I was deeply saddened to see that Samsung is discontinuing
production of DLP televisions, a format I found superior dollar for dollar over
both plasma and LCD. DLP televisions have a fantastic, life like picture in a
lightweight, slim line form. You can’t mount it on a wall but studies indicate
the vast majority of flat panels are sitting on a stand which is where a DLP
set shines.
In researching the demise of DLP I found very little up to
date information, the articles were all terribly outdated and in no way
reflected today’s reality. This is truly sad, as there 
was no better bang for
the buck, dollar per inch rival to the DLP technology. Can you imagine walking
into your local mega store and telling them you wanted a 73-inch LCD or plasma
for under $2000, they would laugh you out of the store.
Based on my experience in these same stores they would also
fail to mention that a DLP would give you what you want. The DLP sets,
especially Samsungs newer LCD, DLP sets have a breathtaking picture and in my
opinion, a much more film like recreation for movies. The DLP sets however were
left out of the way and unless you specifically ask, don’t seem to exist in the
salesperson’s memory.
The rainbow effect was a problem for a small percentage of
the public when watching inexpensive, older model DLP projectors but is not an
issue with today’s DLP sets. DLP sets last a very long time as the moving parts
and lamp are easily replaced by the owner at very reasonable prices. There is
no down side to a DLP set unless you absolutely must hang the set on a wall.
I am hoping Mitsubishi will continue its production of the
DLP sets and keep moving the technology forward. I have serious doubts they
will continue much longer however. My grieving is the budget minded consumers
gain. Take advantage of the lower prices while you can and get that big,
beautiful picture you always wanted at a reasonable price.