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| HOME CINEMA REVIEWS |
17 / 02 / 07 |
Group test: 32in LCD TVs | | | |
The flat screen revolution continues and LCD is leading the way, especially in the most popular mid-sized screens. The technology has been tweaked to offer ever-improving performance from both standard and high-definition pictures. And most new models arrive equipped with dual digital inputs and convergent features that allow you to access digital music and photo files from a variety of devices and memory cards. We've pitted four of the latest 32in LCD screens against each other to see which flat screen fares the best.
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Hitachi 32LD9700
Hitachi's 32LD9700 claims to be the world's first LCD TV to feature IPS (In Plane Switching) technology, which has previously only been used in large screen plasmas. The technology offers the widest viewing angles (178 degrees) on the market - so you can watch from increasingly off-centre positions without distorting the image.
It's ideal for smaller spaces with peripheral seating positions and is supported by a motorised stand that allows you to flexibly change the screen's direction without leaving your seat. The cumbersome stand adds weight to the design but lustrous black finishing and a slim surround afford the screen an expensive appearance.
The specification features a good degree of future-proofing, including high-definition compatibility with 720p and 1080i formats, integrated Freeview and complete connectivity. Dual HDMI digital inputs allow you to connect two HD sources simultaneously while analogue alternatives include component inputs and three (2 RGB) Scart terminals. There are also some useful convergent features that let you access a variety of digital music and photo files from USB connected devices or using a SD memory card slot.
The IPS system is supplemented by several picture-enhancing technologies including improved Backlight Control for supposedly deeper contrast and a special Overdrive System that increases motion responsiveness. On-screen menus appear basic but there's an abundance of advanced settings for both picture and sound adjustments, which can seem overwhelming.
While viewing angles are not as impressive as plasma they are the best we've seen from a mid-sized LCD TV. You can sit to the far side of the screen without losing definition or lightening colours and movement remains cohesive.
It takes some tinkering to get the best from the picture, which boasts exceptionally well-balanced colours, decent detail and smooth movement. However, even after adjusting the backlight and using the Black Enhancer, black levels are not as deep as class-leading models like the Sony or Philips - and there's still some occasional instability, especially with digital TV broadcasts. The sound carries surprising weight for small speakers and a dedicated subwoofer output means you can add more oomph using a separate speaker.
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Plus points
Wide viewing angles; motorised stand; all-inclusive connectivity; colourful and cohesive images
Minus points
Over elaborate settings; cumbersome design; black depth and contrast |  |
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Philips 32PF9731D
Philips' 32PF9731D may be on the expensive side but the screen's class-leading design, integrated technology and peerless performance make it easier to ignore the inflated price.
Immaculate build quality is accompanied by Philips' exclusive Ambilight technology. This unique backlighting system independently projects light from the sides of the screen, creating a surrounding glow that changes in colour and intensity according to what you're watching. It supposedly reduces eyestrain and improves perceived picture quality - while looking eye-catchingly cool.
But this screen is more than just a pretty panel, with some of the most advanced picture processing technology available. Philips insist it's the quality of the processing and not the panel's resolution that has the greatest impact on performance. At its core is the latest Pixel Plus 3HD system, an advanced all-digital processor that can be used with both standard and high-definition content. Each and every pixel is processed to match its surrounding pixels while all incoming signals are analysed and the level of processing adjusted for optimum performance.
Like the other models, the screen features a WXGA resolution (1366x768) that will support 720p and 1080i high-definition formats - but not the latest 1080p standard used by next generation Blu-Ray/HD-DVD players. And there's an integrated Freeview tuner with accompanying CI card slot for receiving limited subscription channels from TopUp TV.
Connectivity is equally impressive with two HDMI and RGB Scart terminals while convergent connections include a PC terminal with dedicated audio and a side USB port for accessing digital files from a variety of storage devices, digital cameras and portable media players.
Image quality sets a new standard for LCD performance and is simply sensational with any source. Digital broadcasts and standard-definition material appear more detailed and stable while high-definition content is extraordinary. Distinct black levels create solid definition and realistic contrast without losing detail in dimly lit scenes and colours are full of natural vitality. Although fast-paced movement is generally fluid there is some stuttering with slow camera pans but that's our only complaint.
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Plus points
Stunning Ambilight design; advanced image processing; all-inclusive connectivity; ease of use; class-leading picture performance
Minus points
Comparably expensive; stuttered slow movement | |
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Samsung 32N73
Samsung's 32N73 is altogether more affordable and comes with an impressive assortment of features, although picture and sound performance can't compete with the best.
The striking design featuring glossed black finishing and attractive neon blue lighting is superbly constructed for the price. And there are no compromises with the specification, which includes high-definition compatibility, integrated Freeview and convergent access to a wide range of digital media. You can view pictures from a digital camera or access music from a portable media player using either a USB port or up to ten different memory cards supported by three slots. And the Picture Bridge function allows you to directly print photos from the screen to a separate printing device.
Unlike earlier Samsung models, there are two HDMI inputs that allow you to connect devices like an HDTV receiver and DVD player at the same time without having to frustratingly switch cables. You can also use the analogue component inputs to support some high-definition devices (and progressive scan) while both Scart terminals are RGB-enabled. A standard VGA terminal with dedicated sound completes an impressive line-up.
Proprietary DNIe technology using ten-bit processing is accompanied by a new Extended Colour Gamut (WXCG) system, which uses advanced backlight technology that claims to display more colours than typical LCD screens. There are plenty of sophisticated settings including extra curricular features like individual colour management, surround sound effects and a Games Mode that's designed to enhance sharpness and motion for console enthusiasts.
On paper, the specification is attractive but in practice the performance is slighted by a few flaws. Although the bright picture is immediately engaging using vivid colours, the screen struggles with natural tones and gradations - it looks great with special effects but can appear superficial with ordinary material. Digital broadcasts lack detail and stability but high-definition images are clean and cohesive. However, sound performance is noticeably poor with even high volumes struggling to be heard.
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Plus points
Affordable; striking design; convergent connections; sophisticated settings; engaging images
Minus points
Overstated colours; poor sound performance | |
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Sony KDL-32V2000
Sony's Bravia range of LCDs are regarded by many as the finest screens on the market and only the release of the latest Philips has threatened the KDL-32V2000's position as class-leading performer.
Like all second-generation Sony models, this screen features the latest Bravia engine technology - which has been specifically designed for LCD. Sony are so convinced of its worth that they've ceased plasma production altogether. This system is supported by numerous underlying technologies including Live Colour Creation and a new backlight system that claims "Colour, like no other" if those imaginative adverts are to be believed.
But the screen is pricey for a basic specification that includes typical 720p/1080i high-definition compatibility and integrated Freeview. But, state-of-the-art technology and outstanding build quality featuring a more subtle design goes some way to justify the cost.
However, the big disappointment behind the screen is that there's only a single HDMI digital input. This limits the number of high-definition devices you can connect at the same time and is a serious oversight when even budget models like the Samsung are equipped with dual inputs. Otherwise, conventional users can rely on two Scart terminals, component inputs and a standard PC input with accompanying audio. But, there are none of the convergent digital options offered by its rivals.
The menu systems are, as ever, beautifully presented and there are several advanced settings for backlight control and colour management to accompany the usual presets and custom adjustments - all easily navigated from the excellent remote.
If you can ignore the compromised connectivity, the Sony deserves its high acclaim for its sensational picture quality. With practically any source material images are outstanding with breathtaking colours and dense blacks exposing subtle detail and depth-defining contrast. Even with off-air broadcasts, the picture is enviably clean and movement is expertly controlled.
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Plus points
Timeless design; advanced image processing; ease of use; superlative picture performance
Minus points
Only single HDMI input; no convergent connections | |
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| | Discuss this article, 1 of 13 messages, read more: |  Barrington | |
| Posted: 14/04/07 01:50:34 34 | I would probably agree with the first two places.
But I don't htink that the 32" Toshiba TV was included, which may have taken third place.
I need to know with these reviews how were the TVs calibrated (maximise their picture qulaity) and the settings of the TV to make sure tests were done properly and objectively.
I also require actual instrument readings to verify that subjective views are objective.
There should be a table using the same words to describe the same thing.
Using different words to describe for example the same contrast is misleading, whether or not it is diliberate. |
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Our ratings suggest that if you want the best performance, you'll have to pay a premium. Philips 32PF9731D and Sony's KDL-32V2000 are expensively priced but both image and design quality is exceptional. It's difficult to separate the two in terms of picture performance but the Philips' enhanced connectivity (featuring dual HDMI inputs and convergent USB options) as well as the eye-catching Ambilight design gets our vote as the finest 32in LCD TV we've seen yet.
