My mom has been in need of a TV, so while visiting in Florida I suggested we pick up a Samsung CRT — it was on sale at Circuit City and perfect for her small space. Call me old fashioned, but I like tube TVs. Yes they are bulky and weigh a ton, but I prefer the image quality, brightness, and viewing angles. They also happen to be significantly cheaper than flat panels. However, despite my arguments, Mom was seduced by a slim and light Sharp SD LCD which we ended up taking home.
Round 2
During my stay I tried (again) to sell my mom on the merits of a DVR. I explained how she can pause live TV to answer a call, use instant replay to catch dialogue she misses, and record all her favorite TLC shows. She nodded, smiled, and said it sounded interesting. Then she said she might think about it next year when she retires. (LiveDigitally’s Jeremy Toeman has had more success — his mom regularly uses “Mister TiVo.”)
Final Score: Mom 2, Dave 0