Aperture grill or shadow mask

[GDog]

Whats the difference in visual quailtiy, ive used a shadow mask, have never used an aperture grill monitor.

 

[Sunner]

I recently ordered an Eizo 21" shadow mask monitor.

They had a trinitron in the same price range, but I just can't stand them two lines, but thats just me, many people dont mind, or even see them.

I think it has more to do with the quality of the monitor, cabling, and GFX card, rather than the technology used in the monitor.

 

[Gosharkss]

<< Whats the difference in visual quailtiy, ive used a shadow mask, have never used an aperture grill monitor. >>



Depends on the models you are comparing. There are great shadow mask monitors as well as great AG monitors. The type of tube is only one aspect of monitor performance. The ability to display fine detail on a computer monitor involves many factors including video amplifier bandwidth, spot size/shape and convergence. Convergence IMHO is more important than the type of tube used. It determines how sharp the characters in your text document or spreadsheet look. Convergence has a direct effect on the monitor's apparent focus. Unfortunately, convergence is a spec that few manufacturers publish.

Never trust general statements like "aperture grill monitors are clearer and brighter the shadow mask monitors". Every unit produced is unique and, like fingerprints, no two are identical. Even the highest quality monitors occasionally don't perform as promised.

 

[BD231]

Honestly I think shadow mask is much better. I'm using a Samsung SyncMaster 700IFT and it's simply beautiful. I have never really like aperture grill, they tend to be a little harder on the eyes.

 

[GDog]

Good to hear , im looking at the samsung 955. i think that is gonna be the one. thanks

 

[billyjak]

Hitachi 19" 753 Superscan Shadow mask on my system. Awesome monitor, high refresh rates and cheap. My Buy com special lawsuit monitor $159.00 can't be beat.

 

[JellyBaby]

From what I understand AG models generally reproduce colors more vividly but SM models generally have the edge in text crispness.

AG models have wires that run the length of the screen horizontally to hold the grill in place. These lines can be spotted on light backgrounds and are annoying to some people. However I'm hearing about how some newer models appear to be getting around this problem (Samsung's DynaFlats)...maybe Gosharkss knows more.

 

[pillage2001]

For the love god, not the 955DF please. They're just simply awful.

 

[BD231]

<<For the love god, not the 955DF please. They're just simply awful>>

I agree, this is one of Samsungs cheaper units

 

[GDog]

which one would you recommend for around 350. thats my budget

 

[jamarno]

I don't like aperture grill tubes simply because the horizontal reinforcement wires bother me, but other people easily ignore them. But the average aperture grill monitor should look better because the convergence isn't that critical in the vertical direction, only in the horizontal direction, since the phosphors are arranged in vertical stripes, not triads of colors. I've seen very good convergence with conventional shadow mask tubes, but the quality doesn't seem to be associated with the brand or cost of the monitor.

If I didn't know the brand of the picture tube, I'd rather get an aperture grill monitor because I believe all of those tubes are made by Sony or Mitsubishi and should last a long time.

 

[JackBurton]

VERY HOT DEAL!!! If you want a bad ass monitor you better act FAST! Sony CPD-G400 19" monitor for $359!!!!!!!!!! I have the 21" version (CPD-G500) and it is the BEST purchase I've made. Absolutely a GREAT monitor. But like I said, I don't know how much longer BUY.COM will have them in stock so you better get it, QUICK. I'd get one but I don't have an extra $359 to spend.

 

[coolred]

Jellybelly, correct me if I am wrong, but I beleive the way Samsung got around the two wirw supports in thier Dynaflat models, is by putting shadow mask tubes in them. Maybe I am wrong, but I am pretty sure the DF series of monitors all use SM not AG.

Now for a quick monitor comparison

Samsung 753DF vs. Samsung 700NF
Looking for bright, vibrant display, sharp text is also a plus.

 

[Howard]

AFAIK, clarity and sharpness is the hallmark of a good shadow mask, whereas colour vibrance/saturation is something aperture grille monitors are known for.

coolred - 700NF.

Yes, the entire DF line uses shadow masks.

Err, JackBurton, EMSComputing sells the Sony G410R for $355 including shipping. The G410R has better specs than the G400 (from the name, it's logical). Techonweb.com sells the G410R for $358 including shipping.