<![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained - Gizmodo Comments]]> http://cache.gawker.com/assets/base/img/thumbs140x140/gizmodo.com.png <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained - Gizmodo Comments]]> http://gizmodo.com Tue, 06 May 2008 11:26:53 EDT Tue, 06 May 2008 11:26:53 EDT http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5544409 @GOKOR: I thought that's what I was doing, but if it makes you feel better...

atomx

]]> 4:384902:c5544409 Tue, 06 May 2008 11:26:53 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5485992 @madlogik: alienware is made by dell now, soooo dude, you bought a dell.

atroc

]]> 4:384902:c5485992 Thu, 01 May 2008 19:50:21 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5464922 This is good info to know.

-Core-

]]> 4:384902:c5464922 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:57:16 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5440126 @liquidsoapdispenser:
The rip-off list is referring to "120Hz HDMI Cables". The point here is that 120Hz is a display technology, and it is a good thing. When it comes to the HDMI cables though, there's no need for something special or extra about the HDMI cables to support it. AFAIK, there is no additional bandwidth required by the HDMI cable to carry the signal, so 1.1 spec cables are fine. Saying "This HDMI cable is rated for 120Hz" is like saying "This is an HDMI cable!" But since people don't know, they can throw it up there, and try and mark up the price.
See Wikipedia's entry for a decent explanation of why the 120Hz TV capability is a good thing (what you were alluding to in the first place).

Geoffrey

]]> 4:384902:c5440126 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:03:42 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5438254 The 1080P vs. 720P "noticeable by distance" argument is based on VERY questionable science, but it's the kind of meme that people who want to sound knowledgeable but don't want to actually do the research or work involved with verifying that knowledge.

What that has to do with the people who write that blog is best left up to the reader.

HAGE

]]> 4:384902:c5438254 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:52:35 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5437398 @eidetic3d:
Comment on The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained eidetic3d Call Samsung tech support and they will give you a link to download a firmware upgrade that fixes the HDMI audio drop problem.

GwynethManiac

]]> 4:384902:c5437398 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:19:38 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5434147 @atomx: Should I point out how "monster cables" and "rip off" aren't one word?

Back on topic here. HD TV signals coming through a coax cable into your home are total BS as well. Meaning that when you connect your HDMI cable from the box to the TV, you're not getting full HD anyway, since the coax connection doesn't broadcast that type of signal. From DVD player to TV, yes, it will work, but from coax to HDMI to TV, no...which is why those HD channels that Comcast is telling you that you have, aren't really HD.

GOKOR

]]> 4:384902:c5434147 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:38:24 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5433172 @budabellyx: You should have called Monoprice and explained the problem.
I've bought at least $200 worth of cables from monoprice over the last 18 months(easily $1,700 retail) and have only ever had one problematic cable, an in-wall thickness HDMI cable.
I called and complained and they sent me another for free.

pecheckler

]]> 4:384902:c5433172 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:06:18 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5432321 I have had bad experience with the cheap HDMI cables from monoprice and a Denon 3808 receiver. Video and audio had issues, the audio would hiccup and the video would just simply go away temporarily. I replaced it with a higher end cable and it worked just fine... Not sure what caused the issue, but it does appear it was the cable.

budabellyx

]]> 4:384902:c5432321 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:42:08 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5430942 Eh, I still think a lot of the off-brand "problems" has a lot to do with snobbery. People always say they can tell the difference, but given the same signal quality, I think the differences are small. The average consumer really can't really isn't that picky.

Mokers

]]> 4:384902:c5430942 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:06:15 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5430647 Sorny, Magentbox, but if you like to watch TV, REALLY like to watch TV, there's The CARNIVALE.

Grandjester

]]> 4:384902:c5430647 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:01:12 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5428731 I do not agree with the 1080p statement one bit.
37" to 42" 1080P resolution is clearly superior to 720p. Especially for someone playing console video games, who generally sit closer.

And this list doesn't even put into play why brands like Sharp, Sony, Samsung, or LG have better quality picture in both 720p and 1080p LCDs than cheap brands.

pecheckler

]]> 4:384902:c5428731 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:36:19 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5428402 I just came from Best Buy, I was looking at a Panasonic 46 inch plasma. I asked the salesman if this model had a HEPA filter and he looked at me like I had bugs crawling out of my ears.

I'm going to Circuit City, they seem to be more knowledgeable.

the-decider

]]> 4:384902:c5428402 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:31:52 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5421915 My problem with this article... well there are multiple. However, telling consumers that Deep Color and x.v.Color are useless features is completely inaccurate. First off, just because there are not sources for deep color, doesn't mean there won't be in a year or two years. There is nothing wrong with trying to future proof yourself. Also, same goes for x.v.Color, which CAN be used with an HD Camcorder and will be used in Bluray. It's silly of the HD "Guru" to call these useless, and even sillier for Gizmodo to back it.

havok2022

]]> 4:384902:c5421915 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:46:25 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5421735 @turbofreak: You probably mean 1440 x 900, which is actually 16:10 rather than 16:9 and yes, that resolution is "funny" for a television. At 1440 x 900, not only must 720P content (1280 x 720) be blown up to fit such a panel, but one of the following will probably be true as well: there will be extra vertical space (usually above and below the picture), the picture will be stretched vertically to take up that extra space, the picture will be scaled to a vertical fit and squashed horizontally, or the picture will be scaled to a vertical fit and cropped horizontally. The first option is tolerable, especially if you are accustomed to watching theatrical releases with an even wider aspect ratio, but the other three are stupid and ugly.

I bought a 19" Samsung with 1440 x 768 resolution because the price was decent and I found the picture mostly tolerable considering the price, but the brightness looked uneven, so I returned it. I might have had a bad unit or they might all be that way; I wasn't inclined to try another one, but if you buy one, I recommend looking carefully at what you are getting to make sure you are happy with the picture.

Brian Sexton

]]> 4:384902:c5421735 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:58:03 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5421550 @shamoononon: A running crt tv will achieve the same thing

GrimaceXL

]]> 4:384902:c5421550 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:17:38 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5421445 @GeekyNerdGuy

I found myself at BB today searching for a mini USB cable to tether my blackberry to my notebook.

Check out the game accessories section. PS3/PSP use mini usb for various purposes. In the Computer department, mini usb cables run around $30 for a 6ft cable. I managed to get a 10ft cable for under $12 in the game department. it worked just as well. Though they can be had cheaper online, in a pinch it's worth exploring at your local big box.

Mza22

]]> 4:384902:c5421445 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:00:38 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5421225 Actually, the PS3 and its games supports deep color.

M3wThr33

]]> 4:384902:c5421225 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:28:45 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5420974 Thank god they put in that 3-Off Brand Model HDTVs

"Buying no name brands will save you money, but they may be nearly as expensive to repair as to replace after the factory warranty expires. In fact, some models have no post warranty service or parts available. For more information go to
[hdguru.com]"

That'll make some people stop going to those Asian shops all over orange county and Chinatown.

ph15h HATES ph15h

]]> 4:384902:c5420974 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:01:01 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5420516 @Razta: I'm pissed at Newegg. They sold me a faulty graphics card and then charged me a $36 restocking fee and made me pay shipping to return it.

GeekyNerdGuy

]]> 4:384902:c5420516 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:14:56 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5420487 @Brian Sexton: Good point. I discovered my 720p set was actually 1366x768 when I hooked the computer up to it.

GeekyNerdGuy

]]> 4:384902:c5420487 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:12:57 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5420285 Monoprice is a great place for audio cables too. I bought a set for under 5 bucks and they sounded just as good as the more expensive stuff my brother gave me.

CatPope

]]> 4:384902:c5420285 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 22:51:25 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5419871 I don't understand the resolution measurement. I was looking at this 19" Samsung lcd and it listed it's resolution as 1400 X 900 and 16:9 aspect ration. Is this a proper setup or is that resolution funny?

turbofreak

]]> 4:384902:c5419871 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 22:19:38 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5419606 What should be the top item on the list isn't even listed: sets sold by input resolution rather than native display resolution. Most so-called 720P televisions I have seen actually have 1366 x 768 LCD panels rather than 1280 x 720, so 720P input has to be blown up to fill them. A lot of so-called 720P plasma sets have only 1024 x 768 resolution.

Brian Sexton

]]> 4:384902:c5419606 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:57:54 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5419597 @SeattleTed: The 120Hz difference is there. It might have been the video source.

Mark Wilson

]]> 4:384902:c5419597 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:57:08 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5419203 Not sure if it's the TV or the cable, but my parents just picked up a Samsung 50 inch Plasma. We got a free HDMI cable (through knowing someone at Sears where they got the TV) and the audio sometimes cuts out, requiring a quick turning off and on of the TV to get it back. This is using a Monster Cable HDMI cable. When we went to plug it in, the "cap" of the cable came off (slid right back into place), which, unless it's meant to do that, seems like pretty shoddy workmanship.

eidetic3d

]]> 4:384902:c5419203 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:20:34 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5418914 @GeekyNerdGuy: alienware my friend :)
[www.alienware.com]

madlogik

]]> 4:384902:c5418914 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 20:58:23 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5418167 Need a cable...just go to monoprice.com. Never bought a cable from BB or CC since i discovered monoprice. Their $6 HDMI cable is better quality than the $100 monster crap.

cscamp20

]]> 4:384902:c5418167 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 20:01:01 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5418042 @GeekyNerdGuy: It's always fun to point that out to sales people at Fry's and ask them the difference. It's a almost coin flip between those that lie and try to justify a differnce and those who say " You are right, it's the same thing. " The older sales people always lie and most of the younger guys fold and tell the truth (quietly).

I got a 10' HDMI cable there for like $7 or $8.

Mr.SithNinja

]]> 4:384902:c5418042 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:53:05 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5417949 When I got my HDTV I had my buddy at Best Buy buy it on discount. I think th RocketFish cable I picked out was "only" $60 retail (what a steal), and about $5 after discount. I know I overpaid, but the extra couple of dollars was worth it to have it the same day. ;)

TurboFool

]]> 4:384902:c5417949 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:45:58 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5417862 Another thing they should have added to the list is the 1366x768 resolution.
Many HDTVs that says it supports 720p and 1080i isn't displaying them natively.
Instead its basically upscaling 720p to 1366x768 and downscaling 1080i to 1366x768.
The 1080i source would look better on those TVs because its downscaling a high resolution source.
However when upscaling 720p, Your bound to noticed some pixelation.

TygerClaw

]]> 4:384902:c5417862 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:40:13 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5417653 HDMI cables come in to play with length. I tried to do 50' and I only get picture if I plug in with a short HDMI cable, then switch it to the 50'. If I turn off and back on, there is not picture. Im returning my 50' to newegg and getting a 50' from DVIgear for triple the price. =(

Razta

]]> 4:384902:c5417653 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:23:12 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5417433 @Lizard_King: eBay is your friend there. I picked up a Full Motion Sanus mount for just over $150.

CubFan81

]]> 4:384902:c5417433 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:06:36 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5417405 @GeekyNerdGuy: I'm not exactly sure where to find it but if you bought the card seperately from someone like Asus or AOpen or whoever, it might be in the product manual or might be available from their own website.

In addition to the "you don't want to spend all this money and skimp on the cables" line I often hear the "now you'll need a power line cleaner, something like this $250 Monster Power Strip." I'd like to see a study on that.

CubFan81

]]> 4:384902:c5417405 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:03:33 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5417382 TV mounts at the Box stores are just as outrageously priced as Monster Cables - why is there never a mention of TV mounts as a ripoff? Circuit City is selling one for $650!?!?

While I do not buy Monster Cables, I cannot condone or recommend the Monoprice cables after a few problem I've had. There is a better middle ground.

Lizard_King

]]> 4:384902:c5417382 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:02:14 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5417303 @cubensis: The process the ionic breeze uses to move the air without any moving parts actually creates O3 which is also known as ozone. Although it helps this planet from harmful radiation, its in fact poisonous for humans.

I believe there was a huge thing when the info came out after being tested and there were "ozone filters" that were made to attach to the front of the unit, but its all BS. Try googling some pictures to see what the filter looked like and its this tiny plastic attachment. Pretty sad that so many people will believe anything you tell them.

Brown_Noise

]]> 4:384902:c5417303 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:55:43 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416940 @DaveTehWave says: One word: Monster Cables

One word: Rip off

atomx

]]> 4:384902:c5416940 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:27:41 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416854 "•1080p HDTVs below 42" (diagonal): If you own a HDTV under 42", chances are you won't recognize the quality difference over 720p-unless you are standing really close to the tv."

I have a Sony XBR4 40" and can absolutely see the difference between 720p and 1080p. And I am definitely not a super video snob.

Agreed with all who pointed out that 120hz makes gaming super slick.

noamjamski

]]> 4:384902:c5416854 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:23:00 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416834 @kahri: dvi and hdmi are different cables,even though dvi and hdmi both are hd compatible dvi does not carry audio. hdmi carries at least 5.1 audio. if you were to connect your dvi connector to your hdmi you would not get any sound so, then you would use your toslink(fiberoptic) or your stereo rca's

atroc

]]> 4:384902:c5416834 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:22:12 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416590 Can't believe how people take advantage of the confusion. Buy this HD tv! Full HD plus small enough to fit into your bookshelf at only 11''

DJTripleRRR

]]> 4:384902:c5416590 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:05:37 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416584 @kahri: this particular example, they were identical grades/cables. everythign was identical, i assume one set was an old stock at old pricing, the duo-set was probably a current pricing (i remember when it was $30 a meter)

tegronin

]]> 4:384902:c5416584 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:05:28 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416477 @lordargent: And deep blue.

although, I'm not much of a chess player.

ideaman2020

]]> 4:384902:c5416477 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:59:25 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416384 @tegronin: yeah with Toslink, the actual fiber used is a big difference. It may use inexpensive 1 mm plastic optical fiber or it can use higher quality multi-strand plastic optical fibers or even quartz glass optical fibers depending on the desired bandwidth and application.

kahri

]]> 4:384902:c5416384 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:54:22 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416247 hdmi cables? i went to CC one day for a fibre cable (toslink) and i had 2 options, 1 was $30 for 2 meters, the other was 5.99 for 2 meters AND it came with a SVHS cable. i took it to the counter to price check, the cashier confirmed the prices. with a puzzled look on my face she then stated
"I would buy the one with the SVHS if I were you"

not that i'll ever use svhs (i have a dozen of those sitting around at home already), but... damn


tegronin

]]> 4:384902:c5416247 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:47:26 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416228 @Nathan Drake: Oops. A little correction:

Just imagine this. 2 TVs standing next to each other in a small room. One is 26" at 720P and the other is 37" and also at 720P. You can clearly see that the image on the 37" TV doesn't look as sharp. You can't tell me a Full HD 37 incher wouldn't give you a noticeable difference in sharpness and overall image quality.

On a side note. Can we, in the future, get an option so that we can edit our posts? It would be super useful ;)

Nathan Drake

]]> 4:384902:c5416228 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:46:36 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416195 @Angus: I have Spdif on my motherboard's Realtek HD audio and I have an 8800GT with a DVI to HDMI adapter on it.

How do I connect the audio to the graphics card?????

Is there a website that explains this?

GeekyNerdGuy

]]> 4:384902:c5416195 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:44:48 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416156 @shamoononon: IDK either. I just have a Kenmore I picked up at Sears. Seems to work really well.

GeekyNerdGuy

]]> 4:384902:c5416156 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:43:03 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416064 @SeattleTed & Dave_T: I thought I read that 120mhz was nice because 24p goes evenly into 120mhz (as does 30p and 60i). So if you're watching a 30p or 60i source, as you may have been when you did your side-by-side comparison, you won't see the 24p benefit of 120mhz. Anyone want to weigh in if this is accurate?

liquidsoapdispenser

]]> 4:384902:c5416064 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:38:23 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416040 as long as your motherboard has spdif out pins on it you can run sound through your graphics card. my 9600gt came with a free dvi - hdmi adapter. its very nice to be able to game in hd video and hd audio using only 1 cable from my pc to my surround sound, and then from the receiver to my hdtv.

Angus

]]> 4:384902:c5416040 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:37:09 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416038 @GeekyNerdGuy: I don't believe they have HEPA filters, I think it's a knock off. I'll shut up now though.

shamoononon

]]> 4:384902:c5416038 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:37:07 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5416013 I am not 100% up on the issue, but these two reports should help:

[www.aircleaners.com]

[www.housekeepingchannel.com]

My daughter suffers from some bad air allergies so I have a few of the ones with the HEPA filters running quite a bit. They are more expensive, but I think in this case the cost is equal to the quality. I certainly notice a difference between my home and other peoples. I am not a clean freak either, so I have to give credit to the machines.

shamoononon

]]> 4:384902:c5416013 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:36:10 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415982 I have two problems with this piece.

26" TVs can produce great quality images. Case in point, the Sony bravia TVs look amazing even at 26 inches. The thing is that you have to pick the right TV. Samsung TVs, contrary to Sony's, suck monkey balls at screen sizes up to and including 37". Atleast their LCDs ones do. Their Plasmas are usually a bit better.

And second. 1080P can be useful at under 42 inches. It all depends on how close to the TV you are. Even at 37" I can easily spot the difference. Just imagine this. 2 TVs standing next to each other in a small room. One is 26" at 720P and the other is 37" and also at 720P. You can't tell me you can't see a noticeable difference in sharpness and overall image quality.

The other 8 are indeed total crap. Especially the fake HD channels. If you can't do it right, don't do it at all. Unfortunately some networks don't seem to give a shit about their customers.

Nathan Drake

]]> 4:384902:c5415982 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:34:41 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415960 @cubensis: I think the Orecks are just a HEPA filter setup. The Ionic Breeze actually generates Ozone, which is not healthy and can be a strong irritant to some people.

GeekyNerdGuy

]]> 4:384902:c5415960 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:33:21 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415893 @grayskyz: Like I said works for computers. Still my macbook can't seem to get the resolution right. There are a few 3rd party apps to fix it but I haven't bothered to download them yet.

Castle1914

]]> 4:384902:c5415893 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:30:13 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415761 @shamoononon:
How about the ones made by by Oreck? My aunt has 2 of them, she is the one who told me about Orek but I went to a friends house last week and he swears by the Ionic Breeze. I will show him the articles though.


cubensis

]]> 4:384902:c5415761 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:25:00 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415719 @Castle1914:

I connect my mac mini to 3-4 tv's with DVI to HDMI, works great, dunno what your talkin bout' willis.

grayskyz

]]> 4:384902:c5415719 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:23:16 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415704 "•1080p HDTVs below 42" (diagonal): If you own a HDTV under 42", chances are you won't recognize the quality difference over 720p-unless you are standing really close to the tv."

This one assumes displaying a 720p signal on a 720p display vs. a 1080p signal on a 1080p display, and was a pure pixel size vs. eyeball resolution. If you mostly watch 1080p, the 1080p set will look better because there will be no scaling smearing pixels together.

DWes

]]> 4:384902:c5415704 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:22:51 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415673 Deep Color: No deep color sources makes this a worthless feature.

Well, there is deep purple.

[en.wikipedia.org]

lordargent

]]> 4:384902:c5415673 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:21:17 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415641 after many config. attempts, my current setup works for me:
laptop to LCD - VGA (audio=MBP line out)
satellite to LCD - composite
xbox360 & PS3 to LCD - HDMI via splitter

kahri

]]> 4:384902:c5415641 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:19:58 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415575 There are cards out there for HTPCs that will merget digital audio and video into an HDMI output, but they are pretty new. I do like the simplicity of HDMI, but totally concede that it has had growing pains. monoprice.com sells a normal to mini HDMI cable

Canoehead

]]> 4:384902:c5415575 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:17:06 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415565 thanks for the insights. I will print this list out when i go to circuit city next time!

ceokhan

]]> 4:384902:c5415565 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:16:31 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415399 One word:
Monster Cables

DaveTehWave

]]> 4:384902:c5415399 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:09:31 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415394 Most popular scam quote a salesman will tell you: "If you're going to invest so much on your TV, why go cheap on cables?"

ripfire4

]]> 4:384902:c5415394 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:09:08 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5415218 @GeekyNerdGuy actually HP has a media center that streams the audio through the HDMI.. I believe it has the Nvidia 8600 with HDMI out.. the spdif cable needs to be attached from the motherboard to the card.

@SeattleTed the only good thing 120htz is good for is 3d gaming/movies providing 60 frames per eye per second allowing for stutter free 3d

Dave_T

]]> 4:384902:c5415218 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:00:37 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414980 I used to have a JVC HD-ILA tv that had one HDMI input, purchased in late 2005. When I connected my PS3 in 2007, the HDMI connection didn't work properly - no video. I never solved the problem, as the PS3 worked fine via HDMI on the Samsung LCD in my bedroom.

My newly refreshed living room is all HDMI: one HDMI cable connecting a Panasonic plasma to a Sony 5.1 receiver. All of my other components (PS3, Comcast HD cablebox, etc.) connect to the receiver via HDMI, with no video or audio problems.

I chalk up my earlier TV's HDMI issues with the fact it was just that: too early. But am I just a lucky one with my new setup? I never tested a thing before mounting. Is there really still a compatibility issue surrounding HDMI? If so, sad . . . and I need to stop recommending to my friends to do as I did without testing first.

Legusta79

]]> 4:384902:c5414980 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:50:06 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414946 @GeekyNerdGuy: Yeah, poor audio is the crux of HTPC fandom these days. It's so weird-- even finding good dedicated receivers that support all the new standards is difficult-- most support one, but not another. We need more agreed-on standards, and fewer 'standards'.

wild homes

]]> 4:384902:c5414946 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:48:54 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414923 @reddingofish: ...and two minutes later, it's back. Slashdot, we ain't. :P

DaOtter

]]> 4:384902:c5414923 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:48:06 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414902 I hate HDMI and DVI. Well, DVI works great on computers, but it's problematic for TVs.

Castle1914

]]> 4:384902:c5414902 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:47:19 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414856 @kahri: Open Mac? What's that?

You, sir, are awarded one Internet.

wild homes

]]> 4:384902:c5414856 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:45:01 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414829 Thankfully the 1080p bit was on there. I own 46 sammy 1080p and still believe the difference from 720 to 1080p is negligible. Unless the tv is a deal as mine was. The 120mhz was easy to ripoff to detect as well. At stores they'll show splitscreen video of 120 and 60 -and despite their attempt I couldn't tell.

SeattleTed

]]> 4:384902:c5414829 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:43:53 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414773 @Tayng: HDMI and DVI are the SAME THING. All you actually need is a DVI to HDMI adapter on a standard DVI cable.
PS> DVI = no sound

kahri

]]> 4:384902:c5414773 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:41:55 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414769 My Canon Camcorder has a mini-HDMI connection. That's annoying as hell. I had to go track down yet another cable to hook it to my TV, and that connection is really finicky. It looks better running from the A/V outs.

My bro-in-law swears by HDMI though, and he a stereo/DVD player with nothing but HDMI between all the components and the TV. I was trying to explain the benefits of him going to a home theater PC since they're about to upgrade, but as nobody seems to offer PCs with audio out in HDMI format, he refuses.

GeekyNerdGuy

]]> 4:384902:c5414769 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:41:47 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414759 Irony hits this post. I followed the link to the amazon.com page and placed an order for three HDMI cables at $0.13 cents per cable with $4.80 shipping. After confirming the oder at checkout I saw they charged me $4.80 in shipping PER cable, and not a flat fee. Keep an eye out. It's still a good price for cabling, but the shiping is outrageous.

surfer88

]]> 4:384902:c5414759 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:41:28 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414715 WoooHoo!! We crashed the HD Guru server!!!

reddingofish

]]> 4:384902:c5414715 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:39:30 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414684 @cubensis: Buy something with a HEPA filter.

shamoononon

]]> 4:384902:c5414684 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:38:10 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414630 @cubensis: Consumer Reports did tests with them and they actually make the air WORSE.

nXt

]]> 4:384902:c5414630 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:35:57 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414598 NICE

potohead1

]]> 4:384902:c5414598 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:34:37 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414559 @GeekyNerdGuy: @cubensis: monoprice.com = cable heaven

ab3

]]> 4:384902:c5414559 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:33:30 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414537 I remeber last year trying to get a DVI to HDMI cable so I could hook up mac to my TV. The kid at Best Buy told me that was impossable because the and I quote "worked on different frequncies". I ended finding the cable myself, but it was like 120 bucks... I passed, and ended up picking on up at walmart for about 15.

Tayng

]]> 4:384902:c5414537 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:32:32 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414478 @GeekyNerdGuy:
I remember going to Best Buy and tey wanted $90 for a HDMI cable. Fucking hell.


cubensis

]]> 4:384902:c5414478 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:30:13 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414464 Whats wrong with the Ionic Breeze

cubensis

]]> 4:384902:c5414464 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:29:39 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414445 Hey, that guy sold me a psystar!

Good story though, I had no idea that HDMI was so unreliable.

kahri

]]> 4:384902:c5414445 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:29:02 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414421 If you go into the TV section of Fry's, the HDMI cables cost $100. If you go over to the computer section where the USB, DVI and RGB cables are, there's HDMI cables starting at $15.

I ordered two of Amazon.com for $2 a piece, but they charged me $12 shipping, which I thought was a bit excessive.

GeekyNerdGuy

]]> 4:384902:c5414421 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:28:09 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414176 @92BuickLeSabre: They were gifts at the AVN awards.... Wait a minute, that's not Ron Jeremy. Impostor!

Darrone

]]> 4:384902:c5414176 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:20:00 EDT <![CDATA[The 10 Worst HDTV Ripoffs Explained]]> http://gizmodo.com/384902/the-10-worst-hdtv-ripoffs-explained#c5414035 The irony is, that guy spent $1500 on those shades and another $3K for the chains.

92BuickLeSabre

]]> 4:384902:c5414035 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:15:49 EDT