Anyone any comments on the differences in picture quality between these two units?

Do you mean the BV7-40 MKIII or BV7-32 MKIII? Two completely different sets.

BV7-40 MKIII is in a different league from the BV5, although the BV9 is arguably a step up from the current BV7-40. However, there's no reason why you couldn't source a latter HD-based BV5 and get at least a couple or so years use from the TV. You can pick them up for under £5K, compared to nearly £9K for the BV7-40.

Thanks Moxxey, I did mean the BV7-40 Mk 3. I have always wanted a BV5 (HD) and it is now cheaper on the second-hand market but as they are both significantly expensive I need to know whether there is a huge difference in screen quality that would warrant going for the more expensive option

I haven't seen the BV5 HD in a while and not next to BV7 but I believe there is a significant difference.

 

Its not just PQ, it is also connections. The BV5 doesn't have HDMI which you need for many add on's. Personally I mostly watch DVD and some Apple TV. I would probably be fine with it. If you have HD cable box, blue ray player, PS3, and so on the BV5 may not be right for you.

And it still is significant money

Cheers

JK 

 

I notice that Lee at Lifestyle-AV has a 2005 HD model BV5, mint, for £5.9K. If you really wanted a BV5, this is a wise choice. Personally though, I'd source a second hand BV7-40 MKIII or try and get a discount from a dealer - I'm sure you'd be able to get a 10% discount if you push hard.

The 7-40 uses the BeoSystem 3 as it's brain, which IMO produces the best picture on the market. The BeoVision 5 uses a modified Avant chassis I believe, which you may find slightly limiting...

I am looking at this again seriously - How well does a non HD model of the BV5 handle SD sources such a SD television (sky) and DVDs compared to a BV7.