Rear-projection TVs: Bigger-screens for less bucks?

In the December issue of Consumer Reports, you’ll find our latest LCD and plasma TV report with complete HDTV Ratings for over 100 new models. (Ratings are available to subscribers.)

But you won't find any test results for new rear-projection HDTVs. Why? In a nutshell, there are very few new sets of this type. Of the countless TV models introduced to the U.S. market this year, only 14 were RPTVs, and only two companies—Samsung and Mitsubishi—continue to make and sell rear-projection sets.

Consumer demand has also tanked. U.S. sales of rear-projection sets this year are expected to total about half a million units, compared to 30 million LCD TVs and 4 million plasma TVs.

That sales comparison tells the tale: One big reason for the overall decline in rear-projection TVs is that sleek flat-panel LCD and plasma TVs have gotten bigger and cheaper, pushing the bulkier sets out of the picture.

Still, you might want to consider a rear-projection TV if you want the most screen for the money. We've seen 60- to 65-inch RPTVs selling for about $1,500, and 72-inchers in the $2,000 range. A plasma or LCD TV of that size would easily run $5,000 or more. And the best of these sets are capable of excellent picture quality that gives flat panels a run for the money.

Granted, rear-projection sets are still bulkier than LCD and plasma sets, but they've slimmed down considerably since the old days. New models are typically less than 20 inches deep, with some closer to 12 inches in depth.

Earlier issues with bulb replacement have been addressed, with more new models using long-lasting LED backlights. Some new models are also using lasers, another interesting innovation.

We'd like to know what you think: Are rear-projection TVs being phased out too soon? If you're in the market for an HDTV this holiday season, would you consider a rear-projection set? Weigh in using the comment section below.

Don't know what to think—or buy? Our HDTV Buying Guide can help you understand the different types of HDTV display technologies and figure out what is best for your needs. (Make sure you check out the Rear-projection TVs section for a list of pros and cons.)

And don't forget to check our Electronics Blog. In the next few days, we'll weigh in with our impressions on a few really big (60-inch and larger) rear-projection sets.

Comments

[Nancy]

We purchased a Mitsubishi 55" 5 yrs ago..fine until it started shutting itself off!! We were told that the part needed to repair this is no longer available! So bottom line..we paid over $3,000 for a set that is no longer repairable after 5 yrs..I would think twice if you are considering a Mitsubishi.

[Karl]

3D TV is just starting to make its debut. It is strange that the only TV's ready to do 3D are DLP Rear Projection TV's yet they get no press including here at Consumer Reports. I have both a Samsung LCD and a Panasonic plasma but I purchased a Mitsubishi 65 a month ago and I'm blown away with how good it is even at normal viewing angles. If you want a TV bigger then 52" then I strongly suggest taking another look at DLP and Mitsubishi is the best.

[Jim]

We have a Samsung DLP RPTV, 50", and have had it for 3 years. With the addition of HD, it produces a great picture, and I think easily the equal of LCD or Plasma sets. Only the most discerning eye would detect subtle differences. Since most people do not have perfect vision at "normal" viewing distances, I would think the higher cost of the others is essentially a waste of money. The only thing that truly sets them apart is the style of the flat screens with glossy surrounds and little frame lights... hardly worth $1,000 to $3,000 in my view.

[Benjamin]

We have a 60" rear projection Sony LCD HDTV and mostly love it. It's just as deep as our AV components, so everything fits nicely together.

Among the AV components, we have a HTPC connected to it, and the setup always wows our friends. The main issue I have with the TV is the poor color convergence. It's not a problem for TV viewing, but when viewing any text with the HTPC, it strains our eyes pretty quickly. I've adjusted the convergence the best I can, but the controls are not fine enough.

I think other rear projection formats like DLP might not suffer from this since they use a singe source for all pixels (and rotate the color in - which causes other issues). Flat panels would also not suffer from this.

- Benjamin

[Greg]

The biggest problem I've always had with RPTVs is their inferior viewing angle. Unless you sit within about 20 degrees of middle, the picture gets washed out quite badly. LCD and Plasma do not suffer from this.

Also, in most rooms, a 40" plasma or LCD flat panel are plenty big enough. 60" units are only great in larger rooms, and in this case if people are buying in this size range, they'll typically want quality as well and go for the plasma unit. RPTV is a small and shrinking market.