Comparing Home-Theater Displays

By Randy A. Salas
Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune

Here is a comparison of the largest screen sizes for commonly available home-theater displays, how much they weigh and, more importantly, how much they cost. Screens are measured diagonally.

Direct-View TV (Tube)
Sony KV-40XBR800
Screen: 40 inches (4:3 ratio)
Weight: 300 pounds
Price: $2,500

Rear-Projection TV (LCD)
Sony KDF-70XBR950
Screen: 70 inches (16:9 ratio)
Weight: 204 pounds
Price: $7,000

Rear-Projection TV (DLP)
Several models from various makers
Screen: 65 inches (16:9 ratio)
Weight: 250 to 300 pounds
Price: $2,200 and up

Plasma Display
Sony KDE-61XBR950
Screen: 61 inches (16:9 ratio)
Weight: 157 pounds
Price: $20,000

Projector (DLP/LCD)
Most models from most makers
Screen: Just about any size, but projecting at 80 to 100 inches is common
Weight: 7 to 10 pounds
Price: $1,000 and up (plus cost of screen)