Panasonic Viera TH-42PV700H (42-inch plasma)

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Features
At the heart of the HD-compatible Panasonic is a newly developed G10 HD plasma panel. This has a modest 1,024 x 768-pixel resolution and is capable of delivering a high-contrast ratio factor of 10,000:1 matched with 29 billion colors. Though these figures are less tantalizing than the Samsung and LG, the PV700 does offer a proprietary anti-glare coating effective at suppressing reflections. Similar in appearance as the LCD's surface in matt finish, the overlay rejects ambient lighting readily, substantially reducing washed-out pictures during daytime viewing.

Besides the panel upgrade, the PV700's onboard video processor has also received a timely 1080p overhaul. The latest V-real II engine is now capable of handling this high-resolution signal at its native format, while performing video upscaling and deinterlacing for standard-definition sources. Other picture-enhancement functions catered by the new chip also include motion pattern noise reduction, advanced 3D color management and sub-pixel control. The former is designed to minimize false contouring that may sometimes occur in fast-motion images.

Another value-added capability is its onboard JPEG playback. Implemented via a single-slot card reader, the Photo View Mode is compatible with regular SD and MMC plus high-capacity SDHC up to 4GB in storage. Conveniently called up when a flash memory card is inserted, the system displays a snapshot of the digital album in a 4 x 3 grid complete with handy information such as date and resolution. Apart from the customary rotation option, you can also put on a slideshow with the added flexibility of programming time interval and repetitive looping.

	Three 1080p HDMI terminals: Two on the rear and on in front. (Click for larger image)

Connectivity junkies will appreciate the wide selection of jacks available on this Panasonic flat panel. Most notable is a triplet of HDMI terminals with 1080p (50 and 60Hz) and Viera-Link compatibilities. One of these is situated in front for impromptu interface with HD video cameras. If that's still not enough, a pair of 1080i-ready analog component-video sockets is available as high-def backup. Another rather unique addition here is a digital optical audio output, channeling digitized stereo signal (PCM) to external audio equipment for enhanced sound reproduction.

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