pros/cons of a DLP TV?

[Digger]

we're trying to decide between an LCD or DLP set with either 1080i or 1080p. we haven't narrowed our scope on particular models yet, just the technology.

the depth of the DLP units doesn't bother me, we have plenty of room. the idea of a user-replaceable chip is a nice addition.

it seems if you go with DLP, you get more screen for the money. but is it as sharp as LCD?

 

[dakineyj]

My folks have a DLP tv. Be sure to check out how loud the fans are on the model you are looking at. Theirs is so lound it would be unacceptible to me.

 

[Lisa]

we have a toshiba DLP 52" and we love it. I'm still amazed at the sharpness of the picture when watching an HD channel. The only time we hear the fan is after we shut it off - but it's not really noticeable. We purchased an extended warranty that covers the bulb, so it was worth the money.

We also have a 36" LCD - that also has a great picture.

You really do have to see them in person - and consider the fact that some manufacturers will specialize in one over the other.

 

[smartroad]

The only DLP I have seen was a projector and it was hideous to look at. If you moved your eyes quickly the image would separate briefly into red, green and blue. It wasn't a cheap unit either! Made it really hard for me to watch a film on it (or play games hehe).

That said the image was really sharp and bright compared to the LCD projector I own, and there was no "chicken wire" effect either.

 

[gilesjuk]

Bulb life will be your main concern. If they're anything like normal projectors the bulbs last between 2000 and 4000 hours. Once they go they're about £250 UKP or more for the part.

I would hold off buying anything too expensive, LCD will be a reliable cheap way to go for now. Projection TVs are very bulky and LCD TV's can be hung on the wall and can also be used as a monitor.

There are many technologies being developed such as OLED and these will be much better than anything else on the market. So your new set may only get about 3-5 years use before something better appears.

 

[gilesjuk]

The only DLP I have seen was a projector and it was hideous to look at. If you moved your eyes quickly the image would separate briefly into red, green and blue. It wasn't a cheap unit either! Made it really hard for me to watch a film on it (or play games hehe).

That said the image was really sharp and bright compared to the LCD projector I own, and there was no "chicken wire" effect either.

The rainbow effect is noticable by many people on low end DLPs (I have one myself). The more expensive units use a much faster colour wheel or use 3 seperate DLP chips (these don't suffer the rainbow effect).