For vast numbers of Canadians, staying in is the new going out. The home theatre market is booming, and setting up your own home theatre is more affordable than you might think. For as little as $1,050, you can buy yourself a basic widescreen TV and a home theatre in a box, which includes a DVD player. Epic flicks and sporting events take on a new grandeur when seen on the big screen. Craving popcorn yet? Read on and discover how to choose the best TV for your needs, what to look for in sound systems, how to lay out your home theatre room – and more!
TELLY TYPES
There are four main types of large-screen TVs on the market today. Here's the scoop on each.
Direct view
The conventional cathode ray tube (CRT) TV is now available in both curved and newer, pricier flat-panel screen models.
Screen size: Up to 40 inches
Pros: Sharp picture quality, deep contrast, viewing at almost any angle
Cons: Bulkiness and maximum 40-inch screen size can be limiting
Rear of front projection
Projection models use a small display device to form images and project them onto a screen. In a rear projection TV, the projector and viewing screen are within the same unit; front projection models replicate the cinema experience by separating the projector and screen, which may be on opposite ends of the room.
Screen size: 37 to 83 inches
Pro: Brilliant colour
Cons: Rear projection units are bulky – usually more than 250 pounds and up to three feet deep; both types must be viewed at eye level
Liquid crystal display (LCD)
Increasing in popularity, LCD TVs are flat panelled and can be stylishly wall mounted.
Screen size: 13 to 45 inches
Pros: Thin profile – only three inches deep; lightweight; more energy-efficient than other TVs; long-lasting and sharp image clarity
Con: Cost can be prohibitive
Plasma
Plasma TVs earn wows with the largest flat-panel screens on the market and their superthin, wall-mountable construction.
Screen size: 30 to 61 inches
Pros: Rich colour; stylish-looking; more viewing angles than rear-projection or LCD units
Cons: Plasma TVs run hotter and use more energy than other TVs; possible fading over time or blurred text and screen burn-in from scoreboards, tickers or video games set on freeze-play; prices can still be prohibitive
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