TV/DVD Combi Buying Guide

There are a whole range of TV/DVD combi systems available to buy online. Here are some hints and tips for things to consider when choosing a TV/DVD combi.

How to Choose a TV/DVD Combi: Introduction

A TV combi (or combo) is a television with a built in VCR, DVD player or Freeview facility. Originally launched in the 1980s as a space saving and portable all-in-one television and video recorder, TV combis initially featured only mono sound. Today's models of TV combi feature stereo sound and come in many sizes, with large screen flat panel televisions boasting built-in DVD players and/or digital terrestrial receivers.

One of the main reasons why TV/DVD combis are becoming increasingly popular is that they are easy to set up - the DVD player is already built into the unit so you don't need to buy SCART leads or connectors. Having a television and DVD player in one unit can also save money, with models available to suit a range of tastes and budgets.

TV/DVD combis are now outselling the TV/VCR models, and with big name brands making a wider range of TV/DVD combi models, it's a good time for customers looking to buy one.

You Want To Buy a TV/DVD Combi - But Which Type?

One of the first things to think about is the type of TV/DVD combi that will suit your needs. Do you need the TV/DVD combi for occasional or portable use, or will it be your main household television and DVD player? Whatever your needs, there are many different types of TV/DVD combi available to buy online, including the following:

CRT TV/DVD Combi - CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) TV/DVD combis usually come in a portable and easy to use design, and are popular due to their affordability. Remember that some models of CRT TV/DVD combi only offer mono sound.
LCD TV/DVD Combi - Thanks to the flat panel design, the LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) TV/DVD combo saves a lot of space compared to CRT models. They come in a range of sizes, and are ideal for people looking for a large main television and DVD player, or a light and portable model of LCD TV/DVD combi. Another benefit of the LCD TV/DVD combi is that they can be either freestanding or wall mounted. LCD TV/DVD combos can come with NICAM stereo sound, while the LCD format provides excellent picture quality.

Features to Look For When Choosing a TV /DVD Combi

Features on TV/DVD combis can vary, so it's important to consider what you will use your TV/DVD combi for. Here are some of the main features on a TV/DVD combi:

HD-Ready - An HD (high definition) Ready TV/DVD combi will have an HDMI socket, offering excellent resolution for improved picture quality.
SCART socket - SCART sockets are essential for connecting other appliances to your TV/DVD combi, such as Freeview boxes or video recorders.
Console input - If you are planning to use a games console with your TV/DVD combi, make sure that it has a games console input.
Teletext - Some models of TV/DVD combi are equipped to receive Teletext
Remote control - Control both TV and DVD functions from the comfort of your armchair.
Playback - Most DVD players can also play other types of disc, such as music CDs. Compatible formats typically include CD-R, CD-RW and MP3 CD. Check to make sure that the TV/DVD combi that you're considering can play the types of disc that you're likely to use.
Sleep timer - If you are planning on putting a portable TV/DVD combi in the bedroom, a sleep timer will ensure the TV/DVD can be turned off at a preset time.

Do I Need to Buy an Extended TV /DVD Combi Warranty?

A warranty will cover you for repairs to or the replacement of your TV/DVD combi under certain conditions. You may want to pay extra for an extended warranty if you're buying an expensive model.

It's a good idea to set a limit on the amount of money you are prepared to spend on your new TV/DVD combi. By shopping around online, comparing prices for TV/DVD combis between different retailers and taking advantage of special offers and discounts, you could get a better model of TV/DVD combi for your money.