Panasonic Viera TX-32LX700M (32-inch LCD)

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By Philip Wong, CNET Asia
May 11, 2007

It looks like we are in love once more with the Panasonic Viera LCD TVs. This was after an imbalanced 2006 lineup focusing mainly on its plasma counterparts. Dropped out of its flat-panel stable was the LCD equivalent of its flagship 600-series, leaving its potential customers with a paltry choice of only four low-to-midrange models.

This time round, we have the TX-32LX700M back on the plate, outfitted with the popular In-Plane Switching (IPS) LCD panel and some of the latest technologies the market has to offer. Will it hold against the competition or can its small 32-inch screen prove an insurmountable hurdle with the fast-falling prices of the 42-inchers?

Design
The LX700�s shade is a departure from the familiar Viera black-and-silver scheme, and comes instead in a refreshing matt finish somewhat in line with the current A/V fashion trend. Beyond this cosmetic change, it still possess many signature traits of its lineage, from the curvy side profile to the clean lines and unique diamond-shaped swivel stand. Minimalists may also be attracted to its clutter-free front, save for the embossed company logo in contrasting silver and a couple of other smaller ones hinting at its underlying potential.

Measuring 836mm wide, the chassis is longer than most 32-inchers due to a pair of streamlined side speakers, a minor compromise in exchange for enhanced stereo separation. Impromptu hookup is a hassle-free exercise, thanks to the side A/V inputs conveniently located by the right. These are clustered below the SDHC card slot housed behind a flip cover and spring-loaded for easy removal. It would have been a sound layout if not for the top-mounted TV controls, easily out of reach for many but the most determined.

	A handsome remote to go with the latest Viera. (Click for larger image)

Panasonic has shipped an attractive matching remote for the set. While the buttons at both extreme ends may hinder one-hand operation, this is offset by a comfortably arched bottom and multifunction capability. Seven dedicated keys are included to facilitate basic VCR and DVD playback, though their relevance is limited to selected Panasonic models. On this Viera, external input selection is implemented via a toggle button and it doesn�t help that there are eight looping options available, making video switching a cumbersome task.

It is a love-hate affair when it comes to the onboard software menu. On the one hand, navigation is a breeze with the well-structured submenus and a handy onscreen guide. On the other hand, we can�t help but lament the miserable spread of advanced video configurations, taking into consideration its flagship stature. This leaves most of the video-processing executions to the V-real II engine, less two multilevel noise reduction and automated color management systems in the user's hands.

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