What to look for in big TVs

For some fans, the Super Bowl calls for a super-sized TV. But choosing one can be a daunting task. Here are things to keep in mind:

TYPES: There's a confusing array of monster sets. Rear projection sets cost less, have larger screens for the money, and contain everything in one unit rather than components. But the picture quality is not as good as direct-view models. You also have to decide whether to buy a traditional analog set, spend more on a digital set promising a sharper picture or commit a small fortune to buying an LCD or plasma display.

HIGH DEFINITION: If you go digital, you have another decision: how to get the super-sharp high definition signals that are being billed as the future of television. Integrated HDTV sets come with a special tuner built in. "HDTV ready" sets require a separate tuner for $400 or a satellite or cable set-top box.

Sunday's Super Bowl will be broadcast by ABC in HDTV format. (Only a fraction of shows are so far.) If you have an HDTV set, you can pick up the signal through an old-fashioned antenna, a satellite TV connection or a new HDTV service being offered by Time Warner, the area's leading cable provider. Linda Chambers of Time Warner says digital cable subscribers can tune to Channel 628 for the game. (They need an HDTV set, resolution at 1080i and a digital cable set-top box).

PRICES: Big-screen TVs start at less than $1,000 for basic analog projection sets. You can spend $3,000 for a set offering high definition. And plasma or LCD screens that receive high-definition images start at a little less than $5,000. Combine all the fanciest features and you can spend $11,000. Still, prices are 30-50 percent less than a year ago.

ONLINE INFORMATION: Consumer Reports has posted a free feature on its site (www.consumerreports.org) that gives tips on what to look for in big sets and recommendations on top models. Click on the "Super Bowl-size your TV" link.

-- Sources: Times research, Consumer Reports.