3. Tube

Tube televisions? Yes, there are still some HD tube displays out there, but most of them are hiding inside traditional 4:3 ratio televisions that also display HDTV signals. There are some 16:9 tube televisions out there, but due to production and weight issues, they max out at 34" diagonal, which is quite small considering it roughly equates to a 27" 4:3 television when measured vertically. The upside to these small units is their image quality can be much better than many existing plasma or LCD displays. If you can find the right models, you'll be treated to rich, deep color, fantastic contrast and shadow detail, and excellent resolution; all for well under $1,000 in most cases. You better move fast however, as there are not many retailers left selling 16:9 tube televisions and most manufacturers have stopped producing them.

Pros: Excellent color, contrast and resolution
Cons: Size, or lack thereof. Bulky and heavy for its size.
Who's it for? Image-quality purists who are willing to watch TV from well under 10'.

Suggested Models

Suggested models are recommended based on a combination of personal viewing experience, other user experiences, comparative pricing, and company reputation.

Sony KD-34XBR970