Conventional TVs: still the best value.(Television)

Even though trendy flat panels and big screens are hogging the headlines, plain old picture-tube TVs display the most realistic detail and clarity, whether you're watching standard TV programs, DVD movies, or HD programming.

These TVs have long offered the most value, and that continues to be the case with high-definition sets. You can get a 27-inch HD picture-tube TV for as little as $550, though you'll spend more for a bigger screen and top performance. Another plus: the proven reliability of this technology

The downside is that picture-tube sets are often about 2 feet deep. Even a 27-inch set, in its carton, won't fit in most compact cars, so consider delivery These TVs are also heavy, often 100 pounds or more. It takes muscle to heft them and to move them to reach the rear connections.

HOW TO CHOOSE

Get a square screen for economy. HD picture-tube sets come with either the familiar squarish 4:3 shape or a 15:9 wide screen. The 4:3 models are the lowest-priced type of HD television, so if economy is the object, look here. Wide-screen sets generally cost a few hundred dollars more but are worth it if you watch mostly movies or HDTV programming that's formatted for a 16:9 screen.

Buy the right size screen for your room. You should sit at a certain distance from a TV to see optimal picture quality. If you sit too close, you may see the lines that make up the image on a picture-tube TV. You can sit closer to an HDTV than to a regular set because of the finer resolution, so you can use a bigger screen in a smaller room. With HD screens measuring 27 to 36 inches, 4 to 5 feet of viewing distance is the minimum we recommend.

Be selective about performance. The best HD sets display almost-lifelike detail, but others aren't as sharp. Stick with a TV judged very good or excellent for picture quality across the board. If you must compromise, consider what you'll watch. We think HD scores matter most, but weigh DVD-playback scores heavily if you'll most often watch DVDs. If you'll use a non-HD cable or satellite box with your TV, consider how the sets scored on regular TV via the high-quality (S-video) input.