Video Asylum

Posted by Rich H (R) on July 13, 2002 at 22:01:06

In Reply to: Plasma posted by futzer on July 13, 2002 at 17:21:15:

Hi,

In writing "TH37pwP4U" you've mixed together two different Panasonic plasma models (37" and 42" models). Which model interests you? Better get it right before you order..:-)

If you are looking at the 42" plasma size, I very highly recomend the Panasonic TH-42PWD4UY 42" plasma. I've seen the top 42"/43" plasmas and to my eyes, and in the eyes of many other AV nerds, the Panasonic provides the sharpest, smoothes, cleanest picture, with the plasma industry's best black levels (many other plasma manufacturers continue to struggle with producing good black levels, which are important in creating a deep, rich picture). Also, the TH-42PWD4UY is better with lower-grade signals, such as NTSC broadcast, than any
plasma I've seen (or RPTV for that matter). It's a truly great all around panel.

Note that the TH-42PWD4UY, which employs 852 x 480 pixels, is *not* true hi-definition resolution, but the picture is so precise and 3-D that with a hi-def feed you'd never know it wasn't a true hi-def resolution panel. It's that fantastic. If you feel you really need true hi-def resolution, this month Panasonic is releasing the new TH-42PWD5UY. The "5UY" has 1024 x 768 pixels for real HD resolution. It's more expensive, and no one has received one yet, so there are no reports on this unit. However, given Panasonic's track record, it will probably be stunning.

Pioneer also released a true hi-def 43" plasma not long ago. It's fantastic, but I personally prefer the better black levels available from the Panasonic brand. I also find the Panasonic TH-42PWD4UY has a better picture than other supposedly "hi-def" 42" models from Fujitsu and Sony. You might want to check out NEC too. They have just released a true hi-def 42" plasma, and it's likely to be an excellent performer at a good price.

Note also, that Panasonic has dramatically reduced the price of this year's TH-42PWD4UY plasma to make way for it's new 42" plasmas, which include the TH-42PWD5UY, AND an updated version of the TH-42PWD4UY.
So the TH-42PWD4UY is as good a deal as you'll likely find in plasmas at the moment. If you go for the TH-42PWD4UY, you might want to ask if you are buying the old or the new version, and ask about the difference between the two.

Rich.