I'm in the process of looking for a house, and I currently own a 55" Mitsubishi TV (I forget the exact model, but it's an older one). My dilemma is debating whether to try and move this thing out of the basement and transport it, or just sell this one to my brother so it can stay put. And I would buy a new one.

Now, what are all the differences between the Mist models? What are the newest models.
WS-55609
WS-55311
WS-55707
WS-55411
WS-55511

I'm sure there are more too. I'm bascially wondering what the best one is, and is there much of a difference between the models. I'm sure the older models are much cheaper....

Also, would you recommend a different model? I've had good experiences with my current one....just curious. Money may be tight since buying a house, but if I can sell the one, it wouldn't be that bad.

1 MORE QUESTION:
What is the difference between integrated and upgradeable HDTV's???? I take it the integrated has the HDTV tuner in the TV that you would buy from the set-top box. Also, how do these hook up to the cable box? Do you need a cable box with component inputs? I found a decent price on a WS-55111 w/integrated, and if I could get HDTV cable, that would be great without buying a $400 box.

THANKS!!!!!

DJ,

The only relevant models for this year are
55311
55411

55511
55711

The 2004 models are slowly coming out. They are
55313
55413

55513
55613
55813

The other models you listed are older and you won't be able to find them new in the showrooms.

The largest difference between hdtv integrated and hdtv upgradeable are that the integrated models contain a tuner to receive off the air HDTV signals. So with a tuner and either rabbit ears or an antenna, you should be able to get your Local HD channels free of charge.

The integrated models also have something called netcommand that allows you to control all your AV devices from one remote. The caveat with the 2003 and 2002 netcommand versions was that you had to have specific components for it to work. the 2004 have a learning mode that should allow you to grab commands from other remotes. Also integrated sets include firewire for future support

If your local cable provider is providing HD with most of the local channels, it makes no sense for you to pay the additional 500-1000 for an integrated set. The 411 or the 413 series should be a good fit for your needs.

The reason you can find good deals on pretty much any of the x11 series is because they are being phased out and the new models are coming in. Besides some cabinet design changes the major changes are that netcommand is included in the 313 and 413 series (before it used to be in only the integrated models) and the inclusion of a DVI port on every 2004 mitsubishi model.

I think from what you stated the 55413 might sound like a good fit. It has a different shield and a quad-field focus and DVI. This really gives you the most options in the future. be aware that the cabinet has been redesigned and you may/may not like it.

If your wondering what i am running right now, i have a 65611 with HD over the air and regular cable for other channels.

Good Luck!

another mitsubishi question... what are the differences between the platinum/diamond/gold/silver/etc series?

Remember the TV will split for easier moving. But if you're looking for a rationale to justify a newer set, it is still pretty hefty to move.

Ok, so if Comcast in my area offers HD-cable, and they can provide the box for like $5 a month (or whatever it costs), then it's kinda pointless to get an integrated HDTV??!!!??? right?

I think only the 65" units do that. At least that's the way it was when I was shopping for mine a few years ago.

If you watch OTA HDTV, I would say get the integrated. One less set-top box and remote control to have.

So if I got integrated.....I could just run my cable right to the TV and it would be digital? No component cables needed?

No with an integrated model you can receive your local digital or HD channels without a STB box. For digital cable the cable co. would provide their own STB. If all your area has is analog cable you can plug that directly into the TV with no STB required unless you have scrambled pay channels which will need the cable STB to descramble those channels. Another thing to think about is in the future you might want to record your HD locals. Having the built in HD tuner on the TV gives you more options when watching one channels and recording another without the need for a second STB to feed the recorder

My advice is to sell off the old set and get a 2004 model. You'll be getting a better tv with more options and losing the hassle of moving your old one.

Due to a misprice at sears.com I'm going to have a chance to get a 2004 model 55" 55413 in at least the $1400-$1500 range. The problem is I can't find reviews of this model because it is so new. Has anyone seen any reviews or user feedback on this one? I'm not sure whether to stay with this one or go for another comparably priced model.

There are some people over at the HomeTheaterSpot.com that say they've already received theirs. So far they say they're heppy with it. Improvements over last year's model for starters are DVI, new improved line doubler, new stretch modes that mimic the great ones the Pioneer has and for you at least at a great price. I'd say keep it for sure.

Oh yeah one other big improvement is the user menu now has control of all colors for perfectly dialing in the grayscale perfectly by eye if you have a reference swatch and eliminating red push.

I just received my 55413 from Sears. It's very nice. It's quite an upgrade over the 51" Panasonic 4x3 TV I had. Stunning picture quality. So far I'm very happy. Thanks for the feedback. I joined over at the spot to get the tweak info. Thanks for mentioning it.

As an owner of the WS65609 of two years, I can say that Mitsu rocks! I love the TV! HD is amazing!