VIZIO VO320E ECO 32-inch LCD HDTV 720p 
VIZIO VO320E ECO 32-inch LCD HDTV 720p back panelWell, my trusty 42 inch rear-projection CRT TV decided to take a permanent vacation. Without any cash budgeted for a new TV, and two teenagers (which moves TV from a luxury to a necessity), I went looking for a cheap “interim” TV to fill the gap.
My apartment is small. While I was initially set not go below 42 inches, my lack of funds quickly led me to the conclusion that 42 inches was out of my price range. So, I discovered this Vizio 32-inch LCD TV.
The instruction manual and quick setup guide are clear and understandable. TV setup seemed to take no time. Vizio should be commended for writing a 67-page manual that is entirely in (reasonably clear and non-geeky) English.
The ‘calibration’ process (what Vizio calls “fine tuning”) is simple and uncomplicated (except for DVE). Most control default settings were nearly correct when checked with DVE test patterns.
I changed “Color” from 50 to 45 for my calibration using DVE’s red, green, and blue filters. I reduced “Sharpness” from 4 to 1. A bit more sharpening gave my picture more pizzazz, despite what DVE concluded.
This TV has a number of ways to connect various video sources. This includes two HDMI ports, component video, S-video, SVGA, and coaxial. You also get an audio out to attach amplified speakers or an inexpensive surround sound system.
The whole “eco/green” thing seems like just another marketing gimmick. However, for this TV the whole ECO thing does two things.
First, the TV is amazingly light. It is just over 24 lbs with the stand. It is a joy to move compared to that 42 inch tank.
Second, this Vizio is EXTREMELY energy efficient. It uses about 85W operating and .33W standby (thanks to a mildly annoying amber VIZIO logo you can’t turn off without unplugging). My kids use more electricity in the bathroom than I spend on my favorite DVD.
An energy efficient TV is great. But, if the picture is lousy, what’s the point. A TV that I don’t watch because it looks like garbage is great for energy efficiency because it’s not watched!!!
Thankfully this TV is energy-efficient WITH a great picture. It has a 15000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio with a nice viewing angle. It is perfect for my small apartment living room. Replacing that 42 inch rear projection for this Vizio actually makes the living room look bigger.
Now, some think 32 inches for a living room is too small. This is funny since I remember hearing the praises for the “mighty” 27 inch TV 10 years ago. A 32 inch works great for my space.
For larger rooms, you will be spoiled. I believe you’ll wish you had a bigger screen. For me, it’s just about perfect.
The one thing that surprised me is the enhanced DVD viewing. My old 42 inch CRT TV used a 4:3 contrast ratio. When I watched widescreen DVD’s on it, the actual usable picture was less than that on the 32 inch. Now my DVD’s appear “larger” on a “smaller” TV.
Being used to Standard Definition, I thought the HD hype was just that…Hype. Only one word to describe that…WRONG!!!
I got a cheap “wall mount” antenna to pick up “off the air” HD broadcasts for weekend football. Let me say…HOLY COW!!!! Even on a 32 inch TV, the clarity and detail in HD makes the picture jump out at you.
Remember, this TV is 720p. It upscales to 1080i. This is the default resolution for all over-the-air HD broadcasts. 1080p is used with PS3 and Blueray, and a few Video on Demand services.
Unless you are into Bluray, or PS3, 1080p is probably a waste. Besides, on a 32-inch screen, your ability to see any difference will probably not be significant. For those with older eyes, you probably won’t see any difference at all!
Overall, it shocks me how much I love this TV. It is small enough to move around the house, without trouble. It is light enough to place on a cheap TV stand. The picture is outstanding. Plus, I like the thin strip of chrome along the bottom, it adds a neat touch of class
What started as an “interim” TV, just may be my preferred choice for as long as I have this apartment. A 32-inch TV is certainly big enough for comfortable viewing. It is not so large that it overshadows the rest of the living room.
Given the competition, this TV is easily the “best bang for the buck” for HDTV’s of any size.
For the size, picture quality, and features, this is as close to a must buy 32 inch LCD TV as I have seen in a long time.
Popularity: 16%If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!Related posts:
VIZIO 32-Inch Class XVT Series Full 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV, SV320XVT VIZIO 32-Inch Class XVT Series Full 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV,...Is Vizio Equal to Sony, Samsung, LG, and Sharp? Claim. I was always under the inpression that SONY did...LG 32LH30 32-Inch LCD TV 1080p To properly calibrate the settings on an HDTV depends on where...Sharp Aquos LC32GP1U 32-Inch LCD HDTV 1080p Gaming Sharp Aquos 32-Inch LCD TV. I almost got the LC32GP1U‘s...
No comments:
Post a Comment