Since AR was down today...and I am a BIG Hockey fan, I decided to use my time to go get a NEW flat-panel TV at Best Buy. Now that it's plugged in, I'm loving it...and since it's on my mind, I'm passing along tips I used to shop with...
1. I'd recommend measuring the space you have available in your home for your new television and bringing those measurements, and a measuring tape, with you to the store. Flat screen TVs will require less depth but perhaps more width and height on your table, wall or shelf space. When determining what size DTV is best for your family, "bigger is not always better." You should determine the appropriate size for your new DTV set based on your viewing distance. The ideal viewing distance is approximately two to three times the diagonal of your TV set. So, before you head to the store, measure the viewing distance available in your room and purchase a set that is either half or a third of that distance.
2. Determine which type of Digital TV meets your preferred picture quality, screen type and budget. HDTVs offer the highest quality picture, but there are also EDTVs and SDTVs available at lower prices. Also, screen types vary between LCD, plasma and cathode ray tubes (CRTs), which are like traditional TVs but digitally updated.
3. You need more than just a great set to maximize your home theater experience (if that's the way you're going). Make sure you have all of the right cords and accessory parts before you leave the store. Bring a list of the other devices you will need to connect, such as a DVD player, speakers and more, so the retailer can help you determine if you need special connector cables. Some cables may not be included in the basic purchase price and others may be extra. Check out the HDTV Accessories Guide to help get everything you need-go to http://www.digitaltips.org/docs/07HDTVguide.pdf.
4. Don't forget the extended service plan. In fact, many consumer advocate groups have recommended purchasing service plans for large and flat screen televisions. By protecting your investment, you will benefit from the peace of mind and convenience service plans offer. Here's why: Most consumers who purchase a new television for their home plan to own it for at least five years.
Most television manufacturer warranties are good only for one year for parts and labor, with some limiting labor coverage for just the first three months. Also, these limited warranties generally only cover defects in materials and workmanship-hence the term "limited."
An extended service plan extends the length of the warranty and provides additional protection beyond the manufacturer, including protection for failures caused by normal wear and tear; heat, dust and humidity; and damage due to power surge. Service plans can also provide coverage for remote controls, and provide a no lemon guarantee. Without coverage, typical repair costs for the most common problems with LCD TVs may range from $280 to $1,200.
For larger televisions, in-home service is a great convenience offered by many extended service plans.
Beyond repair and replacement services, many retailers today are providing additional services and benefits as part of their service plans to meet the growing interconnectivity needs of home electronics systems.
No matter what kind you get....enjoy it! My Minnesota Wild never looked better....and the kids like the 'new look' of their DVD's. Enjoy...and have a great week!
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