Samsung UN55C6500 1080p 55” LED HDTV. The TV features a 5,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and Auto Motion Plus 120Hz blur reduction. It is Internet-ready and more.
The TV has an MSRP of $2,299.99
Continuing its history and tradition of producing award winning Plasma HDTVs, Panasonic Corporation of North America (NYSE: PC), the industry and technology leader in High Definition Plasma televisions, introduced the company’s 2012 Smart VIERA line of HDTV Plasmas defining the core of a new IPTV lifestyle at the Consumer Electronics Show. The advent of Smart VIERA HDTV centers on five main points: Networking, Easy Operation, Picture Quality, Eco and Design elements. With 17 new models, ranging in screen sizes from 42-inches to 65 inches, Panasonic expanded its 3D line-up for 2012.
Also new for 2012 is a cloud-based architecture to increase the VIERA Connect IPTV platform to an unlimited number of apps, thereby cementing its reputation for creating innovative and cutting edge products and focusing on providing the consumer with the ultimate in home entertainment. New to select VIERA TVs is the inclusion of a browser, further enhancing the internet platform, as well as the addition of “3D Real Sound” with 8-Train Speakers to further enhance sound quality. In addition, Panasonic continues its commitment to the environment by improving the panel luminance efficiency, as well as producing mercury and lead free panels. To further improve the in-home 3D viewing experience, Panasonic introduced its latest generation of lightweight 3D glasses. Weighing only 27 grams, the latest generation 3D glasses utilize Bluetooth technology and feature a rechargeable battery.
Panasonic is dedicated to bringing new picture improving technologies to HDTVs and the 2012 line-up builds upon that philosophy. The 2012 VIERA HDTVs produce black levels that have consistently been recognized as among the best in the industry, super fast response time, intuitive and therefore easy to operate controls, an infinite number and variety of internet apps, a new VIERA’s, clean and simple design incorporating “Glass and Metal” Design concept to express elegant and luxurious theme.
VIERA’s elegant design gives it a simple yet powerful presence by harmonizing materials and design. This new design maximizes the natural qualities of glass and metal to visually express the superb performance of the display and billions of colors. The 2012 models employ NeoPlasma Black 2500 provide a crisp image even when the content shows very fast motion. The 2012 panel further reduces reflections and creates sharper pictures with higher contrast in brighter environments. In addition, a new panel structure and pre-discharge control technology contribute to an increased native contrast level. Additionally, all the 3D models include DLNA connections for easy link-up to other DLNA equipped products.
Panasonic’s company wide commitment to sustainability and producing products that are ecologically sound is evidenced in the 100,000 hour life span of the Plasma Display panel and the lack of lead or mercury in the panels. Improved power efficiency has been addressed with, among other technology advances, new and improved phosphor mixtures and more efficient electronics.
“Panasonic is proud to be recognized by numerous critics for its superior picture quality and for its continuing commitment to the highest technology standards possible. Never ones to stand on our laurels, the 2012 series of VIERA Plasma HDTVs fine tunes the 3D picture quality to one that rivals what is seen in the theater. Furthermore, we have expanded and enhanced the VIERA connect internet functionality by employing cloud technology, enabling users to access an infinite number of apps,” said Henry Hauser, Vice President, Panasonic Marketing, the Merchandising Group “Panasonic is continually striving to surpass the previous year’s commercial and critical success, as well as listening to what consumers are saying. That is precisely why Panasonic’s 2012 Plasma models will once again prove to be the industry leader. Panasonic is also very proud to have been named one of the top ten global green brands of 2011.”
The six VIERA Plasma series, VT50, GT50, ST50, UT50, XT50, U50, feature self illuminating panels with ultimate black levels, NeoPlasma technologies(VT/GT/ST) providing a black filter with a higher efficiency panel that generates the best balance of black and white under brighter environments. The new Louver filter and new high performance panel result in improved external light shading, improved clarity and improved light transmittance. The 2012 models employ the NeoPlasma Black 2500 (VT/GT/ST/UT), a 6,220,800 pixel cells FULL local dimming, 24,576 steps of gradation technology (VT/GT) (previously only available in professional monitors), a new custom driver LSI and a fast switching phosphor panel on all of Panasonic’s 1080p 3D models
Panasonic also continues its relationship with THX with six Full HD 3D Plasma HDTVs, certified in both 2D and 3D mode by the prestigious company founded by George Lucas. THX certification indicates to the consumer that the picture quality has been certified to meet the stringent standards of Hollywood’s top film makers.
VT50 Series
The VT50 series is the FULL HD 3D Plasma flagship series and is available in two screen sizes- the TC-P65VT50, 65-inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P55VT50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally). These two top of the line TVs offers a revolutionary level of picture quality. FULL HD 3D; 1080p FULL HD resolution; Infinite Black Ultra Panel, Deep Black hues are achieved thanks to new and advanced pre-discharge technology; VIERA Connect with Web browser, and built-in Wi-Fi; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D –> 3D conversion; 24,576 steps of gradation technology ;THX in both 2D and 3D modes; ISFccc Calibration Mode with Advanced Calibration. Calibrators adjust the detailed picture setting with the calibration software (CALMAN™)provided by SpectraCal Inc.
Social Networking TV function to allow users to access social network sites while simultaneously watching TV; Multitasking feature to switch between apps ; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; a new Louver Filter; a VIERA Touch Pad Controller; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link, a technology that utilizes HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) and allows a consumer to operate all VIERA Link compatible A/V components using only the TV’s remote control; Media Player, allows one to view digital photos and HD video recorded on a SD Memory Card and USB Memory Stick; four HDMI connections and three USB ports. The VT50 series continues the design evolution as seen in last year’s VT30 series with a stunning one sheet of glass design. The Flat and lustrous, this single pane of glass is totally obstruction-free. It expresses a minimalist sense of beauty by stripping away all unnecessary elements with a newly designed gradation metal pedestal.
GT50 Series
The GT50 series includes four screen sizes – the TC-P50GT50, 50-inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); TC-P55GT50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P60GT50, 60-inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P65GT50, 65-inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally). The series features FULL HD 3D; Infinite Black Pro Panel; VIERA Connect with Web browser and built-in Wi-Fi; 1080p FULL HD resolution; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D –> 3D conversion; THX in both the 2D and 3D modes; 24,576 steps of gradation technology; Social Networking TV function; Multitasking; 3D Real Sound with 8 train speakers; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link; four HDMI connections and three USB ports. Additionally the GT50 models incorporate the glass & metal design – Stylish Metal Frame with a gradation metal pedestal.
ST50 Series
The TC-P50ST50, 50-inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); the TC-P55ST50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); the TC-P60ST30, 60-inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P65ST50, 65 inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally) comprise the ST 50 series of FULL HD 3D VIERA HDTVs. The ST30 models include Infinite Black Pro Panel; VIERA Connect with Web browser and built-in Wi-Fi; 1080p FULL HD resolution; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D –> 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link, three HDMI connections and two USB ports.
UT50 Series
There are four screen sizes in the UT50 series – the TC-P42UT50, 42 inch class (41.6 inches measured diagonally); TC-P50UT50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); TC-P55UT50, 55 inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P60UT50, 60 inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally). All offer FULL HD 3D; 1080p FULL HD resolution; VIERA Connect (Wi-Fi ready); 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D –> 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link; two HDMI connections and two USB ports.
XT50 Series
The XT50 series provides the consumer with an affordable 3D solution with Online Movies feature, a service that provides select Panasonic’s IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the TV’s internet functionality. The TC-P42XT50, 42 inch class (41.6 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P50XT50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally) produce 720p resolution and features Online Movies, a service that provides select Panasonic’s IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the TV’s internet functionality; 2D –> 3D conversion; 600Hz Sub-field Drive; Bluetooth; Media Player; DLNA; VIERA Link; two HDMI and two USB connections.
U50 Series
The TC-P50U50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally) is the lone non-3D in this year’s HDTV Plasma model line-up. The model features 1080p FULL HD resolution; Fast Switching Phosphors, Media Player; 600Hz Sub-Field Drive ;Game Mode ;two HDMI connections and one USB port.
Panasonic first introduced its concept of connected HDTVs five years ago and in 2012 VIERA Connect(1), Panasonic’s proprietary IPTV platform, continues to improve its functionality by employing a cloud based technology and philosophy, allowing for an unlimited number of apps being available to the consumer. VIERA Connect provides access to apps in such categories as video and music, social networking, games, news and lifestyle, sports, health and fitness and kids education adhering to the philosophy that the consumer should be able to personalize the internet experience, VIERA Connect features a market site, where the consumer can select specific apps or accessories from a limitless selection.
Popular sites, including Netflix™, Amazon Instant Video™, YouTube™, Pandora®, Twitter, Facebook, Bloomberg News, AP, Wall Street Journal, Accuweather® , Skype™, Wealth TV, CinemaNow, Hulu Plus™, sports sites Fox Sports, MLB, NBA, NHL and MLS(2) ,BodyMedia and Withings continue on VIERA Connect and are joined by a host of exciting features and apps, all optimized for the best possible user experience. On November 1, 2011, Panasonic introduced an app, Social Networking TV that allows one to access social network sites such as Twitter and Facebook, while simultaneously enjoying programming on their VIERA HDTV. At the same time, Panasonic also announced the addition of a new gaming application from PlayJam and a movie/video channel dedicated to Bollywood, called BigFlix. BigFlix will allow users to access Bollywood Video on Demand, while PlayJam is a game channel with multiple game apps
With ease of use as a major focus, VIERA Connect’s interface implements quick keyword input (like a cell phone) to help retrieve favorite content faster and easier. An optional Skype Communication camera (TY-CC20W) allows the consumer to communicate with friends and family via a large TV, rather than on a small computer or smart phone screen. There is also an app that allows one to use their iPhone/iPad as a remote.
Panasonic HDTVs also employ VIERA Link™ – a technology that utilizes HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) and allows a consumer to operate all VIERA Link compatible A/V components using only the TV’s remote control and helpful on-screen menus. In addition to operating a VIERA HDTV, video source (Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD player) and home theater receiver, A VIERA Link capable Network Camera can be connected to a VIERA HDTV and controlled via VIERA remote. Users can then watch their child, pet and/or property by installing the camera and networking to the VIERA HDTV via Ethernet cable
Personal TV is here. Sort of. If you’re the type of person who endlessly fiddles with a TV’s settings mid-movie to howls of abuse from your co-habitees – largely to undo others’ ruinous work, obviously – Toshiba’s 37UL863 might just be the TV for you.
Using face detection tech from a built-in camera, this lounge-friendly 37-inch LED TV saves preset picture parameters and other customised info, instantly loading them whenever you slump in front of it. Customised settings can include login details and various tweaks in Toshiba Places, a newly refreshed online hub of ‘smart’ TV that offers several, err, places for video, photos and social media accounts.
We’ll come on to the success or otherwise of these two features, but know that the 37UL863B’s other features together make-up a thoroughly advanced TV.
HD and edge LEDEdge LED-backlighting is key to its success, though just as important is its Freeview HD tuner which should be de rigueur in 2011, though missed off some of Toshiba’s other offerings this year. And, for free-to-air satellite fans, Freesat HD – an increasingly hard to find add-on, and one that’s strangely not trumped-up in the 37UL863B’s marketing.
Freeview HD is treated sumptuously, with a thoroughly comprehensive electronic programme guide giving broadcast information across multiple channels at once while the current channel continues underneath. It’s helpful, too; the set even produces a message that reads thus: ‘A higher quality version of this service may be available. Do you wish to change channel to this service?’, which is a slightly wordy way of saying ‘Fancy watching a HD version?’. Of course we do, though an upscaled version of Cash in the Attic wasn’t quite what we’d hoped for.
USB recordingWe quickly found the USB recording option, which makes it possible to record live broadcasts – as well as set timers for recordings – straight to a hard disk linked to the 37UL863B via USB. Doing so doesn’t exactly create a PVR-like environment, but it does also bring “+” features like pause/rewind live TV.
Better still, all this trickery is operated by a surprisingly sleek remote control. Longer and more slender than most, it features an aluminium slider that clicks into place to cover the pause/FF/RW and number buttons, making operating the top controls – principally the directional buttons and the channel and volume rockers – much easier. It can be slid down to rest on the bottom, exposing the number keys, but can’t cover the top buttons. It’s a nice feature, though it’s made more useful by the remote’s long design, something that without the slider would be difficult to operate with one hand.
For those who refuse to use anything without a touch-sensitive screen, the Toshiba TV Remote App is available for smartphones. We attempted to use it an iPhone 3GS, but it wouldn’t link up with a TV despite it being on our network. Perhaps it needs an iOS5 refresh?
Sockets and inputsThe 37UL863B’s ins and outs are rather generous, with four HDMI inputs and two USB slots – one of each placed on a side panel – and with component video in tow, too. Audio is via analogue phonos (two sets) or optical digital audio, with a headphones jack also on the side panel. Also there is a common interface slot for adding subscription TV to the Freeview tuner, and a composite video input.
Probably the most important connections though, are its Ethernet LAN and built-in Wi-Fi. Smart TV is an area that Toshiba has lagged behind in for the past couple of years, but it’s got its act together just in time; more than a quarter of all TVs sold this year can connect to a network. Still, the refreshed Toshiba Places won’t please everyone.
Toshiba’s smart TVIt’s easy enough to use, though a touch too busy in look – and suffers from the opposite problem regarding content. We weren’t able to get through to BBC iPlayer or YouTube from the dedicated VOD screen, though these two icons are also on the TV’s main user interface and both worked fine when accessed from there.
Besides, there’s little to get excited about in Places, which comprises the kind of ‘extra’ features no one really wants. Viewster, Box Office 365, Dailymotion, Aureo, Meteonews. It’s all a tad underwhelming.
The same could be said of the personal TV function, which as well as not being that useful unless you’ve got a load of different logins in Places, doesn’t recognise faces all that well. It’s a good idea though, and one we expect to see returning next year in an improved second-gen guise.
Networking and USB playback is a disparate experience in that the file formats handled aren’t the same, though we did manage MKV from a USB thumbdrive and AVI via DLNA from a netbook.
Picture and sound qualityThe 37UL863B proves a great all-rounder with both Freeview and Blu-ray, and offers a nice smaller option for living rooms keener on restrained, plasma-like richness rather than the eye-popping brightness of most LCD TVs. Here, the colours look natural and brightness is toned-down nicely. ‘Cinematic’ is probably how best to describe its images, something that prompts us to recommend this to film fans, despite its immaculate behaviour with Freeview, too.
Don’t buy the 37UL863B expecting reference-level picture from Blu-ray, because you’ll be slightly disappointed by the occasional motion blur, light spillage from the LED-driven backlight, so-so contrast, and lack of detail in black areas of the image. But in terms of price, size and tech, the 37UL863B is on the money.
Sadly, that’s more than can be said for the speakers despite a ‘spatial’ surround sound mode that is at least a diversion from a lacklustre audio performance.
Verdict
Armed with Wi-Fi, an almost plasma-like richness and BBC iPlayer, the 37UL863B will do a sterling job in living rooms looking to upsize and get online – and on a budget.
Nicely priced and with a slinky remote in tow, this 37-inch Edge LED doesn’t ever approach ultimate picture perfection, but remains a good value attempt at a TV with extras. It’s also one of the few TVs around with a Freesat HD tuner, which is here on top of Freeview HD.
Today’s Deal brings us LG’s 50PV400 50? 1080p 600Hz Plasma HDTV. Normally $799.00 our Sponsor has found it for $200 less which means it can be yours for just $599.99. It will even ship for free.
Whether or not you’ve been impressed by 3D enough to have it at home, would you seriously consider buying a big, expensive TV that couldn’t flirt with the third dimension at all?
Panasonic has taken this quandary of modern times, and thus designed a plasma to suit. Measuring 50-inches in the diagonal and boasting online features galore, the ST30 doesn’t come with any 3D glasses.
Optional extrasThat explains the low price, then. Unfortunately the 3D glasses needed for this active shutter 3D plasma screen cost north of ?100. The add-ons don’t stop there, either. Despite the inclusion of Viera Connect, an enticing mix of on-demand fare from YouTube, BBC iPlayer, Acetrax, Viewster – and even a selection of games – the ST30 has only a wired option for connecting-up to a broadband router.
A WiFi dongle is available for lodging at one of the set’s two USB slots, but that’ll cost you another ?70-or-so. Oh, and did we mention Skype? To satiate your desire to make video – in HD, no less – calls to friends will cost another ?100+ for a Panasonic-made kit.
Happily, you can say a great big ‘no thanks’ to all of this frippery and enjoy an increasingly rare breed of TV; a cut-down, bare bones, and rather brilliant plasma from a big brand, which does what it needs to – and a little more besides – for a reasonable price.
Strong in all the right placesCore duties are completed with the minimum of fuss. For starters, there’s a Freeview HD tuner that seems essential on a Full HD screen as big as this. It’s not got a very attractive EPG in tow, but it works fast and simple recordings can be made to a hard disk over USB.
While watching we did wonder if, indeed, a tuner sporting those paltry few HD channels is strictly necessary, for the ST30 upscales standards definition very well. Detail drops, of course, but some resolution enhancer circuitry manages to smooth jagged edges and keeps the picture noise to an absolute minimum.
2D Blu-ray also shines, and though we’re not convinced it matches-up to a similar-sized LCD TV in terms of crystal clarity, there’s a smoothness and rosy colour palette that could only come from a good quality plasma. Contrast is good, for sure, though Panaosnic’s GT30 and VT30 plasmas do better; shadow detail can be on the low side, though there’s no arguing about the deepness of those blacks.
Optional 3D is solidOver to 3D and the ST30 also does a sterling job. It may be an optional add-on, but there’s no way part of its fee isn’t going towards making sure 3D is up to spec, should you choose to make use of it.
It’s not always comfortable to watch; fast action sequences can cause headaches as picture elements whizz around your eyes and cause flicker. Judder is also more apparent than on 2D, but for most Avatar we had few problems – and the panoramic shots around Pandora were gorgeous. Donning those specs deepens black levels a tad too far for our liking, but colours fly from the screen, without the brightness problems of most LCD TVs.
Sounds fineAudio is nothing special, but when is it ever on a flat TV? But Viera Connect most definitely is. It’s one of our favourite smart TV hubs now it’s got BBC iPlayer built-in, and though it does have a ‘euro’ feel to some of its apps, we can see a bright future for Viera Connect. Better looking than rival platforms and faster to respond to the remote – not to mention the Viera Remote smartphone app – all it needs is Lovefilm and more VOD-based services to succeed. And we love its expanding marketplace that comes complete with paid-for games like Asphalt 5.
All awesome stuff, but there are some disappointing omissions. Some will hate losing a Freesat HD tuner when compared to higher-ranking, pricer Panasonics, others the plain chassis design, or the 3D/WiFi/Skype accessories.
What we disliked most was the lack of DLNA networking. We managed to play a host of video files from a USB stick shoved in the ST30’s back connections panel, including MKV and AVI types, but it’s not possible to have them stream from a PC or Mac. That expensive WiFi dongle is purely for Viera Connect, then. It’s a corner cut too far or on otherwise well judged attempt.
Verdict
If you can’t decide if 3D is for you or not, Panasonic’s latest giant plasma is the ideal starting point. While you save up for 3D specs, the ST30 will wow you with colourful, and sharp images from Blu-ray, Freeview HD and digital files via USB.
It lacks the finery of pricier plasmas from Panasonic, and the cost of accessories can mount up, but as it stands this is a good value plasma that will be an upgrade far enough for many living rooms after a cinema-like experience.
The worldwide economic downturn put a damper on consumer demand for televisions, according to NPD DisplaySearch’s Quarterly Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report. High inventory levels meant that shipments for 2011 are exepected to be flat compared with 2010. The good news is that there are signs of improvement, and the forecast is for a modest increase of 2% in 2012, reaching 254 million units.
[Source: NPD DisplaySearch Advanced Quarterly Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report]
The report cites a number of interesting findings. As the price gap between LCD and plasma shrinks, consumers favor the LCD choices. As a result, the forecast is for plasma unit shipments to decline much more rapidly over the next few years than had been predicted recently. As the price for 50? sets fall below $1,000, demand for the larger sizes will increase rapidly.
Perhaps the most interesting finding, however, is the growing popularity of LED backlights for LCD HDTVs. Their share of the LCD shipments is expected to be about 46% for 2011, but will jump to nearly 68% for 2012. This is probably driven by a combination of factors, including dropping prices for the individual LEDs, increased power efficiency, and more attractive form factors that result in a thinner and lighter TV set. By 2014, DisplaySearch predicts that fluorescent backlights for LCDs will be less than 10% of the LCD HDTV market.
So if you’re going to be in the market for a new flatscreen television this year, chances are excellent that you’ll end up with an LCD HDTV that has an LED backlight.
Active shutter or passive 3D? Expensive glasses and awesome detail, or cheap glasses and a slightly softer image? Can’t make up your mind? Don’t worry, neither can Philips, which is why its forever delayed 2011 crop of 3D TVs are divided between the two technologies.
This 42-inch Edge LED TV in the brand’s 7000 Series sports Easy 3D – Philips’ name for passive tech – as opposed to its Max 3D-toting brethren, but it’s no poorer for it. Surprisingly for a TV using cheap-as-chips 3D specs there are only two pairs in the box, though a few trips to your local 3D cinema ought to solve that little problem.
Good specificationGenerosity abounds elsewhere, with Wi-Fi fuelling a Smart TV platform called Net TV, a deliciously high-end looking metallic finish, and Ambilight, Philips’ patented system that creates a halo of light around the TV that changes according to the dominant colours on the LCD panel.
We do love Ambilight. Forget slimness, brushed aluminium surrounds, and flashy remote controls; flatscreen TVs were made to give wow factor, and that’s exactly what Ambilight does. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, too, since Ambilight can be used in its Lounge Light mode to add soft lighting to a room. And for those with odd coloured walls, the 42PFL7666’s ‘wall colour adaptive’ option changes the colour of the light so it appears to be normal on almost any colour wall – there are 24 choices in a virtual palette. Meanwhile, Ambilight can be used in various degrees of separation, as well as in several moods including Fresh Nature (green), Hot Lava (a red-pink), Deep Water (blue) and Bright Light (white).
Still, a lava lamp from IKEA would be cheaper, so there’s got to be more under the 42PFL7666′s hood.
Network activityThe engine room is Pixel Precise HD, a suite of processing gubbins including HD Natural Motion and a 400Hz anti-blur mode, but what we’re really interested in is Net TV. Once a network connection wizard has walked us through the steps for connecting via wired or wireless – we chose the latter for extra reliability, but still consider the former absolutely essential on any ‘smart’ product – we’re up and running.
The TV does possess the BBC iPlayer, in its usual guise, but in terms of genuinely engaging apps, it’s elsewhere rather thin on the ground. That said, it’s always good to see YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Picasa make an appearance, not to mention movie streaming from Acetrax and web radio from TuneIn.
Other less inviting apps include Cartoon Network and HiT Entertainment – largely on-demand kids’ programmes – Viewster, MeteoNews and a raft of Euro-centric news channels such as France24, TV5Monde and Euronews, as well as CNBC (US business news), CineTrailer, Funspot, Vimeo, Daily Motion and iConcerts (an actually quite engaging online archive of live gigs). There’s also a link to an online app shop, which contains downloads for the likes of TomTom – on a TV?! – Ebay and some more weather apps.
What Net TV doesn’t have – unlike similar, and much more polished, online platforms from the likes of Sony and Samsung – is an app offering the latest 3D movie trailers and showcase footage.
There is a web browser, which has been part of Philips’ smart TV experience for some time, though it’s never been executed particularly impressively, and that remains the case on the 42PFL7666 – it’s just so slow to operate from the remote.
That remote control is otherwise good, but there’s also an app for phones and tablets – Android as well as iOS-based. What we love about MyRemote, however, isn’t its TV controls, but its novel Slideshow feature, which instantly puts photos stored on a smartphone onto the TV’s screen, with no set-up needed. Apple TV owners may balk, but it’s the kind of feature we can see being used a lot by owners of this TV – it’s just a shame that it doesn’t extend to music and movies.
Picture and soundThe 42PFL7666 can record from its Freeview HD tuner to a HDD as well as play digital files over a network or from a USB stick. Two of those features are powered by a brace of USB inputs in the TV’s side, which is also home to an SD card slot, ostensibly for storing purchased video downloads from various Net TV apps, a Common Interface slot and a sole HDMI input.
Nearby, in the same connections panel is a rear-facing RGB Scart, a set of component video inputs and associated analogue audio-ins, and an oddly-placed headphone jack. Just below are three HDMI inputs (one of them Audio Return Channel-compatible), a VGA D-sub 15-pin PC input, an RF aerial connection to power the Freeview HD tuner, and a wired Ethernet LAN port.
Also down here is an optical digital audio input for routing audio to an AV amplifier, though integrated audio is one of the 42PFL7666′s major strong points with speakers are among the most powerful available on the TV market. This has been the case for some time on Philips TVs, but it’s great to see the unique combination of two rear-firing woofers and two forward-facing drivers that together create a 28W soundstage. That’s at least double what most TVs can muster, and should be enough for most content.
They sound great – full, bassy and with plenty of detail – and the onscreen action isn’t bad, either.
Blu-ray and 3DBlu-ray is spotless, sharp and smooth, with the only real issue being a slight lack of contrast. Easy 3D, meanwhile, turns in a performance that’s best described as ‘good value’. Anything close to the camera stands out impressively, although there is almost always a slight shimmer around it. Like any kind of 3D, slow motion shots with very obvious depth affects do look impressive, but as soon as the action hots-up it can all get quite confusing; a splash of water in the direction of the camera in The Ultimate Wave: Tahiti brings an almost nonsensical 3D image that our brain just isn’t quick enough to process. At least the use of passive 3D glasses means there are no headaches or eyestrain.
Overall, Easy 3D is indeed all about sacrificing ultimate detail, relative to active shutter 3DTVs, but that won’t matter a jot to watchers of Sky’s 3D channel, which doesn’t broadcast in Full HD anyway.
The viewing angle is about normal for an LED TV of this size; that is to say, if you watch from the wings there is a definite draining of darkness from the opposite side, though it’s only truly obvious when you’re watching a very dark picture. It’s also good to see an even backlight on a LED TV; many big name brands’ efforts are stained with light leakage. It’s indicative of the high build quality obvious in almost every aspect of the 42PFL7666.
Verdict
It’s more highly polished on the outside than in, but this good value Edge LED TV has a new passive 3D system that’s as easy on the eye as on the wallet. As well as using cheaper 3D specs and offering the unique Ambilight system, this telly exudes quality across the spectrum though lacks the refinement of other ‘smart’ TV’s apps and user interfaces.
One of my public speaking topics in recent years was “Why Your Next Computer Will Be a Television.” Even without the network-connected “Smart TV” features that are commonplace now, HDTVs have long relied on powerful processors and other components that outperform the standard desktop computers of not-so-long ago. But even back when I gave this talk, I don’t think I foresaw how far this aspect has develop in such a short time.
Smart TVs connect to the Internet through your home network’s high speed broadband connection, and the widgets or applets or whatever you call them can access information and put it on your screen. Weather forecasts, sports scores and schedules, stock prices, news headlines, traffic reports, and much more are just a remote control click away. These TVs even capture streaming video from Web services, such as Hulu Plus, Netflix, and Amazon on Demand. All that takes some processing horsepower, but it’s nothing compared with what comes next.
Let me describe a new product that was announced by computer-maker Lenovo at CES today. It has a dual-core processor running the Android operating system, 1 GB of memory, an 8 GB hard drive, and support for SD card storage. It also has a built-in 5 megapixel camera. What is it? A new tablet? An entry-level personal computer? Nope; it’s a 55? LCD HDTV with an LED backlight. The remote control includes a touchpad, and reportedly the system will respond to voice commands. Lenovo also announced a 42? model. Both will ship this spring, but just for the China market initially. The company plans a later roll-out for the worldwide markets. No prices were announced yet.
This raises the ante for what constitutes a Smart TV, and it marks the entry of a major technology manufacturer in the already-crowded HDTV market. (The pundits are looking for who will be next to drop out of the market, rather than who is looking to join the fray.) With all the rumors of recent months about televisions with motion control and speech recognition commands — many of these rumors paired with the as-yet unconfirmed Apple TV product — Lenovo’s entry kick starts the competition and could set the new standard for what we expect from our televisions.
Samsung’s flagship plasma TV represents a delicious compromise. It’s got the second best online dimension, after Sony’s Bravia Internet Video platform, which is too often strapped to TVs with lacklustre 3D pictures. And the second best 3D performance, losing out to Panasonic’s plasmas, which are the best performers, but are blighted by a content-light online service.
We’ll leave this 51-inch plasma’s 3D dimension alone for a while – it’s an optional add-on, with no 3D glasses in the box – and concentrate first on why Smart Hub is becoming irresistible.
Interactive rules the roostHighlights on the home screen include links to the BBC live streaming news channel, the BBC iPlayer and Lovefilm, the latter being especially good to see, despite the fact that the postal DVD service has yet to digitise many of its must-have titles. Kudos to Samsung’s software designers, who have somehow managed to squeeze not only a live TV preview box (complete with sound) and a video search facility that works independently of source, but also clickable shortcuts to some of the TVs other functions.
The lower half of the screen includes, by default, links to a list of TV programmes recorded to a HDD via USB, videos, photos, and music stored on a USB stick or a PC/Mac on the same home network, a dedicated AllShare button, the Freeview HD or Freesat HD tuners – it’s one of few TVs that have both the UK’s free-to-air tuners inside – and a web browser. That’s quite some selection, and it sees Smart Hub growing from a separate interface for online video to full mastery of the TV’s functions as a whole. And we haven’t even mentioned the second screen. Scroll across and you’ll find links to Cartoon Network, Facebook, Google maps, Picture Box, Google Talk and Skype – though the latter requires a separate CY-STC1100/XC webcam accessory from Samsung, which costs around £100.
Something we did notice however, is that Twitter and YouTube are buried in a third screen, where they should really take the place of redundant apps earlier in the mix, such as Exercise TV, Samsung Imaging and Daily Motion. Samsung’s interactive features are really only hampered by slow loading times.
Good hardwareHardware-wise this 3D plasma is on the money. Four HDMI inputs nestle next to a brace of USB ports, one of which can be hooked-up to a hard drive for making recordings from either of the sets integrated TV tuners. The PS51D8000’s only compromises in terms of connectivity come from proprietary ports for both an RGB Scart and component video (and associated analogue audio inputs). Both are easy enough to hook up using supplied adaptors, and allow the connections panel to be especially well organised and above all slim enough to let the PS51D8000 compete with LED TVs in terms of its depth – remarkably it’s only 37mm fat.
In terms of the plasma panel itself, the PS51D8000 comes replete with Real Black Filter, part of what Samsung calls its 3D Hyper Real picture processing engine, as well as a Cell Light tweaker.
Set-upWe found the experience of manually attaching the TV to its stand fiddly and frustrating, but the rest of the process is pure plug and play.
Switch-on the PS51D8000 for the first time and we immediately enter the aptly-named Plug & Play menus, a carousel of dynamically designed black, blue and grey screens that take us joyfully through set-up of web services and AllShare DLNA as well as downloading any software upgrades that may have accumulated since you’ll set was made.
Then it’s on to a simple selection between home or store as the location – the latter being an exceptionally bright set of picture parameters that help this plasma to compete in the brightness stakes with competitors’ (and Samsung’s) much more luminous LED TVs.
With analogue free-to-air signals switched-off in our area, and without a satellite dish nearby, we tuned in digital Freeview HD channels, which took around three minutes.
The business-like, but beautiful blend of nuanced, shadowed, and 3D sky-blue, yellow and white graphics look especially stunning on the jet black background – though the visually arresting plasma richness of the colours is certainly helped by the sheer size of the screen.
Picture and soundAfter attaching a 3D Blu-ray player, the PS51D8000 prompts us to press the 3D button on the remote. What follows isn’t reference-level 3D, but it’s darn good; stable, judder-free 3D that’s swimming in contrast, depth effects and detail without too many video nasties.
There’s a touch of crosstalk and double images crop-up, for sure, but it’s a good deal more impressive than most 3D TVs. Using Samsung’s Explore 3D app, we watched some awesome showcase 3D footage including Grand Canyon Adventure, Dinosaurs Alive!, The Ultimate Tahiti Wave and Niagara Falls, as well as a bevy of Red Bull-sponsored sporting events and a host of big name 3D movie clips and trailers. What a shame there are no 3D specs in the box.
Switch to 2D and the good work continues, but true black is suddenly nowhere to be seen, which takes the gloss off colour, too. Still, Freeview HD is still thoroughly impressive in terms of detail, and standard definition channels are always clean and watchable.
The PS51D8000’s viewing angle is a lot wider than most LED TVs we’ve tested of late, though its arguably even narrower if you view the screen from higher or lower up on the vertical axis – something that you’ll only notice if you hang the TV too high on a wall, or position it too near the floor.
Those worried about screenburn can set this TV’s Pixel Shift feature to create a moving screensaver after as little as 10 minutes of a static image.
Sound, meanwhile, is a notch or two above most TVs, with some bass audible from the stero 10W speakers across the PS51D8000’s bottom.
Verdict
Svelte and with decent audio and a versatility that extends even to impressive 3D, this 51-inch plasma makes for an excellent value home cinema screen. It might not be up there with the very best from Panasonic’s arsenal of 3D plasmas in terms of ultimate quality, but at this price nor should it be. And in other regards, like the often brilliant Smart Hub in particular, it appears the more polished affair.
This is home cinema heaven. We can spot a blackout-bound plasma screen a mile off, but the backlit remote control in the TX-P50VT30’s box – it glows a dark red behind the buttons to delicately help with operation in the dark – is the first clue that this 3D plasma has high-end ambitions.
However, it’s a different kind of luminescence that is at the core of this wonderful picture performer. Where LED TVs typically struggle in their attempt to make LCD panels more dynamic and thus able to show both bright and dark images simultaneously, the TX-P50VT30 achieves it without breaking stride.
Blu-ray stunnerSwitch the lights off and it’s still easily possible to make out the panel’s innate brightness – we’re not talking total, utter black here – but we’re sincere in saying there is no other TV that can so well decipher and deliver accurate images from a Blu-ray disc.
Detail in a completely still image is excellent, too, if a shade beneath the levels reached by a same-size LCD TV, but the TX-P50VT30 is more adept at dealing with motion. Quick camera pans and objects rushing through a shot don’t cause blur and resolution loss, but are instead tight and comfortable to watch. This fluidity is another innate skill of plasma, and we’re actually more impressed by the TX-P50VT30’s lack of judder while watching Blu-ray. It’s also worth mentioning the built-in audio here, which is surprisingly good given the product’s thinness.
3D performanceSpin some 3D and the quality continues, with clean and involving sequences that don’t often get confusing or difficult to decipher, but frequently wow. Although the same attributes remain from the TX-P50VT30’s 2D performance, we’re slightly disappointed by how much deeper the black we perceived the image after putting the 3D spectacles on. Truer black is always welcome, but here it’s at the cost of brightness generally; there’s slightly less shadow detail in black areas, and the pizzazz is removed from brighter images. Overall though, this is a sterling 3D picture.
Make standard definition beautifulAlmost as impressive as 2D and 3D Blu-ray is the way the TX-P50VT30 handles lesser video sources and makes them enjoyable. With both Freeview HD and Freesat HD tuners and interfaces on-board, this is a screen built to please almost any kind of user, though we’re not convinced about the electronic programme guide. Stuffy, small and scarred by a large window that’s clearly designed to – but in reality, does not – host a live channel, it’s in dire need of an overhaul.
Media playback extrasAt least recordings can be made to a HDD hooked-up to the side-panel’s USB slot, and thus accessed though a dedicated icon on Viera Tools – a presentation of the TV’s core services that can be reached at the touch of a button on the remote.
Also on Viera Tools are shortcuts to accessing media stored on a USB stick, though the two slots on the rear of the TX-P50VT30 are somewhat hidden and could be tricky to reach if this huge, heavy plasma is wall-mounted. The Media Player supports AVI, MP3 and JPEG from USB, extending to MP4, AVC HD and WMA music if the TX-P50VT30 is on the same network as a DLNA-compatible (Windows 7) PC.
Online servicesIt is worth getting online, not least because there’s built-in WiFi, so positioning the TX-P50VT30 isn’t a problem. Do so and you’ll also bring alive another core feature of all mid-to-high-end Panasonic TVs in 2011 – Viera Connect. Replete with Skype – if you buy a Skype kit from Panasonic – BBC iPlayer, Acetrax movie streaming, the live BBC News web feed and a nicely presented, intelligently searchable YouTube. There’s also a developing ‘app store’ area with various apps and games.
We’ll leave you with a slight anomaly; despite being clearly designed for use in a dark room – for it’s here where the TX-P50VT30 truly impresses – this giant plasma is nevertheless one of the most attractive screens around. At this price it has to compete with Samsung’s pencil-thin LED TVs, but at 37mm in depth it should be slinky and slim enough for most. The bezel around the actual plasma panel is a lot wider than on a top-end LED TV, but we think the use of one sheet of glass across the front, as well as a distinctive silver trim, lifts the TX-P50VT30 to the upper echelons of flatscreen TV styling.
Verdict
An enchanting and spotless performance with 2D and 3D Blu-ray persuades us that this is the ultimate home cinema screen for many. A great all-rounder that’s as adept at upscaling SD fare as it is with native HD.
The TX-P50VT30 also comes stuffed with features – Freeview HD, Freesat HD, Viera Connect (with BBC iPlayer) and DLNA streaming – but it is the sheer image quality at its core that we love. It also suggests, yet again, that plasma is the panel tech best able to cope with this era’s two main issues – making 3D both comfortable and impressive to watch, and allowing low-bitrate broadcasts sing on a big screen.
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