Dead Zenith/LG Z50PX2D - What next?

Posted by: NaimDropper on 15 September 2009

Bought a nice 50" Plasma back in 2005, US$3000 (ouch), great service until this weekend when I got the dreaded POP and no picture/sound.
Having worked as a TV repair tech many years ago, I took a look and nothing obvious is blown.
Resarch shows this common failure mode will cost me US$600 to repair.
Seems that prices are such that a new one may be in order. Boils my blood to toss this in the bin, but economics will dictate my actions in the end.
Any advice on a suitable replacement in the price range of my repair?
I've looked at the Panasonic Plasma, seems about right.
I'm not stuck on Plasma, but love the viewing angles and contrast in my room. A bit of reflection problems, but usually solved by pulling the blinds.
Options?
Thanks!
David
Posted on: 16 September 2009 by Flame
Are you limiting the budget to 600? Looking at the numbers in your post I was guessing that you'll double up to 1200. I'm not sure you'd get decent 50" screens for 600 dollars. I could be wrong with the economic situation in the states and all. In all cases, I have a panasonic plasma and I'm very happy with it.

Regards...
Posted on: 16 September 2009 by NaimDropper
Sorry, Flame, I wasn't completely clear. The Pana Plasma I'm considering is selling for US$800. I suppose I could go higher, but would prefer not to. My finances are currently pointed toward college funds, etc...
I've been a fan of most anything Panasonic for a number of years. They seem to put good engineering and manufacturing practices into play in their products, more so than many other consumer brands.
David
Posted on: 20 September 2009 by NaimDropper
Though I had the set "working" again (horrible picture, but it was there) and had a source for parts to repair it, I've decided to buy the new Panasonic. The repair parts would likely go as high as $500US so I dropped $800US on a new one.
The highly competent technician that talked me through some of the troubleshooting gets this one to fix and sell for himself, so it won't go in the bin.
The new Pana looks great so far!
David