Full Size Tube

Full Size Tube

As well as looking good on or off, they are even better for watching digital channels (you do not need a digital box) or terrestrial channels (which will be turned off by next year as digital switchover begins). And then there is the quality of the picture, which experts say it is far superior to the old CRT TV. With high definition technology, the display gives an image with more depth and less "visual noise". This allows you to sit closer without straining your eyes.

Add to this the fact that LCD (liquid crystal display) TV have lower consumption of energy and a wide viewing angle and viewing experience you just went from historical first space age. Ready to slim down?

Get with the program

There are two main categories of flat screens - plasma or LCD. On the economic side, LCD screens use less power than plasma, but if it's a bigger, brighter screen cinema style ',' you're after, pick to plasma (they range from about 42-100 inches).

Size matters

Flat screens are real attention-grabbers. Great If you want to make it a feature, but if you prefer more discrete devices, or have a living space snugger (or bedroom / kitchen). For smaller models, John by John Lewis recommends Kempner Grundig. 'Their new range of 15 "& 19" models each have an integrated DVD player: excellent value with prices starting from £ 249. For mid-size (26 "), the most popular 26R87 include Samsung (549 pounds) and 26LMD70 Panasonic (549 pounds). "

Celebrate silver screen

If you have the space and enough friends to hold regular viewings, go bigger (32 "+) and try Sony, Panasonic, Samsung, Philips or Toshiba. A recent Which? Panasonic Viera survey found 32LXD600the LCD TV TX-best because of its great quality picture, angles wide viewing and extra features (such as memory cards for downloading pictures from £ 1,170). And What? Forum commended the cause Sony KDL 40X2000U 40-inch screen (about £ 2300) as "an absolute fantastic-all 'with great pictures in high definition, impressive sound, and a light sensor to help maintain energy consumption at night.

Improve transparency

Flatscreen Where to live? Avoid unwanted glare from lights or overhead lights, placing it thoughtfully. Wallpaper too busy may also distract the viewer from the screen. _Which? _experts also recommend you check the pictures, bringing clarity to your DVD store and asking try a screen before you buy. Flat Panel TVs use digital-processing software to put the picture on screen, which can not be place, so look out for tell-tale signs of poor quality, such as elevated edges, fade and color smearing.

Celebrate your screen

Think for a new flatscreen, sleek as a white canvas on which to display artwork. John Lewis John Kempner says, "Examples of TV with built-in photo card reader include 32LXD700 42PZ70 Panasonic and Panasonic. TV Many major brands have a USB socket which is a convenient way of connecting devices such as digital cameras or TV PlayStation 3, from which you are able to view images or slide shows of your choice. "

Do not forget extra

Although most The flatscreens are willing HD (shows sharper, more detailed, high definition pictures of them on your regular TV) you may need to sign (and pay for) some packages such as Sky or Virgin to get HDTV broadcasts. It also worth checking out if you're in a Freeview reception area.

Choose eco option

Sadly, plasma TV consuming about four times more energy than traditional cathode ray tube models. However, the best of a bad bunch include Search 42PF7621D42 inch LCD TV, which won the European Green TV of the year (still, this is a powerful 210W output, compared with the old style TV - a portable uses only 39W).

Get someone else to dress him

Hey, there is only so much you can expect of your average Luddite. Marks and Spencer provide a full delivery, set up and tune into service on 26 inch models (and they will recycle packaging). )