Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Home Theater looking to buy an RPTV

Alright so I have about $2500 Cdn (maybe $3000) to spend on a new viewing device, and since it will get used for watching TV as well as movies, and due to ambient light being somewhat uncontrolled, I'm thinking that a RPTV is really the only way to go.
Are there any brands which are just generally better than others? Is there a best buy no brainer in this catergory? I'm looking for widescreen, HD-ready (but don't need to get one with an HDTV tuner) set, anywhere from 45'' to 55'', or thereabouts.
I live in Ottawa, if that helps narrow down what kind of stores will be accessable. thanks.

How much is that in US $ - about $2K+?
You can get a great TV for that money, especially if you avoid the new fangled technologies (DLP, LCD, etc...). I would get the biggest CRT RPTV that you can afford regardless of manufacturer name brand. It's a mature technology and they're all about the same (picture quality) IMO.

I have an Hitachi 51S500. I love the picture quality. You can usually work with the seller on prices.

I have done a _lot_ of research in this area. I've looked at every thing imagineable in RPTV: CRT, DLP, LCD, etc. I like DLP but I see rainbows on all of them (including the new Samsungs). I really like the Sony LCD but I don't like some of the other issues with LCD.

I've just ordered a 61" JVC HD-61Z585 D-ILA (JVC's version of LCoS). It's a three chip design and is very reasonable. I imagine you can get the 52" in your price range.

I would recommend Hitachi as well. We have a Hitachi 57F500 and we love it. The picture quality is great and Hitachi has a good track record. Mitsubishis are supposed to be great units as well, but your gonna pay a little more.

Best Buy had a special on the Panasonic PT50-LC13 LCD rear projection system. I paid $2399, normal price is $2999. Not sure if you have BB in Canada??

If you are a little bit of a gambler you should check out refurbelectronics.com. I got my Toshiba 50" RPTV there 2 years ago and have been nothing but thrilled. Saved a bundle, it arrived looking brand new, and the picture is beautiful. Their customer service is on par with Axiom, and you know how good that is. You'll save money even if you go for an extended warranty, which I didn't do. Don't know about shipping to Canada though.

You may also want to look into the new Panasonics, they have been getting good reviews and feedback.

Futile Shop has the PT53X54 53" on for $2,399.99 CDN. They have an excellent return policy but retarded sales people who can only mutter "extended warranty" and "Monster products" with every breath.

As you no doubt know Futile Shop is now owned by Best Buy, no real differences between them and obviously no price wars.

My brother-in-law's girlfriend works for Panasonic Canada, I asked her to talk to the tech staff to see how they feel about the new units.

If you are living in the western GTA area I'll recommend East Hamilton Radio. Good prices and Axiom like service.

good luck.

Just noticed you live at the "other end" of the lake so I don't think you'll be coming here to buy a RPTV

Take a look at Mitsubishi's. IMO, one of the (if not THE best) best in the industry. I think what sets them apart is their longevity...they don't wear out as quickly (fade) as others...due to the quality of guns and lenses they use.

I just looked at 65" Mitsubishi's last weekend. They had 3 models (entry, mid, and top of the line). MSRP was $1,900 for the entry level and the top of the line was right at $3,000, if memory serves.

I am considering the entery level myself. Mitsubhishi is currently offering no interest, no payments until 2006. I am debating it if I can find a buyer for my old 50" Mits first.

Thanks to everyone for the suggestions so far.
I'm pretty sure CRT is the only way to go, DLP and LCD both seems a little too new and too expensive right now.