Panasonic TH-42PX60U

The PX60U plasma TV series of Panasonic for 2006 is something that has been highly anticipated by consumers, especially first-time plasma display buyers.  The Panasonic TH-42PX60U, which has a diagonal screen size of 42 inches (106.7 cm), is a particularly wise choice.  After all, it comes from the world's foremost manufacturer of plasma display screens and has many features that set it apart from the competition.  And because it's part of Panasonic's entry-level series, it's a lot more affordable.

Contrast ratio is 10000:1, providing for excellent black levels -- you can still differentiate colors even in scenes that are very dark.  White levels are excellent as well; colors are reproduced accurately in very bright scenes.   Pictures are even clearer and more detailed in high-definition programs, which users can view thanks to the built-in HDTV tuner.  The width-to-height ratio mimics that of the screens in movie theaters.

There are some features that are missing, like picture-in-picture and PC connectivity.  But the price and many other features more than make up for those things.  All in all, this Panasonic plasma HDTV is a good value for the money among the others in its class.

Screen size (diagonal) : 42 inches (106.7 cm)
Widescreen aspect ratio : 16:9
Contrast ratio : 10000:1
Resolution : 1024 x 768
DTV resolutions supported : 480p/720p/1080i
Colors : 29 billion
Audio/video input/output : includes HDMI, component, composite
Speakers : 2 channel speakers, 10 watts each
Built-in slot : for 1 SD memory card
Power consumption : 390 watts
Dimensions : Width  -  40.2 inches (106.7 cm)
Depth  -  3.7 inches (9.4 cm)
Height -  27.8 inches (70.6 cm)
Weight : 65 lbs (29.55 kgs)