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Strengths: Narrower width than all other 30" Flat Screen, HDTV Compatible TV's. Five options for screen size. Terrific picture quality. Great sound. 2 HDMI inputs. Very input configurable. Universal remote.
Weaknesses: Heavy at about 135 lbs in the box. 119 lbs out. Probably need two people to put TV in place.
Summary: The 30HFX84 is Toshiba's top TV in their Cinema Series line. It and Sony were the consistent recommendations from all of the sales personnel and reviews I read prior to purchase. This is a terrific 30" TV -- both in image and sound quality and in presentable construction. The black trim makes for a nice dark frame of the screen - I'm not real big on silver trim. Because its speakers are set below the screen, the 30HFX84 has the most narrow width of its class. It is the only one that fit into my corner entertainment cabinet.
A very nice owner's manual presents a number of options for connecting this up with your DVD/VCR/SAT/CABLE peripherals. You'll have it done in no time at all. With composite cables, I get a tremendous DVD picture.
From what I could tell from salesmen, the main difference between the 30HF84 and the 30HFX84 is that the HFX has an extra HDMI input for future use since the industry is moving that direction in the next couple of years for DVD players. There is also the black frame instead of just silver. Plus, I think some of the picture quality modifications are enhanced, hence the Cinema Series moniker.
I really appreciate the configurable options made available for obtaining the best quality picture. Depending on the video input you are sending to the screen, you will need to tweak the settings. This is done with a few clicks of the remote, allowing you to adjust the aspect ratio (5 options), the display format (480p or 1080i), the cinema mode (3:2 pulldown film setting for DVD movies processed with 3:2), the picture mode (factory options and personal choice), picture quality, color temperature, and something called Velocity Scan Modulation which enhances picture quality and sharpness (you will really appreciate when you need to view any VHS tapes or lower quality video). Playing with these settings just a little depending on what kind of video you're sending to the screen and you'll quickly figure out what few clicks you'll need to always display the highest quality picture. I have some older VHS tapes that are some favorites of the kids and have been watched a lot and these options really do a standout job elevating the quality.
This TV is HD compatible but does not have a built-in tuner. For me, living in a rural setting, this was not an issue at all since I do not get local broadcast stations clearly at all. To get them clearly, I must have cable or SAT TV, making the built-in tuner a non-issue. A built-in tuner only works for over-the-air broadcast HD signals. I'll buy a tuner when I need it or upgrade to a receiver with it built in.
One recommendation:
From what I researched, the main problems people were experiencing with these types of TV's seemed to be related to damage during shipment (either to the store prior to purchase or during shipment after online purchase). I found some pretty good deals online (I buy most of my electronics online for this reason) but this issue really became a deciding factor for me. By me picking it up and bringing it home myself, I feel I greatly reduced the odds of damage from shipment. I got a terrific deal from Video Only in Tacoma. That is the place to buy if you live in the greater Seattle area, including the Olympic Peninsula. I actually got the HFX cheaper from them than I would've gotten the HF model via the best online option (other that a refurb model).
I'm very happy with this purchase and with this television.
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