Help, buying a new TV

[Brainchild]

I just bought a new TV last year,and the picture tube is going out and the sound is terrible.SO orion will NOT be a choice this time
I was at walmart tonight and Phillips looks pretty good.

Or RCA

Or Sanyo

out of these the phillips had the best sound, but RCA had the best picture.I'm looking for something that's gonna last 10 years,and have to be replaced for being obsolete,not because it quit.
I also may go to a 31-32 inch, but the prices are within each other on these 3 manufacturers in that size. I really don't like the silver finish of the phillips, but it had the best sound of all but the big screens,and they were phillips also.

So anyone have one of these models? How is it holding up,is it worth the money, would you buy it again?

Any suggestions as to another brand that would be better, in this price range would be appreciated

Thanx

I am not much on most RCA units as Thompson electronics requires techs (or "hardcore" viewers) to purchase proprietary software and hardware to fine adjust convergence and other viewing aspects outside of the quite limited ranges of the onscreen menu. Not even onboard diagnostics are capable without forking out around $300 for the proper hookup.

Additionally, TVs featuring internals from Thompson (some sony, philips, etc.) should probably be avoided altogether. The last of the CTX series components were perhaps the worst, but even many of the latest parts still lack real quality control as compared to Thompson's earlier days.

RCA's are cost competitive upfront, the picture and sound quality are slightly above average, but servicing could be a nightmare down the road.

Of those listed, I would probably buy the Philips unit. Most Philips models feature great comb and noise removal for a superb picture. And as you noticed, the sound is certainly superior, especially as compared to the Sanyo you listed.

BTW, I own a RCA system (CTX series board and all), and am quite pleased with its sound and picture quality, just hate the parts quality, so do not assume I am too overly biased towards RCA. However, luckily I have been able to repair the various problems myself, though I am about to completely replace the digital convergence board if this thing starts acting up again like it did a few months ago.

[xenon200]

Definately go with Philips. While I have previously been an RCA fan, a decline in their product quality over recent years has opened my eyes a lot.

While on the other hand, I am never disappointed with any Philips product I buy.

[Brainchild]

Cool,while I don't like the Silver finish,I am not willing to let that make the decision against phillips.
I will no be doing any repairs down the road, so I don't think that part is going to matter, but intresting info RobRich
I may go poke around bestbuy and see what tickles my itch there
thanx guys

[Chuckiechan]

I've always had Sony and I love them for the best picture quality. I hope to buy another one again next time.

[MikeHof]

I love my sanyo 31" & I've had it for 7 years now & it's still going strong. Even got my parents to buy one a couple years back & they love theirs also.

[maface]

I just bought a Toshiba myself. I agree with Rob. I would look at Toshiba, Sony and Panasonic

[crazyray]

The comments about RCA and related brands are dead on. There are some bargains to be had in TV's right now. Modestly priced brands with good reliability include Sanyo. Stepping up a notch, the list Maface gave you is pretty good.

Buy with a major credit card that extends the manufacturer's warranty if at all possible. Good luck.

Oh I don't know.... I have a 32" scratch and dent I got for 300 bucks from Best Buy about 2-1/2 years ago. It's a Sanyo and it's been a great TV with a great Picture and unbeatable price!

I love scratch and dent!

(btw it was to replace the 32" Sony that was about 650 bucks and dead after about 1 year... as soon as the warranty was gone)

[mAdMaLuDaWg]

JVC is pretty good too. Unlike other companies, they have a name for their service. Only major electronics company that still has walk in service centers.
The 27" JVC TVs run in a pretty decent price range too