Pioneer PDP-506XDE

Just what is it about the Pioneer PDP-506XDE plasma display panel that made it the Best European Plasma TV in 2005, according to EISA, the largest editorial multimedia organization in the region?  Quite a lot, as it turns out.

It's not just the 50-inch (127 cm) screen, although that certainly helps.  Despite the larger viewing area, it doesn't seem bulky at all because of its smooth, piano-black appearance.  Also, it's not like a number of other large-screen plasma displays, whose manufacturers sacrifice picture quality for screen size.  On the contrary, images are rendered superbly, colors are reproduced accurately, and depth and contrast are outstanding -- thanks to the revolutionary PUREBLACK Crystal Layer of the front panel and the PURE Drive 2HD digital video processing system.  And because this Pioneer plasma screen is certified HD-ready, users can expect to be able to enjoy digital television and radio programming.

Individuals who are particular when it comes to maintaining their preferred settings will like the built-in ISF Certified Calibration Configuration feature.  This password-protected tool gives even more day and night settings to comply with internationally recognized and approved broadcast standards.

The Pioneer PDP-506XDE plasma TV is available from £3,050 ($5,777) as of May 2006.

Screen size (diagonal) : 50 inches (127 cm)
Widescreen aspect ratio : 16:9
Contrast ratio : 4000:1
Resolution : 1280 x 768p
Brightness : 1100 cd/m2
Comb filter : 3DYC/3D Digital
Power consumption : 344 watts
Audio/video input/output : includes HDMI, S-video, Euro-SCART, PC Card, RCA
Dimensions : Width  -  48.2 inches (122.4 cm)
Depth  -  3.6 inches (9.19 cm)
Height -  28.2 inches (71.7 cm)
Weight : 69.96 lbs (31.8 kgs)