As a reward for redecorating the lounge, I'm allowed to get a new TV
I've been doing a lot of searching and have gotten completely lost as to what set I should get. As usual, I've got a good list of requirements and usage cases, but as soon as I close in on making a choice, I read stories of image retention, motion blur and backlight bleed. All of which I'd like to avoid.
Hopefully someone here has had similar requirements and can make a good recommendation.
+ Size is important, I've got a 36" ish cheapo TV from ASDA (cast off from my dad), it's rubbish. I've got a big space to fill and would ideally like a larger screen. I've been looking in the 42"-55" range. I'll be sat 10-12 feet away, but can move the couch back further.
+ I have an HTPC that does everything I need, so I don't really want a "Smart" TV, that is out of date in a few years and fiddly to control with a remote. I'd much prefer a good quality "dumb" TV, if one exists.
+ I'll be hooking up external surround speakers (not purchased yet), so the speakers don't have to be fantastic, though I don't want a screen with no speakers at all.
+ I won't be wall mounting the TV. I like it eye height. A sturdy/good looking stand would be nice.
+ I'll be hooking up the usual consoles, so plenty of inputs (HDMI, Component and SCART if possible) and a top-end response time.refresh rate is important.
+ I'm not convinced with 3D, although I do have a couple of 3D blurays so having the feature won't be bad. 3D seems to be a gimmick that is already fading away, but I've heard that 3D panels have better 2D performance than 2D ones. Is this still true?
+ I watch a lot of films and fast moving sport so the picture quality/black depth/refresh rate are hugely important. I'm willing to pay a premium for something that'll blow me away visually.
+ I'm not too snobbish about who makes it. I would like something with a good manufacturer's warranty. The Samsung screens always catch my eye in store, very bright and great colours. But I haven't found one that isn't smothered in "Smart" features.
Budget is quite flexible, I've been looking in the range of £600-£1000. But I'd consider moving on that to get the perfect TV for my needs. And if there's something cheaper, even better!
I'm pretty clueless on the pros and cons of LCD, LED and Plasma. LED seems to be good for colour/brightness but Plasma has better refresh/response? Do plasmas still put out gigawatts of heat and have low life spans?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions, even just some helpful pointers will be greatly appreciated.