Not to freak anyone out, but there are exactly 44 shopping days until Christmas. Have you started yet? If you're waiting until Black Friday to scoop up bargains, know that there are some very excellent pre-Black Friday sales going on right now.
Amazon just kicked off a weekend sale, which features 21 different HDTVs from Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic -- and there's even a Blu-ray 3D player in that mix. If you're looking for an HDTV, you can choose between LED and plasma models, in sizes ranging from 19 to 64 inches. Many of these sets support 3D, but also work great as a 2D TV, too!
If you think you'll find a better deal, don't let it deter you. Amazon has its low-price guarantee in effect. That means if you find a lower price on the same exact HDTV within 14 days of shipment, Amazon will refund you the difference. That said, these are some of the lowest prices we've seen on these models. Just remember that this is a weekend sale, which means the discounts will be in effect through Sunday, November 13, 2011. Take a peek at everything Amazon is currently offering for this pre-Black Friday sale:
We found Samsung's 59-inch PN59D8000 1080p 3D Plasma available for just $1799.98. The list price on this model is $2999.99, making it a very nice deal indeed. This 59-incher includes 3D support as well as a full 1080p HD image. It also happened to be our editor Chris Boylan's favorite TV in the recent HDTV shootout for overall picture quality and performance. Other features include 600Hz subfield motion technology, four HDMI inputs, and Samsung's Plus One Design, which basically gives you more screen and less frame.
Another perk on this popular model is Samsung's Smart TV platform. This offers a variety web-based services, such as Netflix, VUDU, Hulu Plus, Pandora, Skype (with Samsung's CY-STC1100 Smart TV Camera), and tons of other downloadable Samsung Apps, right from your remote. If you want to get a closer peek at this particular model, check out Amazon's product page:
Another plasma option is Panasonic's 60-inch TC-P60ST30 1080p 3D Plasma, which is currently available for $1299.98 ($1100 off the list price!). This is another 3D TV option, which also makes for a great 2D TV. It includes a full HD 1080p image in 2D or 3D mode as well as the Infinite Black 2 panel for excellent contrast and deep black levels, 600Hz Motion Drive technology for sharp motion, and VIERA perks, such as the 3D Image Viewer and VIERA Link.
It also has Panasonic's own VIERA Connect service with on-screen access to Netflix, Facebook, YouTube, Skype (via something like the FreeTalk Conference HD Camera), Pandora, games, and much more. There's also plenty of connectivity options, thanks to three HDMI inputs and two USB ports. Our own Ian White got to check out the 50-inch version of this HDTV (which is also on sale, by the way). His experiences earned the set 3.5 (out of 4) stars, as well as a BPBS BIGGIE award. Check out his Panasonic TC-P50ST30 3D HDTV Review or find out more about the 60-inch HDTV on Amazon:
If you want something slightly smaller and LED, Amazon has LG's 42-inch 42LV5400 1080p LED HDTV. This HDTV does not support 3D viewing, but can deliver a full 1080p HD image, as well as LED backlighting with local dimming, TruMotion 120Hz technology, and built-in Wi-Fi -- and all for $649.98. That's $450 off the list price!
That wireless support will certainly come in handy when accessing LG's Smart TV features, which provides on-screen access to Netflix, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Amazon Instant Video, VUDU, and much more. To navigate through all of those options, the 42LV5400 comes with LG's own motion-sensing Magic Motion remote control. Other features include DLNA support, four HDMI inputs and two USB ports. If you want more info on this 42-incher, check out Amazon's product page:
If you are worried about a Black Friday price drop, stop worrying and start shopping. Amazon's low-price guarantee is in effect. That means that the retailer will match the price on any TV they sell, within 14 days of shipment. So if your TV ships any time on or after Saturday, November 12 (tomorrow), and the TV goes on sale for less on Black Friday, then you can get a refund of the price difference. That should give you some peace of mind -- plus, you'll get your TV early and not have to worry about the TV you really want not being in stock on Black Friday.
Just make sure to buy directly from Amazon (and not one of its third-party merchants) to get the lowest price, the price guarantee, and free Super Saver shipping!
