CRT -v- LCD Best for watching thru freeview box?

[T-Rex]

Hi.

I would like to replace my old CRT TV. I assumed that an LCD (or plasma) would be the obvious choice, but after reading zillions of magazine articles and going into shops, I am not so sure...

Most of my viewing is through a Humax PVR and about 90% of what I watch is TV and not DVD films. I read magazine articles for LCD's and they always say how fantastic the picture is (well, on certain models) but it is always with HD sources. What I want to know is whether a (good) LCD set is better at displaying a TV programme picture that is not HD than a (good) CRT set?

In shops like Currys and Comet, the pictures are never that good but I put that down to the way the signal is received to these multiple sets.

I expect there is no easy answer, but any help would be appreciated. Any recommendations of what sets are better would be helpful too. I'm looking at a 32" - 37" picture and spend between £700 - £1500.

Thanks.

[SuperSaiyan4]

I have the latest Samsung 32inch and through freeview it looks fantastic, however CRT is proven to give a better picture for SD.

[warbie]

CRT, by a country mile.

If you're definately going the panel route then go for a plasma. While not as good as a crt with standard definition, they are considerably better than lcds.

For someone who mainly watches SD then an lcd or plasma is poor choice. (imo, of course )

[Orwella]

I would say that a good Plasma will run a CRT really close. As you are not interested in HD, try looking at a Panasonic TH37PD60. They can be found for around £850 delivered and really do offer a great SD picture. LCD's generally give poor SD images - I have two HD-Ready LCD's, and an SD Plasma. The Plasma slaughters the LCD's on quality.

[warbie]

Good point, Orwella - I was refrering to HD plasma screens. I still think crts have the edge, though.

[T-Rex]

Thanks for the advice. Didn't think about an SD plasma so will look into that. As for CRT TV's, any recommendations?

I'd recommend a Loewe, either Aconda or Articos if you can get hold of one!

Slightly off topic, are there any new promising technology's coming up? I'd rather like an HD set but I'm not prepared to sacrifice good SD playback.