will help you dial in the proper settings.

Anyone know a good link to the HDTV Setup websites. I have also heard there are DVD's you can buy or burn that will help you dial in the proper settings.

This could help you get started, but you'll probably want to try googling your specific TV

Video: Optimize your HD picture - CNET Reviews (http://reviews.cnet.com/Optimize_your_HD_picture/4660-6487_7-6215405.html)

This could help you get started, but you'll probably want to try googling your specific TV

Video: Optimize your HD picture - CNET Reviews (http://reviews.cnet.com/Optimize_your_HD_picture/4660-6487_7-6215405.html)

I have been googling for part of it when work hasnt come calling. I have done some tweeking to it at home and I do like where it is at now, but by no means do I really know what I am doing.

Thanks for the link.