Best external monitor for new macbook

[irishgrizzly]

I'm trying to get the best external monitor for a new macbook (2.4GhHz). I want to use it as a TV and a monitor. I'm thinking this model looks good.

Link (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sony-Bravia-KDL32V5500U-Widescreen-Freeview/dp/B001RCU7F8/ref=dp_ob_title_ce?ie=UTF8&qid=1237091973&sr=1-2) (Sony-Bravia-KDL32V5500U).

Some questions;

1. Will this be too large for my max resolution? I hear the newer macbook support a lower res then before.

2. I'd like to use HDMI would I be better going for another TV?

3. or should I go for the new Apple 24" display?

[NewMacbookPlz]

1. The MB outputs 1080 resolution no problem.
2. That's fine for HDMI. It has 4 of'em on there. You'll just need a MiniDisplayPort-->DVI, then an DVI--->HDMI cable. Alternatively, you could try and grab a MDP--->HDMI adapter from monoprice.
3. No, the Apple display is a poor choice if you want an easy way to do TV as well in one monitor.

[irishgrizzly]

Thanks for the info!

[Patriks7]

Not sure what size you want, but I'd suggest the Samsung T260HD. It's simply awesome :p

[NewMacbookPlz]

Not sure what size you want, but I'd suggest the Samsung T260HD. It's simply awesome :p

I'd wager he wants ~32", seeing how that's the one posted in the OP

[Spares]

not trying for the highjack of the thread here, hopefully it adds to the information in this thread. But to clarify, if i was to use a monitor/tv as a secondary display for my macbook like the OP is suggesting, would it be possible to use it as extra real estate to view documents, as in i could have some things open on one monitor and somthing different simutaneously on my macbook screen...

if that doesnt make sense let me know ill take another stab at explaining:)

[NewMacbookPlz]

not trying for the highjack of the thread here, hopefully it adds to the information in this thread. But to clarify, if i was to use a monitor/tv as a secondary display for my macbook like the OP is suggesting, would it be possible to use it as extra real estate to view documents, as in i could have some things open on one monitor and somthing different simutaneously on my macbook screen...

if that doesnt make sense let me know ill take another stab at explaining:)

Yes, you'd just turn off mirroring mode, and it'll act like an extended desktop.

[Spares]

thanks! looks like a nice HDTV is in my future

[kasakka]

I'd advice against a HDTV unless you're going to use it only for things like movies. The problem is that on a HDTV the pixel size is very large compared to computer monitors so in desktop use it won't be the same as using a monitor.

I've got a 30" 2560x1600 and a 40" 1920x1080 (HDTV) screens side by side and the higher pixel density and resolution of the 30" has a huge impact on text readability. The same thing was true when I had a 22" 1920x1200 screen next to the 40" HDTV. Also the extra vertical resolution is very useful - most things you do on a computer like web browsing, document writing etc call for more vertical than horizontal resolution after all.

I suggest you consider which is more important function - as a monitor or as a TV.

[Spares]

well personally im in the market for a LCD HDTV around 26 inches, i need a new tv and want a second display so i figured two birds with one stone seemed appealing

[jayrobinson]

I'm going to buy a Sharp Aquos 46" LCD TV. I need it primarily as a TV (AppleTV too, but I know that will work fine).

Secondarily, I'd like to hook my 2.2GHz black plastic MacBook to it, just for fun. Any one know of any issues here? Is the TV a good one?

What's the best Mini-DVI -> HDMI solution? (I am aware this may require two cables, but what is the best combination of said cables?)

Thanks, Forums!

[kasakka]

Should pose no problems. The cable you need is the Mini-DVI -> DVI adapter plugged into a DVI -> HDMI cable. So all you need is the adapter and the cable. Buy the cheapest one, it's all digital so don't fall for useless **** like gold plated connectors etc.