1366x768 LCD vs. 852x480 plasma

[Captain8bit]

The time to order a new display is quickly upon me and I'm finding myself torn. For my budget ($1,400) I want the maximum PQ.

I had originally decided upon a TH-42PWD8UK Panasonic plasma. (res 852x480).

With LCD prices dropping like crazy, I found I could get a 32" at 1366x768 for much less.

Here's my question: Will I notice the resolution difference? My viewing distance is about 8 feet. I'm looking for a display between 32 and 42 inches.

I play PS2/XBOX, watch DVDs and a bit of HD TV.

[madshi]

Somewhat tough question. First of all: You won't see a difference when watching SD material, of course, since 852x480 is more than enough resolution for that. If you'll see a difference, it can only be with HD sources.

I don't think you'll see a big difference with HD between 852x480 and 1366x768 when using a 32" with 8 feet viewing distance. Maybe a very small difference, but no big difference. With 42" things are a bit different. There you might actually see more of a difference. But again: Only when watching HD.

With 32" the image will appear sharper than with 42" even if the LCD also had 852x480 only. Why? Because the smaller the picture is with the same number of pixels, the sharper it will get. But you'll lose quite a bit of immersion and wow experience by giving up those 10".

Can't you spend those 500 more to get a 42" HD? Of course you could wait some more weeks. You might have luck to get a good deal on/before black friday to get a 42" HD nearer to your budget than it is now.

One thing you need to watch for is SDE (screen door effect -> pixel structure). Do you see SDE on a 42" ED plasma with 8 feet viewing distance? I believe some people do, others don't.

[aykew]

Also keep in mind that the character of a LCD picture is quite a bit different than a Plasma's. I infinitely prefer the later, but some people have an opposite view. Really take a good look at both in a store and see which you prefer.

[oztech]

more and more hd will becme available it would worth it to get a 42hd for the wow factor i am spoilled can not go back already saving for higher resolution display.

[Mayor McCheese]

The 42" has an image area that is roughly 70 percent larger. Size is nice.

[Deathstalker]

Captain8bit,

You have several variables going there, smaller HD LCD vs larger SD Plasma. You give a dilemma, and on each one I say:

HD is better then ED

Plasma looks better then LCD

The larger the panel the better

You need to weigh each as it applies to you.

Take Care,

Richard