TVB Tech Alert: 42-inch 1080p HDTV Priced at Less Than $500

TORRANCE,CALIF.: Rick Broida, known as “the cheapskate” at CNET News, found a 42-inch, 1080p LCD HDTV set for $499.99. The set in question is available from OnSale.com.

“This is one of those good news/bad news deals,” Broida wrote. “The good news: OnSale has the refurbished Westinghouse VK-42F240S-R 42-inch LCD TV for $499.99, plus about $53 for shipping. That’s one of the lowest prices I’ve seen on a 42-inch HDTV, particularly one that supports 1080p.”

The bad news, he said, is the refurb part, which carries only a 90-day warranty. Nonetheless, Broida said he’s owned a 46-inch Westinghouse LCD “for years, and it’s been a champ.”

“I haven’t found any reviews of this particular model, other than the single five-star user review on the product page,” he wrote. “If you happen to own this LCD, share your thoughts about it in the comments. Ultimately, the good news here is quite good--sweet price on a big TV--while the bad news isn't all that bad. You’re not likely to find a better deal on a 42-inch 1080p TV.”