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By Philip Wong
Jul 24, 2006

The ALiS technology differs from common plasma panels with an unusual 1,024 x 1,024-pixel resolution. This has created a unique breed of flat TVs best described as HD-compatible for their lopsided horizontal and vertical pixel counts. On the one hand, the former is 20 percent short of the minimum 1,280-pixel requirement. On the other hand, it has more than 40 percent extra resolution for the latter.

With the introduction of the new-gen HD 1080 ALiS panel, the vertical resolution is boosted to the much talked-about 1080 level. This enhancement does away with video scaling for full-HD materials but also unfortunately aggravates the corresponding horizontal pixel shortfall to over 40 percent. Will this peculiar design affect its performance? We took the Hitachi 42PD8900TA for a month-long spin to seek an answer.

The Hitachi 42PD8900TA is clone of its predecessor, right down to the layout of the TV controls and sockets. On the left of the chassis, we have a set of quick-access A/V and USB terminals, while on the right is a collection of well-labeled buttons and an SD/MMC memory card slot. Its plasma panel is wrapped around a 45mm-thick frame which, in turn, is flanked by a pair of curvy speaker grilles. The beefy 37.7kg assembly is held upright by an internally powered motorized stand which swivels at the touch of the remote's button.

	Fanless design ensures noise-free operation while a large perforated metal chassis enhances ventilation. (click for more information)

Given today's widespread cost-cutting, it's remarkable that Hitachi has elected to encase the panel in a full metal chassis. This not only enhances the overall build, it also heightens aesthetics with a tasteful blend of brushed metal finishing and a black piano mirror front. Like all its premium 8000-series flat TVs, the rear input panel is also given a glossy layer of silver paint, second in luxury to the Samsung R7 LCDs. To keep the cabling tidy and concealed, there is a simple cable management system which routes the cords behind the tabletop stand.

Complementing the main unit is a similarly styled remote controller with built-in multibrand DVD player and settop box support. We were particularly impressed with the large five-way navigation control and eight dedicated input buttons making impromptu adjustments and video switching a breeze. It is, nevertheless, a pity that the buttons are not backlit for a dim lighting environment, though this may be offset by an arched bottom which provides comfortable grip with its ergonomic design.

Another strong design of the TV, which will please videophiles and their likes, is its comprehensive user menu. Here you will find a wide assortment of video, audio and power settings to tailor the set to your liking. That’s besides the three picture and four sound modes factory-tuned to cater for a variety of entertainment material. For those who still bother with the user manual, Hitachi has also included an informative and well-illustrated copy covering each and every function of the 42PD8900TA.

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