Westinghouse 1080p LCDs

[kevbeck122]

I'm looking at possibly upgrading from my 30" CRT to a 42" or 47" LCD.  I was looking at the Westinghouse 42" at Best Buy and it looks pretty decent for the price.  Anyone have any experience with these TVs?  Are they pretty reliable?  The model numbers I'm looking at are: TX-42F430S or TX-47F430S.

[brewtownska]

I was debating about these models as well (though I'm not actually READY to buy a new TV...just keeping myself informed for when I do).  I've watched the threads about these two models on the //www.avsforum.com  forums, and so far there are a LOT of bad TVs coming off the line and being taken back to Best Buy.  If you sign on to the forums, go to the DISPLAY DEVICES section, then the LCD FLAT PANEL DISPLAYS, then look for the
"Official Westinghouse TX Series (TX-42F430S, TX-47F430S) Owner's Thread"
Otherwise I think this link will take you there:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=851860

There are already 108 pages of stuff, but on the very first post they usually update to show you the known problems.  In general, I've read great things there about how everyone loves the picture quality, but the TVs are overrun with problems, some as severe as the TV locks up and cannot be turned back on.  So it's kind of a gamble on whether your set will show any of the problems.

[Doug Mohr]

I have the 42" Westinghouse LVM-42W2 which I believe is the same panel as the TX-42F430S, mine just doesn't have a tuner which I don't need anyway.

I'm very pleased with it. You will want to have it professionally calibrated.

The blacks are not as rich as a CRT, but I never expected them to be. I'm so happy with it, I'm planning on getting the 47" version LVM-47W1 for another room.

Doug

[Cheesehead Dave]

I have the 47" model and I'm very happy with it. While I'm sure the more expensive sets might look a little bit nicer, I got mine for a song at BB, so I can't complain.

[kevbeck122]

Thanks for the info.  So it would probably be wise to get a service plan through BB?

[UncleMeat]

It would probably be wise not to buy through BB.  I got my 37" Westy via NewEgg for $999.  That was a one-time promotion, but their regular price on the sets was, I believe, $300-400 LESS than BB.  Shop around and don't be afraid to buy online.  Many established online sellers have worthwhile service plans and offer free or discounted shipping.  If you feel more comfortable buying through a physical store, that's fine, but shop around.  Best Buy's price on these things was VERY high.