Reviews

Panasonic Viera TC-P50VT25 is considered so far to be the best 3D plasma TV model to be released in 2010, and it is not only its 3D capability that catches the eye of the consumer in search of novelty. The image quality is out of this world, and word has it that buying the Kuro technology from its former master, Pioneer, has something to do with Panasonic Viera TC-P50VT25’s excellent performance in this respect. While it lacks the 2D to 3D conversion capabilities seen on models like Samsung PN50C8000, this is not a big loss, since this particular plasma’s performance is really great in both 2D and 3D.

The C8000 series from Samsung is meant to be the flagship of the company for 2010’s plasmas, which basically means that Samsung PN50C8000, the smallest of the series, comes equipped with all the goodies the manufacturer invested in to impress consumers. The model is 3D enabled – as the competition for 3D TV is going strong among plasma and LCD TV manufacturers – and this is not all.

In the past, LG didn’t succeed to impress with the levels of blacks on its plasma models, but 2010 is the year of change for the famous manufacturer (more famous until now for its LCD TV series rather than for its plasmas). On LG Infinia 50PK950, image quality is much improved, although some reflections, due to the glass sheet covering the screen, mar a performance that is otherwise very good for a product that is priced less than its direct competition.

Although it is not 3D ready, like its more expensive brothers, TC-P50VT25 and TC-P50VT20, Panasonic Viera TC-P50G25 has a lot of perks. If you do not mind not being able to watch just yet the scarce 3D HDTV content that it is out there, then this Panasonic plasma is among the best HDTVs money can buy in 2010. An improved type of panel, NeoPDP Infinite Black, is guaranteed to make the performance better, especially in the black levels area.

A tad lower on the performance scale, if compared with its more expensive brother Samsung PN50C8000, Samsung PN50C7000 has about everything one would expect from a model that aims to score among the best plasma TV models released in 2010. Besides being 3D capable, the model also delivers excellent 2D image quality, which is not to be taken lightly since 3D content is actually quite scarce and it cannot really count for making or breaking consumers’ choices in new HDTVs.

For those consumers that are looking to purchase a fairly priced product that does deliver as promised, without having them breaking the bank, Panasonic Viera TC-P50S2 may be just the next best thing. Showing that improving the last year technology is something totally in their powers, the manufacturers decided to make this model, as well as the others in the same series, a great combination of more than decent picture quality with the no frills type of attitude, under a not so boastful design.

LG is one of the HDTV manufacturers aiming at creating products for all ranges of quality and prices. LG Infinia 50PK750 is only one step lower than its brother from the other Infinia series, LG Infinia 50PK950, but the TruBlack filter already cannot be found on it, which means a decrease in picture quality, as well. On the other hand, this 50 inch plasma TV has solid entertainment options, and, even if there are certain issues concerning image performance, for the price, LG Infinia 50PK750 can be quite a good deal.

Panasonic TC-P42C2 is a great option when you are looking for a certain product. It has only 720p resolution, but this may not be such a huge hindrance for you, since this 42 inch plasma TV does not really need more resolution points, seeing that the screen size is quite on the small side. There are other things about Panasonic TC-P42C2 that makes it an interesting product.

The main attraction of Panasonic TC-P50X1 is, no doubt, the price, a thing that comes naturally, as this 50 inch plasma TV is an entry level product, without fancy features. While you cannot compare this Panasonic plasma TV with top of the line models, rest assured that the image quality is more than what you pay for. One would expect Panasonic TC-P50X1 to perform in the same way as a C1 model, because they share the same 720p resolution, but this is not the case; the X1 representative has better contrast ratio and more connectivity options, making it more competitive for the price. Plus, the company did not spare the effort to install the new anti-reflective screen on the X1 series, a thing that cannot be said about C1 and U1 (despite the fact that the latter has 1080p resolution).

Those seeking to buy an entry level plasma TV with great picture quality and a decent set of features have found it in Panasonic TC-P42X1. This Panasonic plasma TV is cheaper than the models from mid and high level mainly because of its 720p resolution, but it does not lack much in the area of overall image quality and connectivity options are not to throw away. Keep in mind, though, that this 42 inch plasma TV has the same panel Panasonic used for its last year series, so do not expect amazing improvements from 2008 models. The X1 series is part of the lower line of Panasonic plasma TV’s, as well as C1 and U1, with some differences. While X1 has 720p resolution, as C1, it does have the same contrast ratio as U1, and Panasonic TC-P42X1 can still be listed as a very good plasma TV, especially because of the price.

Just saying that Samsung PN58B850 is a top of the line plasma TV may seem like an understatement, if one just throws a single look at it. With its 1.2 inch depth in frame, that makes it look elegantly thin from the side, this series from Samsung is considered to have delivered the best looking plasma of the year. For a Samsung plasma TV, Samsung PN58B850 comes fully packed with all the fancy features of a high end product, like Picture in Picture, the ability to connect to the Internet, and the 600Hz subfield motion technology, aimed to match the 600Hz subfield drive from Panasonic, the direct competition. All in all, this 58 inch plasma TV is worth a second look, if you have the money to spend on it, despite the fact that its performance matches the previous series from the same manufacturer.

In terms of performance, Samsung PN50B850 is on the same level with the models from the previous 650 series from the same company. One would wonder why spend more on this 50 inch plasma TV, if the performance is the same, but it would only mean that that person has not seen the new high tech design Samsung had in store for the 850/860 series, with a frame that is only 1.2 inches thick. There is little difference between this Panasonic plasma TV and its 860 counterpart, the latter having as extras, the ability to switch manually to 24 cinema mode, as well as an extra calibration mode. The overall picture quality is great, and its video processing features are very reliable.

Someone looking for a luxury product, should stop by and check on the 2009 release from Samsung, the Samsung PN58B860 plasma TV. For a 58 inch plasma TV, it is not unusual to carry a steep price, but some people may decide against such a buy, seeing that almost the only novelty the 850/860 series from Samsung brings over the previous 650 is the – we must say it – astonishing sleek design, with only 1.2 inches in depth. Performance is about the same, and this Samsung plasma TV is still a product meant for those that don’t mind paying extra just for having a cool looking HDTV installed in their living room.

The top of the line series from Samsung can brag about its picture quality, as well as its accurate colors. While it does somewhat stand lower than the V10 series from Panasonic, this Samsung series from 2009 is not a bad option, either. Samsung PN50B860 sports about the same quality one would find in the less expensive 6 series from the same manufacturer, but what makes it stand out is its sleek design, that could make you take extra money out of your pocket, provided that you want to acquire the coolest plasma model on the market these days. This Samsung plasma TV has little over the 850 sub-series, represented only by a manual option in order to turn on the 1080p/24 mode, as well as one calibration mode more. For a 50 inch plasma TV, this model provides a very good performance, so, if you are willing to spend more for its 1.2 inch depth screen, it can be quite a catch.

In the 54 inch category, Panasonic TC-P54S1 has plenty of competition. The good news is that the 54 inch plasma TV does not aim to beat up higher level plasma, as this was not what it was designed for, but it still performs more than decently, which brings it closer to those top of the line products, despite its less expensive price tag. It is true that Panasonic TC-P54S1 does not come with fancy features, such as THX certification, 24p cinema mode and Viera Cast abilities, all enhancements that the company brought forward only with the high level series, such as G10 and V10, but its picture quality is still great, and this recommends fully the Panasonic plasma TV we review here.

Panasonic TC-P46S1 brings honor to the company’s name, through its overall competitive picture quality. This Panasonic plasma TV is a very good example of what the manufacturer intended to bring forward with the new plasma TV series released in 2009. The blacks are the deepest seen on a plasma TV in 2009 (the same quality as in V10 and G10 series), and, while the colors are not as accurate as in its newer mates, because it does not have the THX certification, this 46 inch plasma TV offers a good deal for the buck, as its price is lower than, for example, Panasonic TC-P46G10. Of course, this does mean that you won’t enjoy the fancy features you find in the top of the line series; but, if you are looking for a very good plasma TV at a competitive price.

Gifted with the new NeoPDP display and a resolution of 1080p, Panasonic TC-P42S1 represents a very good quality mid level plasma TV, and a step up from the manufacturer’s X1 series. Although it does not display the latest features in plasma TV’s, like THX certification, Viera Cast web options, and 24p cinema mode (found in the superior V10 and G10 series from the same company), this Panasonic plasma TV offers great picture quality at an affordable price. For a 42 inch plasma TV, this represents a good deal, especially because of the price, although its colors are not as accurate as you can find in a G10 plasma TV in the same size category.

Many consumers usually prefer mid-level products, as they can enjoy a good quality product, without having to break the bank for it. Panasonic knows this oh-so-well, and their 50 inch plasma TV, Panasonic TC-P50S1 is the proof. Without being fully packed with features like THX certification, Viera Cast add-ons, or 24p cinema mode (found in the most expensive series such as G10 and V10), the S1 series can boast about exceptional black levels and reliable color saturation. You can also find a good deal for this Panasonic plasma TV, as this is less expensive than the newer plasma TVs from the same manufacturer. With its NeoPDP panel and its 1080p resolution, the S1 is also more than one step up from the entry level series X1, being placed closer to top of the line plasma TVs, rather than low level products. All in all, Panasonic TC-P50S1 is a mid-level plasma in terms of price, but not exactly the run of the mill HDTV.

The main thing that can be said about Panasonic TC-P54G10 is that it offers just the right balance between price and quality. Even though it does not exactly match the quality of its V10 counterpart in all areas, it falls only slightly behind it and it is also less expensive, which can make it the right choice for those that do not intend to spend more money just for a product that is a new release. As any Panasonic plasma TV released in 2009, it comes with many new and exciting features, also displaying exceptional black levels and overall picture quality. For a 54 inch plasma TV, it provides the viewer with a great watching experience, guaranteed by its overall great picture quality, marred only by a few flaws.

As well as its little brother Panasonic TC-P42G10, the 46 inch TC-P46G10 is considered to be the best plasma TV in its size category. Being gifted with the same great features available for the entire G10 series - amazing black levels and THX certification for great colors - this Panasonic plasma TV deserves such a great rating. The manufacturer seems to have thought about all the categories of customers. Those looking for a large screen plasma TV and better quality, may want to avert their attention towards the V10 series from Panasonic, while others that seek a better price deal, while settling for good (but not the best) quality, may be interested in Panasonic S1 models. But if you search for the best 46 inch plasma TV on sale right now, then your choice should be Panasonic TC-P46G10.

This THX certified 42 inch plasma TV has impressed buyers and critics through its exceptional black levels and overall picture quality, ever since its release, being overcome only by the newest series from Panasonic V10, and, of course, the long acclaimed – but now discontinued – Pioneer Kuro. In its size category, (as V10 doesn’t come in 42 inch), it is the best, and this Panasonic plasma TV rises over the S1 series, through its THX certification and the pack of features it comes equipped with, like Viera Cast and the ability to access Amazon Video on Demand service.

With the G10 series release, Panasonic proved its serious intentions of taking over the plasma TV market in 2009. Although this Panasonic plasma TV is slightly below the newer V10 series, in terms of performance, it is still a great purchase, with Panasonic TC-P50G10 being rightfully considered being very close to top of the line products. For a 50 inch plasma TV, Panasonic TC-P50G10 has the excellent black levels one can find in the superior V10, and, despite some minor color accuracy issues, it is nothing but a fully feature pack that any buyer would enjoy. Also, it represents a step up from the previous Panasonic series, like S1, being appointed with the new THX certification that guarantees good colors right off the box.

The V10 series from Panasonic comes in large sizes, being addressed to those videophiles that love a nearly life like experience when watching their favorite shows or movies. Panasonic TC-P54V10 is considered by many to be the rightful replacement for the defunct Kuro from Pioneer. In 2009, Panasonic graced the plasma market with a large gamut of series, from low budget products to expensive and competitive HDTV’s. This Panasonic plasma TV is very much similar with G10 series, but it does come with many improvements, like better video processing capabilities, for 1080p/24 frames content, and more picture adjustments settings. In its size category, this 54 inch plasma TV challenges the first place, and no one seems to see it otherwise.

Since taking over the empty space let by Pioneer in the plasma TV market, Panasonic has done well, focusing as much on products meant for the budget minded customer, as well as on plasma TV’s designed for those that crave for feature loaded gizmos, no matter the price tag attached. Panasonic TC-P50V10 from 2009 is still behind the Kuro PRO-111FD manufactured by Pioneer, but, since this one is no longer in production, this 50 inch plasma TV is aiming for the role of leader on the market. The Panasonic plasma TV line named V10 stands better than other counterparts, and even with other series coming of Panasonic production line, like the G10 series. Let’s see what’s the fuss about this specific product, that enjoys much praise both from specialists and general public.

In this review we are going to take a look at Samsung PN50A650 plasma TV. In terms of overall quality, Samsung PN50A650 is somewhere between Panasonic PZ800U/PZ850U series and PZ80U/PZ85U series (also from Panasonic). It is a plasma TV that doesn’t excel in any area, while managing to be better than the pack. No matter what aspect we take into consideration, it will not be able to outperform Pioneer Kuro or the high-end models from Panasonic. That being said though, for its price it offers great value. It is cheaper than Pioneer and high-end Panasonic models, so for those of you who must keep an eye on the budget, it is a very good plasma TV to buy.

In this review you get to read about a plasma TV that comes with both exceptional picture quality, as well as a very good price tag. Panasonic Viera TH-50PZ800U is not a cheap model, being one of the top models from Panasonic, but considering the quality it offers it makes the best deal. This combination of high quality and approachable price will probably make Panasonic TH-50PZ800U one of the most popular plasma TVs of this year. In a nutshell, you get deep blacks, accurate colors, good anti-glare screen and plenty of connectivity options, all packed in a sleek design.

Panasonic Viera TH-50PZ850U is the 50 inch model of Panasonic’s high-end plasma TV line. As you would expect from a top-of-the-line Panasonic plasma TV, this model has 1080p resolution and offers very good picture quality. Though its black levels don’t match those of Pioneer models, they are still very good and provide great shadow depth and detail. The color reproduction of TH-50PZ850U is also very good, and together with the deep black levels it manages to offer excellent picture quality. This model from Panasonic comes with extra features like the ability to watch YouTube movies and Google Picasa pictures. Unfortunately, though these are nice features to have, they increase the price.

Pioneer Kuro models have been the best plasma TV models on the market for quite a while. They have the deepest black levels you can see in a plasma TV or any other type of HDTV for that matter. Because of these very deep black levels, the overall picture quality of Pioneer Kuro displays is exceptional. The side effect of having such deep black levels is a positive one: you get great contrast ratio and color reproduction and that means a superb picture. However, because they are the best they cost more money than other plasma TV models.