5 Stars vs 4 Stars...what do you think??

[Nick_Shepherd]

Im sure I'm not the only one who really likes to have the best kit possible but if honest, does not really know too much about the technology other than what I get time to read in mags / sites like What Hi Fi.

I have always only bought 5 star rated pruducts based on the assuption that those who rate it clearly know best.

So, I want a 40' TV with full HD, but at a price. All the 5 stars are over budget but some 4 stars are not.(£500 to £800)

Am I going to notice a big difference or is it that some 4 stars are simply that because they may have had one less HDMI socket etc?

I am only botherd about the picture as the sound will come from an amp.

Is there a 4 star product that as far as picture goes, could be a five??

I get the whole 'what ever suits me best' but I dont have the time to go and view sets in shops. I just need to go and buy it. Hence the reliance on mags like this.

What do you think?

PS. When do late years models start to get big discounts?

 

[matthewpiano]

There should still be a few Sony Bravia KDL40W4000s knocking around. Very good set and should be within your budget now its end of line.

 

[ElectroMan]

I think it's possible to become obsessed with star ratings. Time Out, for example, do not use star ratings for their film reviews - they want you to read the reviews, not rely on some arbitrary ratings system.

I would suggest you read as many reviews as possible, and see which sets come closest to your requirements.

 

[Andy Clough]

Hi Nick

Remember, 4 stars still means "very good", so yes, there should be a couple of 40in models out there within your budget worth considering.

It's also worth doing a bit of Googling to get the latest prices, particularly on last year's models which may be being discounted quite heavily before the new ones come in.

Samsung makes some good 4-star sets such as the LE40A656 and LE40A856 which are well worth a look, and the 4000/4500 series Sony Bravias are excellent too, especially if you can get them at a discount.

 

[Nick_Shepherd]

thanks to all. Your help is appreciated.

As it seems the Sonys are in budget, given the clouding issues (what ever that is), am I better off with the W4000 for a bit less money?

 

[matthewpiano]

If you are after a Sony within your budget, stick with the W4000. Its excellent. We've got one next to a W5500 and I was quite surprised at which one I think looks better.