NOTE: THIS REVIEW IS NOT FOR SAMSUNG LA26R71B but for a scaled down version(LA19R71B) of the same model with 19" screen size.
I was about to buy something to view in my bedroom so was on a search spree for some 21" or 29" CRT TV. I searched a number of CRTs but then I came across this particularly small looking but elegant LCD TV well inside 20K.
My criteria of TV selection included the ability of TV to support S-video(i wanted to hook my laptop to watch movies etc.) and I must tell you folks that there are very less number of CRT TVs that support S-Video. Even few 29" don’t support S-Video.
When I saw the specifications of this TV, I was like more than stunned to see how many connectors have been condensed into this tiny wonder(yes "tiny" is bit disparaging but it is indeed smaller than what you imagine it to be). Not just S-Video, I was gettin even HDMI 1.0, Component, Composite, PC Synch; all in a single panel. The juxtaposition of various formats is really commendabel.
PICTURE QUALITY:
The picture quality is good, better than normal CRTs but it seems to be a bit stretched. You can use the ZOOM function to make it look as if in the normal CRTs but cropping does occur. It feels strange at first to view the images but after some time you get used to it.
The contrast ration 600:1 is good but not enough. Also this TV doesn’t support DNIE Engine so details seem to be lost. Still for a normal person, it is way better than the normal CRTs. Its only those who have really some refined taste, might be able to distinguish between a good and a better picture.
SOUND:
No you can’t expect much here. Two 3W speakers hidden in the panel wont be enough to immerse you in a sonic aura. The sound is just at the acceptable levels.
Also the SRS Surrond(found in most other SAMSUNG LCD TV models) is missing.
I’ll suggest adding in some external speakers to raise the sound level.
AESTHETICS:
WOW, Samsung has done a great work here. The glossy black finish will definitley add style to wherever you’ll put your TV.
ERGOGENICS:
The wireless remote commander is redesigned and is now really easier to operate. The best thing I want to mention is the placement of MUTE button well inside the qudrant made by the Up Down Volume buttons and Channel Change buttons. The Mute button is now more accessible and can be used with much better ease.
Also Samsung bundles a wall mount accessory with this model so you can hang this thing on any wall, just as a painting which is also a TV.
VALUE FOR MONEY:
If you want a multi-dimensional product, capable of delivering more than your thoughts while being in budget, this may be your pick.
The picture size seems a little bit small so you won’t drive enough pleasure out of it. The feeling of GIMME MORE will be there, for sure. But still if you could take that down, this thing serves the purpose. Also for the enthusiasts, HDMI will give enough versatility to hook in latest gadgets(to name a few next gen gaming consoles, DVD players capable of upscaling to 1080i).
FUTURE PROOF CAPABILITIES:
This set is capable of displaying images upto 1400*900 that is upto HDTV standards. Although in INDIA there aren’t any sources of HD Signals(except few HD DVD players which are still rare), there are hopes that DTH will pave the way for few HD channels(Reliance DTH might come up with few, who knows?) Displaying HD signals in their pristine purity will let you know the real power of this TV.
Its a lot better at the moment but knowing that it’ll get better with the time is till more pleasing.
MY VERDICT:
This TV is dream come true in the price you pay for it but after a while you start feeling that 19" is not good enough, you need to have at least 26" to get some real pleasure out of this thing. This thing will prompt you to go for more, at least it did to me. I am saving again to buy a bigger screen. Till that time it is whole heartedly serving me and I am contented about that.
If you could manage to spend a bit more.ok a big chunk, then better buy at least a 26" model with SRS and DNIE. The extra amount spent is justified. But if you really are tight on budget and still want to experience the future, try this thing. It wont make you regret even once.