Samsung TXN3075 30" Widescreen HDTV-Ready Flat Screen TV
So Far, So Good
I was about to give up on HDTV, as my first set, a Hitachi, was a disaster that was replaced and it too was defective. Samsung saved the day for me. But a big note of caution: it does take ahwile to get used to the 16:9 widescreen format because this set automatically converts all programs into that format, whether or not the program is in 4:3 mode (standard tv format) or 16:9 (many DVD's and all HDTV programs). At times people will appear \\"bloated.\\" An example of this would be a local tv newscast. You can use the Aspect Ratio button to adjust the screen to a 4:3 mode (not avail. on Component inputs), but you will have bars on the left and right sides, and they warn you that viewing too much in that mode can \\"burn\\" an image on the tube. Another downside: analog cable is fuzzy and hard to adjust. However, Digital and HDTV Cable is breathtaking and many movies and programs are now being aired in the widescreen format, although at times I still see black bars on the top and bottom. DVD's as well. A neat feature is the \\"panoramic\\" mode (this feature is automatic on Component inputs). This is where this tv shines. When a movie is shown in widescreen format on DVD, or Turner Classic Movies or Fox Movie channel, etc., the panoramic mode brings out the full scope of the movie. In other words, it appears as if you're moving with the camera! It really puts the THEATRE in home theatre. An INVAR shadow mask helps keep colors true no matter how long the set is on as opposed to conventional masks. The on-screen menu is difficult to navigate and set up. Although I have mentioned a few flaws, it's well worth the price IF you're in to DVD's and HDTV as I am. If you just want a basic tv set with analog or basic cable, then I recommend a regular and cheaper tv set.