January 8, 2007 3:45 PM PST

HP ditching DLP TVs for flat-panel sets

Is the end near for HP's rear-projection sets?

The end may be near for this DLP set.

HP announced its new lineup of HDTVs for 2007, and the biggest news is probably that its well-received DLP (digital light processing) rear-projection sets aren't being refreshed for the new year. Word is that the company will let stores sell through the DLPs still out there, but that's it. The focus for 2007 will be on flat-panel models. It's strange, considering that the company invested heavily in DLP technology.

Although I suggested in a recent column that the future for rear-projection sets was pretty dim, I think it's a shame HP's rear-projection sets may soon be extinct. I liked their look and the hideaway front-panel inputs. Alas, a good design and good reviews don't always translate into big sales.

As for new flat-panel models, HP's trotting out 9 new HDTVs at CES 2007. Highlights include bigger sizes--the LCD models now come in 42- and 47-inch screens--and 1080p support. Two top-end MediaSmart models feature built-in wireless media streaming along with 1080p support.

One of the two new MediaSmart LCD TVs

HP will also offer a couple of new plasmas: a 42-inch and a 50-inch. The specs say they have a 60,000-hour lifespan and, naturally, a VGA input for PC connectivity along with multiple HDMI ports. In fact, all HP's new sets will feature three HDMI ports. The company still hasn't announced pricing or availability, but here's the complete list:

2007 HP Flat Panel Televisions

2007 MediaSmart Televisions

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Add a Comment (Log in or register) 8 comments (Page 1 of 1)
Orphaned product
by acarswell January 3, 2007 3:14 PM PST
I was thinking about buying an HP DLP last fall, but went with a Samsung because I was afraid of precisely this happening. What's the outlook for repairs and spare parts for these sets 4 to 5 years out?
Reply to this comment
Orphaned product
by acarswell January 3, 2007 3:14 PM PST
I was thinking about buying an HP DLP last fall, but went with a Samsung because I was afraid of precisely this happening. What's the outlook for repairs and spare parts for these sets 4 to 5 years out?
Reply to this comment
Departure of DLP or Rear Projection HD
by karport January 3, 2007 4:21 PM PST
I would not be surprised if HP moved away from rear projection, but would not read that as an industry trend. Rear projection for the main players is less costly to produce and therefore sell has a great picture and increasingly being bought by people who could care less about hanging their TV on the wall. Samsung has been successful with RPTV's that have a nice design and sold performance. My sense is that RPTV will be around for a long time and doubt they will go away.
Reply to this comment
Departure of DLP or Rear Projection HD
by karport January 3, 2007 4:21 PM PST
I would not be surprised if HP moved away from rear projection, but would not read that as an industry trend. Rear projection for the main players is less costly to produce and therefore sell has a great picture and increasingly being bought by people who could care less about hanging their TV on the wall. Samsung has been successful with RPTV's that have a nice design and sold performance. My sense is that RPTV will be around for a long time and doubt they will go away.
Reply to this comment
DLP has major issues
by ibm650 January 4, 2007 9:09 AM PST
Watched a sports show on a friend's unit, I got very dizzy, apparently , this is not uncommon.
Reply to this comment
DLP has major issues
by ibm650 January 4, 2007 9:09 AM PST
Watched a sports show on a friend's unit, I got very dizzy, apparently , this is not uncommon.
Reply to this comment
Too bad HP dumped DLP
by gtunney January 9, 2007 3:58 AM PST
It really is a shame HP dumped DLP. I had one of their 5880s for the 3 week trial period. It was just an amazing television. The picture was fantastic right out of the box and for a tv, it had very good sound. Unfortunately I turned out to be very sensitive to rainbows to the point of becoming nauseated and getting headaches. So the tv went back. I was very much hoping HP would go ahead with their LED DLP plans but alas, that was not to be.
Reply to this comment
Too bad HP dumped DLP
by gtunney January 9, 2007 3:58 AM PST
It really is a shame HP dumped DLP. I had one of their 5880s for the 3 week trial period. It was just an amazing television. The picture was fantastic right out of the box and for a tv, it had very good sound. Unfortunately I turned out to be very sensitive to rainbows to the point of becoming nauseated and getting headaches. So the tv went back. I was very much hoping HP would go ahead with their LED DLP plans but alas, that was not to be.
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