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General discussion

46A650 versus 46B650

Apr 2, 2009 12:51AM PDT

I am looking to pick up one of these two sets. Besides the contrast, sound and "touch of color" what do I need to know about the two of these sets? Is the better contrast on the B the better reason to get this versus the A? Is it that much of a difference because between the red and black I prefer the aesthetics of the A.

Any and all help is greatly appreciated.

Zapple

Discussion is locked

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46A650 versus 46B650
Apr 2, 2009 8:12AM PDT

Zapple23,

One of the big features for the 6-series and up (40" and up) models is that they'll have Medi@2.0, which is an enhanced set for DLNA (streaming) capabilities. So it will have Internet@TV content, Wireless DLNA, a contnet library and a few extra features that the "A" series does not have.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

--HDTech

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46B650 and 52A550
Apr 2, 2009 9:48PM PDT

I was in the store and watching the 46a650 and 46B650 one on top of the other, displaying TV via cable. on display behind me was a 52A550 but was running a Blu-Ray disc. I wound up getting the 52. My question is did I kind get "sold" by not comparing the same broadcast or blu-ray? There will never be a time when I will have three TV's almost side by side to ever compare them again. I know it is a personal choice, but I guess what I am trying to get at is from a Spec point of view I know what the numbers say are the differences in the 46B650 and the 52A550. Am I sacrificing a lot for a larger screen and less money? My cost difference is $400. Any help is appreciated and opinions count too. I am still buying Samsung either way.

Thanks,
Zapple

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46B650 and 52A550
Apr 3, 2009 5:58PM PDT

Zapple23,

I'm surprised that the store had a Blu-Ray demonstration on the 5-Series, since the 5-Series is a 60Hz television, and the 6-Series (both the A and B) are 120Hz televisions.

If you use it to play games, or fast action television shows, the 120Hz processing can really come in handy, and does provide a faster refresh.

That said, if you're satisfied with the picture and can save $400.00, then do what's best for you, and that's a great situation if it works for you. If you're waiting for your television to be delivered, you might ask to see a 5-Series on the same channel as the 6-Series to determine if there's a noticable difference for the price difference.

I'm not sure that you're sacrificing "a lot". but for motion, 120Hz isn't just a "printed spec". It's a pretty significant technology. But if it's not a difference you can see, then don't pay for it. I imagine in today's retail landscape, asking the salesperson to show you the same feed on all three televisions shouldn't be a cumbersome task, and will give you peace of mind in your purchase.

That's my thoughts, and we can discuss where you want to go from there if you'd like.

Keep me posted.

--HDTech

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Good Advice
Apr 6, 2009 12:09AM PDT

There is no question the 46B does much better, at least watching NCAA action, with fast motion. Now I know why the 52 had blu-ray and not cable. I returned the 52 and will keep the 46B. I have heard different things regarding the Internet features and that they are only available through a subscription. I will do some research. Will using the 46B as a primary display for photos prove ant greater "wear" than a DVD or cable TV?
Again thanks for the help.

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Good Advice
Apr 6, 2009 8:56AM PDT

Zapple23,

I don't believe that any of the widgets have a subscription charge. That could change, but as it stands, I don't believe that's the case. The only subscription you DO need is an internet subscription, and a wireless (or wired) connection.

I'm trying to catch the spirit of your second question. As far as greater "wear", do you mean will it wear out the panel?

--HDTech