HDTV Reviews 2008 : HDTV Reviews and Price Comparison :

Panasonic TC-26LX60

2008-05-18T23:52:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic TC-26LX60 is a 26-inch LCD HDTV from Panasonic’s TC-LX60 series which also includes the 23-inch TC-23LX60, and the 26-inch TC-26LX60.
The TC-26LX60 and the rest of the TC-LX60 series have a resolution of 1,366×768 meaning it can display the full 720p HD resolution, feature two HDMI inputs, one component input, two s-video. unfortunately the TC-26LX60 does not include a bulit in HDTV tuner, so you would have to buy an external tuner to receive over the air HDTV signals, the large two sets from the TC-LX60 series include built in tuners.

The Panasonic TC-26LX60 has a recommended price of just $900.

Panasonic TX-32LXD600 Review

2008-05-18T23:51:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic TX-32LXD600 is a 32-inch LCD HDTV with a nice black glossy finish with some nice specifications to boot, the 600 range is a vast improvement over the previous 60 models.
The 32LXD600’s fascia also immediately reveals a key feature plus: the addition of an SD card slot. This slot isn’t just there for playing back digital photos from SD cards either; it can also record TV shows in MPEG4 for playing back later on, say, a portable video device.

The HDMIs warrant closer attention, for they’re HDAVI compatible. Which is Panasonic’s fancy name for the fact that they permit enhanced communication with other Panasonic HDMI source equipment. So the TV could be used, say, to activate a few functions on a connected Panasonic DIGA DVD recorder.

Perhaps most remarkable of all, though, is the way the 32LXD600 handles standard definition. DVDs and even ordinary digital tuner pictures all look absolutely excellent; sharp, free of motion blur, noiseless, and wonderfully natural in colour. Shaving a single mark off the picture score is some slight, occasional jerkiness during camera pans. But otherwise the 32LXD600’s pictures are pretty much spot on.

The 32LXD600 really is a dazzling TV. It fixes pretty much all the shortcomings of the already very good 32LXD60, and does so for what in the circumstances is a surprisingly affordable price.

Panasonic already occupies the high ground in the plasma world. Now, with the 32LXD600, it’s taken up residence there in the LCD world too.

Panasonic TC-32LX700, LX70 Range

2008-05-17T23:50:00.000-07:00

Panasonic have announced three new LCD HDTVs, the top of the line TC-32LX700, the TC-32LX70, and the TC-26LX70.

The TC-32LX700 features Alpha IPS (In Plane Switching), and Motion Picture Pro technologies creating smoother expressions of motion, and a significant reduction in ghosting.

All of the new models boast crisp, detailed picture clarity due to Panasonic’s Intelligent Scene Controller, which includes backlight control and gamma correction. With these features, the backlight is automatically turned down in dark scenes, resulting in deeper, richer blacks, while the gamma correction in both bright and dark scenes enables detailed picture reproduction.

Panasonic TH-58PZ700, TH-50PZ700U

2008-05-17T23:49:00.000-07:00

Panasonic have added the the 50-inch TH-50PZ700U and the 58-inch TH-58PZ700 to it’s current plasma line of 1080p 1920×1080 resolution HDTVs. They both offer 720p and 1080p and an inproved EZ-Sync feature with a SD memory card reader and photo viewer. Also available is the huge 103-inch TH-103PZ600U.

Panasonic TH-65PX600 Review

2008-05-17T23:40:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic TH-65PX600 is a large 65-inch plasma from Panasonic with a slim polished black frame that shows off the size of the set without being an eyesore. The TH-65PX600 has been packed full with connections and reviewed by TrustedReviews where they say, . A D-Sub input provides analogue PC support; a component jack permits connection of analogue progressive scan and HD sources like the Xbox 360; there are three Scarts; and you even get an SD card slot for direct viewing of JPEGs from SD cameras.

Reinforcing the 65PX600’s â€˜serious’ AV credentials further is its affinity for 1080p. For starters, the version of Panasonic’s Viera V-Real engine it carries has been specially modified to upscale any signals it receives into 1080p HD for showing on the screen. Potentially even more significantly, though, its HDMIs are all capable of receiving native 1080p feeds from HD DVD/Blu-ray/upscaling DVD players.

The TV’s other strengths all have a connection, it seems to us, with its native full HD pixel count. Whenever we’ve got a 1,920 x 1,080 TV there are essentially three critical elements where we expect HD material to look better than it would on a 1,366 x 768 or 1,024 x 768 plasma. First, there should be more fine detail. Second, there should be more subtlety in colour blends thanks to the extra pixel density. And third, there should be more â€˜snap’ and clarity to the picture on account of there being less â€“ or even no â€“ rescaling of an HD source to fit the screen’s pixels. And we’re happy to say the 65PX600 clearly delivers all three of these full HD benefits in quite spectacular fashion. In fact, we’d argue that its sheer enormity helps it give the finest demonstration yet of the â€˜full HD’ advantage in action.

Panasonic TH-58PX600U

2008-05-16T23:46:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for an excellent 58-inch plasma screen, then the Panasonic TH-58PX600U could be your perfect match. The TH-58PX600U is well priced and has a great style and features two HDMI ports, PC connection CableCard slot and EPG. Cnet have reviewed the 58PX600U and say the TH-58PX600U is basically a 58-inch diagonal pane of glass surrounded by a black frame that’s edged by silver. The silver strips of cabinet to the right and the left of the frame actually house ultrathin speakers, and the silver along the bottom conceals a pair of flip-up doors. One reveals an SD card slot and the other a set of control buttons and an A/V input. Panasonic’s matching silver stand comes included in the price of the set.

Panasonic bequeathed this 58-inch plasma with a native resolution of 1,366×768, which grants it the ability to resolve every detail of 720p HDTV material. With such a large screen size, a higher resolution of 1080p might make a difference at seating distances closer than eight feet or so, but the TH-58PX600U’s picture certainly doesn’t seem soft.

The Panasonic TH-58PX600U’s picture quality is among the best we’ve seen on any size plasma TV, and it certainly outperforms any of the larger-than-50-inch plasmas we’ve tested. It reproduces the deep shade of black we’ve come to expect from Panasonic plasma TVs, delivers accurate color, and even performs admirably with standard-definition sources. Our complaints, including some color-accuracy gripes and PC input issues, don’t spoil its excellent picture.

Panasonic TH-50PF9UK Review

2008-05-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic TH-50PF9UK is a 50-inch plasma HDTV, which is only the second full 1080p HD 50-inch plasma to hit the market after the Pioneer’s PRO-FHD1. The TH-50PF9UK is Panasonic’s professional line, so the set does not come cheap, but does offer excellent image quality. Cnet have taken a close look at the TH-50PF9UK and say the exterior is finished in a very dark gray, and other than the Panasonic name below the center of the screen and the power light all the way to the left, there is nothing else to distinguish it. The all-screen look results in relatively tiny overall dimensions for a 50-inch plasma: 47.6×28.5×3.7 inches (WHD) for the panel itself, with a weight of 81.6 pounds.

he major selling point of the TH-50PF9UK is its 1080p native resolution, which translates to 1,920×1,080 pixels. That’s more than twice as many as most 50-inch plasmas, and it allows the Panasonic to display every detail of the highest-resolution HDTV formats, 1080i and 1080p, as well as handle very high-resolution computer signals. All other input signals, as usual, are converted to match the native resolution.

Connection options are definitely limited compared to other HDTVs on the market. The panel comes with one component-video input that is also configurable to RGB (for computers or other RGB gear); a DVI input that can also accept HDMI sources when you connect an inexpensive adapter cable.

Overall, the Panasonic TH-50PF9UK delivers excellent picture quality that’s solidly in the tradition of its lower-resolution commercial-model predecessors. Its black levels remain among the best we’ve seen for any plasma, color was mostly accurate, and details, as expected from a TV of this resolution, were superb. We did detect some false contouring in some scenes, and the primary color of green appeared yellowish, but that’s about it for complaints.

Panasonic TH-65PV500B plasma TV Review

2008-05-15T23:59:00.001-07:00

Panasonic’s TH-65PV500B: is one of the very few truly giant flat TVs that’s been designed from first to last with your â€˜Average Joe’ home user in mind. Well, Average Joes with seven grand to spare and a living room the size of the local village hall, that isâ€¦

The 65PV500B’s domesticity starts with its looks. It’s actually part of Panasonic’s popular and acclaimed Viera range, and in keeping with many other sets in this range it looks resplendent in its glossy black fascia and silvery trim. It’s worth saying, too, that considering the monstrous amounts of heavy screen glass the TV chassis has to support the screen frame is actually reasonably slinky, making sure the TV doesn’t take up any more of your precious wall space than it really has to. The speakers are detachable, too, so that you can position them away from the screen, or else ditch them entirely in favour of your own audio system.

Although its pictures aren’t quite as good as those of smaller Panasonic plasmas, they’re still in the premier league in the 55in and above market â€“ especially when it comes to consistency with different quality sources. It’s also unusually domesticated for such a large screen, and its sound is good enough to put many separates-based home cinema systems to shame.

Panasonic TX-32LXD60 Review

2008-05-15T23:59:00.000-07:00

Panasonic’s 32LXD60 has raised the bar yet again. It is more expensive than its rivals but design, features and performance carry fewer compromises. The future-proof specification offers high-definition compatibility, an integrated digital tuner and advanced connectivity by featuring two HDMI ports.

There’s also a pair of RGB-enabled Scarts and component inputs - but unfortinatly no PC input options. And a range of all-new picture processing technologies has been installed to improve already outstanding performance.

The 32LXD60 also enjoys some unusually deep black levels, ensuring that the rich colours have the perfect dark platform to shine out against. This additionally helps the picture look emphatically solid and three dimensional â€“ especially as the Panny’s dark bits are natural and unforced enough to contain the sort of subtle shading details that stop them looking like mere empty black holes.
Panasonic’s 32LXD60 can claim a superior specification and unrivalled performance that more than justifies the price tag.

Size (WxHxD): 791×615x301mm
Weight: 19.5kg
Screen size: 32in
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 Widescreen
Panel: W-XGA
Resolution: 1366×768
Integrated digital tuner: Yes
Video Connections: 2x HDMI, component, 2x Scart (1 RGB), S-Video, composite.

Panasonic TH-103PZ600U 103-Inch HDTV

2008-05-14T23:59:00.001-07:00

Panasonic, the market and technology leader in Plasma TV, today announced U.S. pricing and availability of it’s much anticipated 103-inch diagonal High Definition Plasma TV — the world’s largest. The TH-103PZ600U with 1080p capability will have an SRP of $69,999.95 and is expected to be available for delivery in time for Christmas 2006. It will also offer a three-year in-home limited warranty*, unprecedented in the industry.

“Panasonic didn’t create the world’s largest plasma TV as a technology demo for a trade show,” said Andrew Nelkin, Panasonic’s Display Group Vice President. “We created it because, as worldwide sales of Plasma TVs continue on a meteoric rise, the market is seeking bigger displays on which people can experience the High Definition lifestyle.

“As important as it is to provide customers with the biggest and the best image, it is equally as important to Panasonic to provide extreme customer satisfaction,” said Nelkin. “With that goal in mind, we are offering customers an industry-first three-year in-home limited warranty with the 103-inch Plasma. We believe our Plasma TV customers are entitled to extra assistance to ensure they enjoy an easy transition to HDTV and get the full value of their investment.”

The TH-103PZ600U provides stunning widescreen progressive display featuring full HD pixel resolution of 1,920 horizontal x 1,080 vertical, a contrast ratio of 4,000:1, and 4,096 equivalent steps of gradation. Its effective display area is more than 89.3″ wide by over 50.2″ high. The super- size 103″ 1080p panel is equivalent in size to four 50-inch Panasonic plasma displays.

The 103-inch Plasma TV joins Panasonic’s line of industry-leading Plasma TV’s including the 37-inch, 42-inch, 50-inch, 58-inch and the recently announced 1080p 65-inch.

“With the debut of our 103-inch model, Panasonic now offers customers the most robust and diverse range of High Definition Plasma displays,” said Nelkin. “Panasonic’s 103-inch display represents the pinnacle of our achievement to date and truly redefines the level of ultimate home entertainment available for the most demanding video connoisseur.”

In addition, all owners of Panasonic Plasma TVs are covered by the Panasonic Plasma Concierge program which provides advice and answers from trained specialists to help users get on with the experience of enjoying HDTV’s benefits. Panasonic is investing more than $15 million in this unique program, including upgrading its customer call center in Chesapeake, Virginia, enhancing its website and taking measures to improve the overall customer experience.

The Panasonic TH-103PZ600U will be built to order and is expected to be available from select high-end electronics retailers in December. The 103-inch will also require professional installation due to its weight and size.

Panasonic PT-61DLX76 HDTV Review

2008-05-14T23:59:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic PT-61DLX76 rear projection HDTV is from the PT-DLX76 series, which includes a 56-inch model PT-56DLX76, as well as the 61-inch PT-61DLX76 ($3,299 MSRP) reviewed here.

The Panasonic PT-61DLX76 has everything you’d expect from a top-of-the-line HDTV, including 1080p-capable HDMI inputs and great picture controls. Unfortinatly it lacks the kind of deep blacks we’ve become accustomed to from DLP HDTVs, and its color accuracy falls short of what we had hoped for. While the PT-61DLX76 tries to make good with a comprehensive feature set and an aggressive price, it has a hard time against the stiff 1080p competition.

While the Panasonic PT-61DLX76 does a good job resolving all of the detail of high-resolution sources, its lighter blacks and less accurate color–at least compared to other 1080p displays we’ve tested–make its overall performance just average for the category.

Relatively inexpensive for a 1080p HDTV; sharp picture with 1080 resolution sources; ample connectivity with dual 1080p-compatible HDMI inputs and a PC input; excellent feature set including numerous picture controls and CableCard.

The Panasonic PT-61DLX76 didn’t deliver the best picture quality we’ve seen among 1080p DLPs, but a solid features-to-price ratio helps increase its appeal.
Source: http://reviews.cnet.com/

Panasonic TH-42PX77U Review

2008-05-13T18:44:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic TH-42PX77U is part of the TH-PX77U series, and comes in at a large 42-inches and features an anti-glare plasma screen, deep black and great colors. Cnet have been lucky enough to get their hands on the TH-42PX77U for a review, where they say, with a native resolution of 1,024×768, the Panasonic TH-42PX77U matches the resolution of just about every available 42-inch plasma today. Of course, that’s not quite enough pixels to display every detail of 720p HDTV, but the image is still plenty sharp. All incoming signals, whether HDTV, DVD, or standard-def TV, are scaled to fit the pixels.

Overall, the Panasonic TH-42PX77U offers very good picture quality for a 42-inch plasma, beginning with the ability to produce a nice, deep black with plenty of detail in the shadows. Color was mostly accurate too, although we did notice a bit of false contouring and video noise in some scenes.

Detail was excellent on the TH-42PX77U for a plasma of its resolution, and we had no complaints about the sharpness of the image with either 720p or 1080i sources. The panel also can accept 1080p sources (as can the Vizio), but it would exhibit strange behavior. After we watched 1080p for about 20 minutes, the picture disappeared. Then after about 30 seconds, the picture came back on, along with a message saying “an error has been detected and recovered.” The process would repeat just about every 20 minutes, so we’d recommend avoiding 1080p sources with this set.

Panasonic Viera TH-37PX600

2008-05-13T18:31:00.001-07:00

The Panasonic Viera TH-37PX600, with which Panasonic hopes to prove that its unique decision to stick with plasma rather than LCD technology at the 37 inch screen size is born of a desire to give consumers the best picture quality rather than a stubborn refusal to change with the times.

The TH-37PX600 belongs to Panasonic’s latest â€˜flagship’ Viera range â€“ but you wouldn’t guess this from looking at it. Its predominantly grey bezel looks bland and feels plasticky compared with most flat TV rivals. Things do perk up a bit, though, if you pop the telly on Panasonic’s glamorous cabinet stand mounting option.

Connectivity is impressive. Starting the good news off are two HDMIs, but these receive ample backing from component video ports for connecting analogue HD devices like the Xbox 360, a D-Sub PC jack, three Scarts, and a front-mounted SD card slot.

The 37PX600 absolutely excels â€“ and teaches LCD rivals a harsh lesson â€“ is colours. We’ve seen more vibrant hues from some LCD TVs perhaps, but if like us you value natural tones and subtle shading over naked aggression, the 37PX600’s colour palette’s deft touch and extreme range is simply a joy to behold.

Another plus of the 37PX600 is its flexibility. Its V-Real processing and plasma technology together take the trip down from high to standard definition surprisingly in their stride, avoiding the colour tone, softness and noise issues that plague so many LCD TVs’ standard def performances.

The 37PX600’s new speaker design helps the set deliver an audio performance that’s nearly as impressive as its visuals, with stonking amounts of power, frequency range, bass rumble, vocal authenticity and treble accuracy.

Final word: Another effortlessly sublime TV from Panasonic â€“ and one that proves without doubt that you write plasma off at your peril.

Panasonic TH-50PX60U Review

2008-05-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic TH-50PX60U is a 50-inch Plasma from Panasonics’ TH-PX60U series,which is an update to the popular TH-PX50U series. The TH-50PX60U has a native resolution of 1,366×768and has a black frame surrounding the screen, while the rest of its cabinet, as well as the tabletop stand, is finished in silver. Left and right stereo speakers are located below the screen, keeping the width of the set to a minimum, and the grilles are slickly disguised so that you’ll barely notice them.

Connectivity on the TH-50PX60U is great, given its price. The two HDMI inputs are welcome in a world where most HDTVs still provide only one. There are two component-video inputs, two S-Video inputs, two composite inputs, an RF input that will accept over-the-air analog and digital signals as well as QAM cable HDTV signals, and an A/V output with composite video only. Front-panel connections include the SD card slot as well as S-Video and composite-video inputs.

Panasonic TH-65PX600U Plasma

2008-05-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic TH-65PX600U is a 65-inch plasma HDTV that was launced in Japan in 2005 as the TH-65PX500. The Panasonic Viera KIT-TH-65PX600E has now been set for release in europe on the November 1st.

This 65-inch Plasma will be avaliable in the US as the Panasonic TH-65PX600U, estimated prices are around $8,000. The TH-65PX600U features the latest G9 panel with a contrast ratio of 5,000:1, three HDMI inputs, SD card slot, and SRS TruSurround XT.

Panasonic TX-32LX600F and TX-26LX600F

2008-05-13T18:27:00.001-07:00

The Panasonic TX-32LX600F and TX-26LX600F are two HDTV LCD panels in 32-inch and 26-inch dimensions. Both of the LCDs have a resolution of 1366 x 768 with high detail sharpness and a viewing angle range of up to 178 degrees in all directions. The TX-32LX600F and the TX-26LX600F are high speed and have bright pictures with full color with no blurring in fast motion scenes.

The TX-LX600F range have 29 billion colors with natural realism and feature two HDMI inputs, scart, composite, s-video and VGA input for computer connection.

The TX-32LX600 and TX-26LX600 are rounded off by great loudspeakers. Together with the Smart sound system and the SRS TruSurround XT technology both flat picture televisions offer three-dimensional sound from the integrated 20 Watt loudspeakers.

Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK Review

2008-05-13T18:25:00.000-07:00

This HDTVis part of the Panasonic TH-PHD8UK series.
The good: Relatively inexpensive; reproduces deep blacks; solid video processing with 2:3 pull-down; independent memory per input; numerous picture controls; customizable inputs.

The bad: Doesn’t include stand, speakers, or tuner; few included inputs; digital video input not standard; no aspect-ratio control with digital inputs; floating blacks.

The bottom line: The 42-inch Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK is a great deal for the money, but only if you’re comfortable adding inputs, you don’t need a tuner, and you remember to buy a stand.

Leading up to Christmas 2005, pedestal stands for Panasonic’s 42- and 50-inch professional plasmas, including the TH-42PHD8UK ($3,000 list) reviewed here, were back-ordered at almost all reputable retailers. That might be a testament to our positive reviews of the older 42-inch TH-42PHD7UY or the glowing review we gave the 50-inch TH-50PHD8UK around that time, but we’re more inclined to believe it shows how popular flat-panel plasmas are in general–and no-frills picture-first models in particular. After subjecting the Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK to our tests, it’s no wonder. This plasma’s excellent black-level performance, clean video processing, and customizable inputs make it a great choice for anyone who isn’t scared off by none-too-fancy menus and no-extras-included packaging. By no extras, we mean that this professional-series plasma doesn’t include speakers, a stand, or very many inputs. If you want to add an HDMI input and a stand, for example, it will cost around $300 extra. If you’re not comfortable with the idea of paying for and installing your own input boards or speakers, you may want to check out Panasonic’s more expensive and more consumer-friendly TH-42PX50U, which also scored well in our tests.

Design of Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK
While certainly not as fancy as some of Sony’s early “floating glass” plasmas or as beautiful as Hitachi’s 42HDT52, the Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK exudes simple class. Once we pulled off the blue Energy Star sticker, its understated matte-black plastic bezel was adorned by only a small Panasonic logo centered on the bottom and an unobtrusive green/red LED power indicator in the bottom-left corner. Below the indicator on the bottom edge of the display are the input, menu, volume up/down, and enter buttons. The TH-42PHD8UK measures about 40 by 24 by 3.5 inches (WHD) and weighs 69 pounds without the stand or the speakers.

Although this plasma is suitable for wall-mounting, our review sample came with the rounded pedestal base, model TY-ST08K (pictured), which perfectly complements its simple style. If that’s not your style, you can opt for the H-style base, model TY-ST07K; both bases cost about $175, and unfortunately, neither lets you tilt or swivel the panel. You can also choose to add a pair of TY-SP42P8WK speakers for around $250 online.

The included remote isn’t backlit, but it does include individual input-selection buttons, as well as separate on and off codes. Both of these additions ease the task of programming automated control systems, such as whole-house entertainment packages or macro functions in universal remote controls.

Features of Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK
The Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK has a native resolution of 1,024×768. Technically, that’s not enough to fully resolve 720p HDTV, but it’s as high a native resolution as you’ll see on most non-EDTV 42-inch plasmas. The Panasonic can handle just about any source, and all incoming signals, including standard TV, DVD, HDTV, and computers, are scaled to fit the available pixels.

As a professional model, this plasma doesn’t come with any built-in tuner, so if you want to use it to watch TV, you’ll have to hook up an external tuner, such as a cable or satellite box. The same is true of audio–since the monitor doesn’t include built-in speakers, you’ll have to add Panasonic’s matching speakers or use a separate stereo or surround-sound system.

Convenience features include a rather versatile picture-in-picture mode, which can display any two inputs simultaneously. The inputs can be shown inset, like most PIP, or side by side equally, as well as in a picture-outside-picture configuration. Unfortunately, aspect-ratio control isn’t available when viewing high-definition sources. When using other sources, options include Full, which stretches the picture evenly to fill the screen; Just, which stretches the sides of the picture to fill the screen; Normal, which properly displays a 4:3 picture; and Zoom, which crops the top and bottom of the picture to fill the screen.

Independent input memories make it easier to calibrate the Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK for various sources. Color-temperature controls include Normal, Cool, and Warm; Warm proved to be the closest to the 6,500K standard. There’s also a user-menu color temperature fine-tuning control, which allowed us to calibrate the grayscale to even closer to the standard (see Performance). Other notable extras include adjustable gamma, horizontal, and vertical positioning and size, as well as numerous screensaver and power-saving options.

Connectivity is what you make of it with the TH-42PHD8UK, but the total of four possible inputs is significantly fewer than most competing consumer plasmas. To compensate, most users with lots of video sources will need to utilize some sort of external switching device, such as the dedicated A/V switch of an A/V receiver. The Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK comes standard with one nonremovable PC VGA input, one removable S-Video or composite input (only one can be used at a time), and one removable BNC-style component input that can also accept an RGBHV source. If you want to use the component or composite input with a standard DVD player or other source–that is, one with RCA outputs–you’ll need inexpensive BNC-to-RCA adapters.

Except for the fixed VGA input, all of the inputs are built into removable boards that fit into three slots on the back of the monitor, so you can add or remove inputs at will. The Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK comes with two of the three removable slots filled and one empty. So, since the panel doesn’t come with one, you’ll have to add a board if you want a digital video input. Thankfully, Panasonic sells both DVI and HDMI boards, models TY-42TM6D and TY-FB7HM respectively, for about $125 apiece.

Performance of Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK
The Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK is among the best-performing plasmas we’ve seen. Deep, convincing blacks, tons of detail in dark portions of the picture, and an extremely accurate color temperature contribute to a highly satisfying picture.

One of our favorite torture tests from The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is chapter four, “The Breach of Deeping Wall.” The Uruk Hai’s assault of Helm’s Deep comes to a head when one rather large Uruk Hai warrior runs, torch in hand, to detonate a bomb. Illuminated only by torchlight in the dark tunnel, every ghoulish feature of his face is visible, as well as the dark brickwork on the sides of the tunnel. Plasmas with less impressive black-level performance often obscure the warrior’s face and can obliterate all detail from the brick walls.

With the Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK in Cinema mode, its gamma set to 2.5, and the color temperature set to Normal, this Panasonic’s color temperature was very accurate right out of the box. Darker material measured very close to the 6,500K standard, while brighter material showed a slight blue cast. After calibration, the color temperature got even better, measuring within 100K of the standard throughout the grayscale.

Color decoding was just as impressive; the panel showed no noticeable red or green error. On the other hand, the actual primary colors could have come closer to the HDTV standard. Blues were very close to the mark, whereas red was a tad too orange and green was significantly off.

As with most plasmas, this Panasonic also evinced some false contouring. In the beginning of the same scene from The Two Towers, as the camera pans across the troops standing on the wall, the mist that hangs in the sky broke down into stepped bands of dark gray. Thankfully, there wasn’t much other noise. In dark areas of the picture, there were the usual colored specks inherent to all current plasmas, but from a viewing distance of about six feet, they weren’t noticeable.

HD sources looked great on the Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK. Watching NBA basketball on ABC-HD, the players’ uniforms were vibrant and rich in color. And despite the panel’s not-quite-HD pixel count, we could still easily see minute details, such as the thin lines of stitching in the uniforms and the fine texture in the fuzzy headbands worn by some of the players.

Panasonic TH-42PX500U Review

2008-05-13T18:23:00.000-07:00

The TH-PX500U series is the step up from the Panasonic TH-PX50U series. While we haven’t reviewed the PX500U series, we have reviewed the TH-42PX50U, which should deliver very similar performance to both of these models. In addition to slightly different cosmetics, the PX500U series offers some distinguishing refinements not found in the baseline models, including picture-in-picture, a VGA-style PC input, a front-panel A/V input, a built-in TV Guide On-Screen EPG, and an SD memory card slot. The 42-inch TH-42PX500U ($3,500) and the 50-inch TH-50PX500U ($4,500) are currently available.

General

* Product type
* - Color
* Technology
* Plasma (PDP)
* Diagonal size
* 42 in
* Image aspect ratio
* 16:9
* HDTV compatible
* Yes
* Digital TV Type
* High Definition TV
* Width
* 44.8 in
* Depth
* 5.4 in
* Height
* 28.7 in
* Weight
* 88.2 lbs
* Service & support
* Limited warranty - Parts and labor - 1 year

Specifications:

Video System

* Resolution
* 1024 x 768
* Comb filter
* 3D-Y/C digital
* Image contrast ratio
* 3000:1
* Supported DTV Resolutions
* 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i

Audio System

* Sound output mode
* Stereo
* Surround sound effects
* BBE ViVA HD3D, Virtual Surround Mode
* Audio controls
* Bass, Treble, Balance, Sound mode
* Total output power
* 26 Watt
* Additional features
* Auto volume adjustment

Television Features

* Widescreen modes
* Full, Just, Zoom, Conventional 4:3
* Closed captioning
* Yes
* Display menu language
* French, English, Spanish
* Color temperature control
* Yes
* Additional features
* On-screen menu, JPEG photo playback, Video noise reduction

Tuner / Channel Details

* TV tuner multi-channel preview
* Split screen, Picture-in-picture (PIP)
* TV tuner reception system
* NTSC
* TV tuner channel coverage
* VHF:2-13, UHF:14-69
* Secondary audio program (SAP)
* Yes
* Channel labeling
* Yes
* Electronic program guide
* TV Guide On Screen
* Parental channel lock
* Yes
* V-chip control
* Yes

Remote Control

* Remote control type
* Universal remote control (Infrared)
* Supported devices
* TV, VCR, Cable box, DVD player, AV receiver, Audio system
* Remote control features
* Multi-brand compatibility

Connections / Cables / Slots

* Input/Output connections
* 1 x RF input (F connector) - Rear, 1 x G-Link Interface (Mini-phone 3.5 mm) - Rear, 1 x SPDIF output (TOS Link) - Rear, 1 x HDMI (19 pin HDMI Type A) - Rear, 1 x Audio line-in (Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm) - Rear, 1 x VGA input (15 pin HD D-Sub (HD-15)) - Rear, 1 x S-Video input (4 pin mini-DIN) - Front, 1 x Composite video/audio input (RCA phono x 3) - Front, 2 x Composite video/audio output (RCA phono x 3) - Rear, 2 x S-Video input (4 pin mini-DIN) - Rear, 2 x Composite video/audio input (RCA phono x 3) - Rear, 3 x Component video input (RCA phono x 3) - Rear, Audio line-in (RCA phono x 2) - Rear

* Slot(s) provided
* CableCARD, SD Memory Card, PC Card

Power

* Power device
* Power supply - Internal
* Voltage required
* 50/60 Hz
* Operational power consumption
* 410 Watt
* Operational power consumption (standby)
* 0.6 Watt

Panasonic TH-42PX50U Review

2008-05-13T18:19:00.000-07:00

The good: Deep blacks; clean video processing with 2:3 pull-down; independent memory per input when using different picture modes.

The bad: Less than ideal color decoding; no PC input; lacks picture-in-picture; can’t change aspect ratio with HD sources.

The bottom line: The only bang-for-the-buck competition facing the Panasonic TH-42PX50U plasma comes from the same company’s industrial model.

Panasonic has proven itself to be the hardest-punching heavyweight among plasma-TV makers, and this year it fights its title bout against itself. In one corner there’s the industrial lineup, typified by the TH-PD7UY series and our favorite 42-inch model, the TH-42PHD7UY. In the other corner there’s the consumer lineup, represented in 2005 by the TH-PX50U series and the model under review here, the TH-42PX50U ($3,000 MSRP). In a nutshell, the industrial models are all picture, and the consumer models make you pay a few hundred extra bucks for features such as, say, speakers, a tuner, and all the inputs you need. After evaluating the TH-42PX50U, we still recommend the industrial models if you’re just looking for the best picture you can get for the least amount of money, but the bout does go down to the wire. The TH-42PX50U is a solid performer in just about every performance aspect, and while it lacks some of the features and the connections found on more expensive models such as the TH-42PX500U and Pioneer’s PDP-4350HD, it’s a great bargain if you want speakers to go with your picture.

Design
The look of the Panasonic TH-42PX50U is reasonably attractive and unobtrusive. With the speakers mounted below the screen rather than on the left and right sides, this panel’s footprint is smaller than most. A black bezel surrounds the screen–something we’re happy to see a lot more of, since black around the screen adds to the perceived contrast ratio of the picture and aids in improving real-world performance. The legs and the speaker grille below the screen are finished in silver.

Measuring roughly 42 by 28 by 4 inches without the included 12.5-inch-deep stand, the Panasonic TH-42PX50U is ideal for wall mounting if you want to install it on an optional bracket. It weighs 76 pounds, however, so we recommend you consult a professional installer for help.

Panasonic’s remote is a little different from last year’s models. It’s fully backlit in glowing red, which makes it much easier to use in a darkened home-theater environment. Unfortunately, it lacks direct-access keys for input selection. We found the internal menu system well implemented and fairly intuitive to navigate.

Features
The 42-inch-diagonal screen of the Panasonic TH-42PX50U offers a native resolution of 1,024×768, which qualifies it as a high-resolution model by comparison with EDTV models such as the TH-42PD50U. That means you’ll see more detail with high-def sources, although you still won’t see all the detail inherent in 1080i and 720p HDTV broadcasts (more info). The TH-42PX50U scales all incoming material, including 1080i and 720p HDTV, DVD, and standard-def, to fit the available pixels. Note that unlike 2004’s TH-42PX25U, this year’s model can accept 720p sources.

The TH-42PX50U lacks a few features found on the 2004 TH-42PX25U and the 2005 step-up 42-inch TH-42PX500U. It doesn’t have picture-in-picture, so you can’t watch two programs at once. It’s also missing a PC-style VGA input, which makes connecting a computer more difficult. We were also disappointed to find that although it offers four aspect-ratio choices with standard-def, this panel can’t change aspect at all with high-definition sources.

Otherwise, the TH-42PX50U answers just about every complaint we had with the features of the TH-42PX25U. This model includes 2:3 pull-down in the video processing to help combat motion artifacts in standard-def sources (more in Performance) and offers a working approximation of independent input memories. The three picture presets, Vivid, Standard, and Cinema, can each be customized for contrast, brightness, and the like. They remain associated with the last-used input, so you can customize three inputs independently. The set also has selectable color temperature settings: Warm, Normal, and Cool. We used the Warm color temperature, as it was closer than the rest to the broadcast-standard color temperature of 6,500K.

The TH-42PX50U includes a QAM tuner for cable, a built-in ATSC tuner for receiving off-air HDTV broadcasts, and an NTSC tuner for regular antenna reception. The ubiquitous Digital Cable Ready CableCard feature is included as well, although you won’t get the TV Guide EPG found on the TH-42PX500U (not a big loss, in our opinion, since TV Guide is fraught with problems).

The connectivity suite on the rear panel is adequate, though not overly generous. The set lacks front or side-panel A/V inputs for convenient camcorder or video game hookup. One HDMI input, two component-video inputs, and a single RF antenna/cable input handle high-def sources. For standard-def there are two A/V inputs with S-Video or composite video, and a set of A/V monitor outputs with composite video only. Many competing plasmas, such as Pioneer’s PDP-4350HD, offer a second HDMI input, and as we mentioned there’s no PC-style VGA port.

Performance
Overall we were impressed with the Panasonic TH-42PX50U’s image quality. Its strongest suit, as we’ve come to expect from all Panasonic plasmas over the last few years, was the ability to produce a deeper level of black than other brands of plasma. The opening scenes from our black-level torture-test DVD Alien revealed those deep, inky blacks; they looked quite clean, with only a hint of low-level noise and artifacts. We saw some minor false-contouring artifacts in very dim scenes, but they were not nearly as bad as on most other plasmas. Good black levels are extremely important for home-theater viewing in dim light because they lead to better color saturation and a picture with more impact.

In terms of color accuracy, the grayscale in the Warm setting came fairly close to the NTSC color-temperature standard. Unfortunately, Panasonic has yet again changed its access to the service menu of its plasmas; as a result, we were unable to correct the grayscale through calibration. Color decoding, while not perfect, was better than on most of the plasma panels we have tested, with the exception of Panasonic’s own industrial models, which are dead-on accurate; however, you should set the color-management feature to Off, as it negatively affects the color decoding. The set’s video processing is clean and incorporates the all-important 2:3 pull-down processing for film-based video from standard-definition cable, satellite, and antenna sources.

After setting up the plasma with user-menu controls, we watched a variety of scenes from the Superbit version of the Vertical Limit DVD and came away highly impressed with the image’s color saturation and detail. The crispness and snap (the perceived contrast ratio) of the TH-42PX50U was far superior to that of the Philips 42PF9630A we had on hand, which has the same resolution but inferior black levels and video processing.

HDTV from our DirecTV HD satellite feed looked equally superb. Again, there was plenty of detail, and the picture did not appear soft, the way it does on some EDTV panels. Dark material in HD also looked clean, with plenty of shadow detail and a minimum of low-level noise and artifacts. With the notable exception of the industrial TH-42PHD7UY, the TH-42PX50U offers the best home-theater image of any 42-inch plasma in its class.

Sony Bravia KDL-46X2000 Review

2008-05-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

The Sony Bravia KDL-46X2000 is the biggest set to date from Sony’s so-far exceptional new Bravia range. Second, it’s the first set to emerge from Sony’s new flagship Bravia â€˜X’ Series and so comes packing a notably fuller feature set. Finally and most significantly, it’s the first TV from Sony to sport a â€˜full HD’ resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels.
Few mainstream brands do classy looks better than Sony, and the 46X2000 is no exception, looking just peachy in its pitted inner and transparent outer frames.

There are two HDMI inputs, this doubles the HDMI quotient of Sony’s current S and V Bravia series, and even better, it turns out the HDMIs are both capable of taking in the new ultra high quality 1080p HD format set to become such a hot potato with the launch of Blu-ray and HD DVD, the set also has two HD-capable component video jacks. Four HD connections in total.

The 46X2000’s prohibitive cost and occasional problems with standard definition pictures arguably don’t make it the sort of â€˜all rounder’ that might suit casual TV viewers. But if you take TV and home cinema seriously and intend to embrace every facet of the current high definition revolution, it’s hard to think of a TV better equipped to make your HD dreams come true.

Sony KDL-20S2020 Review

2008-05-10T21:11:00.002-07:00

The KDL-20S2020 is from a big name, Sony, but it’s for sure not a big HDTV. The Sony KDL-20S2020 measures just 20-inches, it’s compact size is probably aimed for use as a second TV or for the kids room or study, or just if you don’t like those big sets taking up your living room space.
TrustedReviews have taken a look at the 20-inch KDL-20S2020 and say, Inevitably given the set’s HD Ready status there are single HDMI and component options for digital and analogue HD sources respectively. There’s also a D-Sub PC jack - far from a given at this screen size - and even a CAM (CableCard) slot for adding subscription TV services that reveals the presence of a built-in digital tuner.

A native resolution of 1,366 x 768 rounds out the TV’s HD Ready status, for starters. But we’re also impressed by a claimed contrast ratio of 1200:1 (a figure that shames many TVs twice the size) and a claimed response time of 8ms, which will hopefully mean this Sony handles motion much more ably than most of its small-screen counterparts.

There’s no doubt that upwards of Â£450 is a fairly steep price to pay for a 20in LCD TV when you can get one or two 26in models for around the same money these days. But whereas those cheapo 26in models tend to sacrifice performance quality for price, Sony has defiantly chosen to go for broke in performance terms, producing in the process quite possibly the finest 20in LCD picture performance yet.

Bravia S-Series LCD HDTV

2008-05-10T21:11:00.001-07:00

The budgetend Bravia S-Series LCD TV range will include the 40-inch KLV-40S200A, the 32-inch KLV-32S200A, the 26-inch KLV-26S200A and the 23-inch KLV-23S200A.

These models feature a 1366 X 768 pixels screen resolution and are equipped with bottom speakers a single HDMI input, personal computer input along with two component, two S-Video and three composite inputs.

The Bravia KLV-40S200A, KLV-32S200A, KLV-26S200A and KLV-23S200A models will be available in September at suggested selling prices of $2,999.99, $1,899.99, $1,499.99 and $1,299.99 respectively

Bravia V2500 Series

2008-05-10T21:10:00.003-07:00

Next up in the Bravia line is the Bravia V2500 Series which includes the 40-inch KDL-40V2500 and the 46-inch KDL-46V2500.

These 1920 X 1080 native HD resolution models are equipped with dual HDMI inputs with 1080p capability and the Bravia Engine and Live Color Creation technologies.

The black bezel, V2500 models feature a space-saving bottom speaker design that helps the sets fit easily into existing AV cabinets. Other features include a digital amplifier with SRS-TruSurround XT and BBE Digital Audio Enhancement technologies, a PC input, two HD components, two S-video and three composite inputs.

The Bravia V2500 KDL-46V2500 and KDL-40V2500 models will ship in late September. No pricing was announced by the company.

Sony Bravia XBR Series

2008-05-10T21:10:00.001-07:00

The new Bravia XBR models feature 1920 X 1080 screen resolution, Bravia Engine Pro and three HDMI inputs with 1080p capability. The 46-inch KDL-46XBR2 and 40-inch KDL-40XBR2 feature a silver bezel with an elegant floating glass design.

These models also feature a built-in ATSC tuner, personal computer input, two HD component, one S-video and three composite inputs.

The Bravia KDL-46XBR2 and KDL-40XBR2 models will be available later this month for suggested selling prices of $5,499.99 and $4,499.99, respectively.

Rounding out the Bravia XBR line is the 32-inch KDL-V32XBR2 model featuring a 1366 X 768 screen resolution. It is equipped with Sony’s Bravia Engine and Live Color Creation. The set’s narrow, two-tone, black and silver bezel incorporates invisible bottom speakers with SRS-TruSurroundXT and BBE Digital Enhancement technology.

Other features include a built-in ATSC tuner, single HDMI and PC inputs, as well as two HD components, two S-video and three composite inputs.

The Bravia XBR KDL-V32XBR2 set ships in September and is expected to retail for $2,399.99.

Sony KDS-60A2000 Review

2008-05-10T21:08:00.000-07:00

The Sony KDS-60A2000 has tighter dimensions than earlier Sony SXRD rear-projection televisions, thanks to Sony’s wise decision to move the speakers from the sides to the bottom. Its big 60-inch screen is surrounded by a thin, black frame that’s set forward from the mostly silver cabinet. A subtle strip of translucent blue-green runs the width of the cabinet’s front, sitting above the perforated silver speaker panels and a flip-down door that hides a few principal controls as well as a set of inputs.

The Sony KDS-60A2000 delivered excellent picture quality, with deep black levels, plenty of detail in shadows, exemplary grayscale tracking, and excellent overall detail. Its color reproduction isn’t as accurate as we’d like, and it has some issues with standard-def processing, but overall, it’s still one of the best 1080p HDTVs we’ve tested.

The KDS-60A2000 exhibited excellent white- and gray-field uniformity for a three-chip display, varying very little in color across the screen, although its middle was brighter in relation to the corners of the screen when compared to the single-chip Panasonic DLP.