contrast ratio

[AmdWolfman]

i'm getting a 42" lcd. one thing I found out is if the contrast ratio is that important, or a gimmick. and if it is a legit part for better viewing. and could u tell me what too look for in a new tv,thx

[Hans]

The numbers are gimmicks.
What you should look for is web reviews, and they often have the correct calibration parameters for optimal settings for the unit you are looking at.

[DeleteAccout]

Keep in mind that they're not all jsut bloated numbers that mean nothing. I picke dup a 32'' Dynex LCD with a 2500:1 contrast ratio, and the blacks are quite poor. Pixelated and jagged edges as opposed to showing multiple shades with a clean, fluid and smooth transition between shades. Basicalliy, don't buy cheap.

[Hans]

The problem is contract ratios are measured in all kind of different ways, without a standard. That's why they don't mean much, if anything.