Philips 52PFL7403D 52" HDTV LCD TV

I dont usually write too much reviews, unless I am really impressed. I did a lot of research to buy a big screen 52 inch LCD from a trusty Sony Trinitron. I first bought a Sharp 52 inch LCD 1080p (non 120hz) after research due to the style, the narrow bezel and frame, and good reviews of the picture quality from experts. However, I had to return 2 sets, one had a white line in the middle, and the second one had no picture after a few uses. Go figure. Then I researched bigger brands such as Sony, Samsung, but this one fit my budget. However, I hesitated, due to the brand Philips, which I was not familiar with. But, due to my budget, I bought it and was a great purchase so far. The set up was easy and I had no issues after installing it. During my research, I read articles by experts that 120hz does not make a big difference and may not be cost effective. However, WOW...I was impressed at the smooth movements it produced. I mean you can really notice it. The only issue I had, if you can even call it an issue, is that since the picture and movement is soooo clear, I felt that home movie theatre experience is now gone. The pictures are too clear and smooth unlike when you are in a theatre. Oh well, Im getting used to it and its super nice and I figure this is the wave of the future.

Only cons: 1) when you choose your components using only the "source" button, the screen turns black while the source box disappears, and you have to repress the button for the source box to reappear, and so on (this causes an unnecessary lag). An easy fix is just scrowing down the source box with the arrow buttons, but I think it would be easy to just press and repress the source button for changing components. Not a big deal, but on the Sharp you can flick through the sources using only the source button rather quickly; 2) when you turn the tv on, its blue with the "Philips" logo and lags before the picture comes out (waste of time, and feels like a computer monitor not a tv); 3) when you turn the tv off, it goes black then blue before shutting off (ditto #2 - hey Philips, what for?); and 4) asthetically, I feel the Sharp, Sony, Samsung has better looks and packaging, although the Philips looks tough and heavy :(. It is thicker in depth too than Sharp. And whats with that clear plastic frame that borders the bezel. Does this serve a purpose??? Its not like it makes the tv look better asthetically or anything.

All in all, this was a GREAT purchase for the mony and thats what counts! The picture is good and smooth and the unit seems to be reliable for now. I really hope it survives for a long time. I recommend this unit.