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General discussion

Question About Size

Aug 7, 2004 11:40AM PDT

I just purchased the Samsung 43" DLP TV. But that was before I read the CNET suggestions on size for the room. I'll probably be seated about 15 feet from the TV, and now after reading the suggestions about size I am concerned that the 43" TV will not be big enough. I'm debating canceling delivery and buying a bigger projection TV. I really love the DLP picture, but I can't afford to go any bigger and now I'm concerned about the size. Does anyone have any suggestions?

THANKS!

Discussion is locked

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Re: Question About Size
Aug 9, 2004 1:59AM PDT

"I really love the DLP picture, but I can't afford to go any bigger"

I think you have answered your question. My opinion; sizewise, it's a matter of preference and I think 43" is plenty big for 15ft. My worry is more on the reliability of these unit. If my experience is of any indication, it's not good. The projection lamp is suppose to last about 8000 hours and my lasted less than 3000. So get some extended warrenty if not too expensive (the lamp alone is about $200 if you were to replace it youself).

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Re: Question About Size
Aug 25, 2004 6:48AM PDT

My general rule of thumb is to recommend a TV screen that is larger than what the screen size calculators recommend.

IMO, if you're going to spend that much for a big screen TV, you want it to feel big (at least I do). I have a 65" Hitachi and I sit about 13ft. away. It feels just right to me.

Ultimately, though, it is a matter of personal preference. You may want to go to a store and view a 43" set from a variety of distances. If it seems too small from 15ft, then maybe you could look at a larger rear projection set that will give you more screen size for less money.

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Re: Question About Size
Dec 19, 2004 3:59AM PST

I agree with sMoRTy71. I have a 60" Sony LCD rear projection. I sit about 13 ft away also. It seems large enough yet far enough away to never see a pixel. I would get the largest TV that your room and wallet can accomodate.

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Re: Question About Size
Dec 20, 2004 10:25AM PST

I bought a 52" Toshiba DLP recently and I sit 12-13 feet from the screen. Unfortunately, I don't have high definition yet so I have been extremely disappointed with the picture quality (especially NFL football and other fast moving sports) from this distance. My understanding is that high definition will make all the difference in the world but at this point, I wish I had bought something more in the size range (42-43") you own. On the other hand, I am very pleased with the picture quality of DVDs from this distance. I guess when all is said and done, you really do have to "consider the source."