While today's market for large panel TVs is mostly dominated by plasma and LCD TVs, DLP (Digital Light Processing) rear projection TVs offer the most screen area per dollar and also outstanding video quality.
Prices for these large TVs are very competitive and are often much better than flat panel displays, and DLP TVs do not have any issues with glare or screen burn-in (an after image which can be created if a still picture is left on the display for an extended period of time).
Many major TV manufacturers no longer produce DLP TVs. Only Mitsubishi actively makes and supports DLPs, which may potentially be phased out in a few more years.
Typical costs:
As mentioned previously, screen area per dollar for DLP TVs costs significantly less than for flat panel displays. The current sizes offered range from 60" to 82".
A 60" Mitsubishi WD-60737[1] 1080P DLP Projection TV is $1,300. (1080P refers to the lines of vertical resolution in a picture. "'P" refers to a progressive image, which means that all 1080 lines are displayed at once to form the picture on screen.)
The 65" Mitsubishi WD-65737[2] 1080P costs $1,600.
There is a 73" Mitsubishi WD-73837[3] model costing $2,200.
And for those who desire an 82" screen, the Mitsubishi WD-82737[4] costs $3,800.
DLP technology utilizes a DMD (a digital micromirror device where every pixel is a reflective mirror), a spinning color wheel and a light lamp to generate the color and images of the display. Because of this method, some observers may see a "rainbow effect" (a streaking of colors) at certain angles.
The box should include a remote control and batteries, an AC power cord, a cleaning cloth for screen care and owner's instructions.
Additional costs:
Periodically, the projection lamp must be replaced, depending on the amount of use. In general, the average span is about 1-3 years (3,000-6,000 hours of normal use). Depending on the model and brand, the replacement cost for one of these lamps ranges from $100 to $350.
There may be either a delivery or shipping fee of $50 to $150 if the consumer cannot pick up and transport the TV, but most places will often offer free shipping or delivery as part of a sales promotion.
TV stands and cabinets can cost less than a hundred to several hundred dollars for nicer entertainment furniture.
A surround sound setup would cost several hundred dollars as well depending on the quality of components used with the TV.
Cable TV($11-$127), satellite service($20-$110) or over-the-air broadcast TV signals are required to watch network television shows. Cable and satellite costs depend on the programming package and tier. High-definition content can add $8-$10 to cable or satellite subscription fees. Broadcast TV, while free, does require either an indoor or outdoor antenna ($10-$200).
Discounts:
There seem to be few discounts offered for DLP TVs because the cost margin is so small. Brick and mortar stores will still have the occasional sale. Keep an eye out for those specials and sales around the holidays.
For all the models mentioned, the prices were fairly consistent between online retailers and brick and mortar stores.
Shopping for a dlp tv:
Store retailers such as Best Buy[5] and Sears[6] offer DLP rear projection TVs.
Online retailers like Amazon[7] and Newegg.com[8] also sell these TVs as well.
Note that while buying online can offer substantial savings, if a return is required due to some mechanical issue, then arranging for a return may be slightly more troublesome than just going back to a brick and mortar store.
The best way to find brick and mortar store that offer these Mitsubishi DLP TVs is to go to the Mitsubishi[9] website.
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Both the Brightness lamp and a Color lamp expired in early March 2016. Each lamp will cost over $100 and I'm sure having a repairman coming to your home to fix it will be over $100. Actually thinking about replacing it with an LED Smart TV for $550. Don't want to gave to replace lamps every 4 years.
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