If you're looking to enter the world of high-definition but don't have the budget for a flat-panel set, a CRT HDTV like the JVC AV-30W777 makes an excellent purchase. This 30-inch tube television offers a sharp, wide-format picture and many of the features of its high-tech brethren, but its $730 suggested price makes a lot more wallet-sense.

With the AV-30W777, HD content can be shown at 720p or 1,080i, and JVC's Digital Image Scaling Technology (DIST) lets you display all other incoming signals at HD levels. A 3-D Y/C digital comb filter keeps colors accurate for content delivered via the RF and composite video inputs, and velocity scan modulation maintains sharp edges, although you should turn it off when watching HDTV or DVD movie content. The 10-watt-per-channel stereo speakers provide a good accompaniment to the video.

The internal ATSC tuner displays HD content from over-the-air and cable sources without the need for an external receiver, and the QAM tuner lets you watch basic (non-interactive) digital cable programming without a cable box. The AV-30W777 has a full complement of PIP and split-screen options. Other useful features include a picture-freeze function, multiple timers, a universal remote control and reverse 3:2 pulldown to smooth out the action when watching movies.

The connection selection on the AV-30W777 is impressive. In addition to the usual RF, composite video and S-video inputs, this set has a pair of HDMI digital-to-digital inputs and two auto-sensing component video inputs that automatically determine the proper settings for connected gear.

In the world of HDTVs, conventional CRT sets are often overlooked. However, for high-definition performance at a much more reasonable price, the JVC AV-30W777 is a compelling alternative.


Pros:  1,080i display with CRT performance, good connection selection
Cons:  Velocity scan modulation detrimental to HD and DVD content

Warranty
90 days labor, 1 year parts