Best Picture Nominees -- For HDTV, That Is

David Gregg Reveals His Faves; Has Tips On Upcoming Switch To All-Digital Broadcasts

(CBS)  HDTVs are less expensive than ever.

If your holiday shopping list includes one, BehindTheBuy.com Senior Editor David Gregg is a man in the know whose guidance you might want to consider.

On The Early Show Tuesday, he spotlighted some of the ones he recommends.

He also discussed the federally-mandated switch from analog to digital over-the-air broadcasts, slated to happen in February 2009.

If you have an old, analog TV, one that runs on rabbit ears or another type of antenna, the switch will affect you. It doesn't affect TVs that get their programming from cable, phone companies, or satellite.

You'll need a converter box to see programs on analog TVs after the switchover. The boxes are expected to sell for $50-70. But the National Telecommunications and Information Administration is offering up to two, $40 coupons per household toward the purchase of the boxes. The coupons, which you won't be able to use toward other products, should be available from early next year through March 2009, and must be used within 90 days of their issuance and only on certain converter products. You can find more information on this program by clicking here or calling 1-888-388-2009.

As for Gregg's picks from among the newest HDTV models, with descriptions prepared in part with information from the manufacturers:

Panasonic 50" 1080p Plasma TV (Model #TH-50PZ750)
The 750 series Panasonic's TH-50PZ750, is a 50" full HD (1920 x 1080p) 1080p consumer plasma TV. This model includes a "Pro Setting" mode that optimizes color temperature and "studio reference" color points and an SD card reader capable of playing back high definition full motion video and audio.
MSRP: $3,500; www.panasonic.com

LG Electronics Opus Series 42-inch LCD-HDTV
Sleek, high-glossy black finish and Full HD 1080p resolution, the Opus series is a perfect combination of technology and design. In addition to Full HD 1080p resolution, the Opus series features several applications designed to enhance the consumer viewing experience. TruMotion Drive, with 120Hz LCD panel technology, improves moving picture response time for clearer picture images, particularly with scrolling text and fast action. TruColor expands the color gamut to 92 percent of the NTSC spectrum for striking picture quality.
MSRP: $2,499; www.lgusa.com

SONY Bravia Rear Projection 55" 1080pHDTV (Model #: KDS-55A3000 SXRD)
Sony's A-Series Rear Projection 55" HDTV delivers Full HD 1080p in addition to the Bravia EX Video Processor Engine, which sharpens images while enhancing contrast and colors. Choose between Auto and Manual modes to improve expressions in darker scenes with Advanced Iris Function. A wide range of input interfaces provide maximum versatility including HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface). Even though it's not a flat panel set (15" deep) this set delivers a picture size and quality unrivaled by most LCD and Plasma sets.
MSRP: $1,999; www.sony.com

Epson MovieMate 72
Enjoy true theater style entertainment with this all-in-one product with built-in progressive scan DVD/CD player and four 5 W Dolby® 5.1 DTS stereo speakers. Epson MovieMate 72 displays standard DVDs in even more detail at high-definition 720p resolution. It projects images up to eight times larger than on a 40-inch, widescreen TV. Simply plug it in and let the fun begin. There are no additional cables or equipment to hook up. Epson MovieMate 72 has a unique swivel base for versatile DVD loading. It delivers natural colors and bright, vibrant images with 3-chip 3LCD technology. Use Epson MovieMate 72 for videogames, movies and more. It works with your Apple iPod Nintendo Wiiâ„ SonyPS3 or Microsoft Xbox 360â video game system for more entertainment options. Connect it to high-definition devices via HDMI for even more entertainment value. Epson MovieMate 72 displays an 80-inch, widescreen image from just 6 1/2 feet away, or a 120-inch image from just 10 feet away!
MSRP: $1,199; www.epson.com

HDTV on a Budget

Insignia 42" Plasma HDTV (Model #: NS-PDP42)
Best Buy has initiated a unique trend among major electronics retailers and created their own brand (Insignia) of merchandise designed to deliver extreme value while offering a reliable product capable of delivering better than expected performance. This 42" Plasma HDTV offers 1024 x 768 resolution and supports 720p signals for stunning image clarity. XD Engine technology delivers lush image detail and vibrant color along with a 10-bit 3D digital comb filter delivers state-of-the-art detail and color enhancement.
MSRP: $899; www.bestbuy.com

Recommended Viewing Distances From A Big Screen TV

Don't Buy a Set That's Too Big For Your Room

Screen Sizes and Viewing Distance Ranges:
30" -- 3.75-6.25 feet
34" -- 4.25-7 feet
42" -- 5.25-8.75 feet
50" -- 6.25-10.5 feet
56" -- 7-11.75 feet
62" -- 7.75-13 feet
70" -- 8.75-14.75 feet

[dgregg-btb]

While Drew/SoCal''s observation about Digital TV signals is technically correct. I must make it clear that the main objective of this segment was to address a possible TV purchase during the holidays...Consumers will not be going into stores requesting %u201CDigital%u201D TV''s (to view digital broadcasts) they will be looking for HDTV''s to be able to receive Digital broadcasts. During my segments, my goal is to keep my on-air information simple and concise so the average consumer is able to grasp the concepts of what could potentially be a very complex segment. In my judgment, using the term HD as a blanket reference to this digital broadcast change over was intended to simplify an already confusing concept for most consumers to understand. I hope this clarifies my choice of terminology during this segment. In regard to Drew/SoCal''s comment about receiving Digital programming via cable, phone-line or satellite. He is INCORRECT. Some people receive basic cable service without a cable box. Those people WILL NEED a converter unit or to procure a cable box (and incur the fees associated with the box) in order to receive a Digital signal. For more in depth information please go to www.dtvtransition.org or contact your local cable, phone, or satellite provider for details as it relates to you.
Thanks for watching my segments!
Best,
David Gregg
Senior Editor
BehindTheBuy.com

[sapidshelly]

Some big screen''s do not work at high altitudes..7000 ft..ask sales man

[DrewSoCal]

Yet again, a medium ment to inform only confuses. You got it right on-line, but in the broadcast it was stated that in 2009, broadcasters will be required by the FCC to transmitt in HD. Broadcasters will be required by the FCC to transmitt in DIGITAL, not HD. There is a big difference between the two. It would be like telling people that the law requires that you license your pet, when in fact they only need to license their dog. Additionally, it would be nice to inform people that if they receive their programming via cable, phone-line or satellite, they won''t need to go out and get a convertor.