LG 47LH50YR (47-inch LCD)

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By Philip Wong, CNET Asia
May 4, 2009

The LG LH50-series is neck-to-neck with the Sony Z4-series, equipped with a 200Hz refresh rate that edges out its regular LCD TV and 100Hz counterparts. The Korean panel is also available in two different variations across Asia: An Integrated Digital TV (IDTV) LH50YD for Singapore and Australia, and an analog tuner-only LH50YR-equivalent for other Asian countries such as Malaysia and Thailand. This review is based on the LH50YR which also comes with one fewer HDMI input and standard-definition DivX playback. Click here for a side-by-side comparison.

Editors' note:

The review has been updated to reflect the LG50-series' actual dynamic contrast rating and 200Hz engine implementation.

Design

After getting accustomed to the bold and flamboyant designs of last year's LG HDTVs, we can't help but feel a bit underwhelmed by the 47LH50YR's conservative styling. Make no mistake, this 47-incher can still be a pleasant living room centerpiece, courtesy of its transparent trimmings and arched blue power LED. The problem is we're expecting more from Korean brands going forward, something beyond these details and a glossy black shell. What works for us is LG's original recipe based on a handy D-shaped swivel stand and invisible speakers which give the set a clutter-free persona.

With a side A/V panel that's 230mm deep, it's going to be challenging reaching the HDMI and USB ports.
(Click for larger image)

Bad habits never go away and despite our feedback, the overly recessed side A/V panel is back. Measured up to 230mm deep, this posed a challenge for users with wall-mounted panels to reach its auxiliary USB and HDMI ports. However, there will be little problem controlling the panel with its TV buttons conveniently located on the bezel's right edge. As for cable management, LG has included an adjustable plastic catch behind the set. It can easily handle a handful of cords, but since it's on the high side, may not be effective in routing the cables behind the table stand's shaft.

The 47LH50YR's remote is a trimmed-down version of the stick we first encountered with the LG80. It has the same faux leather texture and direct playback buttons, sans a built-in multifunctional DVD/settop box control and silver rim directional pad. We like the keys' tactile feel and overall responsiveness, though video switching can be a hassle using its input toggle button which lacks any smart filtering for untapped ports. If you like to fiddle with the TV settings like us, the Q.Menu is another nice touch. This calls up a menu of key settings onscreen for fast impromptu adjustments.

A fresh new look for its user menu. Within its picture sub-menu are nine picture modes to select from for different programs genres.
(Click for larger image)

Aside from the controller, the software menu and user interface have also received a belated facelift. This improves the flow, now based on a left-to-right navigation, which is a lot more intuitive than the previous iteration. Additionally, the menu offers a good spread of A/V configurations such as backlighting, edge enhancement with a notable white balance omission. They're clustered under nine picture modes with independent memory for each input: One auto Intelligent Sensor power-saving mode driven by an onboard light sensor and eight user-adjustable program-specific modes

Tags: Light-emitting Diode, TV, USB Port, cable, built-In

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