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Plasma TV's On Their Way Out? Not So Fast!
When Vizio, Inc. and Pioneer, Inc. announced that they would no longer produce plasma screen televisions, a number of people familiar with the television manufacturing industry stated this was the beginning of the end for plasma televisions. In the recent years, the affordability and quality of LCD displays has increased dramatically putting this newer technology within reach of completely dominating the high definition television market.
LCD proponents state that with better refresh rates (increased from 60Hz to 240Hz in the past few years) and better contrast ratios, their products are now about as equal in quality as plasma television manufactures. If consumer habits are any indicator, they may be right: In 2008, North Americans purchased 30 million LCD sets as compared to 4 million plasma televisions.
A number of sources claim that gap will only widen. However, a few key facts regarding plasma screens may dispel the notion that plasma televisions will go the way of the Betamax tape.
1) Size & Quality Matters: For consumers looking at a television over 50 inches, plasma is the cheaper and a better quality alternative. With larger images on a screen, issues like quality black-levels and cleaner refresh rates become more important.
However, most consumers are not looking to replace their old standard definition televisions with 50" (and larger) high definition televisions, rather they are looking at smaller sets for bedrooms, dens, and kitchens. LCD are better choices for these smaller areas.
2) Price Point: Because of stabilization's in plasma technology, the costs for these flat panel televisions have come down drastically in the past several years. A 50" 1080i plasma television cost consumers $2,400 (yikes!) three years ago and that same large flat screen now runs at about $1,000.
According to many consumer retailers, there may not be a better time to purchase a plasma television if you are concerned about price. Where LCD technology continues to improve, costs for new improvements are paid by consumers purchasing newer sets.
3) Stability in Plasma: Just because two manufacturers have switched focus from assembling plasma televisions to LCDs set doesn't mean the plasma television is going the way of the buggy whip. Panasonic and Samsung both recently iterated their commitment to producing plasma televisions for the foreseeable future. Both companies have recently introduced a number of new improvements that will improve plasma's already strong visual qualities.
If potential plasma screen television consumers are concerned about ongoing maintenance support because a few manufacturers are no longer making these televisions then they should find a plasma television manufacturer with a great warranty program and who has a track record of producing quality HD plasma televisions. Consumers who are looking for an excellent picture, larger display, and great deal should take the time to consider a plasma television set.
About the Author Michael New Jr. is an authority in the high tech industry. He has written hundreds of articles relating to HDTV Reviews and has published numerous studies on Plasma TV Reviews. Contact Info: Michael New Jr. mikenew@gmail.com http://cleverreviews.com
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