Morons Guide To Televisions

[Buckeye911]

Ive been doing a bit of reading online regarding the LED LCD TV's. Alot of positive reviews on the Samsung 55 inch (although the model numbers vary slightly from country to country). So then I dug around on google to see what the people are saying about them. GLAD I DID. There is literally hundreds, maybe thousands of complaints from owners of Samsung LCD Televisions online. Apparently there has been ongoing issues with Capacitors in the back of the tellies. Ive read complaints about everyting from clicking noises to the TV not turning on etc. Most the complaints tend to indicate TV's that were more than 1 year old (out of warranty) & expensive repair bills. Theres even guys replacing their own capacitors on youtube.

If you doubt what I say, just google Samsung TV clicking.

Its a pity because from what I've read, Samsung seems to have the pick of the pictures. Does anyone else know if they have rectified any of these issues in their latest range of TV's?

As Ive said before, once bitten twice shy, I really don't want to go back to the daily activity of telephoning Samsung in Bangkok & the whole rigmarole.

I wouldn't worry much about seeing a thousand reports of complaints on the internet. People tend to report problems and don't say anything when they don't have problems. This would represent only a small percentage of problems considering the hundreds of thousands of units sold. Samsung plasmas and LCDs both have the same failure rate of 3%.

I posted this in another thread, here are the failure rates on HDTVs sold in the United States according to Consumer Reports:

PLASMA REPAIR RATES

Panasonic - 2%

Sanyo - 2%

Pioneer - 3%

Hitachi - 3%

Samsung - 3%

LG - 5%

LCD REPAIR RATES

Panasonic - 2%

Sony - 2%

JVC - 2%

Sylvania - 2%

Sharp - 3%

Samsung - 3%

Vizio - 3%

Sanyo - 3%

Toshiba - 4%

LG - 4%

Philips - 4%

Hitachi - 5%

Magnavox - 5%

Westinghouse - 8%

Mitsubishi - 11%

[KunMatt]

I'm just starting to look around Bangkok for a new TV too. I definitely like the look of the newer Samsung LEDs and having spent some time comparing brands and purchasing a Samsung LCD in the UK they are definitely top of my list now I'm after for a larger set in Thailand. Plasmas are out of the question simply for the heat they generate: I have a 50" Pioneer 9th gen PDP in the UK too and it's like having another radiator in the room - definitely not what I need in Thailand!

Does anyone have any recommendations for where to buy from in Bangkok? So far the best outlets I know of are PowerBuy and Tesco! I don't know any specialised A/V stores here yet. I keep seeing Home Pro+ at Ploenchit mentioned in this forum.

There seem to be so many variations of 46" and 55" Samsung LED models here, most of which I cannot find tech specs of on the UK sites, does anyone have any recommendations for which to demo/avoid? A few years ago when I was researcing plasmas there were different models only released in Asia which had inferior parts and specs compared to the similar model in Europe so I don't want to get caught out.

[KunMatt]

B&O makes some beautiful sets and their designs beat anything but performance is not in in pair with their price level. I recon the B&O sets are the most over-rated on the market.

True, but if I won the lottery my house would look like the B&O showroom!!

[stgrhe]

There seem to be so many variations of 46" and 55" Samsung LED models here, most of which I cannot find tech specs of on the UK sites, does anyone have any recommendations for which to demo/avoid? A few years ago when I was researcing plasmas there were different models only released in Asia which had inferior parts and specs compared to the similar model in Europe so I don't want to get caught out.

Samsung LED Series

Series 9000

55" only, 3D, Internet TV, Superslim 7.9mm, Full HD 1920x1080, 4xHDMI, USB, Dolby & SRS

Series 8000

65", 55" and 46", 3D, Internet TV, Full HD 1920x1080, 4xHDMI, USB, Dolby & SRS

Series 7000

55", 46" and 40", 3D, Internet TV, Full HD 1920x1080, 4xHDMI, USB, Dolby & SRS

Series 6900

60", 55", 46", 40" and 32", Internet TV, Full HD 1920x1080, 4xHDMI, USB, Dolby & SRS

Series 6200

55", 46", 40" and 32", Full HD 1920x1080, 4xHDMI, USB, Dolby & SRS

Series 5000

46", 40", 37" and 32", Full HD 1920x1080, 4xHDMI, USB, Dolby

Series 4000

32", 26" and 22", 3xHDMI, USB, Dolby

I say the series 6200 is the most attractive one if 3D and Internet TV are excluded at 79,990 for the 55" and 59,990 for the 46".

[balo]

This is a great thread !

I'm also a buyer and my budget is 40k .

Looking for any good deals in Bangkok .

[KunMatt]

I say the series 6200 is the most attractive one if 3D and Internet TV are excluded at 79,990 for the 55" and 59,990 for the 46".

Thanks for the info, Tescos have a Series 6 55" with Internet TV for 79,990 - I'll check the model number next time I'm in there..

I don't care about 3D TV at all and internet TV isn't viable in Thailand but I do want the 200Hz versions, which I think starts on the later 6 Series here.

[KunMatt]

I wouldn't worry much about seeing a thousand reports of complaints on the internet. People tend to report problems and don't say anything when they don't have problems.

I call this the "TripAdvisor" effect. Negative reviews on the internet do not give a fair analysis of anything as people are always willing to be vocal if they had a bad experience but if they had a good holiday then there is no reason to get revenge by slating any hotel/restaurant on the web so you tend not to hear the positive reviews as much.

[GM1955]

I have 3 LCD TV's in my house.

Philips 42 Inch. 29,000 Baht

LG 37 Inch. 27,000 Baht

Panasonic 32 Inch. 29,000 Baht.

All bought at different times over the last few years, of course the prices of the 32 Inch have now decreased dramatically, when I purchased it was the price at the time.

All sets have been good, no complaints really.

In my Condo I have recently bought a Panasonic 50 Inch Plasma for 31,000 Baht, made in Thailand 2010 model, resolution is 1024 x 768, I have some HD TV from BBC and some 720 HD movies, all I can say is WOW !!!! The Picture Quality is fantastic, it simply blows away my LCD sets and I was happy with the quality on those and still am, but the Panasonic Plasma is some TV for the money.

A few years ago it would have cost a fortune for this size TV, thankfully that's no longer the case.

I recently saw a review on LCD v Plasma, 1080 v 768, if I can recall they tested 10 TV's and hid the manufactures names, in fact only the screens were viewable, nothing else. Amongst the 1080 Full HD LCD's were 2 Plasma TV's, both 768 resolution, one by Pioneer one by Panasonic, both sets were voted either number 1 or number 2 by every reviewer in the test.

Eventually Pioneer Plasma came in at number 1, the Panasonic number 2 leaving the LCD's behind.

While this test may not be written in stone, it goes to show that the higher the number of pixels is not always gonna give a better picture quality, the human eye can only get so much information, and unless you are watching your tv from about 3 feet away, there will be undetectable differences between 1080 and 760 sets at normal viewing distances.

LCD or Plasma, both are great sets with very good to excellent picture quality.

The 50" Panasonic is rated at 290 Watts, I bought mine in Numchai Electric, Pattaya.

Edited July 17, 2010 by GM1955

[KunMatt]

I recently saw a review on LCD v Plasma, 1080 v 768, if I can recall they tested 10 TV's and hid the manufactures names, in fact only the screens were viewable, nothing else. Amongst the 1080 Full HD LCD's were 2 Plasma TV's, both 768 resolution, one by Pioneer one by Panasonic, both sets were voted either number 1 or number 2 by every reviewer in the test.

That's a strange comparison with the variables being not only technology but also resolution, and I'm not sure what that proves apart from Plasmas being better than LCDs (which I totally agree with anyways). They should have compared different resolutions on all brands of Plasmas.

It's not a definitive proof that 720 is the same as 1080 which is what I think theyt were aimng for, and having played 720 and 1080 video games on a 1080 9th gen Pioneer Plasma I'm all for the full 1080 HD.

[KunMatt]

For those interested in Samsung LED TVs this is from the Samsung US website:

[stgrhe]

Different parts of the world have different models so in the real world it is not easy the compare the Samsung's models to those available here in Thailand.

As an example, here are the versions in Singapore which I believe are most likely the same as those being sold here.

http://www.samsung.com/sg/consumer/tv-audio-video/television/led-tv/index.idx?pagetype=subtype_p2

[KunMatt]

Different parts of the world have different models so in the real world it is not easy the compare the Samsung's models to those available here in Thailand.

As an example, here are the versions in Singapore which I believe are most likely the same as those being sold here.

http://www.samsung.c...type=subtype_p2

You're right and it's difficult trying to distinguish each of the series let alone all of the various models, but that chart gives a comparison between the series', however it is no where near difinitive as, for example, there are 120Hz and 240Hz versions for the 7 series (not stated in that chart). I can't find any logic to what is what with the model numbers.

I know what I want but there is no search feature refined enough on any Samsung website to find exact models. As is usually the case here in Thailand I'm just gonna have to buy whatever is available in the shop I happen to be in rather than being able to find explicitly what I want.

[craigt3365]

There was an article about TVs sold by Walmart in the US. It described how they had TVs with different model numbers on them than what you got at other stores. The model numbers were very similar to ones at other stores, like YT42-<deleted>/C vs. YT42-<deleted>/CR, but with different and lesser features...and thus lesser price. But what they complained about was the similarity in the model numbers. You really had to look at the specs to see if what you were getting was truly a good deal...or just a lesser TV. Seems that may be somewhat the case here in Thailand?

[Buckeye911]

There was an article about TVs sold by Walmart in the US. It described how they had TVs with different model numbers on them than what you got at other stores. The model numbers were very similar to ones at other stores, like YT42-<deleted>/C vs. YT42-<deleted>/CR, but with different and lesser features...and thus lesser price. But what they complained about was the similarity in the model numbers. You really had to look at the specs to see if what you were getting was truly a good deal...or just a lesser TV. Seems that may be somewhat the case here in Thailand?

In some cases Walmart TVs are the same but the model number will vary slightly. This is also true of the big box stores like Sam's Club (owned by Walmart) and Costco. In the states price matching is a common practice and so manufacturers provided similar sets with different model numbers so the electronics stores don't have to price match Walmart because the model numbers are not the same. This is also true for Blu-ray players.

[neverdie]

Im still researching & viewing various options........it seems the Samsungs really have the market stiched up and thanks for posting those failure rates buckeye.

I like the C8000 46 inch Samsung but i still cant work out why everywhere i go the model number seems to vary a little and whilst i feel a little wiser than before, im still confused.

The samsungs are sprouting off about 200htz panels with chips that increase this up to 960htz & the LG dude & Panasonic lad that theres new models coming in the next 2 months with up to 480htz (& a price tag to match).

I was also told the new 9000 series samsung in the 55inch was going to sell for in excess of 200,000 baht <deleted>?

[KunMatt]

I had another scout about in Power Buy today and got the price for each model in there;

55"

6200 series = 80k baht

6900 series = 110K bath

7000 series = 130k baht

8000 series = 150k baht

46"

6200 series = 60k baht

6900 series = 60k baht

7000 series = 80k baht

8000 series = 100k baht

I saw the same series and models of LCD next to LED and to me the difference is night and day. The motion on the LED was near perfect compared to the stuttering LCD, and the picture quality of the LED was much better compared to the same series of of LCD. I know that LED technology is supposed to be LCD wth different lighting but demo them side by side and you'll see the massive difference in quality. I'm definitely paying the extra money for the LED technology now.

Power Buy has Avatar running as a demo on the HD LCD and LED TVs (I'm sure this isn't even released on Blu Ray yet so maybe this is an upscaled DVD...) and to be honest the LED TVs make it look like the CGI film it is, it's really like watching a PS3 intro, but the LED TVs show it in the full detail, it's superb. It destroys the film's atmosphere and makes it look like a game but it is impressive.

[stgrhe]

Samsung 46"

6900 series = 60k baht

I think your fingers slipped as the price for the Samsung 46" LED TV model 6900 is 69,990 baht.

Like you I will buy the Samsung LED TV when our house is ready to be moved into. I will most likely buy the 55" series 6200.

[MikeyIdea]

I personally feel / think that the plasma has better picture quality than LED - difference is small so maybe I am dreaming that... and newer models of plasma don't take a lot of electricity at all

Anyone has the Samsung Plasma prices?

[KunMatt]

Samsung 46"

6900 series = 60k baht

I think your fingers slipped as the price for the Samsung 46" LED TV model 6900 is 69,990 baht.

Like you I will buy the Samsung LED TV when our house is ready to be moved into. I will most likely buy the 55" series 6200.

Nope, that's the price I saw yesterday, however the sign was in the price folder and there was no 6900 set on display, so this could have been an expired promotion.

[midasthailand]

I recently purchased 2 X 42 inch Panasonic Viera Plasma TV's at Macro in Bang Na for 19,900 each, for use during the world cup at my local bar. Agree that there is a reflection problem with the Plasma screens. Amazed at the reduction in price compared to only one year ago! There are good deals out there.

[ronz28]

240 Hz looks so much better than the 60 Hz and 120 Hz in the Vizio brand. I am halfway shopping for one now but waiting for a deal and not in a hurry since 3D may soon be coming down in price.

[lomatopo]

WRT Samsung model numbers, I think any variation occurs in the last few (3?) characters/digits, probably as a result of a localized (UI, docs, remote) product. Samsung has a Thai website which is easy to navigate in case you want to find local M/Ns.

Most retail outlets match prices here, even when one has a sale. However some do have specials, close-outs etc. that are not matched.

Powerbuy and Homepro have websites. Most anchor department stores have large electronics displays.

Powerbuy has a HUGE 2 week mega-sale/EXPO coming up 23 July, at Lad Phrao.

[neverdie]

I had another scout about in Power Buy today and got the price for each model in there;

55"

6200 series = 80k baht

6900 series = 110K bath

7000 series = 130k baht

8000 series = 150k baht

46"

6200 series = 60k baht

6900 series = 60k baht

7000 series = 80k baht

8000 series = 100k baht

I saw the same series and models of LCD next to LED and to me the difference is night and day. The motion on the LED was near perfect compared to the stuttering LCD, and the picture quality of the LED was much better compared to the same series of of LCD. I know that LED technology is supposed to be LCD wth different lighting but demo them side by side and you'll see the massive difference in quality. I'm definitely paying the extra money for the LED technology now.

Power Buy has Avatar running as a demo on the HD LCD and LED TVs (I'm sure this isn't even released on Blu Ray yet so maybe this is an upscaled DVD...) and to be honest the LED TVs make it look like the CGI film it is, it's really like watching a PS3 intro, but the LED TVs show it in the full detail, it's superb. It destroys the film's atmosphere and makes it look like a game but it is impressive.

The best price ive had on the 8000 series (46 inch) is 115,000 (but that came with a bonus 3d kit and a samsung blue ray player).

I like this TV but was hoping to get it a tad cheaper than that....100k sounds okay. There seems to be a couple of various models of the 8000 around, I wonder if that explains your price verses mine?

[stgrhe]

I personally feel / think that the plasma has better picture quality than LED - difference is small so maybe I am dreaming that... and newer models of plasma don't take a lot of electricity at all

Anyone has the Samsung Plasma prices?

I found these prices for the Samsung plasma TVs;

Plasma Series C7000

63" (3D), model no. PS63C7000 - 199,990 baht

50" (3D), model no. PS50C7000 - 89,990 baht

Plasma Series C6500

58", model no. PS58C6500 - 99,990 baht

Plasma Series C550

50", model no. PS50C550 - 47,990 baht

Plasma Series C451

50", model no. PS50C451 - 32,990 baht

Plasma Series C450

50", model no. PS50C450 - 32,990 baht

42", model no. PS42C450 - 23,990 baht

Plasma Series C430

50", model no. PS50C430 - 30,990 baht

42", model no. PS42C430 - 21,990 bah

[MikeyIdea]

I personally feel / think that the plasma has better picture quality than LED - difference is small so maybe I am dreaming that... and newer models of plasma don't take a lot of electricity at all

Anyone has the Samsung Plasma prices?

I found these prices for the Samsung plasma TVs;

Plasma Series C7000

63" (3D), model no. PS63C7000 - 199,990 baht

50" (3D), model no. PS50C7000 - 89,990 baht

Plasma Series C6500

58", model no. PS58C6500 - 99,990 baht

Plasma Series C550

50", model no. PS50C550 - 47,990 baht

Plasma Series C451

50", model no. PS50C451 - 32,990 baht

Plasma Series C450

50", model no. PS50C450 - 32,990 baht

42", model no. PS42C450 - 23,990 baht

Plasma Series C430

50", model no. PS50C430 - 30,990 baht

42", model no. PS42C430 - 21,990 bah

Thank You very much for that :jap:

[ronz28]

I have read that plasma screen picture quality will degrade after a few years and so have so far gone the LED route but need to replace more CRT style TVs. I wonder if the newer plasmas that run cooler also extend life of the picture quality?

[ronz28]

According to the article linked below, the Samsung cooler Plasmas aren't available yet and will still consume same amount of electricity but spread it over a larger area. Sounds like same amount of heat but might extend life of picture quality???

http://hd.engadget.com/2010/05/05/samsungs-figured-out-how-to-keep-hdtvs-running-cooler/

[stgrhe]

According to the article linked below, the Samsung cooler Plasmas aren't available yet and will still consume same amount of electricity but spread it over a larger area. Sounds like same amount of heat but might extend life of picture quality???

http://hd.engadget.c...running-cooler/

What this article probably mainly is referring to is a new generation of LCD/LED TVs that will be fitted with a new film. This will probably extend the life-length of the liquid crystal diodes (LCD). One major disadvantage with the LCD/LED TVs is that when a diode breaks that part of the screen will leave a black "dead" spot.

Plasmas use a complete different technique and are not affected in the same way. The major risk with plasmas is instead burn-in marks if one uses the same channel for too long period of time.

Edited July 22, 2010 by stgrhe

[guzzi850m2]

This is a very interesting topic as we all love our "dummy boxes"

What haven't really been discussed is the size? Some posters write that they regret that they didn't bought a bigger TV. So the bigger the better? I bought a 32" Samsung(the biggest I ever owned) last time, but since we moved to a bigger house I can now see that we need a bigger TV and the 32" can go up in one of the bedrooms upstairs. The distance from the sofa to TV stand is app. 3 mtrs, so obviously the TV over Walking street in Pattaya is slightly too big.

At the movement I am leaning towards somewhere between 40-46" and it will be a LCD for sure.

[stgrhe]

This is a very interesting topic as we all love our "dummy boxes"

What haven't really been discussed is the size? Some posters write that they regret that they didn't bought a bigger TV. So the bigger the better? I bought a 32" Samsung(the biggest I ever owned) last time, but since we moved to a bigger house I can now see that we need a bigger TV and the 32" can go up in one of the bedrooms upstairs. The distance from the sofa to TV stand is app. 3 mtrs, so obviously the TV over Walking street in Pattaya is slightly too big.

At the movement I am leaning towards somewhere between 40-46" and it will be a LCD for sure.

Good point! The optimal size of a TV will depend on the viewing distance. This article will give you some guidelines and read it first before deciding on the size.

http://www.practical-home-theater-guide.com/Tv-viewing-distance.html