Panasonic CT 34WX15 (34" CRT TV)

Summary: It came down between this Panasonic and the Sony KV-34HS420. I was considering a 30' widescreen Sony CRT but then decided that I needed a bigger set after all...

Side by side in the store, it was clear that in HD both the Sony and the Panasonic had comparible pictures. It could be said that maybe just MAYBE the Sony might have eeked out the Panasonic in HD mode. However, after standing there a bit, it was apparent that they were the same or practically the same. However, once I compared the 2 TVs with the analog cable signal, it was no comparison.

The Panasonic was much clearer than the grainy Sony was with the analog cable signal. I have digital sattelite and HD, so I don't have to worry about that but it makes sense that if the Panasonic can offer a better picture with analog AND it is the same or better with the HD and digital signals, then... why not go for the Panasonic?

The Panasonic was also about $80 cheaper than the Sony AND the 5 yr extended warranty, which I opted for, was $250 instead of the $350 they wanted for the Sony. When I asked why this was, the manager told me it was due to parts prices for the Sony.

The obvious short-coming with the Panasonic that was immediately noticable as compared to the Sony was its sound quality. The Panasonic did not hold a candle to the Sony's output. However, now that I have the Panasonic home and set up, the sound is just fine for the area the TV is used. Plus, when I watch DVDs, I have the sound pumping through my receiver anyway.

The 30' Sony CRT widescreen got top billings at one point in Consumer Reports. However, I've never been a big fan of Sony, so being able to purchase the Panasonic made me happy. The Panasonic is the newer of the 2 sets but I think it's a great buy for the money. I think I will be happy with this purchase for a long time to come.