(Nov 19, 2009)
David Katzmaier
Senior Editor
It's easy to pick the very best, but when it comes to paying for a new HDTV, sometimes second or third best is all your wallet allows. And sometimes, you just want a TV that's "good enough" and won't drain the children's college funds. That's where this list comes in, which compiles our picks for the best buys among LCD TVs. "Cheap" doesn't necessarily have a bad connotation when you're talking about the models listed below--it just means they cost less than average yet still produce a decent picture.
Sony KDL-V5100 series
The commendable picture quality of Sony's entry-level 120Hz-equipped LCD makes it a very good value.
Price: $797.00 - $1,299.99 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 19, 2009
Very good
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JVC LT-P300 series
The dock on JVC's LT-P300 series of LCD TV provides a well-designed and easy way to enjoy iPod and iPhone content in the living room.
Price: $461.59 - $769.23 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 23, 2009
Good
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Sony KDL-L5000 series
Although it costs a tad more than bargain-basement models, the Sony KDL-L5000 series makes up for it with above-basement design and picture quality.
Price: $449.00 - $449.99 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 18, 2009
Good
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Panasonic TC-PLX1 series
Although it's not the best iPod-friendly TV we've tested, the Panasonic TC-LX1 provides a convenient, affordable gateway to access video and music based on your iPod or iPhone.
Price: $359.99 - $599.99 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 17, 2009
Good
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LG LH30 series
While its black levels and uniformity mark the LG LH30 series as an entry-level display, its extensive picture controls allow the color accuracy of a flagship model.
Price: $729.99 - $999.00 (check prices)
Review date: Apr 28, 2009
Good
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Vizio VO320E
The hallmark of Vizio's VO320E isn't "Eco," as the name implies--it's decent picture quality for a rock-bottom price.
Price: $349.99 - $429.99 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 16, 2009
Good
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Toshiba AV502U series
While no style maven or template for reference color, the Toshiba AV502U series can do black levels better than most inexpensive LCDs.
Price: $378.00 - $535.46 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 16, 2009
OK
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