The Plasma TV Blog

The answer to this lies pretty much within the area of personal preference and viewing habits. There is no set answer that satisfies everyone, nor is one aspect ratio so superior to the other as to make it the obvious choice. Each lends itself to certain types of viewing habits, and involves some problem when viewing items that do not have a OAR (original aspect ratio) that matches your screen.

If your viewing habits lean toward Classic Film, or older Television series, or many types of music videos, the 4:3 is a better chance as 4:3 or 1.33 is the most common OAR for these types of recorders. Many of the newer films being produced today, as well broadcasts that involve a lot of fast moving action like sporting events tend to display better on 16:9 or 1.78 screens. It is also important to note that 16:9 and its connection with HD, and its more common use with DLP, LCD, and Plasma units represents the future. At the speed in which this technology is moving, being a bit out in front might be a good idea to consider in making this decision.

You should note that both aspect ratios involve certain type of visual problems when the OAR ratio, and the actual screen ratio do not match. The window box effect of large black lines on the top and bottom of the image is a common example of this. This would be a 16:9 OAR being transmitted on a 4:3 screen. The image is spread out, and is more panoramic in its scope, but does not have the height to fill out the screen. When the smaller OAR films, like in a classic DVD film are displayed, the smaller picture might not fill the screen leaving large black borders surrounding the image. This problem is not as noticeable on very large screen units, as the resulting image is large enough making the black lines less noticeable. There are also options available to cover the lines and lessen their visual impact. This is called electronic masking, and although currently expensive does minimize this problem.

In the end it is a toss up, and your call. Be sure to take into consideration all the pros and cons and decide which ratio serves your needs best.