Honest Plasma TV Ratings

The most important feature when buying a Plasma TV is its contrast. Not its resolution, or its inputs, speakers, wall mount capability, etc. You want a TV that is going to enhance your viewing experience and contrast ratios make that possible. You can find a host of TV’s with similar hookups, but not similar contrast ratios. Plasma TV’s have always stood out next to LCD’s because of the phosphorous gas that is used inside the screen to help produce the color. This technique can allow for more accurate colors. Most plasma’s have high contrast ratios, but the higher the contrast, the more vivid the picture will be. A good contrast ration ranges from 30,000 to 50,000. Anything less and you are missing out on image quality. It may seem as this particular characteristic is over emphasized, but it is actually just beginning to gain recognition. Consumers are getting smarter and are starting to understand what the characteristic of high quality are compared to standard quality. Go to a store and look around. You will notice the difference in color quality on all the plasma tv’s. You will also notice how bright and vivid certain plasma TV’s are compared to the other they are lined up next to. These TV’s standout amongst the rest because they have higher contrast ratios compared to the others. Every plasma TV these days usually comes with 3 HDMI inputs (if they don’t, don’t waste your time). These will help with enhancing the color capability of your plasma. Most people think the resolution is what is most important. Frankly, most HD channels broadcast are in 720p, so your 1080p resolution is useless (unless you have Blu-Ray). That is why contrast ratio is the most important. It is the one thing truly defines one TV from another. It enhances the picture by allowing for deeper black levels and better color tones. It is especially helpful for giving a large range of reds, which makes images and tones much more accurate. So remember, all the other features may sound great. The sales guy may brag about features such as PC inputs, HDMI, 1080p resolution, but that’s all generic; most of your midline televisions (both LCD and Plasma) have those features. The thing they don’t always mention is the contrast ratio. You can get a good mid level plasma TV with high contrast for very reasonable prices these days. For the cost conscious shopper, a lower contrast ratio would suit you best.