Q. We have a 2011 Insignia 720p plasma TV that has served us very well. We went with plasma for the superior off-center viewing qualities compared to the LED-LCD TVs available at the time. Over 50% of our TV watching is from a 40-45 degree angle. Given this, off-center picture quality is critically important to us and in addition, in my opinion the overall picture quality is (or shall I say was) better than other technologies. Unfortunately, the HDMI port is getting fussy and sometimes I need to wiggle the cable plug to get a clear signal. I know plasma is long gone, so here is my question. Should I get the port repaired, or have TVs of today improved their off-angle viewing to meet or exceed my old plasma? If I get a new TV, what should I buy?
—J.W., Walnut Creek, California
A. I doubt that repairing an 11-year-old Insignia television is possible, and even if it is it is likely to be very expensive given the labor hours involved. Your old plasma TV can still be useful, though. The antenna connection will be unaffected by the unreliable HDMI port, so you can connect an antenna and use the TV to watch over-the-air broadcasts. That said, I think it is time to look for a new television.
