HDTVs?

Looking to get a HDTV for a couple of reasons: ie moving to a smaller place and the world cup is approaching. I've seen a couple for arounf 10k which looks like a good deal: Haier and an LG one.


However, Im not really sure how i should choose one or what price to pay. Can anyone give me any pointers when making this decision?

I have not heard of Haier.....of the two I would say LG is a more notable brand. Items to think about when chosing (some may not apply depending on where you come from and may want to take it back with you):


- multi-standard tuner ie. Pal / NSTC

- multi-voltage (120-240 VAC)

- is the HD 720 and 1080i (at a minimum)

- does it have HDMI input or just YPrPb (HDMI is the new interface going forward for HD)

- this is a mater of preference, but how easy is the on screen menu to use (believe it or not some are much better than others).

- size of course does matter....and will depend on budget. A smaller TV will look better when playing SD (non high definition content). All of the content today is SD and is nowhere the resolution as HD. So when you play the SD content on a big screen Plasma or LCD is does not look very good.


Having said all of that, I'm not sure anyone (PCCW or Cable TV) will be broadcasting the World cup in HD (or anything else for that matter for some time. If they were they would have been promoting / marketing the heck out if it and would have Set Top Boxes deployed already.


Bascially what I'm saying is that while your TV might be HD ready...there is no HD services to watch. Until such time I would suggest you spend the time looking and finding something you like because the prices are only dropping. I bought one 12 months ago and today it's about 2/3's the price.


If you do decide to go ahead and get one I might suggest the Sony Bravia.......


Hope this helps

Thanks for your lengthy reply. That's a lot of help. One big reason for getting a new tv is that my new place will be smaller than my current one - gone for a smaller place in a nicer area - as such I dont want to have a deep tv anymore, but a think, lcd one. This will save me significant space.


I will take your advice on board, many thanks