Not everything looks better on a high-definition TV. Some low-resolution fare—particularly broadcasts and VHS tapes—can look worse on a modern flat panel than on an old tube set made 20 years ago.
That's why I think Darren Murph at Engadget missed the boat when he mocked Toshiba for its new LCDs that pump up non-HD images. Yes, the converted images fall short of high definition. To my eyes, they looked a lot better than the blurry picture that comes with standard broadcasts.
I'm leery of paying much for improvements to high-definition TVs. The sizes of mainstream sets, say between 42 and 50 inches, don't get much of a boost from more resolution. Faster refresh rates and other antiblur technology do make a difference, but I only notice they're missing in head-to-head comparisons.
To untrained eyes, any reputable HDTV looks great when you get it alone in your family room.
Toshiba's new Super Resolution Technology now adds about $300 to a TV's price, a company rep told me. I'm not sure it warrants that many bucks. But kudos to Toshiba for trying to make everything look decent on an HD set.
of IA @ Dec 06, 2008 10:43:41 AM
mcm of @ Sep 09, 2008 15:25:29 PM