LED-edgelit LCD TVs are all the rage these days, but this hasn't prevented Philips from bucking the trend with its 52PFL9704 LED-backlit equivalent (click here for more information on LED-backlit vs. LED-edgelit). To offset the extra bulk, this model has the highly sought-after local dimming function proven to improve picture quality. Other interesting extras range from the company's Ambilight ambient lighting to a suite of Web-streaming services via its Web TV capability. These are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the set's value-added features.

Upside:
The 52PFL9704 is at the forefront of the dynamic contrast race with a class-leading 5 million:1 rating which promises inky blacks rivaling plasma TVs. To ensure smoother motion production, this TV is also equipped with 200Hz scanning backlight technology and a blazing-fast 1ms response time. Another unique ability is its Ambilight ambient lighting system exclusive to Philips HDTVs. This uses power-efficient LEDs that emit an aura-like glow on the left, top and right edges of the panel frame. Lastly, there's Integrated Digital TV (IDTV) to receive HD broadcasts in surround sound.

Like the Cinema 21:9, the 52PFL9704 has full-fledged connected TV capability implemented via its Net TV system. This offers an Internet browser and streams Web content such as YouTube videos and Internet radio, as well as supports DLNA network multimedia playback. These functions can be activated using its Ethernet port or wirelessly through its integrated 802.11g Wi-Fi. Connectivity-wise, there's a galore of HDMI 1.3 inputs with four on the rear and one by the side. These accept 24p signals for optimal Blu-ray movie reproduction and support the EasyLink HDMI-CEC function.

Downside:
It's quite hard to fault this Philips, taking into consideration the above-mentioned performance and capabilities. Given a choice, we would like to see the 9704-series available in smaller sizes such as 42 and 46 inches. This would provide more options for consumers, particularly those with space constraints in confined apartments of major Asian cities. Our last gripe is more of a rant-- providing a pair of European-oriented SCART connectors serves little practical purpose and is a slight oversight from the Dutch electronics giant.

Outlook:
This 52-incher is a promising panel which packs a punch in both picture quality and versatility for a slightly pricey S$5,999 tag. If you have the luxury of a spacious entertainment room, this is one of the 2009 LED-lit LCD TVs to check out.