So I'm considering getting a bigger monitor...

Darren Dirt · August 29, 2007, 04:36:07 PM

Thanks Ustauk, I'm considering that but the extra desk-top space (real world) is what I'm trying to conserve.

Also from doing a quick Google search I'd say that it looks like yes the Samsung 204B (non-widescreen) is 1600x1200 *native* resolution <-- might be a pretty old model, too -- since 11/05/2006 review says $439 was the price back then... so maybe Dell is just about to discontinue this model... I wonder if non-widescreen LCDs are gonna become hard to find :-\

online price searches show it's in the $290-$350 US range right now, however the only "con" I see is the viewing angle: "160 degrees" is the official spec, but I guess many reviews are consistent and observing it "gets dark fast" though for some that's not a big deal :-\

Mr. Analog · August 29, 2007, 10:23:07 PM

DD please don't consider the desk space you "gain", sure it's not as deep but it's just as wide. I feel that I have more wasted space with my new monitor.

Incidentally, speaking as someone who bought a new monitor in the last 5 weeks it's getting harder [nay, impossible?] to find 16:9 LCDs these days, particularly over 17" in stock. Certainly that's what I was out for originally. 1680 x 1050 grew on me though I have to say...

Thorin · August 30, 2007, 12:54:58 AM

If it's like my house, the extra desk space just means more papers (and other debris) piled in front of the monitor...

Tom · August 30, 2007, 01:15:20 AM

Quote from: Thorin on August 30, 2007, 12:54:58 AM
If it's like my house, the extra desk space just means more papers (and other debris) piled in front of the monitor...

Or behind.

Darren Dirt · August 30, 2007, 10:43:41 AM

Quote from: Mr. Analog on August 29, 2007, 10:23:07 PM
DD please don't consider the desk space you "gain", sure it's not as deep but it's just as wide. I feel that I have more wasted space with my new monitor.

Incidentally, speaking as someone who bought a new monitor in the last 5 weeks it's getting harder [nay, impossible?] to find 16:9 LCDs these days, particularly over 17" in stock. Certainly that's what I was out for originally. 1680 x 1050 grew on me though I have to say...

...well then maybe I should go for a "Duo" :p

Thorin · August 30, 2007, 12:45:50 PM

Quote from: Darren Dirt on August 30, 2007, 10:43:41 AM
...well then maybe I should go for a "Duo" :p

Nope, MasterPlex 30D all the way

Also, your link be broke...

Mr. Analog · August 30, 2007, 01:22:31 PM

Quote from: Thorin on August 30, 2007, 12:45:50 PM
Quote from: Darren Dirt on August 30, 2007, 10:43:41 AM
...well then maybe I should go for a "Duo" :p

Nope, MasterPlex 30D all the way Also, your link be broke...

Holy Cow! Now that's a monitor solution!

Darren Dirt · August 30, 2007, 01:55:33 PM

Quote from: Mr. Analog on August 30, 2007, 01:22:31 PM
Quote from: Thorin on August 30, 2007, 12:45:50 PM
Quote from: Darren Dirt on August 30, 2007, 10:43:41 AM
...well then maybe I should go for a "Duo" :p

Nope, MasterPlex 30D all the way Also, your link be broke...

Holy Cow! Now that's a monitor solution!

rofl yup -- quite a few online Poker grinders do like 9-tabling Sit and Gos on one monitor while playing 4 tournaments on the other

-- not quite the level of insanity I am striving to dive into

Ustauk · August 30, 2007, 02:33:03 PM

There's a thread on the Tech Report forums about picking out a monitor. It may be of some help.

Adams · August 30, 2007, 03:32:49 PM

http://accessories.dell.com/sna/productdetail.aspx?c=ca&l=en&s=dhs&cs=cadhs1&sku=320-5205

I have the Dell E228WFP 22", it is truly awe inspiring. My wife's first comment was why do you need a screen that big. Not many issues with Dell, Shayne has 2 x 24" Dell 2407WFP and has no complaints.

4:3 is so 1990's, I guess the issue with most displays now a days is widescreen is popular so finding a resolution that allows a width of 1200 will be harder to find.

Hope you get one that is good.

Darren Dirt · August 31, 2007, 01:54:34 PM

Quote from: Ustauk on August 30, 2007, 02:33:03 PM
There's a thread on the Tech Report forums about picking out a monitor. It may be of some help.

very helpful, a few links in there got me a bit more informed. One of them found this:

AnandTech - The LCD Thread
Wow. Just... WOW. My smartness feel bigger now.

From the Anandtech thread I am interested in checking out:
20.1": Viewsonic VP2030b, 1600x1200 (4:3)
Panel: P-MVA (AUO M201UN02 V5); true 8-bit, 16.7M colors
Image Delay (rt+lag, estimated): Medium (30 ms)
Specifications: Viewsonic VP2030b
HDCP Compliant: No
More Info: prad.de
Notes: Some have experienced DVI problems with various configurations.
Price: ~$420 USD

Although this Dell monitor has like 90% positive reviews:
UltraSharp 2007FP Flat Panel with Height Adjustable Stand
Manufacturer Part# : C9536
Dell Part# : 320-4687
Overview
The Dell UltraSharp 2007FP 20.1-inch Flat Panel LCD Monitor redefines the performance of LCD displays with a stylish design and advanced functionality. The monitor offers resolution of up to 1600x1200 pixels and also provides 16 ms typical response time to enable crisp clear images when using the display for fast motion video. It also offers high contrast ratio of up to 800:1 that generates sharper, crisper lines and images while, the wider viewing angle allows you to view the screen from various positions without compromising image quality. The Dell 2007FP features analog as well as digital (DVI-D) capabilities, providing connection flexibility. The slim black bezel design fits into most working environments and on most desktops. The combination of advanced LCD technology and the range of added features make the UltraSharp 2007FP the perfect display for any user. This Flat Panel LCD Monitor comes with a height adjustable stand and a 3-Year Warranty.

$379.001
[You Save $50.00]

and ditto for the positive customer reviews of the HP LP2065:
The HP L2065 gives you high performance and quality with crisp, bright images at a great price! This brilliant screen features the latest in graphics and multimedia displays. It even includes a built-in USB hub for quick and easy connections to your peripherals. This monitor rotates to landscape or portrait orientation, and is vertically-adjustable for your ergonomic pleasure!
The 178-degree viewing angle gives you a great picture all around the room! You get 800:1 contrast ratio, 16.7 million color support, 8 ms response rate, and sharp 1600 x 1200 resolution on a large 20.1-inch viewable LCD screen with crisp, true-to-life clarity. Standard and advanced DVI-I digital interfaces that accept analog allow a smooth transition from legacy applications to the latest standards.
The stylish LP2065 delivers an amazing picture, flexibility, and ergonomic features for all your work and entertainment needs.

also, LCD Technology Matrix.

- - -

...now I really have to spend time thinking about what exactly I want -- choosing a lower price tag and getting stuck with old-tech MVA for the next handful of years is something I didn't even know I need to be wary of...

PS: Throughout my skimming I have definitely confirmed that most of the LCDs being marketed now as "new" are no longer 4:3 ratio, and depending on price range a lot of them are TN instead of IPS technology :-\ So now I also have to hurry in completing this purchase ::sigh::

Ustauk · August 31, 2007, 02:10:39 PM

I actually have the Dell 2007 FPB at work. It was a very pleasant surprise to walk in to work one morning and find my CRT replaced with it. I don't know how gaming or video would be on, but it's been wonderful for day to day work. You may want to wait and see if it goes on sale. Good luck with your purchase.

Thorin · August 31, 2007, 02:21:49 PM

Haha, I started reading that thread, too. Any thread where the first post contains a Table of Contents for the rest of that post, you know it's gonna be a serious read