Confused NewBee Needs Plasma Help

[scubadvr2001]

Some of my friends recommend getting an plasma TV and others recommend getting a plasma monitor and a separate A/V receiver. If I was going to get a 50" unit, what would you recommend if I was going to buy a TV and why. If you recommend separate units, what do you prefer and why?

Thanks

[robnalex]

An A/V receiver and quality speakers will give you a much more enjoyable audio experience than the speakers included with a plasma TV.

Also, if you will be using a cable or satellite STB for TV viewing, you really don't need an integrated TV tuner.

[yobob]

I've got an HT setup, and still can't answer that question myself.

I enjoy the 5.1 sound with DVDs, but for network TV, especially news, I can get by with the TV's built-ins.

What you need to ask yourself is what kind of program material you will be viewing, and what kind of sound comes with it.

[PerryU]

Speakers and tuner are the most obvious things missing from the monitor / industrial panels, but there are other differences: connections and aesthetics, for two. In the case of the Panasonics, e.g., the consumer models come with quite a few more connections, while with the industrials you have the option of buying optional boards, or 'blades', so you can custom-match your connections to your other equipment.

Also the sound issue isn't just about surround sound. For years I've used my (decent, but by no means audiophile) stereo for sound with my old tube TVs, and I couldn't go back to even the better built-in speakers. I also use my cable box and dvd-r/pvr tuners exclusively. So I've always treated my tv as a monitor, and since I also prefer the clean aesthetic of the industrial, that would be my choice.

...but it does complicate the remote shuffle (unless you have a well-programmed universal remote), which can be an issue for some family members; another reason some like to have built-in speakers / tuner for day-to-day viewing.

See, the forum's great for info, not so good for quick answers. Your choice to make, in the end.

Cheers... Perry.