It's hard not to ask why you limit yourself to certain things without knowing your application.
I assume the monitor isn't used with a PC all that much or you'd do most of those things with the PC instead. That is, put a TV tuner in the PC and use it to watch TV and DVDs. That gives you the opportunity to put the TV or DVD picture in a small windows while still using the screen for computer work.
Or why not use two screens with the PC. You could then use the PC to display the TV or DVD on one entire screen while still using the computer. You could continue to use the old screen with a new one of buy two new screens.
Or would you really be better off with a separate TV anyway? Why does it have to be used as a computer monitor too? (Or is it a space thing?)
The next question I have to ask is, why limit yourself to 19". That's a very small screen nowadays. I note that a lot of TV manufacturers are giving away 32" LCD TVs when you buy a large screen, so presumably there will be a lot of these available on eBay or through friends.
Have you looked at the sweet-spot for TV sets? That is, there will be a size of screen that gives maximum value, and I predict you won't pay much extra for a TV that's considerably larger.
As for the inbuilt DVD player, I presume that's for the use of Junior? If so, those models are probably a good idea. Just remember that when one part breaks, they all break (for watching DVDs). Your point about the remote makes sense, especially if it is for Junior.
The
Soniq brand is a typical Chinese brand, but at a level above the cheapest sets. The picture quality is quite good, though I don't know what the reliability is like. You'll presumably find the same sets with different badges. Can't you justify a Sony? :-)
As for the HDMI input, do you need it? If your old screen has DVI you can get the same digital quality that way. The only thing HDMI adds is integrated sound.
I'd be opting for a TV with DVD player at around 24-26" or larger, and a separate monitor (the existing one) for the PC.
UPDATE
Sholto has written back to say:
- I originally bought it to use as a monitor and as a stand-alone TV. now it's just a TV. I don't need it as a PC monitor. The TV is connected to an amp that has three sources AppleTV, digital STB and DVD player). A hi-def projector connects to the same amp. HDMI input only sends to HDMI output, so if the ATV is connecting with HDMI to the projector via the amp for full HD, I have to run separate component and audio cables from the ATV to the TV (via amp or directly). And the ATV won't switch outputs based on the device it is connected to - you need to disconnect the HDMI cable or it will overrule the component.
- The bookshelf is quite tall and running multiple component, audio and HDMI cables around the place is a real PITA. A single cable per source to the amp with a single output cable that splits for TV and projector is the ideal. the DVI input in the TV in theory should take the HDMI signal using a converter but the HDCP handshaking doesn't work. I've bought several HDMI splitters trying to make it work. Whoever decided to put copyright protection in a cable design should be lynched. I'm hoping that a single HDMI output signal can be successfully split between TV and Projector, as the amp only has one HDMI output. I know it can be done but it's not always a given due to HDCP.
- Size is limited to 19" because of shelf space in bookshelf. projector used for movies and sports.
- Inbuilt DVD player is attractive because the Samsung monitor/TV is totally incompatible with Harmony, which drove my wife crazy. I did everything including delay times, etc first by myself and then with 1st level support. 2nd level support pointed me back to the same methods. a single remote that controls digital TV and DVD would bring peace back to the household. I don't bother with DVDs on the projector.
- I don't want to spend money on a junk brand that will mean spending more several months later. keeping things simple (that is, not putting a DVD player) seems a good way to ensure a cheap TV will perform as intended.
- Sholto
Thanks Sholto.
Let me think about that and get back to you.
Now to the important part. For those who are not familiar with your term WAF, I offer these possibilities.
Warendorf
Web Application Firewall (IT security)
We Are Family
Weekend A Firenze
Wafer
Wife Acceptance Factor (stereos/gadgets)
We Are the Future
Women in the Air Force (USAF; obsolete)
Web Application Framework
Women's Action Forum
World Agricultural Forum
Wife Approval Factor
Water Accommodated Fraction
Women Against Fundamentalism
World AIDS Foundation
Weather and Forecasting
Weapons Analysis Facility
What A Friend (We Have in Jesus)
Welsh Automotive Forum
World Apostolate of Fatima (Catholic organization)
Wide Area File
Work Authorization Form
Paul Zucker