HDTV 1080p vs 720pYour One-Stop Hub for 1080p and 720p HDTV Information

LG Infinia 55LX9500 LED LCD HDTV

An upgrade of the brand’s flagship LE8500 series, the LG Infinia 55LX9500 shares most of the awesome features of its highly regarded predecessor: great black levels and shadow details, exceptional color accuracy and impressive off-angle fidelity. This new version has with 3D-compatibility, though this new technology is relatively new and hence, still has kinks that LG needs to remedy in future releases.

Design

LG redefines sleekness in the 55LX9500 series, with its slim profile, single pane look and ultra-thin frame that would make people less aware of the TV and more immersed on the pictures on-screen. The head-turning display is complimented by an ice-cube-like transparent swivel stalk on a clear and black stand that together create an illusion of a floating TV screen.

The 55LX9500 comes with both the Wiimote-like Magic Wand motion controller and the standard clicker. The Magic Wand appears to be more useful than in previous models, with its own simplified menu system, a cursor that responds well to the wand’s motions, and buttons that are easy to use by feel. The real remote and menu system, on the other hand, are both functional and intuitive with easily differentiated keys and groupings, plenty of navigation choices and shortcuts, but the clicker lacks infrared control capability and the menu items need some explanations.

Screen/Picture Clarity

Sporting a full array LED backlight with local dimming and 480Hz refresh rates, the LG Infinia 55LX9500 definitely performs well beyond expectations. Images onscreen are punchy and realistic: this HDTV not only recreates the most accurate colors but also offers one of the deepest black levels ever seen in an LCD TV. There is some screen uniformity and blooming problems – but with an impressive off-angle picture quality and shadow rendering that resolved even the most subtle details – these issues are definitely minor.

Since 3D-compatibility distinguishes the Infinia 55LX9500 from its step-down siblings, it is quite expected that it would excel in this arena; unfortunately, the 3D performance is merely so-so, mainly due to the poor black levels which resulted in washed out images. Besides, the HDTV offers no 2D-to-3D conversion capability, resolves 1080p/24 sources incorrectly; and performs poorly under bright light conditions.

The above issues notwithstanding, rendering of high-def programs and 2D materials is exceedingly superb, while handling of standard def sources is also quite commendable. The solid output along with the 55LX9500‘s multiple calibration and motion settings would surely make even jaded HDTV enthusiasts envious.

Features

The Infinia 55LX9500 boasts of its reliable Netcast content providers that includes Netflix and Vudu; Twitter, Picasa, and an updated Yahoo widgets interface. The offering is quite sparse compared to other brands, especially as it lacks Facebook and online music providers like Pandora. One can get the optional 3D glasses for more immersive viewing, while the speakerphone accessory is needed for Skype.

The HDTV comes with four HDMI ports, composite/component/RF inputs, VGA-style inputs, digital audio output, two USB ports, Ethernet port and a proprietary RS-232 media box wireless control port.

The LG Infinia 55LX9500 is decidedly one of the finest HDTVs n the market in terms of design and performance. It might be a tad pricey for most people and its 3D output is less than ideal, but it certainly is perfect for buyers willing to splurge a bit for high picture quality.

<< Click HERE to Read The Latest LG Infinia 55LX9500 User Reviews >>

LG Infinia 55LX9500 LED LCD HDTV Review is a post from: HDTV Reviews Best HDTV LCD TVs Plasma TVs

ShareThis

LG 60PK550 60-Inch 1080p Plasma HDTV

One of the mid-price-range HDTVs released by LG in 2010, the 60PK550 is the biggest sized plasma in the new PK550 series that offers full 1080p compatibility for truly vivid and eye-popping images. Combining sleek and seamless design, superb performance and nice features in a package that comes with a surprisingly affordable price tag, this HDTV is really worth considering when shopping for a new high-def television.

Design

As in other HDTVs in the LG line-up, the 60PK550’s head-turning design immediately draws people’s attention and it’s not difficult to see why. With the slim 2-inch space-saving profile, glossy all-black body with narrow bezel, and trendy swivel and stand all coming together in an exceptionally clean design, this HDTV is sure to attract not only casual glances but admiring looks as well.

The standard unified clicker that comes in the box is easy to use with its distinctive and logically positioned keys and ergonomic design. The backlit remote is CEC-compliant with its SimpLink keys that can be used to control other devices connected via the TV’s HDMI ports. Operation is quite intuitive and effortless with the easy-to-understand menu system that includes basic and advanced HDTV calibration options.

Screen/Picture Clarity

The LG 60PK550 boasts of a powerful video processor that can handle full 1080p sources accurately while doubling the pixel resolution; 600Hz Sub Field Drive for clearer and artifact-free fast action sequences; and a wide array of calibration choices to satisfy even discerning videophiles, The LG 60PK550 resolves standard-def sources quite well, but as it is geared more for HD content, handling of the latter is expectedly richer and more dynamic.

While it suffers slightly when compared to the flagship plasma models in its brood like the Infinia 50PX950, the deep blacks and shadow details of the LG 60PK550 are enough to show realistic images that seems to pop out from the screen, particularly with the awesome contrast ratio that the HDTV offers. Colors are a little subdued and the image a tad darker than others, but this may be due to the ambient light sensor that detects room illumination and adjusts screen brightness accordingly.

The proprietary Skin Glass of LG may reduce internal reflections and provides image depth, but the screen also yielded considerable glare that is quite distracting especially in well-lit rooms. Off-angle viewing is also good in low-light settings.

Features

LG capitalizes on the Intelligent Sensor as one of the selling points of the PK550 series, for good reason: not only does the sensor change the display according to the room brightness, but it lessens power consumption for smart energy efficiency. Another great feature is the excellent sound output from the built-in speakers, though this is not enough to compensate for the lack of Internet connectivity that is already standard offering in other HDTVs in its class.

The LG 60PK550 has also a very limited connectivity with its three HDMI inputs, one USB port for music playing and photo viewing, PC input, component/composite/RF ports, audio output and other standard slots

With superb design, excellent picture quality, decent features, and most importantly, easy-on-the-pocket price tag, the LG 60PK550 is a good choice for people wanting to shift to entry-level plasmas. Others already there may have to look elsewhere for more up-to-date and full-featured HDTVs.

<< Click HERE to Read The Latest LG 60PK550 User Reviews >>

LG 60PK550 Plasma HDTV Review is a post from: HDTV Reviews Best HDTV LCD TVs Plasma TVs

ShareThis

The Mitsubishi L75-A91 75-Inch 1080p LaserVue HDTV

Even as other HDTV makers focus more of their research and development efforts on LCDs and LEDs, Mitsubishi remains committed to projection technology, particularly DLP, for the manufacture of cutting-edge HDTVs geared for high-end home theatre systems. The 4th generation Mitsubishi L75-A91 75-Inch 1080p LaserVue HDTV is the latest of the 3D-ready rear-projection units that certainly raise the bar in HDTV image quality.

Design

Home cinema enthusiasts would surely appreciate the addition of the Mitsubishi L75-A91 LaserVue in the line up of superb yet elegant large-screen HDTVs. Featuring a mammoth screen framed in both sides by a narrow bezel, the top-side features a thicker and slightly protruding frame while the lower side has a thick curved frame that camouflages the control panel and speakers. This LaserVue model truly exudes elegance with its mix of well- defined lines and smooth curves, punctuated by the solid looking removable stand that is softened by light blue lights placed on each side, giving the unit a pleasantly stylish and relaxed ambience.

The Mitsubishi L75-A91 LaserVue is shipped with the standard Mitsubishi universal remote controller which can operate HDMI devices attached to the television. With a wide form factor, the remote features easy to distinguish keys and groupings that make operation and navigation of the straightforward menu system quite hassle-free.

Screen/Picture Clarity

This Mitsubishi L75-A91 harnesses the latest advances in LaserVue technology which now uses the purest laser light to deliver rich picture quality that doubles the color and complexity offered by current flat panel HDTVs. Touted as the largest DLP display with the least electricity consumption, the Mitsubishi L75-A91 provides optimized cinema-like displays with stunning picture quality and unmatched clarity that rivals those of digital movie theatres.

The L75-A91 handles 1080p/24 sources exceptionally well with its Variable Smooth 120 Film Motion feature, while up-converting standard def sources is a breeze with the Plush1080p 5G 12-Bit video processor. The LaserVue also renders 3D images superbly, and with the use of appropriate 3D accessories, gives truly immersive viewing experiences. However, accessories needed for 3D viewing are purchased separately in the company released 3D Starter Pack.

Features

Aside from the impressive Cinema Color mode and lowest-ever power consumption for DLP HDTVs, the  Mitsubishi L75-A91 LaserVue offers an irresistible array of features that would make movie and video enthusiasts drool: StreamTV Internet Media that allows access to the VUDU HD movie rental site, Flickr, Picasa and social networking sites like Facebook  and Twitter. This unit also features an integrated HDTV tuner that picks up over-the-air HDTV broadcasts as well as HDTV feeds from unscrambled cable systems.

The L75-A91 LaserVue is generously fitted with four HDMI connectors with Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) capabilities; rf, component and composite jacks; Ethernet port; audio output jacks; and two USB ports (one with accessory power) that is useful for viewing JPEG files and playing MP3 music. The unit offers Easy Connect function that automatically identifies and removes connected/disconnected devices.

With a consistent throughput of vividly spectacular images, DLP is still the best choice for really great home cinema systems, albeit an expensive one. But for true cinemaphiles who are willing to splurge a bit, the Mitsubishi L75-A91 75-Inch 1080p LaserVue HDTV should be at the top of their shopping list.

<< Click HERE to Read The Latest Mitsubishi L75-A91 User Reviews >>

Mitsubishi L75-A91 LaserVue HDTV Review is a post from: HDTV Reviews Best HDTV LCD TVs Plasma TVs

ShareThis

The 3d LG Infinia 50PX950

One of the stand-outs in the recent spate of 3D HDTV releases, the LG Infinia 50PX950 plasma promises great picture clarity with its deep blacks, accurate colours and excellent 3D rendering in an exceptionally sleek design that would surely make people notice.

Design

With a narrow and flushed blue bezel framing the single-pane display, the LG Infinia 50PX950 gives a stunningly clean and sleek look that never fails to attract attention. The moderate panel thickness, transparent revolving stalk and a glass-topped rectangular stand add elegant touches that make this HDTV superbly appealing and perfect for modern home interiors.

Like the other top-of-the-line releases from LG, the Infinia 50PX950 comes with the Magic Wand remote that mimics Nintendo’s Wiimote controller, in addition to the standard remote controller. The motion-sensitive wand fits easily in the hand and has a few buttons that allows users to control the HDTV on-screen menus by hand gestures. But if one finds the novel clicker no longer amusing, the standard multi-button remote with rubberized and friendly keys works just fine. The remote may lack the ability to control other infrared devices, but it sure has distinctive buttons that enable effortless navigation of the basic and advanced menus and functions.

Screen/Picture Clarity

The Infinia 50PX950 adds 3D and THX display capabilities to the former flagship PK950 series, but THX in both 3D and 2D modes are nonadjustable while the other four 3D modes and the rest of the 2D modes have various advanced picture adjustment options. The HDTV has an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts brightness on the non-THX modes, and LG’s Picture Wizard is handy for guiding the uninitiated into the intricacies of basic display adjustments.

With deep-enough blacks and accurate colour response out-of-the-box particularly for the THX mode, the Infinia 50PX950 certainly gives other plasmas a run for their money. Tweaking the brightness and gamma settings makes the picture even better, with uniform image quality and off-angle clarity that match the output of top competing brands. The HDTV processes standard and high definition (1080p/24) sources quite well, and most importantly, delivers on its three-dimensional promise as it renders 3D better than all other plasmas. Of course, the images do come alive with the help of the 3D glasses which, unfortunately, are optional and an added expense.

Features

The PX950 series comes with an array of features: streaming media from Netflix, Youtube and Vudu; Internet apps such as Twitter, Picasa and Flickr; and a host of useful Yahoo widgets and games, though it lacks Facebook and other major streaming-content providers like Amazon. Internet connection is via Ethernet or the optional WiFi USB dongle, while various devices can be connected through the four HDMI ports, two USB ports, and a host of standard connections and inputs. The optional LG Wireless Media Box offers a proprietary wireless HDMI access for even greater flexibility and convenience.

The Infinia 50PX950 offers white/colour washes and a pixel orbiter to combat image burn-in, on-screen manual, and energy saving modes, including a “screen off” option for listening only to sounds.

With an splendid design, impressive picture quality and a treasure-trove of cutting-edge features, the LG Infinia 50PX950 definitely deserves its place as the LG’s new flagship HDTV, replacing its equally impressive predecessors in the PK950 series.

<< Click HERE to Read The Latest LG Infinia 60PX950 User Reviews >>

LG Infinia 50PX950 3D HDTV Review is a post from: HDTV Reviews Best HDTV LCD TVs Plasma TVs

ShareThis