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Panasonic TC-42PX14: Review

Posted to Televisions 2009-11-23

The Panasonic TC-42PX14 plasma TV is the latest 42 inch model in Panasonic's excellent VIERA line of HDTVs. The unit has a native contrast ratio of 30,000 to 1, 3 HDMI inputs and a stated 100,000 hour panel life. The unit includes VIERA-Link, which allows one remote to control multiple VIERA devices from the same unit and an image viewer to make photo viewing easier.

The resolution is 1024 x 768 and the TV is capable of showing 480p, 1080p, 1080i and 720p HD formats. Other features include progressive scan and 600HZ sub-field drive, which produces crisp, focused images for fast moving scenes. The unit also features 24p cinematic playback, an AR filter for minimum glare and the VIERA-Tools menu interface, which provides user-friendly menus for setup and adjustment of settings. The TC-42PX14 also features 2 full range speakers with 20W output and a SD card slot for use with the Image Viewer.

Rating:

3.8 out of 5

Value

The TC-42PX14 is quite reasonably priced when compared to 42 inch plasma models from the competition. It has many of the features you need in a big screen HDTV, including useful ones for building a complete home theater system. The 3 HDMI inputs and VIERA-Link capability are nice if you stick with Panasonic components, and the ability to play back all HDTV formats is very convenient. The built-in Image Viewer with SD card reader is an added bonus. Build quality is above average. About the only thing to complain about is the lack of network support, which is close to becoming a standard feature in new HDTVs.

Performance

The TC42PX14 delivers excellent performance, even in brightly lit rooms. The image quality is better than most LCD sets, but not quite on par with LED sets. But at this price, there's really no reason to complain. The specs are quite competitive, with the 30,000 to 1 contrast ratio and 1024x768 resolution. The VIERA-Link system works quite well with other Panasonic components and the included remote is large and easy to see. And the image viewer makes viewing your favorite photos in HD a real joy.

Summary

If you're in the market for a reasonably priced large screen HDTV, the TC42PX14 makes a good choice. It's combination of features, performance and quality make it an ideal choice as the centerpiece for that new home theater system. And with a stated 100,000 hour panel life, you're sure to get years of enjoyment from the unit. All-in-all a very good offering from Panasonic.

Pros

42 inch Plasma HDTV
30,000:1 contrast ratio
VIERA-Link
3 HDMI inputs

Cons

Lacks network support