Hi folks, I've been toying with purchasing a flat-panel HDTV-capable screen for a while now. I was in a local electronics retailer today and was just browsing the various LCD and Plasma displays when one in particular caught my eye due to the color and sharpness of the picture. This TV was the 32" Sony Bravia (the black 2010 black model, not the older silver model).
Now, I don't have a ton of money to throw at this, and as it's kind of a spur-of-the-moment deal, I am looking to keep it under $1500. The shop wanted $1300 for the Bravia. My only concern is whether the 32" is large enough or not. I am looking to mount the screen above my fire place (live in a raised ranch and do not currently have a TV in the upstairs of the house due to space constraints). Viewing distance is going to probably be between 8 and 9 feet. Some calculators I have found online seem to feel that is fine, and others tell me I need a much larger TV.
I will be watching a mixture of things on it - as much HD as my cable company can provide me with, but lots of SDTV signals for things that are not yet available in HD. I was hoping you folks here, having more expertise than I do, could tell me whether I will be throwing my money away, or if the 32" Bravia will be large enough. Any feedback is welcome!
Thanks, Will