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November 14, 2007
Dear CNET members,
While paging through the CNET forums, I couldn't help but notice this conversation among our CNET members over plasma versus LCD TVs--on how much misinformation, myths, or FUD (fear, uncertainty, and doubt) there is all over the Web, on the salesfloors, and of course, being passed on by word of mouth. So I figure, why not, let's make a conversation of this topic and help those folks who are confused over fact versus fiction when it comes down to plasma versus LCD TVs. And since the buying season is once again upon us, people will be looking for answers. So without further delay, let's get right to it.

What are some of the most ridiculous things that you've heard or read about plasma or LCD TVs? Have you bought a LCD or plasma TV based on misinformation only to find out after the fact that what you learned was wrong? If you have some facts to offer your fellow members about plasma or LCD TVs, by all means, post them in this discussion. And if you see others posting misinformation, call them out by stating the facts--we want facts here, not fiction. I figure the more we can inform each other on this topic, the more it will ultimately help us to make more informed buying decisions and not spread FUD around to others as well. Happy posting!

BTW, in case you weren't aware, you can find a lot more facts about plasma and LCD right here in CNET's HDTV World.

Cheers!
Lee Koo
Manager, CNET community


Got suggestions? Send us an e-mail:
messageboards@cnet.com
This week's hot topic:
Plasma vs. LCD TVs: Oh, the myths and the lies!
After doing some online search about plasma versus LCD TVs, CNET member gabereyes couldn't believe how much misinformation was posted on the Web about these plasma and LCD Ts, prompting him to post in the forums to see what fellow members had to say about it. Here's how some of them reacted when they read his post:

"LOL..."
"Very funny post. I have said it many times. It is amazing how many lies and misconceptions there are about plasma technology. A lot if it stems from the salespeople at electronic retailers. I don't know if it is because they are stupid (very likely) or because they have better margins with LCD TVs (also likely) or both (most likely), but it is just annoying...." (Read more)
--Submitted by: CNET member stuntman_mike
"Yes there is a lot FUD out there."
"This is why CNET forums are here. Some of the statements are pure FUD, but there is some truth behind some of them. Keep in mind that both LCD and plasma sets are improving every year. If you could compare the sets from 2-3 years ago to the ones in the stores today, there is a big difference. And the list goes on...." (Read more)
--Submitted by: CNET member jcrobso
"But what about burn-ins?"
"The real reason I do not buy/recommend plasma is only the burn-in issue. I had a bad experience few years ago, where the traces of fading images would appear on a plasma set. I know that today the technology is much better and under NORMAL use, the possibility of burn-in is slim to none, but I still want to ask all of..." (Read more)
--Submitted by: CNET member dgden
"haha"
"Reminded me of the time when an elderly lady returned a new 42" panasonic plasma because it was a little warm and she was afraid that warmth will give her cancer. She upgraded from a crt in a wooden enclosure." (Read more)
--Submitted by: CNET member dgden
Speak up!
Now that you've read CNET member gabereyes' post on how much misinformation he found on the Web about LCD and plasma TVs, what do you think? What is some misinformation you've read or heard? If you have a good story to tell about how you got misinformed, share it with us. Anything you can offer to help your fellow members make the distinction between fact and fiction on plasma and LCD TVs is helpful. So post your comments right here.
CNET television resources:

Everything HDTV: CNET's HDTV World
CNET editors' TV buying guide
TV blogs
Home audio & video forum
Quick hits
Here are some interesting comments you've recently submitted on CNET. Read up on it and comment on it.

Is Apple cashing in on iPod's
missing feature?

Many people were hoping the new iPods would stream music wirelessly via Bluetooth. Was Apple's omission just a question of dollars and sense? Why do you think Apple left Bluetooth off the latest iPods?
When will we see the best
flat-screen prices?

CNET member bnwbaron writes: I would like to buy a plasma or LCD in the next few months. There is no real rush, so given the fact that Black Friday, Christmas sales, and after-Christmas sales are all on the near horizon; when should I expect the best pricing to exist?
 
Weigh in on this week's poll:
When it comes to buying a plasma or LCD TV, I am:
(Please click on button to vote)

 Well informed and ready to buy.
 Somewhat informed.
 Still confused.
 Overwhelmed.
 Not interested in either plasma or LCD TVs.
 Already in plasma and LCD heaven and enjoying it!
 Other.
Last week's poll results 
Do you agree with Time naming the iPhone "Invention of the Year"?

CNET blogs
News, reviews, and opinions from CNET's editors and selected experts... Check them out and post your thoughts on them.


Hot products
Along with discussing plasma and LCD TVs, CNET members had plenty of new tech products to talk about this week.

SanDisk Sansa Clip (2GB, candy apple red)
CNET member kdsewell says:
"This is a great, super compact player with excellent sound quality, FM radio, and voice recorder. The review said it's the best sounding Sansa MP3 product. I completely agree (Had an e200 & tried 2 other models). Sound clarity is high, bass is responsive, etc. Wouldn't expect it from a product at this price point ($58 for 2GB at Best Buy)..." (read more)
See all user opinions | Compare prices

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T200 (Red)
CNET member tonydee888 says:
"I started on the T100 and liked the performance so I upgraded to this one as soon as it was available. Man! I'm glad I did! Nice touch screen/control setup, huge screen, and the new smile detection rocks! (& it really works!) Pictures both indoors and outdoors are crystal clear and sharp. I was amazed of the quality of my very, very low light shots, too! (you just have to tweak the ISO setting a bit though on low-light shots but once you adjust it to your liking, you'll always get a good shot)...." (read more)
Read all user opinions | Compare prices

Apple iPod Touch (16GB)
CNET member joeink says:
"To everyone complaining about the lack of storage: It's flash. Flash memory ain't cheap and though, yes, there will be plenty of 32, 64, and eventually 100+GB flash players out there, for right now this is more than decent. I have 2,000 songs, 4 movies, 10 TV shows, 40 podcasts, 300 photos and all..." (read more)
Read all user opinions | Compare prices

2007 CNET Holiday gift guide



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