HDTV Popularity

The struggling economy not only affects food and gas prices, but the ability to purchase the less essential items such as HDTVs. However, while some sizes of the high-def screens are not as popular as before, others still continue to sell.
 
The 30- to 34-inch and 49- to 45-inch ranges of HDTVs dropped in sales, according to research from Pacific Media Associates, but the 40- to 44-inch sets slightly increased. Also, screens over 50-inches big held steady. A research associate says this may be because individuals who paid nearly $5,000 for a 40-inch five years ago would see the price of upgrading to a 50-inch today as a good deal.
 
While the prices of HDTVs have dropped significantly (40-inch today costs around $1,200), the prices are still quite hefty. But the investment is in the quality and HDTV does provide an experience like no other. Well, of course, other than actually being there. [The New York Times]