Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

General discussion

Need TV for college, limited budget

Jul 8, 2005 7:30AM PDT

I've got about $500 to spend on all my stuff for college (so about $300 max probably for TV). I dont' really have any specifications, other than a nice screen size, and preferebly flatscreen (not plasma though, just not a curved screen). Can anyone give any suggestions? thanks..

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Need TV for college,
Jul 11, 2005 2:46AM PDT

Just an idea, do have a computer monitor?? If so you can buy a tuner that will use your computer monitor for the TV and you switch back and forth. YOu didn't say what size TV . John

- Collapse -
.
Jul 11, 2005 1:11PM PDT

I have a laptop, but I'd rather not use it as my TV. I've got an XBox I'd like to be able to use, and I don't think I can use that with my computer - no AV ports. TV size, I don't really care about. Nothing huge, and nothing small, so..I don't really know. Between 10" and 30" I guess. I'm more looking for brands that have good, trustworthy TVs that won't drain my entire budget.

- Collapse -
Between 10" and 30"
Jul 13, 2005 2:12AM PDT

Well just click on the TVs button in the tool bar and have fun. John

- Collapse -
Brandwise...
Jul 14, 2005 12:59AM PDT

I have a couple Sharp tvs in the house that have done well and were inexpensive. I saw a 32 inch at Sams Club for around $ 300 US. Remember though, a flat screen crt is much heavier than a curved crt so you might look at a 27 inch for easier transportation. Repair rates on smaller tvs are lower than on bigger tvs as well. You will see a lot of deals on RCA but they do tend to break more than other brands. Extended warranty is expensive and hardly used...definitly get a good quality surge protector with surge protection for the cable and phone lines built in.

Look for multiple av inputs including one on the front for game hook ups and AUDIO OUTPUT (very important) on the back to allow hooking up to a stereo or surround sound. S video and component video are better connections.

Digital comb filter circuitry improve video performance. For best video you need to finetune any brand of tv using calibration dvd discs like Sound & Visions' Home Theater calibration disc ( a deal at around 20 bucks).

Take my advice...leave the tv off while you study. LOL

Good Luck

grimgraphix.com

- Collapse -
Look at this
Jul 17, 2005 1:51PM PDT

Go to bestbuy.com and look at 21-29 in televisions...that's what range your in.