Need help buying a new TV for my PS3?

[Sidewalk]

Hi, I've been using a 26" Vizio VW26L for the past year or so, and I'd love to upgrade to a 37". I just got Killzone 3 and the graphics are dreadful! I need a 1080p resolution, and a 37" screen would be a beast. I've been looking at the 37" Vizio E370VL and it seems perfect. It's right down my budget's alley at $330.

But why does everyone worry so much about response time? The Vizio I've been using has a staggering 8ms response time yet I have absolutely no problem topping the leaderboards. So in essence this 6.5ms response time is a monumental upgrade. Also my current Vizio has a 700:1 contrast ratio, while this new one has 100,000:1. And it's only $330.... what a great deal. Having a larger tv won't cause lag, will it? Any input would be greatly appreciated since I'm clueless.

Features
* 1080p Full HD
* 100,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio
* Digital Ambient Light Sensor
* SRS TruSurround HD & SRS TruVolume
* ENERGY STAR 4.1

Specifications
* Size: 37"
* Viewable: 37" diagonal
* Tuner: NTSC/ATSC/QAM
* Native Panel Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
* Signal Compatibility: 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i
* Colors: 16.7 Million
* Computer Support: 1920 x 1080, 1024 x 768, 800 x 600, 640 x 480 via RGB/HDMI
* Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 100,000:1
* Brightness: 450 cd/m2
* Response Time: 6.5ms
* Viewable Angle: 178/178 degrees (horizontal/vertical)
* Pixel/Dot Pitch: 0.42675mm(H) x 0.42675mm(V)

In short, how will this television fare in gaming? I know it's not some $1,400 Sony Bravia with a -1.5ms response time and 9,000,000,000:1 contrast ratio, but I should have no problem taking people to school with some decent graphics, right? Thanks in advance.

 

[Peter.Cort]

contrast ratio is a slippery slope. since you're comparing it to another vizio it will be better, but once you start going outside brands contrast ratio is meaningless. overall it will be an improvement from your current TV ,and vizio has some great low budget options, so if you're looking to upgrade to larger size and 1080p the vizio will be perfect. and for 330 who can complain!

response time just causes ghosting, not really any lag or frame loss. it can just be annoying more than a real hindrance.

 

[Yami]

You need to look up the difference between 'contrast ratio' and 'dynamic contrast ratio', and why dynamic ratios are complete bollocks, and not something you should base your purchase off of.
What is the Difference between an HDTV's Dynamic and Static Contrast Ratio?

Still though, any TV with 1080p and enough inputs should be enough for your needs. The one you quoted sounds perfect for the price.

Edit: Aww, beaten by Peter

 

[Sidewalk]

So should I go with the 32" LG? If so, why? 37" is surely the size I'll need. It's 5" smaller yet $60-$70 higher

 

[Yami]

So should I go with the 32" LG? If so, why? 37" is surely the size I'll need. It's 5" smaller yet $60-$70 higher

You didn't say anything about a 32" But yeah, go for that 37" you quoted.

 

[Peter.Cort]

the LG would probably (just a guess here) give you better picture quality. in most cases the more money you spend the better quality of picture you'll get, exceptions being the XBR series from sony, even regardless of the size.

 

[hikaricloud]

I'll tell you from first hand experience, the LG 32" is a superb TV. I own it myself. Personally, I tend to stick with LG or Samsung for quality.

That being said, if you think you'll be fine with a cheaper TV, I say go for it. It really comes down to what you can spend after all.

EDIT: Just so you know, the PS3 will still output at 1080p even if the TV is 720p (though it won't really display at 1080p, it doesn't really matter). My LG is 720p (picked it up for $350 or so, you can find alright deals on it some places) and it looks really good with the PS3 and Blu-ray.

 

[Peter.Cort]

also being a 32" tv it will look crisper than a 37"

 

[skitzo385]

I tried to start a thread for people to post what TV's they use but it didn't really take off.. There is some useful stuff in the thread none the less..

http://www.techist.com/forums/f14/what-tv-monitor-do-you-use-your-gaming-238665/index2.html