Pioneer PDP-427XG (42-inch plasma)

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By Philip Wong, CNET Asia
Nov 20, 2006

If tuning your own TV is a far-fetched proposition, fear not as Pioneer might just have the right solution for you. Embedded in its latest generation-seven PureVision plasma TVs are custom software that enables professional-level calibration. Executed by certified professionals, this option-paid service guarantees Hollywood-standard hues less the hassle and guesswork.

Design
The PDP-427XG's form factor is a departure from the series' customary media box and panel design. While we welcome the reduction in power consumption and required shelf space brought about by the latest revision, its predecessor's side/bottom speaker mount and convenient component hookup are some of the flexibilities we miss. Having said that, you will still get a quality metal chassis front with an alluring black panel frame--an almost iconic signature of Pioneer's plasma TVs under its long-standing PureVision lineups.

From afar, it's almost impossible to distinguish the seamlessly integrated bottom speakers, save for its high perforated grille which runs across the entire length of the set. The easy-access A/V jacks and TV controls are also well-concealed from preying eyes. The former is situated on the left of the 115mm-thick casing, while the latter, in the form of six tiny buttons, takes the right. Our review unit came with a fixed table-top stand, although a wall-mounting kit is also available upon request (applicable for Singapore purchase only).

	Dedicated input buttons for easy video input switching. (click for larger image)

Pioneer is packaging a black-and-silver remote controller which is near-identical to its previous offering. A bit oversized compared with its compatriots, the 240mm-long stick features a collection of well-spaced buttons as well as a ribbed underbelly for improved ergonomics. The provision of dedicated input selection keys is also a plus, making video switching a breeze and a godsend for those with a multitude of A/V boxes. These are numbered rather than labeled due to the sharing nature of each set of inputs.

Toggling the Home Menu button on the remote activates a colorful software menu consisting of six submenus and companion help text. Here you will find, among others, a suite of advanced configurations with multilevel adjustments. This enables a high degree of fine-tuning, putting the users in full control over the various image-enhancement functions such as PureCinema and Intelligent Color. In case the onscreen help is insufficient to tide you through the technicalities, Pioneer has also included a 50 page-thick manual for easy reference.

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