Selecting an LCD TV Stand

Unless you’re mounting your new LCD TV on the wall or on the ceiling, you’ll need a TV stand to support it. Many models come with a stand, but some require that a stand be purchased separately. If the manufacturer furnishes your LCD TV stand, and you’re happy with it, great! Because for many their TV is an integral part of their home’s décor, however, you may decide you wish to purchase an LCD TV stand that matches the needs of your viewing habits, your home, and your sense of style.

The most basic requirement is that any LCD TV stand must handle the weight of the TV and provide a stable base in case it is bumped or jarred. For that reason, make sure the stand you purchase meets the minimum weight and strength requirements of the TV you own. The last thing you want to have happen is for your new LCD TV to become damaged because your stand wasn’t up to the task. The owner’s manual for your LCD TV will specify the requirements of a suitable and effective TV stand for that model.

Here are other things to consider that will help you pick an LCD TV stand that meets your needs and your decorating requirements:

Does the stand need to hold other audio-visual equipment? If you own a DVD player, use a cable converter, have game systems like an Xbox or a PS2, and/or have a home theater system, you may want your LCD TV stand to house that equipment as well as support the TV itself. Make sure you pick a stand that has shelves or compartments for the equipment you own (or may someday own).

Does the stand place your LCD TV at an optimal viewing height? The height of the TV is an individual choice – make sure the stand you select will place your LCD TV at the height you want. If you can, find an adjustable stand that gives you some flexibility. If not, determine the right height for you and select an LCD TV stand accordingly. An easy way to determine your optimal height is to sit in your favorite chair or couch and determine how high your eye level is. Once you’ve determined eye level, make sure your LCD TV will be centered at that point. Many stands are pre-engineered to approximate an appropriate viewing level for the average person, but make sure you’re comfortable with that height before you make a purchase. Some pedestal LCD TV stands are adjustable; if you don’t need storage space, check out a pedestal stand.

Does the stand have integrated cable management? If you’re buying a cabinet with a closed back, cable management probably isn’t an issue, since you’ll have plenty of space to hide cables. If you’re interested in a pedestal stand or an LCD TV stand system with an open back, make sure there are provisions built in to hide all the cables you may have. If you have a home theater, video gaming system, DVD player, and other components, you’ll have a large number of cables running from component to component – make sure the stand gives you plenty of room to store those cables out of sight.

Shopping for the right LCD TV is only part of the home entertainment equation: finding the right LCD TV stand that matches your tastes and your needs is an important component in ensuring you’ll enjoy your LCD TV – and that you’ll enjoy how it looks when it’s not turned on.

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