What's the best 37 - 42" HD-ready LCD TV to get that gives great reception to non-HD channels?

Question:

I just saw QVC advertise a Mintek 37" LCD TV with built-in DVD player for around $1268 (not adding in tax and shipping). Of course, the callers who called in raved about the reception. But, when I'm not watching DVD's or HD programs, what is the best product to buy that will guarantee the non-HDTV channels get beautiful reception also---meaning, non-grainy. That's why I'm afraid to take that leap to purchase because I watch so much non-HD digital television and so many channels. I'm the kind of person who will spend more money for better quality. Any words of wisdom, friends, would be very appreciated. Thanks.

Answer:
Any HD TV is going to give you a grainy picture when an analog signal 480i signal is being transmitted. That the reality of current technology. The good new is with stations going digital, even at 480 the picture improves greatly.

Just remember that this is a temporary situation, all Over The Air (OTA) stations have to transmit digitally in 2009, Feb as I recall. This is an FCC mandate, so all local stations broadcasting over public air waves will be digital in 2009.

As to what is the best, that's all a matter of personal opinion. Personally, I like the Mitsubishi LCD 37 inch - LT37121. Native resolution of 1900X1080P. If you are really planning on going HD, then make sure what ever Television you buy has a native resolution of 1900X1080. There is no good reason to have to downconvert a 1080 lines to 766 lines or up convert an 720 line signal to 766. You are just creating distortion on the upconvert.

By going 1080 you will be ready for the next generation signal which should happen in 5 to 10 years.

Good luck on you purchase.

I have a Dlp w/o subscribing hd channels and it works great. It cost me around $1600, though. It is great picture and sound quality. The colors are unbeleivable.

What's the best 37 - 42" HD-ready LCD TV to get that gives great reception to non-HD channels?

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